150324 AK Headshot croppedThe Rev. Canon Anne Kitch will become canon to the ordinary in the Diocese of Bethlehem on April 1, Bishop Sean Rowe announced today.

Kitch, who has served as canon for ministry formation and transitions in the diocese since 2014, will report directly to Rowe and assume the responsibilities previously held by the diocese’s archdeacon, including overseeing diocesan operations, ministry and mission, congregational development and supervising Diocesan House staff.

The Ven. Rick Cluett, who served as the diocese’s archdeacon from 1984-2004 and took up the post again in 2014, will become senior chaplain to the clergy on April 1. He will become half-time on July 1 in preparation for full retirement at the end of 2017.

“During my time as bishop provisional, I have come to rely on Anne’s hard work, relationships across the diocese and wider church, and her careful pastoral attention to congregations, clergy, and lay leaders,” Rowe said. “I am delighted that she has accepted the promotion to canon to the ordinary.”

Kitch joined the diocesan staff as canon for formation in the Christian faith in 2008. “This is an exciting time of transition in our diocese,” she said. “I look forward to helping our congregations and leaders discern the future of the Episcopal Church’s ministry in northeastern Pennsylvania.”

Rowe thanked Cluett for his long service to the diocese. “Rick’s ministry has spanned decades and helped shape the Episcopal Church in our region,” he said. “I am grateful to him for agreeing to make a gradual transition to retirement this year so that we can continue to benefit from his experience and long history among us.”

A retirement celebration for Cluett will take place at the end of the year, Rowe said.