The first openly lesbian bishop to lead an Episcopal diocese in the American South, Sarah Fisher, says Christians must focus on their shared faith in Christ rather than political or cultural differences when ministering in “a divided nation and world.”
Fisher, who was recently installed as bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of East Carolina, described serving a congregation that is divided on politics and other issues but “united in our desire to see, know and serve the Risen Christ.”
She argued that believers should build relationships with those they disagree with, saying, “Getting proximate to those who differ from us is vital.” Fisher added that while it is easy to dislike ideas or stereotypes, it is much harder to hate someone personally when “you can recognize the light of Christ within them.”
Her comments came during the bishop selection process before her election, offering insight into how she hopes to lead amid ongoing political, cultural, and theological divisions.
