Western Massachusetts Bishop Douglas Fisher announces plan to retire, calls for election

[Episcopal News Service] Western Massachusetts Douglas J. Fisher announced Sept. 27 his plans to retire and called for the election of the next bishop.

“For twelve years now, we have collaborated on Jesus’ mission of mercy, compassion and hope. It is in service to that mission that I am announcing plans for my retirement and calling for the election of the tenth bishop.”

In an announcement to the diocese, he said he expects that his successor will be elected at the diocese’s annual convention in November 2025.

In his letter to the diocese Fisher, expressed the deep gratitude he and his wife, the Rev. Elizabeth Fisher, feel “for these years with you and for the time that remains of our mutual ministry. You have inspired us with your prayers, your pastoral care for one another, and your commitment to serving those in need. Your next bishop will be joining you in a holy place where the way of love guides relationships and shapes mission.”

The diocese’s Standing Committee will be in contact with The Episcopal Church’s Office of Pastoral Development, which will provide a consultant to assist in the upcoming search process, which Fisher called “holy discernment.”

Fisher was consecrated the ninth bishop in December 2012, at the Mass Mutual Center in Springfield. He succeeded Bishop Gordon Paul Scruton who was elected in 1996.