Bishop Mariann Budde to resign

Bishop Mariann Budde announced on Thursday, October 1, that she will resign as the head of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington. Budde will remain in her position until June 2028, when a successor is scheduled to be consecrated.

The resignation begins a nearly two-year process to select a new leader. This process includes forming a search committee, selecting candidates, and electing a new bishop in January 2028. Budde stated in an interview with Religion News Service that she designated her departure as a resignation rather than a retirement because Episcopal Church leaders typically retain their titles after leaving a post. She intends to return to her home state of Minnesota once her term ends.

In a letter, Budde noted that after 15 years in office, it is time to begin preparations for the election of the next bishop. She added that the decision was not made lightly and expressed difficulty in leaving the diocese.