updated 2 April 2023
Diocese of Oxford statement regarding Revd Edilberto (Eddie) Márquez-Picón
Members of the congregation will be aware that the jury reached a unanimous verdict of not guilty on all charges at the trial of the Revd. Eddie Marquez-Picon on 15th September 2022. Following his discussions in recent months with the Archdeacon and Associate Archdeacon of Berkshire, and with the Bishops of Oxford and Reading, Eddie has tendered his resignation and in due course will take early retirement:
“During what has been a time of exile, I have continued to pray for all at St John’s Woodley and had intended to return to serve the people for whom I love and care. But, after much reflection and prayerful consideration, I now feel it is not right to do so.”
Both Eddie and diocesan colleagues in the Berkshire Area Team recognise that the decision announced today allows for full attention on the needs of St John’s Church and the local community for the future. The Associate Archdeacon, Liz Jackson, and her colleagues will now work at pace with the PCC on the recruitment process for the next incumbent of St John’s.
This has been an immensely difficult season for all involved. We will gather to say farewell to Eddie at a service to take place before the end of July. Date and further details to be confirmed. For now, please continue to pray for Eddie and his family as they process the events of the past three and a half years and seek to discern God’s will for their lives in the future.