Nearly 1,600 people attended the installation service Oct. 6 for the Rev. Mark S. Hanson, ELCA presiding bishop-elect, at the University of Chicago's Rockefeller Chapel. Hanson will assume the role of presiding bishop Nov. 1.
Early in the installation service, the Rev. H. George Anderson, ELCA presiding bishop, sprinkles water on the congregation as part of a renewal of baptismal vows. Anderson will conclude his six-year term Oct. 31.
The Lenoir-Rhyne College A Capella Choir, Brass Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble performed at the installation service. Lenoir-Rhyne College, Hickory, N.C., is one of 28 ELCA colleges and universities.
The Rev. Heidi B. Neumark, Transfiguration Lutheran Church, Bronx, N.Y., read the gospel lesson at the installation service, before she delivered the sermon.
The Rev. Lowell G. Almen, right front, congratulates Presiding Bishop-Elect Hanson before the installation. Almen formally presented Hanson for the rite of installation.
Bishop Anderson, left front, installs Bishop-Elect Hanson, kneeling. ELCA ecumenical partners and Lutheran bishops from other continents, symbolically extend their hands. Each also placed their hands on Hanson's head during the installation.
Bishop Anderson placed a cross around Bishop-Elect Hanson's neck, symbolizing the transfer of the office of presiding bishop.
After the installation, Bishop-Elect Hanson presided at communion. Assisting him is the Rev. Michael Burk, director for worship, ELCA Division for Congregational Ministries.
Bishop-Elect Hanson blesses the congregation during the benediction at the conclusion of the installation service.
