Update from the Search Committee for the Eleventh Bishop of Kansas

The Search Committee for the Eleventh Bishop of Kansas will present a slate of candidates to the Council of Trustees for their approval on March 4. The Very Rev. Torey Lightcap and Mr. Scott Howard, Co-chairs of the Search Committee, shared details about the committee’s work and their reflections on the process so far.  

Mr. Howard said, “The Search Committee spent a lot of time preparing for the Zoom interview process, determining appropriate questions, and putting together a list of questions for each candidate to address. We also gave them one question in advance, so they could prepare for one question. All interviews were attended by members of the interview subcommittee. Torey and I attended interviews as well, alternating so one of us would be present for each interview.”

Dean Lightcap said, “It has been refreshing to hear the varied perspectives of each candidate’s experience and what has brought them to this point. I have been struck by the way the Holy Spirit has been moving through the entire process, both in the lives of candidates and our committee. It’s a been a blessing talking with people who are so genuinely excited about discerning with us.”

The Co-chairs went on to explain that following the Zoom interviews, the committee discerned what it was hearing through listening to candidates and Holy Spirit. Then the committee determined which candidates would move forward. Those identified have been invited to attend a Discernment Retreat to be held Feb 26-28.

The Council of Trustees plans to announce the final slate along with details for the petition process on March 9.

Mr. Howard said, “This has been a greater task than I realized, and our committee has done such great work. I have deep gratitude for all the committee members and what they’ve done to get us to this point.”

Dean Lightcap said, “I also want to share my gratitude for this process. We’ve received a great deal of support from the entire diocese and the diocesan staff. I’m deeply grateful.”

For more updates on the Search for the Eleventh Bishop of Kansas, visit the diocesan website.

Almighty God, giver of every good gift: Look graciously on your Church, and so guide the hearts and minds of those who will search for a new bishop to lead the Episcopal Diocese of Kansas, that we may receive a faithful pastor, who will care for your people and equip us for our ministries; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.