More On Bishop-Elect Morris Thompson

The Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana elected The Very Rev. Morris Thompson, as the 11th Bishop of Louisiana today at Christ Church Cathedral, New Orleans. Thompson was one of six final candidates voted on by clergy and lay representatives from every congregation in the diocese. Thompson succeeds the Rt. Rev. Charles E. Jenkins who has served since 1997 and announced his retirement effective January 2010.

Thompson said, "I am honored and humbled to serve you as the 11th Bishop of Louisiana. Your rich tradition, your attention to the survival of your diocese, and the possibilities are what attracted me when I first read your profile. Under God's grace and with our shared ministry, I look forward to being among you as your pastor."

Rev. Thompson currently lives in Lexington, Kentucky with his wife, Rebecca. He serves as the Dean of Christ Church Cathedral. He and Rebecca have two children, Virginia and Trey.

Under the canons of the Episcopal Church (III.11.4) both a majority of bishops exercising jurisdiction and diocesan Standing Committees must consent to the election within 120 days of receiving notice. If sufficient consents are received, Thompson will be consecrated on May 8, 2010, at Christ Church Cathedral, with the Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, presiding.

Rev. Thompson is originally from Cleveland, Mississippi. He received his M.Div. from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and attended University of the South and Lexington Theological Seminary.