Episcopal Bishop Known for Progressiveness Announces Retirement Plans
Renowned for his progressive policies within the church, Bishop Lawrence Provenzano of the Episcopal Diocese of Long Island has revealed plans to retire, garnering attention once more. His leadership, previously marked by a mandate for openly gay clergy to formalize their partnerships through marriage, will come to an end in September 2026.
In a pastoral letter released this Tuesday, Bishop Provenzano announced his decision to retire after almost two decades of service. Approaching his 70th birthday, he emphasized the need to initiate the process of selecting and ordaining his successor for the diocese.
Provenzano expressed, “I will remain actively and fully your bishop until the moment I hand the diocesan crozier into the hands of my successor during her or his ordination as bishop.” His statement also requested prayers for his family and staff and encouraged the congregation’s involvement in the upcoming transition process, with a focus on maintaining their witness as a faith community.
When New York State legalized same-sex marriage in 2011, Provenzano issued a directive requiring clergy in same-sex relationships to marry or live apart, allowing a grace period of nine months. He stated, “I deem it to be honest and fair, and I do so direct and require, now that it is legal, that only married couples may live together, either in rectories or elsewhere as a clergy couple living in the midst of our faith community.”
Among the supporters of this directive was Rev. Christopher Hofer, pastor of the Episcopal Church of St. Jude in Wantagh, New York. Hofer commented, “I think his statement was not only fair, but beyond generous. It gives people time, acknowledging that there’s a financial component involved and recognizing that some may not choose to live together.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2021, Provenzano mandated vaccinations for all diocesan staff and clergy, with exemptions for medical conditions. He insisted that unvaccinated individuals must wear masks indoors and undergo regular testing. In his statement, he underscored the collective responsibility to end the health crisis, asserting, “Each of us, as members of the Body of Christ, must now do our part to help end this crisis.”
Continuing his advocacy for progressive stances, Provenzano joined other bishops in April to oppose The General Theological Seminary’s agreement with the School of Sacred Music, a Catholic choral group with conservative views on LGBT issues.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
