Bishop Taylor and Canon O’Connor at consecration service July 8, 2017 (photo by Danielle Klebanow for Episcopal News)
Los Angeles Bishop John Harvey Taylor — who was ordained and consecrated to the episcopate nine years ago today — and his spouse, Canon Kathy O’Connor were saluted Thursday, July 2, by diocesan staff gathered for a farewell Eucharist and luncheon at St. Paul’s Commons, Echo Park,
“Today our focus is not simply to mark an ending, but to give thanks for faithful stewardship,” said the Rev. Canon John Watson, interim diocesan canon, in his homily during the Eucharist. “for vision joined with humility, for leadership grounded in the Gospel, and for a ministry that has consistently sought to point beyond itself to Christ. As Bishop John enters this next chapter, we pray that the same God, who has sustained his ministry will now grant him rest, joy, and new opportunities for service.”
Prayer at St. Paul’s Commons
Taylor on July 11 will conclude his ministry as bishop of Los Angeles by passing the diocesan crozier, or pastoral staff, to his successor, Bishop-elect Antonio J. Gallardo L., during his consecration at All Saints Church, Pasadena (related stories above).
The diocesan and regional community has expressed its appreciation to Taylor and O’Connor in various ways, including recognition at L.A. City Hall by Mayor Karen Bass and other civic and faith leaders; a gala banquet hosted at St. John’s Cathedral by the multicultural ministries of the diocese; an annual scholarship at Neighborhood Youth Association, a diocesan institution, for which more than $40,000 has been raised; an honorary doctorate from Claremont School of Theology; and a commemorative photo album from the diocesan Transitions Committee. Numerous congregations also have expressed their gratitude to Taylor and O’Connor.
Coverage of Bishop Taylor’s consecration is here; video highlights are here.
Consecration service (photo by Donna Machado); selfie photo during visitation to St. Cross, Hermosa Beach, Nov. 16, 2025.