CONVENTION EDITION 2018
Faith
Redeeming
Fate
a publication of the Episcopal Diocese of Easton
Contents:
In This Issue:
A Special Ministry of
Servanthood
“My goal as a deacon has been
to inspire others to live out their
Baptismal Covenant.“
04
Highlights of the 150th
06
01 Bishop’s Letter
02 About Convention 2018 Agenda, Overview, Special Guest
& Workshops
04 Sesquicentennial 150th Anniversary A Year-Long Witness
to Christ’s Love, Hope and Reconciliation in the Diocese
of Easton
06 A Special Ministry of Servanthood Insights into Life as a
Deacon
08 FAQs About the Vocational Diaconate Questions
answered for those considering God’s call
10 Introducing Convention Nominees Meet Leaders from
around the Diocese
14 Bringing It All Together The Diocesan Purpose and Ten
Ministry Imperatives - A Collaborative Vision for the
Future
16 Resolutions Submitted for Convention 2018
17 Diocesan Events & Announcements
Cover Photo: Enjoying a quick moment on the beach during the
Province Youth Event at the Ocean City Youth Rally. 50 youth and
leaders from our diocese attended (100 from Province III).
THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH ON THE EASTERN SHORE OF MARYLAND
Nine counties, 42 worshiping
communities, and more than
5,000 people engaged in living
out our call to welcome all, share
Jesus’ love, and serve the world.
BISHOP
The Rt. Rev. Santosh Marray
Welcome All
Share Jesus’ Love
Serve the World
Sesquicentennial (150th) Diocesan Convention
Faith
Redeeming
“Go; your faith has made
you well” (Mark10:52)
Fate
The Diocese of Easton was
established as a free-standing
diocese of the Episcopal
Church 150 years ago, in
October 1868. This year we
will be commemorating the
sesquicentennial anniversary of
its establishment with a series of
inspirational, missional, spiritual
and educational events. The
Sesquicentennial Anniversary
Committee will commend
three major focus areas to be
the central themes guiding and
sustaining the overall essence
of what the diocese views as its
primary purpose as a Church
founded by God. The three major
themes are: RECONCILIATION,
LOVE and HOPE.
Faith is the Christian virtue
and Missional imperative that
has underscored our life and
existence as a viable and visible
presence of Jesus Christ on the
Eastern Shore of Maryland. It is
this virtue that has shaped and
inspired the church’s consistent
effort to lead God’s people to the
good news in Jesus, and to hold
on to the promise and conviction
that faith in God prevails
over and above the difficult
circumstances (fate) that present
themselves.
Our friend, Bartimaeus
(Mark 10:46-52) is a classical
illustration of someone who was
frustrated and discontent
with his condition in
life as a blind person
and desired a change in
that status. He wasn’t
prepared to let his
circumstance define his
life forever, and to this
end he did something
dramatic about it. Defying the
taunt and ridicule of the nearby
crowd he reached out to Jesus in
faith and the fate of his life was
redeemed forever.
This is the objective the church
holds before the people of God
that reminds the world of the
power and authority of God to
transform the circumstances of
life. This happens by faith if we,
in humility, are prepared to reach
out to God in confidence and
joyful expectation.
The Sesquicentennial (150 th )
Diocesan Convention calls this
diocese to a new way of thinking
that defies what can sometimes
become lethargy and paralysis
in our life as a church. We are
called to a renewed and revived
spirit of joyful expectation in
Jesus. A Jesus who beckons us to
come walk with him in faith on
the Jericho Road - leading to new
birth, new beginning, new hope
and dreams fulfilled.
+ San
April Knight’s painting above, commissioned by
the youth of the Diocese and hanging in the Bray
House, is the logo for this convention.
PUBLICATION INFORMATION
A publication of the Bishop and Diocese of Easton
Copyright 2018 The Bishop and Diocese of Easton
Published Quarterly
SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO:
Eastern Shore Episcoplian (ESE)
314 North St., Easton, MD 21601
OFFICE AND MAILING ADDRESS
314 North St., Easton, MD 21601
410-822-1919 dioceseofeaston.org
joanne@dioceseofeaston.org
The Right Reverend Santosh Marray
Bishop of Easton
Joanne Fisher
Director of Communications,
Senior Editor & Creative Designer
The Reverend Loretta Collins
Deacon, Editor
1
150th Convention of
The Diocese of Easton
Faith Redeeming Fate
“Go; your faith has made you well.”
(Mark10: 52)
February 23-24, 2018
Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay
Cambridge, MD
Each year, representatives from around our diocese gather to review and discuss issues, policies and
structures. While voting representatives and alternates must pre-register to attend Convention, anyone is
welcome to attend as an observer. Registered attendees receive packets of information and meals during
the two-day meeting.
February 23rd
• Registration Opens 8:00am
• Opening Eucharist 9:00am
• Sessions 1 10:30am
• Session II 1:30pm
• Youth @ Convention Event Begins 5:00pm
• Reception & Banquet 5:30pm
February 24th
• Morning Worship 8:45am
• Workshops 9:30am
• Session III 10:40am
• Close of Business 12pm
• Youth Event Ends 2pm
Youth @ Convention
2
Youth @ Convention invites young people from around the Diocese to bear witness to portions of
Convention as well as providing the opportunity to get to know one another. The youth lead morning
worship on Saturday. Interested youth should register through their Rector or appointed church
representative. More information and registration information can be found on our website
www.dioceseofeaston.org/youth.
Special Guest
We are excited to welcome the Rt. Rev. Clifton “Dan” Daniel III as our guest at the 150th Diocesan
Convention. He will celebrate and preach at the Opening Eucharist on Friday morning.
Clifton Daniel III is a bishop of The Episcopal Church and Interim Dean of the Cathedral Church of Saint
John the Divine in New York City. He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with
a BA in Spanish and Education. He attended Virginia Theological Seminary,
Alexandria, graduating with a Masters in Divinity in 1972. He has received
Doctor of Divinity Degrees from Virginia Seminary and the University of
the South. As bishop he has served the Diocese of East Carolina (in the State
of North Carolina) and the Diocese of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia). As a
priest, prior to becoming a bishop he served parishes in North Carolina,
Ohio and Rhode Island. He currently serves on the Executive Council of
The Episcopal Church; as President of the Board of The General Theological
Seminary, New York City; and on the Board of The Church Pension Group, New York City. He is an Officer
Brother of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem. Bishop Daniel and his wife
Anne (deceased) have three married daughters and four grandchildren, all living in New York City.
Workshops
Workshop #1: Finding DIAKONIA: The Future of Servant Leadership in the Diocese of Easton
Diakonia (servant ministry) is not exclusive to those who wear collars. Our baptismal covenant calls all
Christians to live out their diakonia in the world. However, many dioceses throughout the Episcopal
Church are coming to appreciate the diaconate (office of deacon) as a vital and enduring order of servant
leadership, and are exploring creative ways to set apart and deploy ordained vocational deacons to realize
this end. This seminar, conducted by members of the Commission on Ministry, will focus on what a "call" to
the vocational diaconate looks like, and how a renewed diaconal order may shape the future of our diocese.
Workshop #2: Reconciliation, Love and Hope
This workshop will attempt to bring together descendants of those who were once enslaved with
descendants of those who once owned/enslaved others. This discussion will seek to help us better undestand
how our actions today can have an impact on future generations of those who will come after us. As we kick
off our 150th Anniversary Celebration, we want to be mindful of our history as we look towards and work
for our next 150 years as a diocese.
Workshop #3: Church Beyond the Walls: The New Envisioning of Missional Ministry in the Diocese
The Rev. Dr. Barbara Anne Fisher, the appointed Missioner: Church Beyond the Walls for the diocese of
Easton, will provide an overview of what it means to participate in missional ministry beyond the walls of
the church. Time will be provided for participants to begin the process of envisioning opportunities within
their communities for missional ministry development, and to schedule an initial parish visit.
Sesquicentennial Collect +Santosh K. Marray
Gracious God, through the movement of your Holy Spirit, you have found your Church, the Diocese
of Easton, on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Continue to strengthen this diocese to be an inviting and
welcoming presence for your people to meet Jesus and to be transformed by the love, hospitality and
reconciling truth that embodies all life in you. Receive our worship, praise and thanksgiving; nurture and
sustain our life in faith, and cause us to always be a grateful people of your grace upon grace; through your
Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen!
3
G U G
A S W C’
L, H R
1868-2018
The 150th Anniversary of the Diocse of Easton is a year-long commemoration and celebration of a
people bound by faith, humbled in reconciliation, driven by love, and steadfast in their hope in Christ.
This year will be marked by a series of events designed to dig into the core of these themes and to build
momentum for the next 150 years of God at work on the Eastern Shore. The following pages outline these
upcoming events and take a closer look at the themes for the year.
• Convention 2018 “Faith Redeeming Fate” - Kick-Off to the 150th
• Reconcilation Eucharist on May 5th at the Harriet Tubman Museum
• The 150 Challenge: Love like Jesus Outreach throughout the Summer
• Gathering Hope: A Harvest Festival on October 27th at Camp Wright
• Celebration Eucharist with Presiding Bishop Curry on March 3rd, 2019
4
The Message of Reconciliation
“So, if anyone is in Christ, there is a
new creation: everything old has passed
away; see, everything has become new!
All this is from God, who reconciled us
to himself through Christ, and has given
us the ministry of reconciliation; that is,
in Christ God was reconciling the world
to himself, * not counting their trespasses
against them, and entrusting the message
of reconciliation to us.”
(2 Corinthians 5:17-19)
As the Diocese of Easton enters
into our Anniversary, we will
set our minds on the work of
reconciliation. We will reflect
upon the ways in which we
have harmed our neighbors,
our environment and ourselves
by things we have done and left
undone. We ask God, who is ever
faithful and full of mercy, to aid
us to amend our lives and set us
on the right path.
The Message of Love
“Beloved, since God loved us so much,
we also ought to love one another. 12 No
one has ever seen God; if we love one
another, God lives in us, and his love is
perfected in us.”
(1 John 4:11-12)
The parish-level call of the
Sesquicentennial will be “The
150 Challenge”. Every Parish
in the Diocese, every youth
group or small group, or anyone
who chooses can develop an
act of outreach in love for their
local community involving 150
of something. It could be 150
meals served, 150 cards mailed,
150 canned goods … the sky is
the limit. We will collect brief
accounts of the actions and share
them with the diocese!
The Message of Hope
“Hope does not disappoint us, because
God’s love has been poured into our
hearts through the Holy Spirit that has
been given to us.”
(Romans 5:5)
The Diocese of Easton finds hope
in the witness of the past and
the promise of the future. We
will share our witness through
Diocesan Heritage Sunday
services in October and by a great
gathering at Camp Wright in the
fall. Young and old will recommit
to sharing the message of hope
which broadens our horizons and
brings others to share the hope
that is within us.
Harriet Tubman Museum Tour
& Reconciliation Eucharist
includes lunch
Saturday, May 5th
Eucharist Begins 11am
(Early-Bird Tour at 10am)
Buses will depart from points
north and south in the Diocese.
Contact the Office to
reserve your seat:
410-822-1919
The 150 Challenge
Love is Contagious
May 5th - October 27th
Parishes & Groups
What are 150 things your group
can do to show the Love of
Christ in your community?
Share your stories as they unfold:
#150Challenge
#DioEastonLove
or via email to the Diocese.
Gathering Hope
A Harvest Festival
at Camp Wright
Saturday October 27th
12pm-5pm
Live Music & Performances,
Games, Food, & More!
Fun for All Ages!
Youth Groups interested in
working the event can contact
joanne@dioceseofeaston.org
5
Collinsservantho
A Special
Ministry of
By the Rev. Loretta
6
“Every Christian is called to
follow Jesus Christ, serving
God the Father, through the
power of the Holy Spirit. God
now calls you to a special ministry
of servanthood directly under your
Bishop. In the name of Jesus Christ,
you are to serve all people, particularly
the poor, the weak, the sick and the lonely.”
(from the Examination from Ordination:
Deacon, BCP p. 543)
Throughout my life I have always felt a deep
compassion for others. Accepting God’s call to the
diaconate has given me an opportunity to exercise this
compassion and witness how God can take the seed of an
idea and grow it into a fruitful and powerful ministry. There
are two such stories that stand in my memory…
I was ordained as a deacon on October 31, 2010. My first
assignment was at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Lewistown,
Pennsylvania. It had been a thriving church in a thriving factory town
up until the 1960’s. But factories began to close and then Hurricane
Agnes blew through in 1972 bringing massive flooding and further
devastation to a suffering economy.
St. Mark’s responded to needs in the community and opened up a food bank.
Upon my arrival in 2010 there were some frustrations brewing with food bank
clients. The recurring comment was that people who received the food did not
always know what to do with it. Together we began to pray for a solution.
After conversations with the rector and some of the volunteers at the food bank, I
proposed the idea of crockpot cooking classes. This would give our clients some practical
and healthy ways to use the food they received. We wrote up a plan and received a grant from
a local health insurance agency that supported innovative health-related ideas.
From there we set about inviting people to the classes. As a gift for attending the classes, each
student received a free cookbook, basic cooking supplies (such as a paring knife, large spoon, and
measuring cups) and of course a crock pot! We looked for recipes in the cookbook that had typical
things a person might pick up at the food bank such as tuna, vegetables, noodles and canned soups. As
folks arrived, the recipes we were making that day were already nearly cooked in the crockpots. The
aroma was inviting!
od
CALLED TO THE DIACONATE
Although the class members learned a great deal
from watching the demonstrations and helping
with the preparation of the food, the ministry
really came from sitting together to share a meal. It
was an opportunity to not just educate food bank
recipients, but also an opportunity for us at church
to get to know the folks in our community. In this
way, God took the seed of an idea - to share new
skills – and grew it into a powerful ministry of
relationship with our neighbors.
After a few years of serving at the parish level I was
offered the opportunity to serve as a deacon for
the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania. At the time
many refugees were moving to the Harrisburg PA
area and I felt called to see if there was a way the
Diocese could help.
In conversation with the Catholic Charities
Refugee and Resettlement Office in Harrisburg
I learned of some of the most urgent needs of
families arriving to their new homes. In particular,
the Resettlement office was in need of pots, pans
and pillows. So we started an appeal across the
Diocese and the outpouring of support was
generous. Together with volunteers and
Diocesan staff, we gathered these donations
and took them to the Resettlement office for
distribution.
About a year after our Pots, Pans and Pillows
appeal, the Resettlement office contacted me
with a need for twin bed sheets and blankets.
We again put out a request across the
Diocese and had an even greater outpouring
of support. People in our communities were
looking for ways to show support to their
new refugee neighbors and this was one way
to help.
By reaching out to the Refugee Resettlement
Office and becoming a trustworthy partner
in ministry, the door opened for additional
community-building opportunities. Some people
began volunteering with the English classes offered
by the office and others gave donations for bus
tickets for the students to get there. Additional
members helped alleviate a few specific financial
crises faced by families before they found jobs.
We are all called, as The Reverend Daniel Dunlap
explains in his article, FAQs about Deacons, to
live out our Baptismal Covenant in our daily lives.
Deacons, in addition, are called to be servant
leaders in and for the church. Dunlap further
explains, “As an ordained office, they (deacons) are
called to model diakonia by inspiring, empowering
and engaging every baptized person to live out
their diakonia in everyday life.” My goal as a
deacon has been to inspire others to live out their
Baptismal Covenant. I look forward to serving with
you here in the Diocese of Easton as we together
explore new ways we can follow Christ and honor
the promises we made in our Baptismal Covenant.
The Reverend Deacon Loretta Collins has recently moved from
the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania to the Diocese of Easton
with her husband, The Reverend Patrick A. Collins.
7
8
FAQs about Vocational Deacons
in the Diocese of Easton
By the Rev. Daniel Dunlap, PhD
On behalf of the Commission on Ministry
What are deacons?
From the earliest days of the church, the order of
deacons (or diaconate) has been recognized as one
of three distinct orders of ordained ministry, along
with bishops and presbyters (i.e. priests). The Book
of Common Prayer describes deacons as called to a
“special ministry of servanthood,” directly under the
authority of the bishop. The word “deacon” comes
from the Greek word diakonos, which means “servant.”
A related word diakonia (servant ministry) is often
used to describe the ministry of deacons. Yet the New
Testament also uses diakonia to describe the ministry of
all disciples.
What is the role of a deacon?
Deacons are called to serve all people but particularly
“the poor, the weak, the sick, and the lonely.” Deacons
are given the special task of interpreting to the Church
the “needs, concerns and hopes of the world.” In this
way the diaconate is a “bridge” between the church and
the world, and the world and the church. Deacons are
called to image Christ, “who came not to be served but
to serve,” and to share in his ministry (cf. BCP, pp. 543,
545).
Where did deacons come from?
Early church leaders, like Irenaeus (d. AD 202),
believed that Acts 6:1-7 described the commissioning
of the first deacons. This passage tells the story of a
complaint brought to the twelve apostles in Jerusalem.
Some widows (of a Hellenic or Greek background)
were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food,
while other widows (of Aramaic background) were
being favored. As there was no social “safety net” at
that time, the poor and the vulnerable (often widows
and orphans) relied on the charity of the community to
survive. To resolve this controversy the twelve proposed
that the disciples choose from among themselves seven
individuals “full of the Spirit and wisdom” (v. 3), to
whom the ministry (diakonia) of waiting tables could
be delegated, thereby allowing the apostles to continue
to devote themselves to prayer and to the ministry
(diakonia) of the Word. The apostles then prayed and
laid their hands over the seven, ordaining them as the
first deacons.
How did deacons function in the early centuries of
the church?
The period of the second through the sixth centuries
AD is often called the “golden age of deacons.” This
was a time when deacons were often given more
prominent and visible roles than presbyters. Deacons
served as assistants or secretaries to bishops, provincial
administrators, and even as episcopal envoys. The
office of “archdeacon” was created during this period,
denoting the most senior clerics of a province. It was
even common for new bishops to be elected from
their ranks rather than from among the presbyters.
Nevertheless the primary role of deacons remained as
it was in New Testament times: the distribution of alms
to the poor and the care of the destitute. Thus Deacons
also ran hospitals, hostels, and houses of refuge.
Why are candidates for the priesthood ordained as
deacons first?
The practice of ordaining candidates as deacons prior to
their ordination as priests arose in the early middle ages
when ministry was viewed more or less as a ceremonial
ascent up the ranks of the five minor orders (porter,
lector, exorcist, acolyte, subdeacon) to the sacramental
or holy orders of deacon, priest, and bishop. When the
Church of England abolished the minor orders in the
sixteenth century the order of ascent was drastically
abridged, yet not completely eliminated. Candidates
still entered holy orders through the “doorway of the
diaconate.” However, the English Church also redefined
the diaconate as a transitional apprenticeship prior
to ordination as a priest. The 1550 ordinal required
deacons to continue in office for “the space of a whole
year at the least…to the intent that [he] may be perfect,
and well expert in the things appertaining to the
Ecclesiastical administration.” Today we call this the
“transitional diaconate.”
How does a vocational deacon differ from a
transitional deacon?
Transitional deacons are called to the priesthood, and
have every expectation of being ordained priests after
their formation as deacons is complete. For them the
diaconate is another step in their formation. Vocational
deacons are called to serve perpetually as deacons. They
understand their “special ministry of servanthood” as
an end in itself.
CALLED TO THE DIACONATE
How does the ministry of a deacon differ from that of
a layperson?
Diakonia (servant ministry) is not exclusive to those
who wear collars. Diakonia is an essential part of our
discipleship. All Christians are called through our
baptismal covenant to live out our diakonia through
what we do and how we live out our daily life in the
world. Organized expressions of diakonia occur at
every level of the church (vestry, parish administration,
mission/outreach, etc.). Deacons, however, are called to
be servant leaders in and for the church. As an ordained
office, they are called to model diakonia by inspiring,
empowering and engaging every baptized person to live
out their diakonia in every day life.
Is a deacon ordained for the parish or for the diocese?
One of the ways a deacon differs from a layperson
or even a priest is the unique relationship she or he
has with the bishop. Deacons work directly under
the bishop and are “assigned” to their ministries by
the bishop. Typically, bishops will assign transitional
deacons to parishes so that they can learn from
senior priests or rectors in preparation for their own
ordination to the priesthood. Vocational deacons, on
the other hand, are called to serve the diocesan church
rather than the parish church, and the bishop may
assign them to ministries within the diocese for which
the bishop perceives a great need, and for which the
deacon may have special gifts or talents. Sometimes this
might be within a parish or mission setting, particularly
in times of transition. But ideally vocational deacons
will be sent out to represent the church in various
other ways: staffing specialized ministries (e.g. in
hospitals, correctional facilities, or hospices), nurturing
and supervising lay ministries, organizing social or
political advocacy groups, leading missions to advance
community justice and peace in the world, just to name
a few possibilities.
Why is the Diocese of Easton interested in reviving
the vocational diaconate now?
We live in exciting times. Many dioceses in the
Episcopal Church and churches throughout the
Anglican Communion are coming to appreciate the
diaconate as a vital and enduring order of ministry,
and are exploring creative ways to set apart and deploy
vocational deacons to realize this end. A vocational
diaconate program seems like a natural fit for a diocese
such as ours. What we might feel we lack in worldly
resources we certainly make up for in the spiritual
gifts and talents of our people. As well, a diaconal
program provides another way for people to explore a
perceived call to the ministry. Some experience a call
to specialized servant ministry, yet do not feel called
to the priesthood. Some experience a call to serve, yet
are not able to quit their secular employment because
many diaconal assignments are part-time and unpaid
positions. Still others may sense a call during their
retirement years, yet perhaps feel that their age might
disqualify them. In each of these cases the diaconate
seems made to order.
Could it be that I am being called to serve as a
vocational deacon in the Diocese of Easton?
God will call whomever God chooses. The task of the
Commission on Ministry is to open up the process
towards the diaconate to everyone who may sense a
call from God, and to provide a supportive formation
process to help people realize their call if they have one.
If you think this may describe God’s leading in your life
then the Commission on Ministry is here to facilitate
your discernment. There are, however, certain qualities
the Commission looks for in any call to ordained office.
Perhaps these qualities are ones that describe you:
A living, growing faith in God through Jesus
Christ, including a passion for God’s mission to
the world;
A personal “rule of life” that includes a
discipline of prayer, regular participation in
corporate worship, the study of scripture,
spiritual direction, and personal stewardship;
A public “rule of life” that models Christian
virtues by example to others;
An active participation in the life and ministry
of an Episcopal congregation;
A proven capacity for gathering, organizing, and
inspiring others in mission;
Skills in communication, which include the
ability to write and speak persuasively and with
sensitivity to the concerns of others.
Rev. Dunlap is Rector of Old Trinity, Church Creek and
Vicar of St. John’s Chapel, Cornersville
9
Introducing our
Convention Nominees...
Diocesan Council – Northern
Convocation Rep, Lay – Mark
Hansen: The son of Episcopal
missionaries serving over three
decades in Brazil and Japan, I am the
product of a lifelong immersion in
global Anglicanism. My own sense of
vocation to a life of domestic Christian
mission came during the mid-1980’s
while doing seminary field placement
as a bi-lingual tutor in the South Bronx at a predominantly
Puerto Rican parish. Today, I teach English as a Second
Language for Mexican immigrants at St. Clement’s, Massey,
where for the past four years I have served as Lay Pastor in
a team-ministry model to this small, bold, mission-oriented
– and now growing – congregation. I have a myriad of
experience in diocesan-level affairs across four diocese as
well as in leadership roles within the local community. My
PhD is in Latin American history with a minor in religion
from Columbia University, and I am currently affiliated as a
Visiting Scholar at Washington College.
I am enthusiastic about the vision of “a prayer-centered
church and a mission-shaped diocese” in large measure
because it is not just our bishop’s idea nor is it merely a
marketing slogan. Bishop Santosh’s spiritually-grounded
and collaborative leadership style has been evident in the
emergence of this vision, insofar as he was the leader in
urging diocesan representatives to craft such a statement,
while being a respectful listener in guiding it through its
various iterations. The result is a well-ordered statement
of two indispensable priorities: prayerful connection with
the living God, resulting in missional outreach to the wider
world. Too often we Episcopalians fall into a bandwagon
mentality, with the “cart” of social action coming before the
“horse” of prayerful, scripture-based reflection. In all things,
we must never forget that “the Church is the only society
that exists for the benefit of those who are not its members.”
(William Temple)
Diocesan Council – Middle
Convocation Rep, Clergy – Charlie
Osberger: Rector Wye Parish, Dean
of the Middle Convocation, member
of the Commission on Ministry,
Board of Camp Wright and Deputy
to the General Convention of the
Episcopal Church 2018
Jesus is the Foundation of the
movement bearing His Name for his Kingdom’s cause.
We are living witnesses to the presence of the Kingdom
of God among us. This means to me participating in the
proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, unifying a
Diocese of missions, ministries and congregations, all ages,
youth and leaders who are a spiritual offering of real hope,
real grace and real peace to the world through real lives
changed by the love of God. As we live into the next 150
years of Easton’s vision, decisions and commitments that
demonstrate true compassion and the joy of our Lord’s
salvation we will be good news for the communities and
people we serve.
Diocesan Council – Southern
Convocation Rep, Lay – Phil
Tilghman: Grew up in Federalsburg
MD. Graduated Washington
College 1964 and married college
sweetheart same year. Three children,
nine grandchildren and two great
granddaughters. Member St. Philips,
Quantico since 1966. Senior Warden
several times and just retiring from
most recent stint. Two previous terms on Diocesan Council.
Member of Bishop’s selection committee. Elected member
Wicomico County Council 1984 thru 2000. Host of local
interview program on local access TV 2000 thru 2014.
As a Diocese we expressed to those who would be our Bishop
that ” status quo is not an option”. Now we must embrace
the challenge that Bishop San has set for us in terms of
commitment to Christ centered service to mankind starting
in our own communities. As a Diocese we should take every
opportunity to meet, worship and dialogue with each other as
fellow Episcopalians to bolster that commitment. The more
the “flock” is together the stronger we become and thereby
more receptive to the Shepherd.
10
“How do you see us growing into
Bishop San's vision of being a
prayer-centered church and a
mission-shaped diocese?”
Diocesan Council – At-Large
Rep, Lay – Lisa Webb: I grew up
in the Presbyterian Church, the
granddaughter of a Presbyterian
minister. I began attending the
Episcopal Church in high school,
when my step father joined my family.
I am now the mother of a teenage
daughter and an OB-Gyn physician.
I have had many roles in my home
church, Emmanuel Church, Chester Parish, including being
an Eucharist minister and visitor, lector, intercessor, acolyte,
chair of the Pastoral Care Committee, and recently helping
to develop our Creation Season. The most special role has
been as a student and then mentor for four years of EFM. I
still have an ecumenical spirit, as I also again play bells again
at the Presbyterian Church of Chestertown. I am honored to
be considered to be more involved with the church on the
Diocesan level.
I believe that in order to become a prayer-centered church
and mission-shaped diocese, we first need to come to believe,
and then live it out, that each and every person is a loved
child of God. As 1 John states (3:2) “My dear people, we are
already children of God”. We don’t have to earn it; God’s
grace has already given us this blessing. Once this knowledge
shines forth from our hearts, being prayer centered and
mission shaped will come automatically, we can’t help but
want to commune with God and to share our abundance
Being prayer-centered and mission shaped is our natural
state. Worship, study and community can help us be who we
truly are.
Diocesan Council – At-Large Rep,
Lay – Tim Strack: “I grew up on Kent
Island and now live in Denton. I am
a member of Christ Church Denton
who serves both on the Vestry and as
a Eucharistic Minister. In 2017 I was
an Alternate Delegate to Diocesan
Convention, and in 2018 I am a
Delegate. I enjoy being involved in
my community. At Christ Church
Denton I started a monthly Game Night, open to the public,
where families and individuals can come play board games. I
also volunteer at the His Hope Haven homeless shelter every
Friday night when the shelter is open (September-May).
Along with Bishop San’s vision for us being a prayer-centered
church and a mission-shaped diocese, I feel a call to both
pray AND to take action. I believe prayer is a two way
communication, as in we also have to listen to what the Holy
Spirit is asking us to do, and in some cases that is to take
action. I believe we should work with other non-profits in the
area to help our local community as well larger non-profits
to help the world. Perhaps we could organize a set of days
as a diocese to do physical work with Habitat for Humanity
or start new fundraisers to sponsor, though the Department
of Social Services, an alcohol or drug addicted individual to
go to rehab — especially with the opioid epidemic the US is
facing. The possibilities are endless.”
Diocesan Council – At-Large
Rep, Clergy – The Rev. Joseph M.
Rushton: Rector – Church of the Holy
Spirit, Ocean City, Maryland. I am a
native Marylander, currently living
in Georgetown, DE. I have served
the people of God in the Dioceses
of Maryland, Delaware and as of
October 2017 the Diocese of Easton.
During the past 12 years I have served
on Diocesan Councils, Companion Diocese Committee,
Convention Program Committee and as Co-Chair of several
Diocesan Conventions. I have worked as a Masters Level
Social Worker in mental health positions for over 2 decades.
Prayer-Centered Church and Mission-Shaped Diocese: My
initial thoughts take me to the lyrics of a Folk Song (now
referred to as a contemporary Christian song) “… What
would you have us do … -We who claim to be your followers
…” Praying keeps us in communication with God, mindful
that we are continually blessed and invited to share our
blessing with others to the Glory of God. Mindfulness and
attentiveness are essential if we are to hear, recognize and
respond to the one we follow, Jesus.
11
12
Diocesan Council – At-Large Rep,
Clergy – The Rev. John Schaeffer:
I have been the Rector of St. Mary
Anne’s in North East, MD for the
past two years. My wife Karen and I
have been married for 33 years, and
we have three adult children, David,
Eric and Jennifer. I sensed the call
to ministry as I raised our children
and participated in lay ministry at my
local church in Pittsburgh, PA. I attended seminary part-time
for many years while I was employed full-time in financial
services industry. I obtained a Master in Divinity from
Trinity School for Ministry in Ambridge, PA in 2012. I was
ordained as priest in the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh in
December of 2012; and served as a Priest in Charge for three
years in a small Pittsburgh parish, prior to my call to St. Mary
Anne’s.
I abundantly support Bishop San’s vision of being a prayercentered
church and mission shaped diocese, and believe
that it is an appropriate response to last year’s Diocesan-wide
study of the Book of Acts and our corporate and personal
charge in the Great Commission. Members of those early
churches recognized that growth required God’s power; and
that God responds to His people’s prayers. We know that if
we ask anything according to His will, He hears us and will
give us what we request (1 John 5:14-15). Therefore, we need
to ask. Clergy and lay leaders have a responsibility to teach
the necessity of corporate and personal prayer and all are
encouraged to utilize Scripture to emphasize its importance
and example. Readings such as: Acts 1:24 and Acts 6:6
demonstrate the importance of praying before choosing
leaders; and Acts 22:17 supports praying in worship and
receiving guidance as to future ministry plans. With this solid
prayer-centered approach, God will continue to reveal His
will and mission for our Diocese, churches, and people. We
can and will with God’s help.
Standing Committee, Lay – Nancy
M. Dick: As a lifelong Episcopalian
at Emmanuel Church, Chester
Parish, I have served in a variety of
roles, some more than once: Senior
Warden, Junior Warden, Choir
member, Eucharistic Minister, lector,
church school teacher, Acolyte. In
the Diocese of Easton I am currently
a member of the Commission on
Ministry and the Secretary of Convention. I have been a
deputy to General Convention seven times, have served on
Diocesan Council, and on the Standing Committee. I am
retired from my work as a Community Health Nurse.
The Discernment Resolutions that have been adopted by
the Diocese of Easton coupled with the ten Gifts of Spiritual
Life give us guides for growing into the Bishop San’s vision
of a prayer-centered church and mission-shaped diocese. I
think that the Spiritual Gifts should be fleshed out carefully
one or two at a time; these underlie prayer centeredness
and missionally shaped. The recommendations of the
Discernment Resolutions strengthen the diocese in seeking
collaboration among parishes and identifying our strengths
and weaknesses. The growth will not be fast paced but
thoughtfully and prayerfully done.
Standing Committee, Lay – Nancy Linck: I joined the
Episcopal Church around 20 years ago having come from
a long Catholic tradition including graduating from the
Catholic University of St Thomas in Houston, Texas. Having
been a member of St. Alban’s in Salisbury, I have been a
member of the vestry, the choir, Agape Ministry and am
finishing my service on the Diocesan Council for the past 3
years. It has been my privilege and honor to work with very
knowledgeable, passionate and loving people from all over
the Diocese. I believe that the continued focus on working
together within the Diocese and our individual communities
to foster hope and love in Jesus’ name will promote lasting
and strong relationships now and in the future. Thank you so
much. Peace on Earth, Goodwill toward Men.
Standing Committee, Clergy – The
Rev. Mary Garner: I graduated from
Episcopal Divinity School in 2006.
As a seminarian I took a number of
classes in urban/community outreach
mission work. I served as chaplain
for a low cost housing development
for the elderly in Norfolk, Virginia
and in addition to providing pastoral
care, I developed many social service
programs and connections to local churches for the benefit
of the residents. I moved to Easton in 2008 and supplied in
many of our congregations until I became the assistant rector
at Christ Church, St. Michael’s in 2010.I was the chaplain at
Heron Point in Chestertown from 2012-2014.I have served
at St. Paul’s, Centreville since 2014. During my tenure as
rector we have initiated many mission programs including
the Haven Ministries Resource Center, the Micah Ministry
for Social Justice and the Backpack Program for children
in poverty. I believe that my education and experience in
community outreach and my years of serving as a supply
priest in all three convocations will be of use to the Standing
Committee.
I believe a prayer centered church must not just pray on
Sunday mornings! Contemplative prayer, lectio divina,Bible
Study, retreats and spiritual direction could have a greater
presence in our churches. Being mission centered means
knowing our neighbors, stepping out of the doors of our
church and into the community, respectfully listening to
what is needed to further the kingdom of God and using our
resources to bring that kingdom to the Eastern Shore.
Standing Committee, Clergy – The
Rev. Dr. Robert James Laws: Fr. Rob
was born and raised in a small town
in North Carolina. While attending
Duke Divinity School, where he was
studying for a Master’s in Religious
Education, he started a journey
which would eventually lead to his
becoming confirmed in the Episcopal
Church. Fr. Rob was ordained in
the Diocese of Pittsburgh, and most recently has served as
rector of St. Andrew’s, Somerset Parish in Princess Anne for
four years, and has been active in both the diocese and the
community. He has served on Diocesan Council and the
Bishop’s Transition Committee. In the community he serves
on the Somerset County Long Term Recovery Board where
he currently chairs the Neighborhood Affordable Housing
Committee. He is also a trustee of the Somerset County
Library Board and is active in the ministerial association.
The vision of a prayer-centered church and a missionshaped
diocese really is rooted in the ancient understanding
that prayer and action together are important elements of
holistic spirituality and faithful and engaging discipleship.
This practice is the one that Jesus modeled for us in his own
life and ministry, and only by embracing a life of prayer and
action can we live into St. Paul’s admonition to “pray without
ceasing” In order to discern the mission of God in the world,
the church must re-imagine what mission looks like. Instead
of engaging in church-shaped mission, which is insular
and focused on meeting the needs of church members and
structures, we are called to become a mission-shaped churcha
church driven and empowered to do the work of God in the
world, to follow the Holy Spirit into the world to meet Christ
in the poor, the weak, the suffering, and the stranger, and to
take seriously the dream of Jesus that the Church would not
only continue his work, but that we would do greater works
than he, as together we work to draw all of creation to unity
with God and one another.
such as those of Fortune 500 companies, state and local
government retirement systems, endowments, mutual
funds and private accounts. Enjoyed an active managerial
role in the companies for which I worked in addition to
my investment responsibilities. Employers included a state
retirement system, two large regional banks and three private
investment management firms. For the 15 years prior to my
retirement, I served as President, Chief Operating Officer and
Mutual Fund Co-Manager for a private investment manager
in suburban Philadelphia with approximately $3.5 billion
under management. Firm managed the Berwyn Funds,
a small family of no-load mutual funds and sub-advised
other mutual funds. Board/Trustee Experience: Community
Center, Private School, Yacht Club, Endowment, Charitable
Institution, Private For-Profit Company. Personal: I grew up
in Richmond, VA where I graduated from St. Christopher’s
School. Most of my professional career was spent in
Philadelphia, where my wife and I lived in Center City for 38
years and raised a family. I have served on Vestries in both
Richmond and Philadelphia and have been active in churchrelated
activities, including being Endowment Committee
Chair for 20+ years. My wife and I reside in Oxford where we
are active members of The Church of the Holy Trinity and
she currently serves on the Vestry.
I think we can grow into Bishop San’s vision by, in part,
taking our cue from the early Christians as recorded in the
Book of Acts. We must exhibit compassion, inclusiveness and
sharing, not just among ourselves but throughout the broader
community and the world. This starts with seeking God’s
guidance in all things through prayer – personal prayer,
group prayer and parish-wide prayer. Then we must trust
in God and move forward in faith, casting a wide net and
engaging a diverse universe.
Board of Managers, Lay – Fred Welsh
For the full bio on each of our nominees
please visit
www.dioceseofeaston.org/convention2018
Board of Managers, Lay – Ray
Munsch: Education: BS, Economics,
University of Pennsylvania (Wharton
School); MBA, Finance, University of
Virginia (Darden School). Military:
Officer, U.S. Coast Guard, 3½ years
active duty. Professional Experience:
Investment Manager, over course of
40 years served as portfolio manager
for institutional investment accounts
13
...Bringing
It All
Together...
The Purpose Statement (above right) and the
Ministry Imperatives (at right) stem from a
collaborative effort initiated by the bishop
at last year’s convention. The documents are
intended to help us orient ourselves and design
tangible goals as we live into the Mission of
God. The discernment work of self-reflection,
which took place under the guidance of the Rt.
Rev. Henry Parsley, resulted in ten Discernment
Resolutions shown below (read more at www.
dioceseofeaston.org/2015discernmentresolutions).
These ten resolutions continue to speak to, and
are incorporated in, the ten ministry imperatives.
In addition to these discernment resoltions, the
Ministry Imperatives also reflect the Episcopal
Church’s Five Marks of Mission, the Jesus
Movement as defi ned by Presiding Bishop Curry,
and our biblical responsibility enunciated in
1 Corinthians 12 & 14, Ephesians 4, Romans
12, 1 Peter 4, Matthew 22: 37 (the Great
Commandment), Matthew 28:19 (the Great
Commission), and our Baptismal Covenant. For
more information on these imperatives and the
good work that God is calling us to as a prayercentered
church & mission-shaped diocese, be
sure to listen to the Bishops’s convention address
which will be available on our website following
convention.
Discernment
Resolutions
Adopted by the
Diocese of Easton
June 2015
#1: Establish Clusters of neighboring parishes in the Diocese of Easton.
#2: Reorganize the Department of Missions.
#3: Department of Missions and Clusters shall identify sharing and collaboration
opportunities.
#4: Institute the AWE - Average Weekly Evangelism report.
#5: Conduct a Diocesan-wide Evangelism Audit.
#6: Organize Evangelism efforts at the Cluster level.
#7: Provide resources on evangelism and outreach to the Diocese and parishes.
#8: Establish a Diocesan Christian Formation Commission.
#9: Form a marketing team.
#10: Establish the Diocese of Easton’s Heritage Awareness Sunday.
15
Resolutions submitted by the Committee on Constitution & Canons
to the 150th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Easton
Resolution 1: Amendment to Article V -- Election of a Bishop: Add “Bishop Provisional,” prohibit
nominations from the floor, and provide for a nomination by petition. This is the second reading.
Resolution 2: Article XIII -- Parishes – Separate Congregations -- Missions: To revise and update the
minimum requirements of Parish By-Laws. This is the second reading.
Resolution 3: Article XIII -- Parishes – Separate Congregations -- Missions: To simplify the process of
closing a Parish, Mission, or Separate Congregation, and to add a requirement that adequate provisions
be made for the perpetual care of any memorials, graves, and/or cemeteries.
Resolution 4: To revise Canon 404 (as approved by the Board of Managers) so that a Diocesan Property
Committee may be created and take full responsibility for all Diocesan-owned real property.
Resolution 5: New Canon 410 -- Of the
Committee on Diocesan Property: To define
the canonical requirements for a Committee on
Diocesan Property. This proposed Canon will
establish a Diocesan Property Committee which
will manage real property owned by the Diocese
of Easton.
16
Resolution 6: Canon 411 -- Of the Committee
on Green Hill Church: To add a new Canon
411 creating a Green Hill Church Committee
responsible for the Green Hill Church in
Quantico, MD, a property and church building
(1733) owned by the Diocese of Easton. Submitted
by the Rev. David Michaud and the Vestry of St.
Peter’s Church, Salisbury.
Resolution 7: Canon 505 -- Of Separate
Congregations: To update Canon 505 (Canon 508
has been deleted) and provide a process under
which a congregation, which has been classified
as a Diocesan Mission under Canon 504.022, may
regain Parish status.
For further information and explanation on each
of the Resolutions please visit
www.dioceseofeaston.org/convention2018
About Green Hill Church
by The Rev. David Michaud
Green Hill Church near Quantico, Maryland along the
banks of the Wicomico River is the mother church of
Stepney Parish and one of the oldest and best preserved
colonial churches in the diocese. Built in 1733 but no
longer in constant use, it is the site of the annual combined
St. Bartholomew’s Day worship and picnic of the churches
of Wicomico Country, a tradition stretching back 165
years.
The deed for the property was recently transferred to the
Diocese from St. Mary’s, Tyaskin. Resolution 6 would
establish by canon a Green Hill Church Committee
of parishioners from the local parishes to oversee the
preservation and maintenance of this historic treasure,
raise funds for its continued existence and organize St.
Bartholomew’s Day and other activities in the church.
Funds to care for the church would come to the Diocese
to be used by the committee, making care for the church
budget neutral – the property would be self-sufficient.
Resolution 6 has the support of the parishes of Wicomico
County.
EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Bishop’s Christmas Appeal - Follow-Up
The Bishop’s Christmas Appeal declared in
December 2017 has borne much fruit. The appeal
came in response to a request of assistance from
the Diocese of North East Caribbean and Aruba’s
(NECA) bishop. The Rt. Rev. Errol Brooks reached
out to the Diocese of Easton for help in responding
to the devastation caused by Hurricane Marie. The
diocesan family has responded generously with
our contribution. To date we have received $7,101.
Arrangements will be made to liaise with Diocese
of NECA for transfer of the funds.
Also I wish to commend the Church of the Holy
Trinity, Oxford, which has personal connection
with St. Bart’s Island, for their initiative in raising
close to $20,000 toward the relief effort.
As your bishop, it warms my heart to hear
of this overwhelming response and to say a
heartfelt thanks to all who sacrificed in making a
contribution. It shows the generosity of the diocese
toward the least fortunate in times of natural
disaster and other forms of crisis. We stand in
solidarity with our sister diocese in another part
of the Anglican Communion indicating how
mindful we are of our global connection and our
willingness to act in times of tragedy,
My beloved, once again you have made your
bishop and diocese proud and grateful.
With every blessing!
+San
XI Bishop of Easton
NOTABLE DATES
February 23-24
DIOCESAN CONVENTION
The annual meeting of the Diocese of Easton including
elections and voting.
February 23-24
YOUTH @ CONVENTION
Young people are also invited to attend the coinciding
“Youth at Convention” event. Register your youth online.
March 3
MINISTRY COHORT
Bring a team from your church to the table in 2018 as we
learn innovative and effective ways to share faith across
generations. Facilitated by Ministry Architects and in
partnership with Fuller Youth Institute.
www.dioceseofeaston.org/cohort
April 1
EASTER SUNDAY
May 5
HARRIET TUBMAN MUSEUM TOUR &
RECONCILIATION EUCHARIST
The first of our 150th Sesquicentennial Events.
The Bray House (Offices of the Bishop) will be closed on
2/19, 2/26, 3/30, 5/28.
SIGN UP FOR THE WEEKLY ENEWS
dioceseofeaston.org
WE ARE UPDATING OUR MAILING LIST!
Churches are asked to send a curent member
mailing lists so that we can update our records
and make sure everyone in our Diocese is
receiving the ESE. Thank you for your help.
Send To: joanne@dioceseofeaston.org
The Episcopal Diocese of Easton
314 North Street
Easton, MD 21601
410-822-1919
dioceseofeaston.org
CAMP WRIGHT - RESIDENT CAMP - SUMMER
Session Schedule
Session 1/SHL June 23-29
Mini 1 June 23-25
Mini 2 June 27-29
Session 2/SHA July 1-7
Mini 3 July 1-3
Mini 4 July 5-7
Session 3 July 9- 15
Mini 5 July 9- 11
Mini 6 July 13 - 15
Session 4 July 18 - 24
XMAS/AC/STEM July 27-Aug 2
Session 5 Aug 5-11
SENIOR/NATURE Aug 13-17
Join us on Kent Island this summer! For over 85
years, Camp Wright has provided young people
from the Eastern Shore of Maryland and beyond an
encouraging place to grow, learn, play, and make
new friends. With traditional programs and specialty
camps throughout the summer, Camp Wright offers
something for everyone.
www.campwright.com
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