Bishop Tenders Resignation

The following letter was first issued as a pastoral letter to members of the diocese on January 5, 2020. It was read aloud during worship in congregations across the region. Download the letter below.

Dear friends,

I write to inform you that I have submitted my resignation as bishop to Archbishop Melissa Skelton. It is a bittersweet experience. I will retire as your bishop on May 1, 2020. Am I ready to leave the post? Yes—however there are many things and people I am going to miss.

I believe we have accomplished much over the last number of years. We have set a course for the future, and with commitment and hope in the Gospel, we will accomplish much more. At a time when we hear that the church is in decline, we can attest to being alive in so many ways.

I will not be “taking things easy” over the next few months. I realize that during a time of change in a diocese, the temptation is to shift the focus to the election of the next bishop. However, I ask that you do not take your foot off the accelerator. Continue during this intentional time of prayer to seek new ways to minister together as we work to transform our future. Take seriously my call for the season of discipleship and spend time together this Lent to study the book Watershed Discipleship.

The chancellor will send out a letter which will explain the process of electing the next bishop. It will be my prayer that the work we have done will not be lost in this time of transition but will be solidified, and as you seek the 14th bishop of the diocese, you will be inviting that person to join in this exciting journey of transformation.

Thank you all for the trust and confidence you have placed in me. Thank you for the journey through tough decisions and challenging times. As we continue, I believe we have a faith-full future as the diocese of islands and inlets.

Yours in Christ,

The Right Rev. Dr. Logan McMenamie
bishop