A Spokane psychologist who helped develop controversial interrogation methods that some human-rights groups say amount to torture became the new spiritual leader of a Mormon congregation on the Spokane's South Hill this week.

Bruce Jessen was proposed by Spokane Stake President James Lee, or "called" in the terminology of the Mormon faith, to be the bishop of Spokane's 6th Ward. He was presented to the congregation on Sunday. He was unanimously accepted by some 200 in attendance, Lee said.

Contacted by phone for a comment, Jessen said, "I don't have anything to say to you" and hung up.

"The tactics were a "voodoo science," says Michael Rolince, former section chief of the F.B.I.'s International Terrorism Operations."

"Instead of the careful training...some recruits allegedly received on-the-job training during brutal interrogations that effectively unfolded as live demonstrations."

"Mitchell and Jessen's methods were so controversial that, among colleagues, the reaction to their names alone became a litmus test of one's attitude toward coercion and human rights. Their critics called them the "Mormon mafia" (a reference to their shared religion) and the "poster boys" (referring to the F.B.I.'s "most wanted" posters, which are where some thought their activities would land them)."

"Before a new bishop may be interviewed, called, ordained, or set apart, his recommendation must be approved by the First Presidency. The stake president may extend the calling after he receives written approval from the First Presidency. With this approval, the stake president may also ordain and set apart a bishop after ward members have given a sustaining vote."