The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church USA, presided over Konieczny's consecration ceremony, which was attended by about 3,000 people. In celebration of Oklahoma's American Indian heritage, the ceremony included many American Indian overtones, such as American Indian drummers and chanting. The event lasted about two and a half hours and included a colorful processional, music and a sermon by Konieczny's former bishop, the Rt. Rev. Robert J. O'Neill, bishop of the Diocese of Colorado.
O'Neill said he and other Colorado Episcopalians were proud of Konieczny, who he described as hard-working and committed. He said underneath Konieczny's "tough ex-cop exterior" is a gentle spirit, who possesses a deep love of God.
Perhaps the most poignant moment came when Konieczny knelt as Jefferts Schori began the prayer of consecration.
"Therefore, Father, make Edward a bishop in your Church. Pour out upon him the power of your princely spirit whom you bestowed upon your beloved son Jesus Christ ...," she said as she and other bishops lay hands on the kneeling Konieczny, 53.
As Oklahoma's new Episcopal bishop, Konieczny is now the chief pastor of an estimated 17,750 people in 72 diocesan congregations in the state. Joining Oklahoma Episcopalians at today's ceremony were Episcopal bishops from other states and other religious dignitaries such as the Rev. Robert Hayes Jr., bishop of the Oklahoma United Methodist Conference and the Rev. Thomas R. Jewell, regional pastor of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Oklahoma.
Konieczny's remarks immediately following the consecration were brief, but made an impact on those gathered. They cheered and clapped enthusiastically as he turned to face them wearing a miter -- a ceremonial headdress -- and dressed in his bishop vestment adorned with a colorful stole.
"I'm not sure what one says at this moment except -- Whoa!," said Konieczny. "You have honored me. You have humbled me. I pray that I earn it."
Oklahoma Episcopalian clergy and lay delegates elected Konieczny during an election convention held in May at St. Paul's Cathedral, 127 NW 7. He replaces the retiring bishop, the Rt. Rev. Robert Moody, who had served as diocesan leader since 1989.
Konieczny is expected to deliver his first sermon as bishop at his installation service at 11 a.m. Sunday at St. Paul's Cathedral, 127 NW 7.
