The president of a Catholic high school in Fridley has resigned his post after revealing he is in a committed same-sex relationship. Dr. William Hudson told school officials last week that he was stepping down after 9 years at the school.

Here’s the press release from Hudson:

This is a deeply personal decision comes as a result of a great deal of prayer, discernment and reflection.

I have loved being part of the Totino-Grace community and leading an amazing and wonderful staff and faculty. I’m very proud of our students.

I’ve always believed that God was with me in my journey, career and vocation, blessing me with skills, talents, and opportunities to serve Catholic education and the Church.

Though heartbreaking and painful, I must say that it is freeing to be open about the most important thing in my life and to live an authentic life. For over 20 years I have placed service of the Catholic Church ahead of my family. I am excited to now be able focus on my 2 children and my partner of 18 years as my first priority.

I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to meet some amazing people, to touch hearts and to have been blessed by so many.

Catholic teaching says that gays and lesbians must remain celibate.

Following Hudson’s resignation, the school sent an email to parents, students and staff:

Dear Members and Friends of the Totino-Grace Community,

We are writing to inform you that effective June 28, 2013, Dr. William Hudson resigned as President of Totino-Grace High School. Bill informed us that he is in a committed same-sex relationship and voluntarily offered his resignation.

Bill served the Totino-Grace community well during his nine years at the school. He has an excellent record of accomplishment and provided strong academic and financial stewardship at Totino-Grace during his tenure. That said, leading a Catholic school while living in a committed same-sex relationship is not consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church. We thank Bill for his years of service to our community and wish him well as he explores new professional opportunities.

Principal Julie Michels will take on the role of Interim President. Brother Milton Barker will serve in an interim role as Executive Vice President. They will serve in these roles for the 2013-2014 school year.

Michels has served the Totino-Grace community for 22 years and has been Principal of the school since 2001. She has spent a total of 27 years in Catholic education, having worked as an English teacher, Admissions Counselor and Assistant to the President. Brother Milton Barker has many years of experience in Catholic education, including serving as President of Totino-Grace for 23 of his 35 years in the community. He also served as Director of Development and Principal at the school. We are fortunate to have strong interim leadership from within the Totino-Grace community.

The Board will immediately begin the search process for a new President. We will provide updates as we move through the process.

We have just completed year two of a five year strategic plan (accessible on the school’s website). Our path forward is clear and our mission is strong. Totino-Grace is blessed with dedicated administrators and staff who will continue to lead and serve the students entrusted to their care, and will continue to be leaders in Catholic secondary education. Thank you for your prayers and continued support as we move through this transition.