Some Thoughts on the Eve of Retiring as Diocesan Bishop

I have been blessed in deriving great joy from the ministries to which I have been called over the past forty years. It was with some fear and trepidation that I accepted Maryland's call to become your Bishop. I knew I loved parish ministry and had a proven track record of success in it; I was not so sure about being a Bishop. As in earlier "leaps of faith," I have felt God's hand and steady support throughout. I enjoy what I do, I have grown to love the people of this Diocese and to love Maryland. It remains a great privilege to have served with you in Our Lord's service here, and I am so grateful for your companionship and support, our shared leadership and mutual commitment to the Gospel in this place.

I came with a strong commitment to and years of experience in team ministry. Building on a strong sense of team already present in this Diocese, you and I have worked together to strengthen our ministries, share our resources, and to in positive ways inspire and challenge one another to strive to carry out God's will to the best of our abilities. We have done this in an atmosphere of mutual respect, candor, humor and grace. Together we have made a number of important decisions and strengthened many ministries. We have modeled team ministry for a number of other dioceses as well as for our own congregations. We have enhanced the Bishop Claggett Center and continue to use it more frequently as a center for learning and renewal. We have taken financial development seriously and continue to underwrite or assist an increasing number of ministries in cities and towns, among children and adults. We are stronger in mission. We have made important commitments to our youth and have taken seriously the crucial nature of Christian formation. Many of our parishes are growing and most places are experiencing a sense of renewal. Our Diocesan Staff is more and more "in the field," assisting congregations and working together with local people for the enhancement of ministry. Together we have refused to be hijacked by the divisive controversies which have been so debilitating in other places. We have made strides in working for justice and in enhancing inclusion as responses to the Gospel.

Have we arrived? Certainly not; but we have made important advances and shared a rather remarkable journey. That journey continues for us all. I have faith God will continue to guide the Diocese of Maryland into greater strengths and more perfect service, and I am especially thankful for having been a part of this journey and process. How can I thank you for your many gifts, your inspiring love, your many talents, your helpful criticisms? It is an honor and a humbling experience to be your Bishop. I give thanks for all of it and have loved most of it. Special thanks, I give for your making Maryland a true home for Nancy and me. We have never felt more at home. After being Bishop for two years, we changed our plans and decided to retire here in Maryland. This feels very good to us. After April 10th I will no longer be your Bishop but we will continue to be your friends. Nancy and I look forward to our continuing ministry among you and our continuing journey together.

Over the past twelve years one of the images which continues to inspire my contemplation is the holiness of the space between us. In the space (often seemingly empty space) between persons Christ is present and active. At the altar rail between priest and communicant Christ fills the space--Christ's Body and Blood are shared and Christ's presence is profound. In the embrace at the Passing of the Peace, at the coffee hour conversation, in the meeting room, in the office, and in the sick room, Christ fills the space between us. With those we love most deeply, with those with whom we disagree most profoundly, Christ stands between us. Who knows what can happen, what will happen? If we can remember that, if we can look for the Christ between us and expect Him to be there nothing is impossible! I am so very thankful for the Christ who has been and remains between us!

God bless you and our wonderful diocese of Maryland,
+Robert W. Ihloff