Bishop Candidate Slate Announced

Written By Communications

August 14, 2026

On the Feast and Commemoration of New Hampshire’s

Jonathan Myrick Daniels, civil rights martyr.

Dear People of the Episcopal Church of New Hampshire - 

The Standing Committee joyfully and gratefully presents a slate of three candidates, each of whom feels called to serve as the 11th Bishop Diocesan and to share gifts, talents, experience, and vision with us.

We have been magnificently blessed by the faithful, diligent, and intensive discernment by the lay and clergy co-chairs and members of our Search Committee, assisted by consultant The Rev. Tim Hodapp and tended by their chaplain, Bishop Dorsey McConnell. All have amply fulfilled their charge and have met our highest expectations, providing us with these exceptional persons, all qualified for the role and responsibilities of a bishop of the Church.

Our candidates are:

  • The Rev. Ed Cardoza, Priest-in-Charge, Grace Church, Manchester, New Hampshire

  • The Rev. Fran Gardner-Smith, Rector, St. Thomas Church, McLean, Virginia

  • The Rev. Canon Dr. Kristofer Lindh-Payne, OSF, Canon to the Ordinary for Leadership, Diocese of Maryland

Biographical information, ministry experience, video greeting, and more are available on the Candidates webpage.

Our very busy Transition Committee has arranged for Convention delegates, clergy, and members of the diocese to welcome our candidates at three regional Meet and Greet events (and a clergy gathering) scheduled for October 8, 9, and 10. More information can be found on the website. Our Electing Convention takes place at St. Paul’s Church, Concord, on Saturday, October 24. More info is available here.

Accompanying this announcement are guidelines for a petition process to include additional candidates to the final slate, beginning Saturday, August 15 and concluding Saturday, August 22. Please see this website page for all requirements.

With Gratitude,

The Standing Committee, Episcopal Church of New Hampshire

Ms. Margaret Porter, President

Ms. Joan Bowers

Mr. Jack Calhoun 

The Rev. Fred Chisolm

The Rev. Dr. Guy Collins

The Rev. Veronika Travis

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