The Presiding Bishop of the US-based Episcopal Church, Michael Curry, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. The 65-year-old, who made headlines around the world with his sermon at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in May, will have surgery next Tuesday (31 July) to remove the prostate gland. “I am happy to say that the prognosis looks very good and quite positive,” he said in an open letter.

“After a variety of tests, consultations, and conversations with my wife and daughters, I decided on a surgical treatment course. . . ” he said. “I have spoken with several others who have gone through this, and who have offered both encouragement and helpful advice. I will be in the hospital for at least a day, then at home to recuperate.

“I’ve been told that four-to-six weeks is a reasonable time to anticipate. I plan to resume my duties in early September and I do not anticipate any significant changes in my commitments.”

He continued: “I am very blessed with a wonderful family, a first-rate medical team, a great staff, dear colleagues and friends, a calling to which I have given my life, and above all a good, great and loving God in whose hands we always remain. So, do say a prayer. And know that I look forward to being back at my post in September.”

In December 2015, shortly after being installed as Presiding Bishop, Michael Curry was hospitalised after suffering a subdural haematoma while taking part in a service in Bruton Parish Church in Colonial Williamsburg, in the State of Virginia. He made a full recover and returned to ministry shortly afterwards.