GARDENDALE (AP) — North Alabama Methodists have named an interim pastor to replace a preacher charged with murder in the slaying of his wife.

Bill Bostick, a former district superintendent in the Decatur area, will take over at Gardendale-Mount Vernon United Methodist Church beginning today.

Bostick's appointment was announced by Debra Wallace-Padgett, the United Methodist bishop for north Alabama.

The former pastor at Mount Vernon, the Rev. Terry Greer, is recovering from what police describe as a suicide attempt after the gunshot killing of his wife, Lisa Greer.

Authorities charged Greer with murder in the killing. He's also charged with attempted murder in the wounding of his 18-year-old daughter Suzanna, who has been released from the hospital.

Terry Greer was pastor at Decatur First United Methodist Church for eight years until June when he was appointed to the Gardendale church.

Methodist leaders have suspended Greer from his ministerial duties, but he remains a Methodist pastor.

Authorities haven't disclosed a possible motive in the shooting, but Greer has had health problems.

Bostick served the Gardendale church from 1979-86. Appointments following Gardendale included Tuscaloosa First UMC, Huntsville First UMC, Florence district superintendent and Decatur district superintendent. He retired in 2006 but continued to serve full time in a pastoral role at Vestavia Hills UMC until last year.

"Bill Bostick is known for his preaching and leadership skills," Wallace-Padgett said in a news release. "He will be an asset to the church. Please be in prayer for Bill and Penny Bostick as they return to the Gardendale–Mount Vernon church to offer leadership and guidance at this important time."