Tennessee Withdrawals.

Levenson and Dyson have withdrawn themselves from consideration in the Diocese of Tennessee Episcopal Election:

The Episcopate Committee has received two letters of withdrawal from the process, from the Rev. Russell Levenson and the Rev. Thack Dyson. We are disappointed they could not continue with us, but their statements, attached to this email and also found on their web page at www.tnbishopsearch.org, explain their reasons very well. As we all know, calling of a Bishop, like a rector, is a discernment process that requires both the caller and the respective nominees to search for God's will. God does not act according to our expectations or desires, but we know that God always serves our greatest good. We believe that is as true today as it was when we first announced our slate of nominees. Both Rev. Levenson and Dyson assure us of their regard for the diocese and the work of the Episcopate Committee, and we very much appreciate their faithfulness in pursing God's will. Two nominees withdrew in our last process, though that was before the public announcement of the slate, so this truly is the way the process proceeds. Our attention now focuses on the three outstanding priests who continue with us, knowing that among these three is the next Bishop of the Diocese of Tennessee. Please continue to pray for them, for the electing delegates, and for our church in what is truly an exciting time in our church life.

The Rev. Canon Anne Stevenson

Dr. David L. Rowe

Co-Chairs