Bishop resigns to pursue parish ministry

Bishop John Hannen has resigned as Bishop of Caledonia to pursue parish ministry at St. Barnabas in Victoria and work with First Nations people. His resignation is effective June 30, 2001, but he will take sabbatical and vacation time starting Feb. 20, he wrote in a pastoral letter dated Dec. 27, 2000.

In the letter, which was sent to all congregations in Caledonia, he wrote, “The diocese (needs) to move into the next millennium with a vision and direction appropriate for the changed and changing circumstances of our world.”

He added, “Given my age (63) and the fact that the diocese and bishop would need to give much time and energy over the next 10-15 years to agree upon and implement such new directions, I deemed it appropriate that I resign so a new bishop could be involved in that development and implementation.”

In talking about his new parish, he said, “I think I still have a fair bit to offer.”

In order to continue the affairs of the diocese, Bishop Hannen noted, in a letter sent to the clergy and wardens of the diocese, that Rev. Dean Houghton has been appointed commissary.

His appointment begins Feb. 20 and will last until Archbishop David Crawley, metropolitan of the ecclesiastical province of British Columbia and Yukon, appoints an administrator. Mr. Houghton will also continue as parish priest of St. Matthew’s in Terrace, B.C.

Bishop Hannen also wrote that Debby Shaw, secretary-treasurer of the diocese and Archdeacon Charles Parslow will join Mr. Houghton on the interim management team. Ms. Shaw will be responsible for the ongoing business of the synod office, Archdeacon Parslow will assist with administration beyond the routine and Mr. Houghton will oversee pastoral and personnel matters, Bishop Hannen said.

Born in Winnipeg, Bishop Hannen graduated from McGill University and served as a priest in England before returning to Canada. He was consecrated bishop of Caledonia in February, 1981. He and his wife Alana have two daughters.