Episcopal Bishop Says He'll Retire at Year's End

By Robert Moran
Philadelphia Inquirer
October 9, 2012

http://articles.philly.com/2012-10-09/news/34343881_1_episcopal-bishop-bishop-charles-e-bennison-he-ll

Bishop Charles E. Bennison Jr. of the Episcopal Diocese of Pennsylvania said Tuesday that he would retire at the end of the year.

Bennison, 68, a supporter of gay clergy and same-sex marriage, was elevated to his position in 1998. His tenure has been marked by many controversies over his support of gay rights and disputes over church property. He was suspended for mishandling his brother's sex abuse of a teen girl in the 1970s, but was reinstated.

A church official said a provisional bishop, to serve until a replacement for Bennison is selected, would be elected early next year.