Sunday

The blogs are reporting that The Right Rev. Jeffrey N. Steenson, Bishop of Rio Grande, will resign at the end of the year to become a Roman Catholic.

Two aspects of Bishop Steenson’s letter to his diocese are telling. First, he says, “The reason for this decision is that my conscience is deeply troubled about where the Episcopal Church is heading, and this has become a crisis for me because of my ordination vow to uphold its doctrine, discipline, and worship. An effective leader cannot be so conflicted about the guiding principles of the Church he serves. It concerns me that this has affected my ability to lead this diocese with a clear and hopeful vision for its mission. I also have sensed how important it is for those of us in this position to model a gracious way to leave the Episcopal Church in a manner respectful of its laws.”

And then…

“I also want to acknowledge with gratitude the pastoral support I have received from the Presiding Bishop and her office during this time. She has offered to visit, and I have invited her to be with us at the clergy conference the afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 26, and perhaps also for that evening, for mutual conversation and the opportunity to know each other better in this time reserved for the clergy. I hope that you all can be present.”

You can read the letter in its entirety here.

Graciousness and respect have been in short supply of late, and we should all rejoice at seeing them displayed on both sides. Pray that we see more.