What is a bishop? First and most essentially, I am a baptized follower of Jesus Christ, striving (very imperfectly!) to pattern my life after my Savior’s example and teachings. The title “bishop” means overseer, but I aspire to exercise oversight not primarily from above, but among our people in Oklahoma, in the midst, and on the ground.  

The word “pastor” is related to the word for shepherd, and as the chief pastor I seek to embody a Jesus-shaped, pastoral ministry that cares for those in my “flock,” both the clergy and lay people of our diocese. That care is not just being kind or attentive. The Bishop not only nurtures, but also protects, and guides. This includes, as the Catechism says, guarding the faith, unity, and discipline of the whole Church, proclaiming the Word of God, and acting in Christ’s name for the reconciliation of the world and building up of the Church (BCP p. 855).

My greatest joy is to be with the faithful all around Oklahoma, visiting our congregations and institutions, especially to teach, preach, celebrate the Eucharist, baptize, confirm, and ordain. My ministry is a reminder of our connection to our Apostolic roots and the wider Church, and hopefully an encouragement to follow Jesus as friends towards deeper discipleship and greater vitality in our congregations, by God’s grace.

What sustains me in this calling? The support of my family, the ancient three-fold pattern of prayer (the Daily Office, Eucharist, and personal Devotions), and seeking the presence of God in the Benedictine values of stability, obedience, and conversion.