Los Angeles, Calif., Mar 18, 2010 / 21:34 pm
On Wednesday, the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles reported the approval of the election of Mary Douglas Glasspool as their first openly partnered lesbian assistant bishop. The decision drew sharply contrasting reactions from those within the Episcopal community, including dissatisfaction from the Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams.
Glasspool, 56, was elected bishop in December of last year but had to wait for consent from the Office of the Episcopal Church, which was confirmed yesterday. Upon hearing of her election confirmation, Glasspool was reported by the LA diocese as being “overjoyed” and “profoundly grateful.”
“I am also aware that not everyone rejoices in this election and consent, and will work, pray, and continue to extend my own hands and heart to bridge those gaps, and strengthen the bonds of affection among all people, in the Name of Jesus Christ,” Glasspool said on Wednesday.
Bishop John Bruno of Los Angeles issued a statement praising the confirmation of both Glasspool and colleague Diane Jardine Bruce as assistant bishops, saying that the standing committees and bishops involved “have joined the Diocese of Los Angeles in recognizing and affirming the many gifts and skills of these highly qualified and experienced clerics.”