September 24, 2002 

Dear Friends in Christ:

      I am writing this letter to share with you two important developments in my life. First, I am thankful to tell you that Diene and I are once again husband and wife! I reenter this relationship with joy, intentionality and some anxiety. Our divorce has been revoked by the judge who originally presided. It is legally known as a "set-aside." We, of course, have spent a good deal of time in reflection, prayer, conversation and counsel in making this decision. We have bought a home in Meridian where our two sons were bom and where I served as rector of the Church of the Mediator.
     The second development is to officially announce my retirement, March 1, 2003. I have written our Presiding Bishop to begin the consent process and I have written the Standing Committee to begin the process here in Mississippi. I was elected twelve years ago as of February 25, 2003, and I will be 67 on April 4, 2003, so I am retiring for reasons of age and for personal reasons.
     I will have opportunity to personally thank you in the coming weeks, but I do want to express now my appreciation for the trust and confidence placed in me when I was elected to be your bishop. I was and am deeply honored by that trust and I hope I have not disappointed you. When asked at the interviews for nominees why I was even willing to be considered for the office, my response was, "I want to provide leadership and I want to make a difference." I hope I have done both. I further said, "I don't want to mess up a good diocese!" Mississippi is a unique and marvelous place to have served our Lord and His Church. I thank you for your trust and confidence.
     You have been my companions and colleagues on this journey. We have laughed together, celebrated together, and struggled together. The last 11 years have been years of challenge and opportunity, of joy and sorrow, as we have sought to be Christ's faithful presence and witness in the Church and in the world. I am thankful for your support and dedication to our common mission during this time. I am sure you will give Bishop Gray the same support and dedication. I ask your prayers as the journey continues to unfold.

Faithfully yours, 

The Rt. Rev. A.C. Marble