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2h ago

ELCA Installs Yehiel Curry as First Black Presiding Bishop

His election opens a leadership agenda focused on cohesion in a shrinking, largely white denomination.

Bishop Yehiel Curry, who was recently elected as the first Black presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), poses for a photo, Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Talia Sprague)
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Bishop Yehiel Curry, who was recently elected as the first Black presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), poses for a photo, Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Talia Sprague)

Overview

  • A formal installation at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis marked the start of his six-year term, which officially began Oct. 1 after his July 30 election in Phoenix.
  • He succeeds the Rev. Elizabeth Eaton, who led for 12 years, and becomes the ELCA’s fifth presiding bishop.
  • The ELCA counts about 2.7 million members today, down from 5.3 million in 1988, and is widely reported to be more than 95% white.
  • Since 2009 the denomination has blessed same-sex marriages and welcomed LGBTQ clergy, later elevating openly gay and openly transgender regional bishops.
  • Curry cites goals to strengthen connections across congregations as colleagues emphasize building supports and infrastructure so leaders of color can fully lead.