The head of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has called for the resignation of the liberal mainline denomination’s first trans-identified bishop amid allegations of racism and other issues.
ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth A. Eaton issued a statement last Friday concluding that she will not file official charges against The Rev. Megan Rohrer, who was installed last year as the leader of the California-based ELCA Sierra Pacific Synod. However, Eaton still believes that Rohrer should resign.
“While I am not inaugurating formal disciplinary processes at this time, there remain enough serious concerns that influence Bishop Rohrer’s ability to remain impactful in their role that I have asked Bishop Rohrer for their resignation, which I believe to be in the best interest of all parties involved,” stated Eaton.
“I believe that Bishop Rohrer has lost the trust and confidence of many constituents, both within and without the Sierra Pacific Synod. I have asked Bishop Rohrer to attend their assembly, speak and listen to their constituents, and give this the prayerful consideration it deserves after which I will expect their response.”
Eaton believes that “this decision will not bring closure to individuals on either side” but feels it is “a necessary step so that we can move forward and focus now on additional ways to facilitate healing.”
“We strive to address the ways that all forms of injustice limit participation and harm people, communities, and the whole body of Christ. That work will never be done, but together, we must continue to do and be better,” Eaton concluded.
In response to Eaton’s request, Rohrer retweeted supportive posts on Twitter, saying, “I’m listening deeply and prayerfully discerning.” Last September, Rohrer became the first trans-identified individual to become a bishop in the ELCA.
Previously, the bishop served as community chaplain coordinator for the San Francisco Police Department and pastor of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in San Francisco. After being installed, multiple allegations of racism and other unethical behavior surfaced, with the LGBT group Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries suspending Rohrer’s membership. READ MORE
