A bishop is called by God and the Church to be a faithful shepherd who oversees the flock entrusted to his care. He is tasked with teaching, upholding, and defending the Faith and Order of the Church, serving eagerly—not lording authority but modeling humility. A bishop must be a wholesome and godly example to the flock of Christ.

According to the tradition of Christ’s One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church, bishops are successors of the Apostles, consecrated for the whole Church. They are chief pastors and teachers, guardians of doctrine, and administrators of godly discipline and governance.

In the Diocese of the Western Gulf Coast (DWGC), the Diocesan Bishop also serves as a spiritual father to clergy and congregations, supporting the planting of new churches, the formation of leaders, and the health of the whole diocese.

Bishop Clark will continue serving as Diocesan Bishop until the consecration and installation of his successor. Following that, he will retire from active episcopal ministry in the diocese. He and Tricia will discern how God might continue to use their gifts in this next season. The Diocesan Council, in consultation with Bishop Clark, has initiated a prayerful and transparent transition process.

Much of the day-to-day ministry of clergy, lay leaders, and local churches will continue as before. Rectors and clergy will engage with the new bishop through visitations, pastoral care, training events, and regular communication. Laity will encounter the bishop primarily during episcopal visits and diocesan gatherings.

The diocesan staff will remain committed to supporting congregations, ensuring continuity and stability throughout the transition.

Yes. It is common practice within the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) to consider candidates from outside a diocese. All nominees must be clergy in good standing within the ACNA.

According to diocesan canons, every canonically resident clergy person may vote, along with elected lay delegates from each congregation. Voting will take place at a specially convened Diocesan Synod.

Updates will be posted on the DWGC Episcopal Transition webpage and distributed through the diocesan newsletter. Specific questions may be submitted at the bottom of that same webpage.