Today the Diocese of Pittsburgh announced Archbishop Robert Duncan’s retirement from episcopal ministry.

The announcement was made at the annual diocesan convention, held at St. Stephen’s Church in Sewickley, Pennsylvannia.

Archbishop Duncan said, “It has seemed to me like the work I was called to do is as complete as it can be. I believe that this is a very good moment for me to let go and to pass the chief pastor’s crozier to another, just as we have largely passed diocesan leadership, both clergy and lay, from one generation to another. The years of conflict, and of course correction, within the Body of Christ are past for now. The challenge ahead is one of strengthening the Church for discipleship and evangelization in a hostile and needy nation and world.”

The Diocese of Pittsburgh will hold a special convention to elect its next bishop on April 22-23, 2016. Archbishop Duncan’s retirement will take place June 30th, 2016.

Archbishop Foley Beach commented, “As its first Primate, Archbishop Duncan led the Anglican Church in North America through critical stages of its formation, and we will be forever grateful for his years of courageous, servant leadership. Please join me in praying for the Diocese of Pittsburgh as it seeks God’s will for its next bishop, and for Archbishop Duncan and his wife Nara as God leads them in this next season of life.”