R. Guy Erwin, Osage, is first Indian bishop for Lutheran Church

Tuesday, June 4, 2013  

The Reverend R. Guy Erwin, a member of the Osage Nation of Oklahoma, is the first American Indian bishop in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

In addition to being the first Indian bishop, Erwin is also the first openly gay person to serve in the post. He will serve a six-year term for the Southwest California Synod.

In a press release, Erwin said he brings a “deep faith in Christ’s presence in his church lived out in 20 years of parish experience blended with university and seminary-level teaching."

Get the Story:
ELCA Lutherans elect first openly gay bishop (Religion News Service 6/3)
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Elects First Native American Bishop (Indian Country Today 6/3)