New Episcopalian Bishop for Chicago supports gay inclusion

Capping a race that drew worldwide attention, Rev. Jeffrey Lee, a Midwest native, was overwhelmingly elected Saturday as the next Episcopal bishop of Chicago.

Lee, 50, is rector of St. Thomas Church in Medina, Wash., but was born and raised near Kalamazoo, Mich., and ordained in northern Indiana. He becomes Chicago's 12th Episcopal bishop and leader of 41,000 Episcopalians.

When asked about his stance on gays in the church, Lee said he supported full inclusion.

"I believe God is calling us to full inclusion of gays and lesbians in ministry of this church. ... There is a place for everyone in the church, and the church has to catch up with God's vision," he said.

Since Gene Robinson, of New Hampshire, was consecrated as the Episcopal Church's first openly gay bishop four years ago, 65 of the more than 7,000 U.S. parishes have started to break away from the national church. They contend the national church has abandoned Scripture, which condemns gay sex.

"All the persons on the ballot were in favor of the gay agenda, including the new bishop. And I think that's shameful," said Rev. Reginald Sey, rector of Church of the Holy Cross in Chicago.

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