Network’s Mid-Continental Dean Announces Retirement
The Rev. D.O. Smart, dean of the Network’s Mid-Continental Convocation, has announced his retirement. Smart, who recently celebrated his 77th birthday, has been dean of the convocation since its organization in 2004. Bishop Bill Atwood, suffragan bishop of international affairs of the Anglican Church of Kenya, will take oversight of the Mid-Continental Convocation. Bishop Atwood said “Dean Smart has done a magnificent job of sharing the gospel and drawing people together. Hoping to build on his great work, our best days are ahead.”
In his letter of resignation to Bishop Robert Duncan and Bishop John Guernsey, Smart wrote: “I think you both know how blessed and privileged I have been in working with you laboring towards a Biblical, missionary, united expression of orthodox Anglicanism in North America. My relationship with my very special ‘band of brothers’ is something I shall treasure forever, and I will surely miss. Please know that Anne and I will be praying daily for you and especially for the day when we will all be a part of the orthodox Anglican Province for which we have toiled.”
“I am deeply thankful for D.O.’s tireless work and deep commitment to the people of the Mid-Continental Convocation and the Anglican Communion Network. I do not doubt that he will continue in ministry among the people of Christ Church in Overland Park,” responded Bishop Duncan.