BOSTON — Thomas Shaw, a gay monk who served as bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts for nearly two decades and championed Palestinian, minority and other causes, has died. He was 69.
The Society of St. John the Evangelist said Shaw died Friday in the rural monastery known as Emery House, in West Newbury.
His death occurred nearly 17 months after he was diagnosed with brain cancer.
Shaw was born in Battle Creek, Michigan, and grew up in Coldwater, Michigan.
He was ordained to the priesthood in 1971.
He became the head of the church in Massachusetts in January 1995 after his predecessor committed suicide.
Boston Roman Catholic Cardinal Sean O’Malley said Shaw traveled throughout the world promoting peaceful resolution to conflict and an end to violence.
Shaw is survived by three siblings.
Funeral plans are pending.
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