CHARLESTON—The wait has begun.
Bishop Robert E. Guglielmone turned 75 on Dec. 30 and, per canon law, has submitted his resignation to Pope Francis.
Bishop Guglielmone has served since 2009 when Pope Benedict XVI appointed him as the 13th bishop of the Diocese of Charleston. His resignation will only become effective when Pope Francis replies indicating an official date.
In a letter to South Carolina Catholics, Bishop Guglielmone wrote: “It has been a wonderful 12 years as your bishop and my role as bishop might extend a bit longer.”
“Although I will have sent in my resignation, nothing changes until the Holy Father accepts it and appoints a new bishop; that should take a few months and until that time, I remain your bishop,” he continued.
The bishop said he indicated to Pope Francis that he continues to serve at his will and is open to whatever his wishes for the diocese might be.
“Therefore, I may be around for a while,” he said.
