Praying for the Bishop Search

No one who has been in the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh for a few years would deny the importance of who is the diocesan bishop. Our diocese is now searching for candidates for the next Bishop of Pittsburgh, and we should all be praying for a good outcome. St. Paul’s is playing a direct role in the search process, in that our own Kris Opat is a member of the Nomination Committee. Interestingly, the consultant to the Nomination Committee—dioceses typically engage an outside consultant to advise them when searching for a bishop—is the Rev. Conrad Selnick, who advised our own search committee when we were last seeking a rector.

The quest for the next Bishop of Pittsburgh has not received much attention at St. Paul’s. There isn’t too much we can do, of course, although individual Episcopalians are free to suggest possible candidates to the Nomination Committee.

One thing we can do, either individually or corporately, is to pray for the search process. The diocesan Web site offers a variety of prayers. In particular, insertions into the Prayers of the People are suggested, such as this one:

Form IV After the first petition (BCP 388), insert two prayers:
So guide the minds of those who shall choose a bishop for this diocese, that we may receive a faithful pastor, who will care for your people and equip us for our ministries.

(Silence)

Lord, in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.

Be present with those who take counsel in the Standing Committee, the Nomination Committee, and the Transition Committee as we choose a bishop for this diocese, that they may in all things seek first your honor and glory.

(Silence)

Lord, in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.

We should, I think, begin using such prayers in our Prayers of the People.