I understand that people have been asking about how I would like to be addressed. My preference is to be called “Bishop Steven,” rather than Bishop Biegler. However, I will not be fussy about it, so please do not worry about it if you forget. Why “Bishop Steven”? Steven is my baptismal name, and the name that I was called by my family. As a priest, I used Fr. Steve, so Bishop Steven is similar. While I understand that using a Bishop’s last name for address is a form of respect, it might also create distance in a relationship which is meant to be fatherly and familial. Also, I do not prefer the titles like “your excellency,” etc. While these titles are ways of expressing honor, they do not seem to be in accord with Jesus’ teaching. He warned his disciples to be wary of seeking after honorific titles (Matt. 23:1-12) and of being set above others. However, “Bishop” is a title used in the New Testament. The word in Greek is episkopos which means “overseer” with the sense of a guardian who is watching over others to guide and protect them. St. Peter uses this word to describe Jesus’ care for us in 1 Peter 2:25, “For you had gone astray like sheep, but you have returned to the shepherd and guardian(episkopon) of your souls.” I am excited to be with you, and I look forward to serving the Lord with you. In preparation for my episcopal ordination, I am required to make a retreat, which I will make next week May 22-26. Please pray for me.
Peace in Christ,
Bishop-elect Steven
Phone: 307-733-2516
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