Bishop Shaw undergoes surgery

Updated 9:30 p.m. / May 20, 2013:  Bishop Shaw came home from the hospital yesterday and is resting well, according to the Rev. Canon Mally Lloyd, Canon to the Ordinary, who spoke with him today.  She said the doctors continue to be pleased with his progress, and that he is very grateful for all the cards and letters he has received, and for the continued prayers.

Updated 8:30 p.m. / May 18, 2013:  Bishop Shaw has been moved out of the ICU and was up and walking today.  He sends thanks for the prayers for him, for his Society of St. John the Evangelist community and for the diocese, and asks for continued prayers.  

Updated 9:30 p.m. / May 17, 2013:  The Rev. Canon Mally Lloyd, Canon to the Ordinary, reports that Bishop Shaw's surgery went well, with no complications, and that it is expected he will be fully awake tomorrow morning.  More will be known in a week or so as to whether any further treatment is necessary. She extends gratitude for the concern that so many have expressed and for continued prayers.

3:30 p.m. / May 17, 2013:  The Rt. Rev. M. Thomas Shaw, SSJE, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, is undergoing surgery this afternoon to remove a mass on his brain that was discovered following tests conducted on Thursday.  More will be known following the surgery as to his recovery and any other required follow-up.

"Bishop Tom and all of us feel the unexpectedness of this, but please know that he has confidence in his doctors and was well prepared for the surgery," the Rev. Canon Mally Lloyd, Canon to the Ordinary, said in an e-mail message to clergy and diocesan leadership.  She spent time with him pre-surgery at the hospital and said the bishop "was in good spirits, was engaged with the ongoing matters of diocesan life and, as always, his faith and confidence were contagious."

He has asked for prayers but requests no calls, visits or e-mails.  Cards and letters are welcome and can be sent in care of The Monastery, Society of St. John the Evangelist, 980 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, MA 02138.

The May 18 Confirmation service and Pentecost Vigil will take place as planned, with the Rt. Rev. Gayle E. Harris, Bishop Suffragan, and the Rt. Rev. Bud Cederholm, Bishop Suffragan, Retired.