Jacksonville priest becomes bishop for Anglican diocese

http://www.jacksonville.com/news/metro/2009-09-01/story/jacksonville_priest_becomes_bishop_for_anglican_diocese

[jacksonville.com]3 Sep 2009--A Jacksonville priest who led thousands from the Episcopal Church has been elected the first bishop of a new diocese that will oversee about 5,000 conservative Anglicans in North Florida and South Georgia.

The Rev. Neil Lebhar was elected Saturday by clergy and lay leaders in what will be called the Gulf Atlantic Diocese of the Anglican Church in North America.

The Anglican Church in North America itself is a new American denomination, having been formed in June largely by those who left the Episcopal Church after an openly gay priest became bishop in New Hampshire in 2003.

Lebhar said he's eager to lead but also glad the position has a seven-year term limit.

"I think the greatest impact for the kingdom takes place through the ministry of local Christian communities," Lebhar said. "So my heart has been, and always will be, for the parish."

Lebhar was elected by the new diocese's clergy and lay leaders, who chose him over the Rev. Jim Hobby of Thomasville, Ga.

Lebhar spoke Monday about what lies ahead as he prepares to don the purple shirt traditionally worn by Anglican bishops.