Navajoland Diocese Names Three Nominees for Historic First Bishop Election

A landmark moment for Navajoland as three clergy vie to become its first bishop. Will tradition or transformation guide the vote?

, and Administrator

2025 November 11 . 7:06 PM

1 min read

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Navajoland Diocese Names Three Nominees for Historic First Bishop Election

The Standing Committee of the Missionary Diocese of Navajoland has announced the nominees for the first bishop. The Rev. Leon Sampson and The Rev. Cornelia Eaton, previously nominated, have been placed on leave until after the election. The Rev. Alyssa Stebbing joins them as a nominee. The diocese invites members to meet the nominees from December 3 to 11.

The Bishop Search Committee, led by Marianita Chee and assisted by the Rev. Ann Hallisey, has presented these three candidates. The election is set for January 3, 2026, with a backup date of January 10. The Rev. Jack Chase is serving as pro tem president of the Standing Committee during this process. The new bishop will succeed the Rt. Rev. Barry Beisner, who retires next year, and will be consecrated on May 9, 2026, in Farmington, New Mexico.

The Missionary Diocese of Navajoland has taken a significant step in its history with the nomination of three candidates for its first bishop. The election results are awaited, and the diocese looks forward to the consecration of the new bishop in May 2026.