The Rt. Rev. Brian N. Prior, Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Minnesota, writes to members of the diocese:
I am writing as a follow up to my correspondence in early September regarding the Rev. [Canon] Michael Pipkin. Michael’s name was removed as a candidate from the Colorado bishop search process due to concerns that were raised. As he is canonically resident here in Minnesota, it was our responsibility to investigate those concerns.
In consultation with the President of the Standing Committee, the Chair of the Personnel Committee and the Chancellor, we obtained the services of an independent investigator. After conducting multiple interviews, the investigator reviewed the findings with the Reference Panel and the Chancellor. It was decided that the complaint be dismissed, as the concerns were not a Title IV violation (the Episcopal Church clergy disciplinary canon).
However, it was determined that Michael could benefit from engaging in some time in professional development. As such, Michael will be taking a leave of absence from ECMN for the month of November to work with LeaderWise.
Matthew Townsend is a Halifax-based freelance journalist and volunteer advocate for survivors of sexual misconduct in Anglican settings. He served as editor of the Anglican Journal from 2019 to 2021 and communications missioner for the Anglican Diocese of Quebec from 2019 to 2022. He and his wife recently entered catechism class in the Orthodox Church in America.
