Early in the morning, as the Very Rev. Mark Bourlakas approached the Roanoke Performing Arts Theatre, he knew what lay ahead.
Bourlakas, elected as the new bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Southwestern Virginia on March 9, was ordained and consecrated on Saturday, becoming the sixth bishop in the history of the diocese.
“I just hope I can take it in, just try and stay focused on the more spiritual parts of this and hopefully receive some strength and encouragement for the days ahead,” Bourlakas said.
Bourlakas succeeds Bishop Neff Powell, who served as the head of the diocese for the past 17 years.
“I’m very confident,” Powell said about Bourlakas. “I think he’s talented and well prepared. I think the diocese is in good shape, and in a good place. He’ll do a fine job.”
Powell said he was proud the diocese has welcomed all people during his tenure, no matter their background.
“I end every sermon by saying, ‘God loves you exactly as you are, without reservation, more than you can ask or even begin to imagine,’ ” Powell said.
More here-
http://www.roanoke.com/news/2090854-12/episcopal-diocese-of-southwestern-virginia-ordains-new-bishop.html
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