Walkabout for the
Election of the 13th Bishop
of the Diocese of Alabama
A walkabout in the election process of an Episcopal bishop is a time during which candidates meet with members of the diocesan community to share their vision and answer questions from a moderator. This process allows clergy, lay people, and electing convention delegates to get to know the candidates beyond their credentials, fostering deeper understanding and connection.
The walkabout for the election will take place on Saturday, January 3, at 1:00 p.m. at Saint Luke’s Church (3736 Montrose Road, Mountain Brook, AL 35213). Only clergy and certified delegates will be seated in the nave, but the event will be live-streamed on the diocesan YouTube page, and a recording of the proceedings will be made available across diocesan communication channels after the event.
An update from the
Standing Committee regarding the election for the 13th Bishop of Alabama
​
With gratitude and excitement, the Standing Committee of the Diocese of Alabama is pleased to share the slate of two exceptional candidates who have been called forward to participate in the walkabout on January 3, 2026*.
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We are profoundly thankful for the tireless and prayerful work of our Search Committee, whose dedication has guided this process with care and faithfulness. We give thanks for the wisdom, openness, and generous spirits of the candidates who have offered themselves to this holy work. May God continue to guide our candidates, those who will vote on January 24, and all who make up this diocese.
​
Maibeth Porter, President
The Rev. Sally Herring, Secretary
The Rev. Corrie Cabes
The Rev. Emily Collette
John Drew
Katherine Gould
Jim Jolly
The Rev. Jennifer Riddle
The Petition Period began December 17, 2025, and ended at midnight on Sunday, December 21, 2025. Learn more about the petition process.*
Our Candidates for Bishop
KEY DATES IN OUR TIMELINE
Profile Released: August 20, 2025
Applications Accepted: August 28 - September 22, 2025
Candidate Interviews: October 2025
Discernment Retreat: November 21 - 23, 2025
Slate Announced, Petition Process Begins: December 17, 2025
Petition Process Ends: December 21, 2025
Walkabout: January 3, 2026
Election Convention: January 24, 2026
Ordination: June 26 - 27, 2026
View the profile here
Almighty God, giver of every good gift: Look graciously on your Church, and so guide the minds of those who shall choose a Bishop for The Diocese of Alabama, that we may receive a faithful pastor who will preach the Gospel, care for your people, equip us for ministry, and lead us forth in fulfillment of the Great Commission;
through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
(the Book of Common Prayer, page 818)
A PRAYER FOR THE ELECTION OF A BISHOP
