The Episcopal Church made history by electing Bishop Sean Rowe, 49, as its youngest top leader since the 18th century. The national meeting held in Louisville, Ky., saw Bishop Rowe from the Diocese of Northwestern Pennsylvania being chosen for a nine-year term as presiding bishop from a selection of five candidates. He will take over from Bishop Michael Curry, known for his emphasis on evangelism, racial justice, and love, as the denomination’s first Black presiding bishop. The Episcopal Church, part of the Anglican Communion, has a membership of 1.4 million, which has seen a decline of over 20 percent in the past decade.
Bishop Rowe, originally from western Pennsylvania, became the youngest Episcopal priest in the U.S. upon his ordination in 2000 and the youngest bishop seven years later. He has held various leadership positions within the national denomination and currently also serves as bishop provisional of the Diocese of Western New York. In his address to fellow bishops and delegates, Bishop Rowe highlighted the need for the church to be brave and adaptable in the face of what he called an “existential crisis” brought about by a rapidly changing world. He expressed his intention to focus on strengthening local dioceses and congregations while restructuring the national organization to prevent it from becoming too burdensome.
The Episcopal Church, headquartered in New York, has been the religious home of several U.S. presidents, including George Washington, Franklin Roosevelt, and George H.W. Bush. As part of the global Anglican Communion, the American branch looks to Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, as its spiritual leader. Bishop Rowe’s installation as presiding bishop is scheduled for November 2, following the conclusion of Bishop Curry’s term at the end of October.
Bishop Rowe’s election signifies a new chapter for the Episcopal Church as it navigates challenges in a rapidly evolving world. His leadership style and vision for the denomination’s future will undoubtedly shape the direction of the church in the years to come. With a focus on resilience, courage, and local empowerment, Bishop Rowe aims to guide the Episcopal Church through the current existential crisis and ensure its continued relevance and impact in society.