Statement on the Resignation of Bishop Margot Kaessmann

from Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson

Statement of the Rev. Mark S. Hanson, ELCA Presiding Bishop and LWF President, on the Resignation of Bishop Margot Kaessmann

It is with great sadness that I have learned of Bishop Dr. Margot Kaessmann's resignation as bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hannover and as chairperson of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) Council.

Bishop Kaessmann is a gifted theologian, an outstanding global religious leader, a prophetic voice for justice and peace, and colleague. I have communicated to her my gratitude for her leadership and my commitment to holding her, her family and church in prayer.

Bishop Kaessmann's resignation is a great loss for the Lutheran World Federation and the EKD. We will continue to pray that God will give her strength and opportunities for continued witness and service.

The Rev. Mark S. Hanson