NEWS RELEASE
THE ANGLICAN DIOCESE OF NIAGARA
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HAMILTON – The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Niagara, the Right Reverend Michael Bird, has announced his intention to conclude his ministry as diocesan bishop, effective June 1, 2018. The bishop plans to take up a new, yet-to-be-announced ministry position with the diocese of Ottawa.
“Together, we have embraced so many exciting opportunities, we have faced and met a number of daunting challenges, and above all we have remained steadfast in our calling as God’s people. This time has been marked by a decade full of faith and vision, courage and hope, change and innovation.”
In an open letter to the diocese, Bishop Bird said that the decision, made after months of prayerful discernment, was a difficult one as being diocesan bishop was among the greatest privileges of his life.
As the eleventh Bishop of Niagara, Bishop Bird has borne witness to God’s transformational and inclusive love. He led the diocese to create a new vision for its ministry that includes a focus on prophetic social justice-making, life-changing worship, and leadership development. Bishop Bird is a strong and progressive voice within the Anglican Church of Canada on issues related to the inclusion of members of the LGBTQ2 community, the alleviation and eradication of poverty, the truth and reconciliation process with Indigenous peoples, and the global refugee crisis.
At its next meeting in October, the governing body of the diocese will begin the electoral planning process by selecting a seven-person oversight committee known as the Electoral Synod Nominations and Planning Committee. It is expected that an electoral synod will happen in the first quarter of 2018.
The mission of the Anglican Diocese of Niagara is to follow Christ passionately while ensuring the growth of healthy, spiritually vibrant, justice-seeking faith communities. Its 90 parishes serve people in Hamilton and Guelph, the regions of Niagara and Halton, as well as Wellington, Haldimand and Dufferin counties.
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