Statement from the Standing Committee
Update: Navajoland Bishop Search
Missionary Diocese of Navajoland
By Navajoland Communications Office
May 29, 2026
Yá’át’ééh,
The Standing Committee of the Episcopal Church in Navajoland is sharing the following letter from the Rev. Jack Chase, President Pro-tem of the Standing Committee, regarding the upcoming retirement of the Rt. Rev. Barry Beisner as Provisional Bishop of Navajoland.
As ECN continues walking through this important season in the life of the Church, we give thanks for the leadership, care, and accompaniment Bishop Beisner and the Rev. Dr. Ann Hallisey have shared with the people of Navajoland.
Please continue to hold the Episcopal Church in Navajoland, Bishop Barry, Ann, and the Standing Committee in your prayers as ECN prepares for the Election Convention in June.
Dear People of the Episcopal Church in Navajoland,
At the May 7, 2026, meeting of the Standing Committee of the Episcopal Church in Navajoland, the Rt. Rev. Barry Beisner submitted his resignation as Provisional Bishop.
With wisdom, patience, and faithful leadership, Bishop Beisner has guided ECN through the important and complex work of becoming a Missionary Diocese of The Episcopal Church. During his time with Navajoland, ECN developed its Mission Statement, Constitution and Canons, and continued preparing for the election of its first Bishop Diocesan.
With deep gratitude to Bishop Beisner and his wife, the Rev. Dr. Ann Hallisey, the Standing Committee accepted his resignation, effective June 21, 2026.
We give thanks for their ministry among the people of Navajoland and pray God’s blessings upon them in the next season of their journey.
With respect, gratitude, and deep affection,
The Rev. Jack Chase
President Pro-tem of the Standing Committee
The Episcopal Church in Navajoland
Additional information regarding this transition and what to expect in the coming weeks will be made available on the ECN website and shared through diocesan communications.