While a disproportionate share of attention has been devoted to the disputed call of a rector at Christ Church in Accokeek, Md., the Diocese of Washington has been preparing quietly to elect its next bishop.

Recent events may not be encouraging to everyone affected by the outcome. In June, the original profile of the diocese was changed by the search committee to state that a bishop must be someone "firmly committed to the full inclusion of women and gay and lesbian people in the life of the church." In October, the standing committee announced that nominations by petition would require the signatures of at least 25 canonically resident clergy and 75 communicant members in good standing of parishes in the diocese.

It is not unusual for interested groups to maneuver for advantage prior to the election. And a diocese, of course, can prepare for an election in any manner it chooses, but taken together the requirements listed above would appear to leave little room for the work of the Holy Spirit.

The election of the Bishop of Washington, and all episcopal elections, should be a matter of interest to all Episcopalians because the entire church is a participant in and affected by the outcome. Whomever the Diocese of Washington elects will need the consents of at least two-thirds of all diocesan bishops and standing committees. If approved, the new Bishop of Washington will also become a member of the House of Bishops with all the privileges and responsibilities that entails.

According to tradition, reason and scripture, the selection of an Episcopal bishop is not a political contest, but rather the will of God expressed through an act of the community. We should pray that the outcome on Jan. 24 reflects that ideal.