Episcopal Diocese of Florida Elects New Bishop After Long Vacancy

The Episcopal Diocese of Florida has elected the Rev. J. Randolph Alexander Jr. as its ninth bishop, concluding a leadership vacancy that lasted nearly three years. Alexander, currently the rector of Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill in Alexandria, Virginia, secured the position on the third ballot during a convention held at the Camp Weed & Cerveny Conference Center. He received 86 clergy votes and 78 lay votes from the more than 200 delegates in attendance.

The election follows a period of internal instability within the diocese. In 2022, previous election results for the bishopric were challenged due to alleged procedural irregularities, which were later cited in a report by The Episcopal Church Court of Review. Subsequent attempts to fill the vacancy were met with further objections from clergy and lay delegates regarding the integrity of the process and disagreements over LGBT issues.

Following his election, Alexander expressed gratitude and requested prayers for his family and the diocese. The appointment now awaits the formal consent of the bishops and standing committees of The Episcopal Church, a process that is expected to be finalized within 120 days.