It means that there is evidence that things have happened during his episcopacy that make it impossible for him to continue to lead with integrity. It means that efforts at change and reconciliation have failed, and the Standing Committee has no other choice but to ask for his resignation. It means that the Standing Committee has come to this difficult point only because they are in the position of having to choose between the health of the Diocese and the continued leadership of its bishop.

While I do not always agree with the theological positions taken by some members of the Standing Committee, I consider them people who do their best to lead responsibly. I know that each of them cares deeply about the state of this diocese. Consequently, I wholeheartedly support the action of the Standing Committee in calling for Bishop Bennison's voluntary resignation. I know that among many of the clergy and lay leaders of the diocese, regardless of their theological positions, there has been a mounting sense of frustration over his leadership. During his episcopacy several meetings have been convened to provide an opportunity for people to discuss their anger and frustration directly with the bishop, but all have been to no avail. Even though his second letter contains a call for a "rigorous long term process for addressing our problems," his history in this diocese shows that such meetings do not inspire any positive changes in his behavior.

Contained in his first letter is, among other things, a call to prayer. This portion of that letter I would heartily endorse. The diocese needs prayer now more than ever. For the bishop not to humbly accept the recommendation of the Standing Committee and resign with dignity means that the diocese will further divide into camps (for and against the bishop), some of the painful and embarrassing facts leading up to the call for his resignation will come to light, and wounds to our diocesan life will only increase. Sadly, the effect of these letters from the bishop will be the further splintering of the diocese, more distrust and more frustration on all sides. Please pray, and pray fervently, for this diocese.

Sincerely,

The Rev. Greg Brewer
Rector
Church of the Good Samaritan
Paoli, PA

NOTE: The Church of the Good Samaritan is the largest Evangelical parish in the Diocese of Pennsylvania and one of the largest on the East coast of the United States.