The Episcopal Church now has two openly gay bishops after consecrating Rev. Canon Mary Glasspool, of Baltimore in a weekend ceremony.

Nearly 3,000 people watched Saturday as Glasspool become a bishop in the Los Angeles diocese.

Glasspool is an experienced administrator and human rights advocate, according to Newsweek magazine. The 56-year old lesbian says she has been with her life partner for more than 20 years.

Glasspool, whom Newsweek magazine reports is the daughter of an Episcopal reverend, has the full backing of The Episcopal Church and Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori. She also has the backing of most bishops with jurisdiction, and most Church standing committees, Virtueonline reported.

"I realize that this development will cause hurt and pain to some of you," Bishop Schori noted in a message. "I am deeply aware of the range of opinion and position about this."

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, remains silent on the matter.

A conservative Episcopalian leader said the diocese 'is grieving the heart of God' with its decision."