ECUSA's Robinson in Rehab

"Orthodox" Episcopalian (they have those, too?) David Virtue breaks a report that ECUSA Bishop Gene Robinson of New Hampshire -- the first openly gay man to be ordained to the episcopacy in the Anglican Communion -- has been in alcohol rehab since 1 Feb.

Robinson communicated this in a letter to his diocese:

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I am writing to you from an alcohol treatment center where on February 1, with the encouragement and support of my partner, daughters and colleagues, I checked myself in to deal with my increasing dependence on alcohol.

Over the 28 days I will be here, I will be dealing with the disease of alcoholism-which, for years, I have thought of as a failure of will or discipline on my part, rather than a disease over which my particular body simply has no control, except to stop drinking altogether.

During my first week here, I have learned so much. The extraordinary experience of community here will inform my ministry for years to come. I eagerly look forward to continuing my recovery in your midst. Once again, God is proving His desire and ability to bring an Easter out of Good Friday. Please keep me in your prayers and know that you are in mine.

Your Brother in Christ,
+Gene

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