Wisconsin Episcopal bishop plans 2028 retirement, dioces seeks successor

Bishop Matthew Gunther of the Diocese of Wisconsin announced on July 29 that he intends to retire in 2028 when his successor is consecrated. Gunther was first consecrated as bishop of the Diocese of Fond du Lac and became bishop of Wisconsin in 2022 following the reunification and merger of Fond du Lac, Milwaukee, and Eau Claire dioceses into a single statewide diocese. The original Diocese of Wisconsin was established in 1847, a year before Wisconsin achieved statehood, under the leadership of Bishop Jackson Kemper. Gunther noted that he will turn 70 next year, two years before The Episcopal Church's mandatory retirement age for clergy. He expressed his love for the diocese and pride in accomplishments since reunification, citing growth in membership, vitality across the diocese, strong clergy and lay leadership, and solid finances as reasons the diocese is well-positioned for transition. The bishop said he will continue his work for the next eighteen to twenty-four months. The diocesan standing committee released a statement expressing gratitude for Gunther's pastoral service, wise counsel, and discerning leadership as he enters this new season.

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Source: Episcopal News Service — https://episcopalnewsservice.org/2026/07/29/wisconsin-bishop-announces-plans-to-retire-in-2028-calls-for-election-of-successor/