TORONTO - Rev. Canon Dr. George Sumner has officially received the necessary consents to become the Episcopal Bishop of Dallas and has officially left his role as the 9th Principal of Wycliffe College.
George Sumner has been the Principal of Wycliffe College for 16 years and has had a tremendous impact on the school and the larger Christian Church with his unique combination of energetic leadership, scholarly vigour and spiritual fervour. Though he will be greatly missed, Wycliffe is overjoyed that he will continue to use his many gifts in the service of Christ and the Church in Dallas.
Bob Hamilton, Chair of the Wycliffe College Board of Trustees summarizes his legacy: “It is hard to measure the large and lasting contributions George has made to Wycliffe. Under his leadership, Wycliffe has grown enormously. Programs, enrolment and financial stability all have increased so that the College may thrive for many years to come. We will miss him very much.”
During the search period for a successor, Bishop Peter Mason will serve as Interim Principal. He is looking forward to the challenge with hope and excitement:”I am grateful for Wycliffe’s confidence in inviting me back to a role I first took up thirty years ago. The world, the church, and Wycliffe have all changed enormously in those decades. I am delighted that the founding principles, the mission and the vision of Wycliffe has only expanded in positive directions. I am honoured and proud to embrace these same guiding precepts for the next few months.”
Wycliffe will hold a series of events at Wycliffe College to celebrate Dr. Sumner’s tenure, with a Wycliffe Open House on October 31st. All are welcome.