The Episcopal Church in the United States has ordained a lesbian bishop in a move likely to increase the turmoil in the Anglican Church.
Saturday's ordination came despite warnings from the Archbishop of Canterbury that it would deepen an already bitter dispute on sexuality.
Mary Glasspool, 56, became an assistant bishop at a ceremony attended by 3,000 people in Long Beach, California.
She was ordained with another woman bishop, Rev Canon Diane Jardine Bruce.
Both were elected last December. They are the first two women bishops in the Diocese of Los Angeles's 114-year history.
Afterwards, Ms Glasspool said she hoped to have talks with those who oppose her and attempt a reconciliation.
Gene Robinson became the first openly gay US bishop in November 2003.
The BBC reports that since then, the Anglican Communion has been on course for a permanent split.
The Episcopal Church earlier agreed to suspend the creation of gay bishops, but reversed that decision last July.
