The dean and rector of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Little Rock has been elected to serve as the ninth bishop of the diocese of West Missouri.

Amy Dafler Meaux, one of four nominees, was chosen on the first ballot at Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral in Kansas City on Nov. 9, receiving a majority of the votes from both the clergy and laity.

Before she receives a crozier and mitre, a majority of the nation's bishops and diocesan standing committees must consent to the election -- they have 120 days to do so. Rejections seldom happen.

The bishop-elect's ordination and consecration is currently scheduled for May 3.

Arkansas Bishop John T.W. Harmon said Meaux's election is "a wonderful thing for the church and a wonderful thing for the diocese of Arkansas."

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