The process to permit the majority of the dioceses of the Episcopal Church to consent to the election of the Rev. Canon Frank Logue as 11th Bishop of Georgia began last Thursday. On that day, the Episcopal Church's Office of Pastoral Development reported to the President of our Standing Committee, the Very Rev. Ted Clarkson, that with the required reports in hand, we could send packets out to the other 109 diocesan standing committees. On the same day, the General Convention Office staff contacted the bishops with jurisdiction in the 110 dioceses of the Episcopal Church via email to likewise request their consent.

	Clergy and delegates sign the testimonial to the bishop election at the 198th Convention in Statesboro.

The packets included a brief biography and resume for the bishop-elect. Clarkson and Logue also answered ten questions verifying some specifics about the way the Diocese conducted the nominations and election and certifying that the bishop-elect will  uphold the Oath of Conformity (BCP page 513),  recognize and respect the office of the Presiding Bishop  and the authority of General Convention, and be  willing to participate fully in the councils of the Church.

Canons allow 120 days for this consent process, which often concludes sooner. Once the General Convention Office receives consents from more than half of the bishops and standing committees, we will move from saving the date for the ordination and consecration to making final plans and sending invitations. Pending consents, the liturgy will begin at 11 AM on May 30th at the Johnny Mercer Theater in Savannah's Civic Center.