On Saturday, June 18, lay and clergy delegates meet in a Special Electing Convention held at Washington National Cathedral to elect the ninth Bishop of the Diocese of Washington.

The five candidates who have been chosen to stand for election are: The Rev. Ronald G. Abrams of St. James', Wilmington, N.C., the Rev. Dr. Mariann Edgar Budde, of St. John's, Minneapolis, Minn., the Very Rev. Samuel Glenn Candler, of the Cathedral of St. Philip, Atlanta, the Rev. Jane Gould, of St. Stephen's, Lynn, Mass., and the Rev. Canon John T.W. Harmon, of Trinity, D.C.

Most of the clergy of the Diocese, and the regularly elected lay delegates (or alternates) from parishes vote until one candidate has received a majority of both the lay and clergy delegates.

Each parish is entitled to 1-5 lay delegates, based on a formula relating to attendance. Voting from St. Thomas' Parish are our delegates Jean Holman and Letty Marquez, along with our Rector, Nancy Lee Jose.

Senior Warden John Johnson served on the Search and Nominating Committee; he gets seat and voice but not vote at the Special Convention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who elects the Bishop?

 Most of the clergy of the Diocese, and the regularly elected lay delegates (or alternates) who are elected and certified by May 18. Each parish is entitled to 1-5 lay delegates, based on a formula relating to attendance. Delegates and alternates are either elected by the parish at the annual meeting or by the vestry, depending on the parish's bylaws. Lists of those entitled to vote will be posted on the special convention website within a few days after the deadline.

I'm not a delegate. Can I come to the convention and just observe?

Yes, of course, but you will need to sit in the designated visitor areas. Please see instructions in the Visitor section, including the information about payment of convention fees. You are also welcome to go to the walkabouts.

Can I campaign for my favourite nominee at the Convention and hand out flyers?

No, our Standard Rules of Order do not allow for the distribution of books, pamphlets, or other printed matter or placement of them on seats or tables unless specifically ordered. The tone of this Convention is one of prayerful discernment, so active campaigning would not be appropriate.

How many votes does it take to elect the Bishop?

If 2/3 of all clergy entitled to vote and 2/3 of all lay delegates entitled to vote are present, we elect by a simple majority of clergy votes and a simple majority of lay votes.

How many ballots will it take and when will the convention end?

For the last four bishop elections in this diocese, it has taken from 2-6 ballots. However, it is possible to elect on the 1st ballot or the 25th ballot, so we will have ballots to cover any eventuality. We will ballot until done, so plan to be there the whole day.

Why is the consecration and installation so long after the election?

One reason is the consent process - a majority of all diocesan bishops and a majority of all standing committees must consent to the election, and this can take several months. Another is that the bishop-elect has to wind up his or her current call. Also, a date has to be available on the Presiding Bishop's calendar that allows enough time for all of this to take place before the consecration and installation. The date scheduled is November 12, 2011 at Washington National Cathedral.