After a backlash from Catholic laity, the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia has withdrawn its plan to consecrate its next bishop, Susan Bunton Haynes, at St Bede’s Catholic Church in Williamsburg.
The flap is surely the most interesting religious affairs story in years for the sleepy little town best known for its “Republican Disneyland” colonial historical park. Now the consecration will take place at Williamsburg Community Chapel, one of the larger Evangelical churches in town. The primary consecrator is still expected to be Michael Curry, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church, who famously preached at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
