Episcopalians one step closer to homosexual bishop
The Rev. W. Gene Robinson, right, speaks with Lindsay Benjamin
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - A New Hampshire clergyman moved a step closer Sunday to becoming the first openly gay elected bishop in the Episcopal Church, winning one of two final votes required to be confirmed.
The House of Deputies, a legislative body composed of clergy and lay people, voted to approve the Rev. V. Gene Robinson as bishop of New Hampshire. He faces a final vote Monday in the House of Bishops.
The House of Deputies voted by delegation, with 128 delegations voting yes and 63 voting no. The votes of 25 delegations were not counted because their members were divided.
The American Anglican Council, which represents conservative bishops and parishes, said it was "deeply grieved" by the results.
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