Bishop Mike writes:
“After much prayer and discussion with Anthea, I have decided that I shall retire as Bishop of Bristol with effect from 30 September 2017. In April, I shall be 68 and will have completed 19 years as a bishop, 14 of those years as your bishop, and almost 40 years as an ordained person. It would be a slight exaggeration to say I have enjoyed every minute of it. As you can imagine, there have been some amazing times and some difficult seasons, but it has been a huge joy and privilege to have served you as your Diocesan Bishop and I thank you for the love, friendship, support and encouragement you have offered.
There will be more opportunities to say some important things to you, but, at this stage, I simply wanted to let everyone know this news. Please pray for us as we shall for you. Please pray that God will bless and sustain my colleagues during the episcopal vacancy. I know I can count on your prayers for those whose responsibility it is to play a part in the appointment of my successor”
We shall miss Bishop Mike deeply. He has been a wonderful guide and inspiration. The vacancy in see committee will meet in November to begin the process of choosing the next Bishop of Bristol. Both David Tunley and Raymond are members of that committee. We will be asking for your prayers and guidance for all who serve there.