Rowan Williams,... sometimes known as the Archdruid of Canterbury, an indifferent theologian and a poor communicator, so obtuse as to occasionally be mistaken for brilliant but chock full of bland New Agey Feel-Goodisms ...
the spiritual leader of the world's Anglicans, said Friday he will resign at the end of the year after a decade of turmoil over female and gay bishops.
The bushy-bearded 61-year-old announced in a statement that he would take up a position as master of Magdalene College at Britannia's prestigious Cambridge University in January 2013.
"It has been an immense privilege to serve as Archbishop of Canterbury over the past decade, and moving on has not been an easy decision," he said in the statement, released by his office, Lambeth Palace.
"During the time remaining there is much to do, and I ask (for) your prayers and support in this period and beyond."
The Church of England could now see its first black Archbishop of Canterbury, with John Sentamu, the Archbishop of York, widely viewed as front-runner to replace Williams.
Williams' successor will be formally appointed by Queen Elizabeth II, who is the Supreme Governor of the Church of England.
Lambeth Palace said Williams's intention to resign had been formally conveyed to the queen.