Rev. Miguelina Howell Elected 10th Bishop of Western Massachusetts Episcopal Diocese
A historic moment for the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts as the Rev. Miguelina Howell has been chosen to lead the community, marking a significant step forward for representation within the church.
The Rev. Miguelina Howell, currently dean of Christ Church Cathedral in Hartford, Connecticut, was elected the 10th bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts on November 15. The election took place during the annual diocesan convention held at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, with Howell securing the position on the first ballot.
A New Leader for a Historic Diocese
Howell expressed her gratitude and vision for the future, stating, “We are in this together. I am blessed and honored to have been chosen to serve as your tenth bishop. Thank you God and thank you for placing your sacred trust in me through your prayerful votes.” She outlined her commitment to building upon the existing foundation of faith and justice within the diocese, and to fostering a more adaptable approach to ministry.
The diocese, established in 1901, encompasses over 50 congregations and community ministries across a diverse geographical area, from the Berkshire Mountains to Worcester County and the Connecticut River Valley. It serves a community of more than 10,000 baptized Episcopalians.
Background and Experience
Prior to her election, Howell served as dean of Christ Church Cathedral since 2016, having previously held the position of vicar at the cathedral for two years. Her academic background is notably diverse, holding a degree in Theology from the Theological Studies Centers of the Dominican Republic and a qualification as a registered clinical psychologist from the Pedro Henríquez Ureña National University, also in the Dominican Republic. This unique combination of theological and psychological training is expected to inform her pastoral leadership.
Other candidates considered for the position included the Rev. Susan B. Fortunato, rector of Christ Episcopal Church in Poughkeepsie, New York, and the Very Rev. Marcus George Halley, college chaplain and dean of spiritual and religious life at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut.
Transition and Consecration
Howell will succeed Bishop Doug Fisher, who announced his retirement in September 2024, with his official departure slated for April 2026. Fisher was consecrated as the ninth bishop on December 1, 2012.
The formal ordination and consecration of Howell as bishop is scheduled for April 25, 2026, pending the canonically required consent from the majority of standing diocesan committees of the Episcopal Church and bishops with jurisdiction. Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe is expected to officiate at the ceremony.
Howell expressed her eagerness to collaborate with Bishop Fisher, the standing committee, and the transition team to ensure a smooth handover and to prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. She affirmed, “I look forward to leading you as your new bishop.”
