Georgia Diocese Elects New Bishop

Washington, D.C. rector the Rev. Scott A. Benhase will be heading to the South as the newly elected bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Georgia.

Benhase, 52, was elected as the tenth bishop of the Georgia diocese at the body's 188th annual convention on Sept. 12. He received 76 of 146 votes cast in the lay order and 58 of 103 cast in the clergy order.

Under the canons of the Episcopal Church (III.11.4), a majority of bishops exercising jurisdiction and diocesan Standing Committees must consent to Benhase's ordination as bishop within 120 days of receiving notice of the election.

Upon receiving the proper consents, Benhase will succeed bishop Henry I. Loutit, who has served the Georgia diocese since 1995. Benhase was previously the rector of St. Alban's Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. (Diocese of Washington).

Benhase's ordination and consecration is currently scheduled for January 23, 2010 at the Savannah International Trade and Convention Center.

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