Bishop Transition

The Rt. Rev. Dr. Douglas E. Sparks
VIII Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Northern Indiana

The Rt. Rev. Dr. Douglas E. Sparks sent an email announcing his resignation timeline as bishop diocesan to The Very Rev. Brian Grantz, president of the Standing Committee, and The Most Rev. Sean Rowe, Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, on February 11, 2026. This webpage is where we will keep you updated on the bishop transition process.

Bishop Transition Blog

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A Message from the Standing Committee
A Message from the Standing Committee

Dean Brian Grantz, president of the Standing Committee, updates the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Indiana on next steps following Bishop Doug's announcement of his resignation timeline as bishop diocesan.

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Bishop Doug Announces Resignation Timeline as Bishop Diocesan

On 11 February 2026, I sent an email to Dean Brian Grantz, in his capacity as President of the Standing Committee, sharing my timeline leading to resignation as Bishop of Northern Indiana. It is my intention to resign as Bishop of Northern Indiana on 31 August 2027. I remain humbled and honored to have served as your bishop these 10+ years and will continue to give you my sincere commitment during the next 18 months.

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Standing Committee

The Very Rev. Brian Grantz, President
(Cathedral of Saint James, South Bend)

The Rev. Aram Adishian (St. Paul, Mishawaka)
Ms. Tammy Eggbeer (St. Paul, Mishawaka)
The Rev. Jen Fulton (Saint Michael and All Angels, South Bend)
Mr. Paul Kincaid (St. Paul, Munster)
Ms. Denise Stacy (Trinity, Fort Wayne)

Email the Standing Committee

Bishop Doug’s Resignation Timeline as Bishop Diocesan

February 11, 2026 - Bishop Doug emailed Dean Brian Grantz and Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe regarding his registration timeline as bishop diocesan.

February 15, 2026 - Bishop Doug met via Zoom with the Standing Committee and Diocesan Council.

February 25, 2026 - Bishop Doug announced resignation timeline as bishop diocesan to clergy and lay leaders; Bishop Doug emailed diocese announcing resignation timeline as bishop diocesan.

December 13, 2026 - Bishop Doug begins his sabbatical.

April 4, 2027 - Bishop Doug returns from sabbatical.

July 31, 2027 - Bishop Doug concludes work and moves out of diocesan office.

August 1, 2027 - Bishop Doug begins vacation.

August 31, 2027 - Bishop Doug intends to resign as bishop diocesan.