CONCORD, N.H. -- New Hampshire Episcopalians have elected an openly homosexual man to be their bishop, setting up what may be a heated battle over his confirmation, according to The Associated Press.
The Rev. V. Gene Robinson, 56, was chosen over three other candidates in voting by clergy and lay Episcopalians. His appointment is subject to confirmation in July by the church's national General Convention.
AP reported that Robinson, who was married and has two grown children, has drawn opposition from the Anglican community worldwide.
Representing 77 million people worldwide, including 2.3 million members of the Episcopal Church in the United States, the Anglican Communion approved a resolution in 1998 calling gay sex "incompatible with Scripture."
Robinson now lives with his male partner in Weare, N.H., according to the news service. After his election, Robinson told supporters to be gentle with those who disagreed with their decision.
"We will show the world how to be a Christian community," he said. "I plan to be a good bishop, not a gay bishop."
Robinson received 58 of 77 ballots cast by clergy and 96 of 165 lay votes.
