The Diocese of Montreal has elected the Ven. Dr. Victor-David Mbuyi Bipungu as Coadjutor Bishop to succeed Bishop Mary Irwin-Gibson as the 13th Bishop of Montreal when she retires in October of this year.
During the lead up to our recent electoral synod, concerns were raised about the diocese’s safe church policy and processes. Bishop Mary has heard these concerns and will recommend to the next meeting of Diocesan Council in June that an “ombudsperson” who is at arm’s length be appointed for at least the next three months to receive any concerns, questions or complaints.
Diocesan Council has already set in motion a review of the existing Safe Church policy and we are committed to seeing this review through. Through our baptism as Christians, we have willingly and knowingly entered into a “Covenant Relationship” and are committed to making the diocese of Montreal safe(r).
This was the first time that the diocese used Canon 1 (The Election of Bishops) since its revision following the last episcopal election. Diocesan Council has indicated that it will review the electoral process to better understand how the process under the revisions of Canon 1 was exercised, the challenges the Search Committee faced, identify gaps in both process and policy, areas of concern, what needs the Search committee encountered, and propose the necessary changes.
By working together we can continue to grow and build a church that is safe and gives glory to God.
