The Episcopal Church in southwest Virginia has elected a new bishop. The Very Reverend Mark Bourlakas is currently the Dean of Christ Church Cathedral in Louisville, Kentucky.
"I was overwhelmed by the confidence and trust that the Episcopal Diocese of Southwestern Virginia placed in me," Bourlakas told WDBJ7 in a phone interview Sunday afternoon, "and we are excited by the opportunity to be a part of this great diocese."
The Episcopal Diocese of Southwestern Virginia has 56 congregations and Bourlakas said it is similar in size to the Diocese of Kentucky. "It's a smaller diocese that allows the Bishop to be in relationship with the congregations," he said.
A fan of auto racing, outdoor activities and the arts, Bourlakas says he's also looking forward to the lifestyle that southwest Virginia offers. He and his wife Martha have three daughters.
Bourlakas will succeed Bishop Neff Powell who is retiring. The new bishop will be consecrated on July 20th at the Roanoke Civic Center.
