Lexington diocese elects David Sibley as ninth bishop

The Diocese of Lexington elected the Rev. David Sibley as its ninth bishop on August 1 during a special Electing Convention held at Christ Church Cathedral. Sibley, currently rector of St. Paul's Church in Walla Walla, Washington, was elected on the second ballot with 24 clergy votes and 62 lay votes, exceeding the required 23 and 54 respectively. In his response, Sibley quoted Saint Augustine of Hippo on the nature of episcopal ministry, expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him. Sibley brings a record of innovative parish leadership and churchwide service, having served congregations in Washington and New York. He has served as a deputy to General Convention, helped lead efforts to reform the Denominational Health Plan, and currently chairs the Joint Standing Committee on Nominations. Sibley is also known for his appearances on the television show Jeopardy!, where he was a four-time champion and reached the Tournament of Champions semifinal in 2024. He and his wife Emily have a young daughter. The election concludes a nearly two-year search process that began when then-Bishop Mark Van Koevering announced his intention to retire in October 2024. Sibley now enters a 120-day consent process requiring approval from a majority of bishops with jurisdiction and diocesan standing committees before his consecration date is finalized.

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Source: Episcopal News Service — https://episcopalnewsservice.org/2026/08/03/lexington-diocese-elects-david-sibley-its-ninth-bishop/