The Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia announces a change of
location for the February 1, 2020 consecration of the Rev. Susan Bunton
Haynes as the 11th bishop of the Diocese. The service will take place at
11:00 am at Williamsburg Community Chapel, 3899 John Tyler Highway, Williamsburg. The Most Reverend Michael Curry, presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church will serve as chief consecrator.
The decision to change the location from St. Bede Catholic Church
in Williamsburg arose out of concern and respect for the ministries and
leadership of both the Catholic parish and the Catholic Diocese of
Richmond. Learning that its intended use of the building was causing
dismay and distress, the Episcopal Diocese withdrew from its contract
with St. Bede. As Bishop-Elect Haynes observed, "in the 8th chapter of
his first letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul cautioned
Christians to be careful about pursuing behavior that might cause
problems for others within their community."
In her letter to Bishop Knestout, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of
Richmond, and Monsignor Lehman, pastor of St. Bede, Bishop-Elect Haynes
wrote, "I am writing to withdraw from our contract to use the lovely,
holy space of St. Bede for my upcoming consecration as the 11th bishop
of the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia. We have so appreciated
and admired your grace and courage in extending this hospitality and
abiding by your invitation even under fire from those within your own
flocks."
The consecration service will be live streamed on the diocesan website [diosova.org]
and video will be available afterward for on-demand viewing. All are
welcome to attend the service and reception to follow. Tickets are not
required. Ample parking is available at the consecration site, 3899 John Tyler Highway in Williamsburg.
This statement is available in PDF format here.
You can read the statement from the Catholic Diocese of Richmond here.
