Lesbian priest in running for Episcopal bishop

CHICAGO — A high-profile lesbian priest from Cleveland is one of five candidates nominated to be the next Episcopal bishop of Chicago. Tracey Lind, dean of Cleveland’s Trinity Cathedral since 2000, is one of three women and the only openly gay candidate recommended by a search committee, the Chicago Diocese announced Aug. 28. Lind’s nomination is likely to raise concerns among conservative Episcopalians already angry over the 2003 election of an openly gay bishop in New Hampshire. The national church has promised to “exercise restraint” when considering gay bishops but has not agreed to ban them outright. The election is scheduled for Nov. 10.