At the recent Diocesan Convention, Bishop Tom Shaw announced that he would retire on September 13, 2014, the date scheduled for the consecration of our newly elected bishop. Bishop Shaw had originally called for the election of a bishop coadjutor, which meant he would have continued to serve as our diocesan bishop for a period of time after the consecration of his successor.

In an interview prior to the convention, the bishop said:  “Some might think this decision has to do with my health, but it doesn’t actually,” he said, referring to the brain cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment regimen he’s been undergoing over the past six months.  “My decision really has to do with my understanding of the episcopate and with God’s love.”

The election of the new bishop is scheduled to take place April 5, 2014, at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Boston. A full statement from Tracy Sukraw, Director of Communications for the diocese, can be found here:

http://www.diomass.org/diocesan-news/bishop-shaw-announces-retirement-date

While there will be a season of celebration ahead as we honor Bishop Shaw here are two dates to save on your calendar now:

Sunday January 5th, 2014: Bishop Shaw makes his last visitation to St. John’s.

Saturday June 21, 2014: Diocesan Celebration: Picnic and Eucharist in Franklin Park, Boston