A retired Episcopal Church bishop accused of an extended inappropriate relationship will remain barred from ministry while also undergoing a professional evaluation and continued counseling.

Marc Andrus, former bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of California, remains under suspension following a resolution in a church disciplinary case after a years-long relationship deemed inappropriate by church authorities, the Christian Post reported.

The disciplinary process against Andrus was conducted under Title IV, a canon law procedure used for addressing misconduct involving Episcopal clergy. Allegations against him emerged shortly after his retirement in 2024, prompting church officials to take decisive action. At that time, he was suspended from ministry and restricted from interacting with members of the diocese.

On June 5, 2025, Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe announced that an accord had been reached, effectively concluding the Title IV process against Andrus. This agreement outlines multiple conditions that must be met before Andrus can return to the ministry. Chief among them is a continued period of suspension, the duration of which will be determined by Rowe.

“Andrus will remain suspended from ministry until I am satisfied that he has demonstrated sufficient amendment of life,” Rowe stated during the announcement. He added that the bishop’s future in church leadership will depend on his commitment to the healing process.

Andrus must now undergo a psychological evaluation conducted by a mental health expert selected by Rowe. He is also expected to continue with counseling and spiritual work, which he began voluntarily after learning of the complaint made against him.

Support Measures for All Parties Involved

The resolution reached under Title IV also puts in place support mechanisms for those affected by the situation. According to Rowe, these include pastoral and therapeutic support for the complainant, ensuring that their emotional and spiritual needs are addressed during this difficult time.

“We are guided,” Rowe said, “by the theological foundation of Canon 1 of Title IV, which calls us to healing, repentance, forgiveness, restitution, justice, amendment of life, and reconciliation.” These core principles inform how the Episcopal Church approaches all disciplinary matters.

The situation has had a notable impact on the local church community. The Rt. Rev. Austin Rios, who now leads the Episcopal Diocese of California, acknowledged the pain and confusion the events have caused within the diocesan body. Rios encouraged those struggling emotionally or spiritually to make use of pastoral resources available to them.

Community Reaction and Leadership Guidance

“This matter remains painful for many in our diocesan community,” Rios said. He urged anyone who feels burdened by the events to reach out to designated clergy members for support and guidance. He also promised to maintain his presence and availability as a resource during this time of healing.

Rios concluded his statement by calling the faithful to prayer, saying, “Please join me in praying for healing for all those affected, and for our life together as people rooted in Christ’s mercy and mission.”

Before his retirement, Andrus served in various leadership roles within the Episcopal Church. He was ordained in 1988 and began his episcopal career in 2001 as suffragan bishop of Alabama. In 2006, he was elected bishop of the California diocese, a post that he held until 2024.

Public Legacy and Advocacy Work

During his tenure, Andrus became known for his vocal advocacy on political and social topics, including marriage equality and environmental justice. In 2013, he was among a group of Episcopal bishops who signed a formal legal opinion opposing Proposition 8 and the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), both of which sought to limit the recognition of same-sex marriages.

Reflecting on the Church’s evolving role at the time, Andrus remarked, “Our church has traveled on pilgrimage with our culture.” He emphasized that the church had both led and followed the broader cultural evolution on matters of marriage rights.

“Sometimes we have led in advocacy for marriage equality,” he added, “and sometimes we have learned from the culture and leaders outside the church.” These statements were seen as indicative of Andrus’s progressive leadership style and willingness to engage with societal critiques of religious institutions.

Broader Context Around Church Discipline

The Title IV disciplinary process under which Andrus was investigated is designed to address clergy conduct in a way that upholds the church’s values. This legal and ecclesiastical structure focuses not merely on punishment, but also on repentance and restoration of relationships, when possible.

Andrus’s case illustrates the church’s increasing efforts toward transparency and accountability, particularly in leadership. By making the accord publicly known and outlining steps for healing and restitution, church officials hope to provide clarity and reassurance to members.

Although Andrus remains barred from ministry, the path toward possible reinstatement remains open, contingent upon his completion of the required evaluations and demonstrated personal change. The final decision lies solely with Rowe, who must be satisfied with the progress made before lifting the suspension.