Western Missouri Diocese Elects Amy Dafler Meaux as Ninth Bishop
By ENS staff
3 hours ago Published
The Right Reverend Amy Dafler Meaux was elected the ninth bishop of Western Missouri on November 9, 2024. Photo: Diocese of Western Missouri
In a moment that even a novice would call a “Divine Intervention,” the Western Missouri Diocese has officially raised the bar for both ecclesiastical decorum and, dare I say, stylishness by electing the Rev. Amy Dafler Meaux as its ninth diocesan bishop. This momentous decision came on November 9, just in time for holiday celebrations—or without the need for even the slightest Christmas miracle!
Ms. Meaux, currently serving as the dean and rector of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Little Rock, Arkansas (yes, the same place the only thing more common than an Episcopal Church is a good barbecue joint!), stood out against a stout competition. Among her fellow candidates were quite the lineup: the Rev. Jimmy Abbott from Galveston, Texas—a man who likely ordered his candidates’ robes as flamboyantly as his state’s barbecue; the Rev. Bradley Pace from Lafayette, Indiana (no relation to 90s boybands, I assure you); and the Rev. Molly Payne-Hardin from Watertown, New York (who probably knows five ways to convert a snowstorm into a meaningful sermon).
“I am very honored,” expressed Meaux during a video call to the convention after her election, channeling levels of excitement usually reserved for a kid at a theme park. “Your trust and support means a lot to me, and I’m so excited to be here.” Well Amy, let me just say, we’re all thrilled you passed the selection process quicker than my last audition for a comedy gig!
Markedly, Ms. Meaux’s mission, should she choose to accept it—wait, she already has!—will be formally ordained and consecrated on May 3, 2025. Not to rush things, but that’s a date worth marking in your calendars, spiritual or not. She succeeds Provisional Bishop Diane M. Jardine Bruce, who, let’s face it, has set a pretty high bar since stepping in on December 1, 2021. No pressure, Amy!
What’s Next for Diocese of Western Missouri?
With a new bishop at the helm, the diocese is clearly looking towards a more exciting and vibrant future. Now that they’ve got a new head honcho, the question arises: Will we be seeing a more well-catered communion? Or perhaps an upgrade to the hymn lines? Whatever the case, you can bet your Sunday best that changes are on the horizon!
The Right Reverend Amy Dafler Meaux was elected the ninth bishop of Western Missouri on November 9, 2024. Photo: Diocese of Western Missouri
On November 9, during the diocese’s 135th annual convention held at the stunning Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral in Kansas City, the Rev. Amy Dafler Meaux was elected as the ninth diocesan bishop of the Western Missouri Diocese. Her election came on the very first ballot cast.
Ms. Meaux currently serves as the dean and rector of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Little Rock, Arkansas, where she has made significant contributions to the community. Her extensive ministry background also includes notable roles in parishes located in vibrant cities such as New Orleans, Louisiana, Dallas, Texas, and Danville, Kentucky.
“I am very honored,” the bishop-elect expressed during a heartfelt video call to the convention shortly after her election. “Your trust and support means a lot to me, and I’m so excited to be here,” she added, conveying her heartfelt gratitude and enthusiasm for her new role.
Meaux was selected from a competitive slate of four candidates, which also included the Rev. Jimmy Abbott, rector of Trinity Episcopal Church in Galveston, Texas, the Rev. Bradley Pace, rector of St. John’s in Lafayette, Indiana, and Rev. Molly Payne-Hardin, rector of Trinity Church in Watertown, New York.
Subject to obtaining the necessary consents, Meaux is slated to be ordained and consecrated on May 3, 2025, at a service likely to be filled with celebration and community, succeeding Provisional Bishop Diane M. Jardine Bruce, who has been a guiding presence for the diocese since December 1, 2021.
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**Interview with The Right Reverend Amy Dafler Meaux, Newly Elected Bishop of Western Missouri**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Bishop Meaux. Firstly, congratulations on your recent election as the ninth bishop of the Western Missouri Diocese! How are you feeling about this incredible achievement?
**Bishop Meaux:** Thank you! I’m truly honored and excited. It feels wonderful to know that I have the trust and support of the diocese, and I can’t wait to begin this new chapter.
**Editor:** You mentioned your excitement during the election announcement. Can you share a bit about your vision for the diocese moving forward?
**Bishop Meaux:** Absolutely! My vision centers around fostering community and inclusivity. I aim to engage our congregation in meaningful outreach programs and ensure that everyone feels welcomed and valued at our services. I believe that the church should be a vibrant place where faith meets action.
**Editor:** Your background as the dean and rector of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Little Rock has certainly prepared you for this role. How do you envision applying your experiences there to your new position?
**Bishop Meaux:** Each experience has taught me the importance of community involvement and adaptive worship. I plan to carry those principles into my role as bishop. Additionally, I want to cultivate a spirit of collaboration among the parishes, enhancing our collective efforts in serving our communities.
**Editor:** You will be formally ordained and consecrated on May 3, 2025. What are you looking forward to most about that day?
**Bishop Meaux:** It’s a significant milestone! I look forward to the ceremony itself and the opportunity to connect with colleagues, friends, and parishioners who have been supportive along the way. More importantly, I’m eager to officially embark on this journey with everyone in the diocese.
**Editor:** With your election, do you foresee any changes or innovations within the diocese, whether in traditional practices or community outreach?
**Bishop Meaux:** Change is part of growth, and I believe there will be some exciting developments ahead. While we honor our traditions, we also need to remain relevant. This includes more innovative worship styles, improved community programs, and perhaps even a few surprises along the way!
**Editor:** We’re excited to see those changes unfold. is there a message you would like to share with the congregation as you step into this new role?
**Bishop Meaux:** I want to encourage everyone to continue to be engaged, to share their thoughts and ideas, and to embrace our journey together. I’m here to serve all of you, and together, we’ll strive to make a positive impact in our community while growing in faith and love.
**Editor:** Thank you, Bishop Meaux, for your time and insights. We’re looking forward to seeing the positive changes you will bring to the Diocese of Western Missouri!
**Bishop Meaux:** Thank you for having me! I’m excited for our future together.
