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TAIWAN: “I will not seek second term as Presiding Bishop”, says Jefferts Schori
By David W. Virtue DD
www.virtueonline.org
Sept. 23, 2014
Speaking to the Episcopal Church’s House of Bishops meeting in Taiwan, Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori said today that after many months in discernment, she would not serve as PB for another nine years.
“I have resisted the assumption by some that presiding bishops can only be elected to serve one term, knowing the depth of relational work and learning that is involved in this ministry. There is a tradeoff between the learning curve and the ability to lead more effectively as a result of developed relationships both within and beyond this Church. At the same time, I recognize that standing for election as Presiding Bishop carries the implicit expectation that one is ready to serve a full term. I do not at present believe I should serve and lead in this ministry for another nine years.”
She added that she could best serve the Church by opening the door for other bishops to more freely discern their own vocation to this ministry. “I also believe that I can offer this Church stronger and clearer leadership in the coming year as we move toward that election and a whole-hearted engagement with necessary structural reforms. I will continue to engage us in becoming a more fully diverse Church, spreading the gospel among all sorts and conditions of people, and wholeheartedly devoted to God’s vision of a healed and restored Creation.”
VOL reported earlier in the year that her husband had said at a private dinner party that she would run again “over my dead body”.
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