Bishop Paula Clark has appointed Luis Garcia of the Church of the Atonement in Chicago to the newly created position of chaplain to the bishop.

Garcia, who has led numerous key diocesan committees, will work 20 hours a week, supporting the bishop as she makes congregational visits and presides at special services around the diocese.

“I am so happy to have Luis and his skills, commitment and experience to rely on as I continue my travels among the people of our diocese,” Bishop Clark said. “He has a deep knowledge of our diocese and a profoundly pastoral presence, and I look forward to working with him.”

Garcia has chaired the Taskforce on Hispanic/Latino Mission and Ministry Sustainability; co-chaired the Bishop Search Committee; and served on the Standing Committee and the Congregations Commission. He is a licensed preacher and a consultant with the College for Congregational Development, working both in the Diocese of Chicago and with bilingual and multicultural congregations in the Episcopal Church in Minnesota.

“I look forward to being of service to Bishop Clark and the congregations of the diocese as they come to know each other more closely through her pastoral visitations,” he said.

Garcia works for Chicago Public Schools, supporting the recruitment, election and training of members of the local school governing boards.