The Episcopal Church needs to repent of its role in the death of Tom Palermo, killed when his bicycle was struck by Bishop Heather Cook while drink-driving, according to the president of its House of Deputies, Rev Gay Clark Jennings.
In a statement addressed to fellow deputies, he said that he was "deeply saddened" by Palermo's death and outlined measures to "help our Church repent" for its failings.
Jennings continued: "In the weeks since Mr Palermo was killed, many people in the church have struggled to understand better how our systemic denial about alcohol and other drug abuse in the Church may have contributed to Bishop Cook's election and confirmation as a bishop even as she seemed to be struggling with addiction.
"Many Episcopalians are asking what people in positions of authority in the Church knew about her history of addiction and driving while under the influence of alcohol. They are also asking why the electors in Maryland and the bishops and standing committees who consented to her election were not made aware of this information, some of which is a matter of public record."
He said that Cook's case underlined the need for "transparency and accountability" in bishop searches and that a committee would be appointed to consider the Church's position on alcohol and drug abuse.
Jennings spoke warmly of the ministry of his own bishop, Rt Rev Mark Hollingsworth, a recovering alcoholic, and said he believed people recovering from addictions could still be called to leadership.
However, he said: "I also know that the Church can sometimes confuse secrecy and confidentiality, and that our desire for reconciliation can sometimes make us reluctant to confront one another in love. I hope that we can examine our Church's relationship to alcohol and other drugs in a clear-eyed and forthright way, mindful of the systemic issues that can constrain transparency."
Jennings concluded: "These are the measures I can take to help our Church repent for our role in Thomas Palermo's death. I ask each of you to remember that all of us bear responsibility for ensuring that we elect our leaders honestly and transparently."
