FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How do I get online? A. Choose the network Vendor; then the password is 75Taylor — all one word, capital T.

Q. Where can I recharge my device? A. We have a charging station set up inside Hibiscus Hall where you can plug in your phone, tablet, or other device. The station will be available both Friday and Saturday.

Q. That continental breakfast on Fridays and

Saturdays is awfully heavy on carbs and sugar. Can you offer more healthy choices?

A. You asked, and we heard you. You’ll find more healthy options this year — more protein and more fruit. We’ve discovered that healthier food leads to more productive meetings, so thanks for nudging us in this direction!

Q. Why don’t you have bottled water available

all day?

A. We — and the Conference Center — are committed to eliminating plastic waste and to recycling. There are water coolers up and down the concourse on Friday and Saturday and in Hibiscus Hall as well on Saturday. You can refill your own water bottle there, or use a plastic cup that you refill throughout the day. Those are both better choices than single-use bottles and demonstrate The Episcopal Church’s commitment to creation care and good stewardship of our finances.

Q. Speaking of recycling, especially at

lunchtime, what about all the paper and plastic generated there?

A. The Conference Center recycles paper, plastic, and metal. The center understands how valuable our planet is and embraces its role in protecting it. They are committed to using quality products while reducing the environmental footprint.

54th ANNUAL CONVENTION

Q. Can you do anything about the temperature

in Hibiscus Hall? Some of us are always cold!

A. Trying to regulate the temperature in a huge space like Hibiscus Hall is a challenge. We know there are going to be hot and cold spots as we strive to set a temperature that is comfortable for everyone. If you’re inclined to be cold, you may want to bring a sweater or jacket.

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Diocesan Elections

Candidates may run for more than one office. Lay nominees must be at least 16 years of age and their name must be duly enrolled in the register of their congregation, they must be regular in attendance at divine services and make stated contributions of record to the general support of the congregation. (Canon VII, 3 a.) Please read about the positions open for election below.

Standing Committee:

The Standing Committee is a council advising the bishop. In certain circumstances, the Standing Committee is the ecclesiastical authority of the Diocese of Southwestern Florida in the absence of the bishop. The Standing Committee is involved in a number of matters including church indebtedness and ordination. Standing Committee members serve three-year terms, and may not serve more than two consecutive terms. They meet monthly on Tuesday mornings, or as needed.

Diocesan Council:

Diocesan Council is the board of directors for the corporation of the diocese and serves as an “interim body” between conventions. It is responsible for the oversight of the work of the diocese including finance, congregational development, property issues, diocesan policy, DaySpring, and other matters concerning the fabric of the diocesan community. Council usually meets on the third Saturday of the month at DaySpring, about six times a year.

Disciplinary Board:

The Disciplinary Board consists of nine persons (five clergy and four lay) who meet in order to consider the ecclesiastical discipline of a bishop, priest or deacon, governed by Title IV of the Canons for the Government of the Episcopal Church.

University of the South Trustee:

The Board of Trustees is composed of individuals from each of the 28 constituent dioceses of the Protestant Episcopal Church. Individuals from the associated alumni, faculties, staff, the student bodies, as well as trustees at-large are also elected as representatives. The Board of Trustees elects and appoints a Board of Regents, a Chancellor, a Vice-Chancellor, and a Chaplain to serve the University and governs matters related to the Charter, the Constitution, and the University Domain.

General Convention Deputies:

General Convention deputies and alternates are elected by Diocesan Convention and serve until the diocesan election (October 2024). General Convention deputies, along with bishops, participate in the governance and discernment of The Episcopal Church through activities before, during, and after the General Convention for which they are elected.

18 THAT THEY ALL MAY BE ONE DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA