Biography

Michael was born in 1954 and grew up in Oklahoma and in New York City. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Oklahoma in 1976 and a M.Div. from Seabury-Western Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois, in 1981. He also holds a D.Min. in Congregational Development from Seabury-Western (2005). Before being elected Bishop of Oregon, Michael served parishes in Oklahoma, Missouri, and, for nineteen years, Minnesota. He is known as a supportive mentor to people of all ages and stages of life, with a deep spiritual center. In a recent sabbatical he completed the 500-mile walking pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostella, Spain, with his daughter. In his spare time he has been a storyteller, performing for schools, churches, and other civic groups. He is married to Marla Martin Hanley, prior to their move to Oregon, an associate academic dean at St. Catherine University in the Twin Cities. Michael and Marla are the proud parents of two adult daughters.

Following his ordination and consecration as bishop, Michael took on the task of visiting all 74 parishes of the diocese in his first 100 days, bringing to all a message of transition and renewal.

Bishop Resources

Bishop Hanley Visitation Schedule 2013 (PDF)

Address to the 2011 Diocesan Convention

Media & Photos

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