Charles Bennison, Embattled Episcopal Bishop, Vows To Stay In Office

By Daniel Burke
Religion News Service
08-18-10

(RNS) The embattled Episcopal bishop of Philadelphia said he erred in not investigating his brother's sexual abuse of an underage girl 35 years ago, but brushed aside calls for his resignation, saying it is more "interesting" for him to remain in office.

Bishop Charles Bennison was removed from ministry in 2007, when he was charged with "conduct unbecoming of a member of the clergy." A church court found him guilty in 2008. But Bennison returned to his Philadelphia office on Monday (Aug. 16) after a church appeals court ruled last month the 10-year statute of limitations on the charge had expired.

Even so, prominent Philadelphia Episcopalians--including the diocese's elected standing committee--said Bennison should resign. the rest

Episcopal bishop intends to stay, despite tensions