Leader of Chicago's Episcopalians to resign
March 29, 2006
BY CATHLEEN FALSANI
Religion Reporter

Bishop William Persell, leader of the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago, announced Tuesday his plans to resign next year from the post he's held since 1998.

Citing his age and recent health problems, Persell, 62, said he will resign in the fall of 2007 upon the consecration of his successor, the next Episcopal bishop of Chicago's diocese and shepherd to its approximately 44,000 Episcopalians in northern Illinois.

"While my mind and heart are very much committed to helping advance the church's mission here, my stamina is not what it was when you welcomed me into your life in 1998," Persell said in a statement. the rest