A Bishop's (Final?) Pastoral Letter

Continuing a long story that I've covered on this blog, this is from the website of the Southeastern Synod, ELCA:

August 2, 2007

A Pastoral Letter regarding the Bradley Schmeling disciplinary case and St. John's Lutheran Church, Atlanta, GA

Dear friends in Christ,

After much prayer, it is my decision not to take any further action regarding the Bradley Schmeling disciplinary case and/or any action against St. John's Lutheran Church, Atlanta, GA. A few days ago I shared this decision with Bishop-elect H. Julian Gordy and this evening shared the news with St. John’s Executive Committee and Bradley.

As most of you know, I will be leaving the Office of Bishop of the Southeastern Synod August 31, 2007. I have requested that St. John’s leadership be in contact with Bishop-elect Gordy, who assumes office September 1, 2007.

In the blessed name of the risen Lord Jesus,

Ronald B. Warren
Bishop
ELCA-Southeastern Synod

Well, I suppose it would have been a bit much for an outgoing Bishop to begin conversations with a parish whose pastor is no longer eligible to serve it. Prayers for Bishop-elect Gordy are in order.