Head of Manhattan Trinity Church to step down after 10 years of service

The Rev. James Cooper will step down after nearly 10 years of service as the head of Manhattan Trinity Church -- one of the richest parishes in the Anglican world, according to the parish's website.

Cooper, 68, is giving the parish two-years notice and will help with the transition process after an 18-month search process is conducted. When the new head of the church is appointed, the two will lead together. Cooper, who revealed his plans in a letter Wednesday, will retire Feb. 28, 2015.

"During these past nine years of shared ministry, our parish community has thrived in its worship and mission and met many challenges," Cooper wrote in his resignation letter. "I am proud of the work we have accomplished, and grateful for the opportunity to be Trinity's Rector during a time of great challenge and opportunity."

In 2011, Cooper was the center of a controversy regardingcomplaints about his "dictatorial leadership" and "grandiose development plans," according to The New York Post. A six-person Call Committee will head the search to replace Cooper, according to a letter from the Warden's on the Parish's website.

Manhattan Trinity Church did not respond for further comment.