The Rev David Thomas served as Provincial Assistant Bishop from 1996 – when women were admitted to the priesthood – until his retirement in June.
The bishops yesterday said there would be no replacement bishop but pledged to provide pastoral care to those who remain opposed to women priests.
Archbishop of Wales Dr Barry Morgan made the announcement to the Governing Body of the Church in Wales at the University of Wales, Lampeter.
The church’s press release and “Statement by the Bench of Bishops” is here. From the statement:
We reaffirm as Diocesan Bishops our commitment to securing a continuing place in the life of the Church in Wales for those who cannot in conscience accept the ordination of women to the priesthood. However, we no longer consider that the continuation of additional episcopal provision for one part of the Church on grounds of belief or doctrine on one particular issue is either necessary or consistent with Anglican ecclesiology. All Church in Wales clergy and parishes are in communion with their respective Diocesan Bishop, regardless of whether or not they agree on every issue. Episcopal oversight and care for all within each Diocese is the responsibility of the Diocesan Bishop.