New Metropolitan Elected

On Saturday, January 18, 2025 the House of Bishops and the Provincial Council of the Ecclesiastical Province of British Columbia and Yukon elected Bishop John Stephens as their new Metropolitan.

Acting Primate The Most Rev. Anne Germond said that “ it was a privilege for me to chair the electoral synod for the position of Metropolitan in the ecclesiastical province of BC-Yukon today. Warmest congratulations to Archbishop John Stephens on his election as the Metropolitan. I look forward to working with you in the days ahead and assure you of my support and prayers as you assume the mantle of leadership at what is a difficult time for you personally. The Province of BC-Yukon also remains in my prayers in this time of transition and change. 

I would like to extend my deepest thanks to Bishop Lynne McNaughton for her leadership as the former Metropolitan, and to Bishop David Lehmann for his leadership in the interim period. We have been blessed by your wise, generous and faithful service for the building up of the church of God in BC-Yukon and more widely in the Anglican Church of Canada for the common good. 

This election is not just about the selection of an individual—it is about strengthening our collective commitment to leadership, collaboration, and the growth of our beloved church. Each of us plays a vital role in upholding the values that define us as Anglican Christians as we deepen our lives in Christ.”

With his election as Metropolitan, Archbishop John Stephens remains the head of the Diocese of New Westminster. He adds to his duties and responsibility for the Ecclesiastical Province of BC and Yukon.