ROCHESTER, NH: HARD WINTER FOR CHURCH THAT REBELLED AGAINST GAY BISHOP

By Mike Recht, Associated Press Writer

The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Rochester, New Hampshire, endured a turbulent winter after opposing the consecration of Bishop V. Gene Robinson—cycling through five priests, losing members, and now negotiating to escape his oversight entirely.

“We’re trying to respect his office as bishop,” said parishioner Lisa Ball. “On the other hand, we don’t want anything to do with him.”

Following a recent meeting with Robinson, Ball reported he listened carefully and asked questions: “He said he’s willing to do what it takes to make this work.”

Robinson has offered to allow visiting conservative bishops for pastoral support—but insists congregations must remain under his canonical authority. He proposed letting Redeemer help select a visiting bishop—though not replace him entirely.

Ball confirmed the division remains deep: of roughly 80 pre-rebellion members, about 10 Robinson supporters have left; only four remain. Senior Warden Ann Elkins—voted out by conservatives—stayed: “Others just couldn’t stand the tension. It was terrible.”

Tensions peaked in November when 30 conservatives walked out during a service after their priest was replaced. For months, many refused Communion. Two subsequent Robinson-aligned priests came and went—each time escalating conflict. One reportedly “threw the prayer book on the ground” and delivered a “fire and brimstone” sermon—prompting swift removal.

Relief came four weeks ago, when Robinson appointed retired priest Gordon Allen—a traditionalist who views homosexual practice as sin. Worship has since stabilized.

“They finally sent us someone we can work with,” Ball said.

“They’re now taking Communion because they like the person,” Elkins observed.

But if Robinson grants full alternative oversight, Elkins says she will leave: “At that point, I would have to go.”

Ball insists no conservative wants to depart: “If we wanted to leave, we would have been up and gone by now.”

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