Intel announced that CEO Pat Gelsinger has retired after decades of serving in engineering and executive roles at one of the world's largest semiconductor chip manufacturers.

Former Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger, who suddenly resigned from his position, took to social media to encourage his supporters to pray and fast on behalf of thousands of Intel employees as layoffs increase.

CEO Pat Gelsinger stepped down on Dec. 1 after nearly four years in the top job. While the press release officially described his departure as a retirement, he was given two options: step down or be fired.