Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Sisters and Brothers, I write to you in the 11th year of my consecration to the Bishop of the Diocese of Louisiana to inform you of my intention to retire in November 2022. You may wonder why I am stating this so far in advance. In order for a smooth transition, the office of Orderly Transitions of the Presiding Bishop asks that an appropriate time be given to the process of election and seating of a new bishop. The suggested time is 18-20 months. This time frame will allow for Diocesan-wide discernment for your next bishop. Information regarding this process will be forthcoming.
This is not a goodbye notice, rather one of preparation. I am still your Bishop and have many more months to continue our walk in ministry. Work goes on as usual until my last day. I look forward to the days ahead with you.
Over the past year, Rebecca and I have spoken frequently about retirement and what that looks like for us. We look forward to being active grandparents and staying close to the service in which God leads us. We love the good people of Louisiana with all the diversity from every corner of the Diocese and we look forward to seeing what is next for you.
The Diocese of Louisiana is filled with exceptional lay and clerical leadership. Your devotion to service and your love of the Lord is your strength. The Diocese of Louisiana will be attractive to any candidate. May God continue to bless us and give us the strength to follow God’s will.
I am as always
Your servant in Christ,
The Rt. Rev. Morris K. Thompson, Jr.
Bishop of Louisiana