Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop to Consecrate New San Joaquin Valley Bishop

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The Most Rev. Sean W. Rowe, Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, will travel to Fresno on April 18 to consecrate the Rev. Dr. Gregory W. Kimura as the sixth bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin during a ceremony at St. James Episcopal Cathedral. This marks the first episcopal consecration in the Diocese of San Joaquin since 1988, making it a historic moment for the diocese and its congregations throughout California's Central Valley and High Desert.

Why it matters

The consecration of a new bishop represents an important milestone for the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin, which has experienced a period of renewal and rebuilding in recent years. Bishop-elect Kimura's installation will provide continued spiritual leadership and growth for the diocese's 19 congregations and ministries across the Central Valley.

The details

As bishop, Kimura will serve as the spiritual leader of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin, which includes congregations stretching from Lodi and Stockton in the north to Bakersfield and Ridgecrest in the south, as well as the Episcopal Conference Center Oakhurst. Kimura, a fourth-generation Alaskan, has served Episcopal and Lutheran congregations in Alaska and California, most recently as rector of St. James' Episcopal Church in South Pasadena.

• The consecration ceremony will take place on April 18, 2026 at 10 a.m.
• Kimura will succeed The Rt. Rev. David C. Rice, who served as diocesan bishop for twelve years.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The consecration service will include a traditional procession of bishops and clergy from across the country, as well as the historic 'laying on of hands' ceremony that marks the formal beginning of Bishop-elect Kimura's ministry. The service is expected to draw clergy and church leaders from across the United States.