"It is an honor to be your bishop" – Bishop Glenda Curry Announces her Retirement and Calls for the Election of a New Bishop 

DECATUR, AL – The Rt. Rev. Glenda S. Curry, Ph.D., Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama, has announced her intention to retire, in accordance with the mandatory retirement age for Episcopal clergy, as stipulated in Article 2, Section 9 of the Constitution of The Episcopal Church.  

Bishop Curry made this announcement on Friday, January 31st, 2025 during the opening session of the 194th Diocesan Convention, held over two days in Decatur, AL. Addressing the over 400 gathered clergy and lay delegates, she reflected on her tenure and the spirit of reconciliation that has defined her episcopacy.  

“Six years ago, I read the bishop’s profile as you searched for the 12th Bishop of Alabama. High on your list of priorities was living in the reconciling love of Jesus and being reconciled to each other and Christ in our ministry and common life. God has truly granted us that great gift of reconciliation—marked by mutual respect and deep love. I have found incredible partners in all our parishes, particularly at the cathedral, among our dedicated lay leaders and talented clergy”, she said.  

Looking ahead, she emphasized the continued mission of the diocese.  

“We look to the future with the hope that God gives us, seeking to be a blessing to one another and to our communities. Someone once told me we are here to learn to endure the beams of love. This is a wonderful diocese—it knows Jesus and has a tremendous love to share. It is an honor to be your bishop, and I am grateful for your prayers and love.”  

Reflecting on the diocese’s growth and resilience, Bishop Curry highlighted the steady increase in attendance, pledging units, and financial resources despite the challenges of the pandemic. She commended parishes for their innovative approaches to hospitality, outreach, and community engagement.  

“Our job is to hope, to believe, and to lead others to faith in the risen Christ—despite all other signs. No one else in the world can do that job but us. Our future is much bigger than our past.”  

Bishop Curry officially called for the election of the 13th Bishop of Alabama, entrusting the Standing Committee with overseeing the process.  

“I look forward to this convention next year when we will welcome our new Bishop-elect. I ask for your prayers for the Standing Committee and all those involved in this important process.”  

She also reaffirmed her dedication to serving until the next bishop is in place.

“In the meantime, I will continue to serve each day, working hard to complete the good work we have begun. I will do my best to nourish and encourage your ministry in every way because I believe with all my heart, as I did on my first day as your bishop, what our friend Sam Wells told us: Our future is much bigger than our past.”  

Bishop Curry acknowledged significant events that have shaped the diocese during her tenure, including the COVID-19 pandemic, two General Conventions of The Episcopal Church, and moments of deep sorrow, such as the tragic murder of three faithful members at St. Stephen’s Church, Vestavia Hills.  

“Why am I telling you all of this today? Because as we prepare for the next chapter as a diocese, I want you to know who you are. To remember. To recognize how we are truly doing. Over the past five years, we have weathered and navigated a pandemic, two General Conventions, a once-in-a-decade worldwide Anglican Communion meeting, unimaginable tragedies, devastating tornadoes in Selma and the Black Belt, three epic hurricanes, two presidential election cycles, and wars and unrest across the world. And yet, each time I visit you, I witness unreasonable hospitality, abundant love, and the unwavering truth of Jesus’ promises.”  

In a video message to convention participants, Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe described Bishop Curry as a “wise and valued colleague who is concluding her episcopacy with strength and grace.” He also highlighted the Standing Committee’s “innovative plan to ensure a healthy and thriving future for the diocese.”  

The Standing Committee has shared an update on their preliminary work for the search for the 13th Bishop of Alabama. On December 14, they unanimously passed a resolution outlining a detailed schedule for the selection and election process.  

According to Miriam Clark, Chairperson of the Standing Committee, the committee has identified a list of potential members for the search team, and invitations to serve will soon be extended. 

 “We believe that if they all agree, this will be a balanced and representative committee, bringing a wide variety of experiences and a shared commitment to the work God has called us to”, she mentioned. 


The writer is the Director of Communications. She can be reached at nana@dioala.org