Beloveds,
Our Diocesan Convention takes place over three days, which begin tomorrow evening. This allows us to consider legislation; spend time in formation, fellowship, and connection; and vote on leadership and legislation. Each year, we are required to consider the budget and clergy compensation for the coming year, along with the leadership of our various committees, commissions and governing bodies. There are also resolutions which come to us in any given year concerning our diocesan governance, initiatives, and ministry.
This work, the work of the convention, is our work to do together as a diocesan household. The diocese is all of us. Each congregation elects delegates to participate in the decision making that gives direction to our shared ministry. The decisions we make are for the flourishing and strengthening of our diocese so that we can engage in God’s mission in the world. These decisions are passed on to the relevant committees and commissions to see that they are carried out; the bulk of which goes to the Executive Council.
This year our convention theme is The THRIVING Spirit of Koinonia. As a diocesan household, we will celebrate how we’ve grown and learned through a period of diocesan experimentation over the past four years. People have been very courageous, stepping out of the boat, trying new things; strengthening their ministries and giving said ministries hope for the future. I’m looking forward to the story telling and sharing that will take place when we’re together at the Cathedral on October 25.
As we approach our convention days, please pray for all those working to organize and plan for convention; including the bishop’s staff, Dispatch of Business (the committee that plans all three days), presenters, liturgists, and delegates. We are all in this together, with God’s help.
Peace and Blessings,
Bishop Shannon
