Navajoland Elects a New Bishop

From The Living Church-

The Episcopal Church’s Navajoland Area Mission on Saturday chose the Rev. Canon David Bailey as its next bishop. The election occurred during a special convocation Eucharist at All Saints Church in Farmington, N.M.

Canon Bailey was one of two nominees. The other was the Rev. James Leehan of Indianapolis, Ind. Fr. Leehan served as vicar in the Southeast region of Navajoland before retiring.

In accordance with Navajo tradition, ballot details were not announced, other than Canon Bailey’s receiving a majority of votes.

The name of Canon Bailey, who serves as canon to the ordinary in the Diocese of Utah, will be sent to Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori with a recommendation that he serve as her canon for Navajoland until March. She may then present his name to the House of Bishops for election by that house.

As the Episcopal Church’s only Area Mission, Navajoland is under the oversight of the presiding bishop.

The Rt. Rev. Rustin Kimsey, retired bishop of Eastern Oregon and retired bishop of Navajoland, presided at the special convocation.

http://www.livingchurch.org/news/news-updates/2009/10/17/navajoland-elects-a-new-bishop