Below are two important announcements regarding the future of the International Communion of the Charismatic Episcopal Church.  The first is from our Patriarch and Primate, Abp. Craig Bates.  The second is from the Primate’s Council of the Charismatic Episcopal Church of North America. 

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Greetings in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

At the meeting of the Primate’s Council (October 15-17) in Sharpsburg, Georgia, I announced my intention to resign from the Office of the Primate of the Charismatic Episcopal Church-North America. This resignation will take effect on December 28, 2024.

It is time for me to retire and spend quality time with my wife, children, and grandchildren. We will continue to be active members of the CEC and worship at our new home church – the Church of the Messiah, Jacksonville, Florida.

I am thankful to the Lord our God for having had the privilege and honor of serving the Church for forty-four years and serving as Primate and Patriarch of the ICCEC for 16 of those years.

I also announce my resignation as the Patriarch of the International Communion of the Charismatic Episcopal Church, one year from now on December 28, 2025.

Be assured of my prayers and my enduring affections.

Under His mercy,

The Most Rev. Craig W. Bates, M. Div

Statement from the Primate’s Council (House of Bishops)

The Primate’s Council of the CEC-NA convened for its fall meeting from October 15-17 at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Sharpsburg, Georgia. During this meeting, Archbishop Craig Bates announced his intention to retire as Primate on December 28, 2024, and as Patriarch of the ICCEC on December 28, 2025.

Archbishop Bates has led both the ICCEC as Patriarch and North America as Primate since January 2008. Over the years, he has faithfully served as our spiritual father and guide, nurturing the Communion with his tireless efforts, wisdom, and pastoral care. His leadership has been instrumental in navigating many challenges both in North America and across the globe. His contributions are many, but notable highlights include the establishment of a Catechism, the Sacramentary, and the revision of The Canons. He has served as chief consecrator to more than fifteen bishops, led church growth seminars, and facilitated strategic planning initiatives. His steadfast advocacy for the sanctity of all human life, particularly for the protection of the unborn, has resonated powerfully both within the United States and abroad. His impact on the ICCEC cannot be overstated.

Upon Archbishop Bates’ official retirement as Primate, Archbishop Charles Jones, as the senior bishop in North America, will assume leadership of the Primate’s Council. The Primate’s Council will then undertake the prayerful task of discerning nominees for the office of Primate and submitting those names to the Patriarch’s Council for consideration. The canons of the ICCEC give the authority to appoint a Primate of a Territory to the Patriarch’s Council.