53rd Annual Convention Guidebook, Diocese of Southwest Florida

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

See, I MAkE aLL Things New

Saturday, October 16, 2021 Speakers, Workshops, Elections, Reports, 2022 Budget Online at episcopalswfl.org 1

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

The Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida The Rt. Rev. Dabney T. Smith, Bishop

8005 25th St. East Parrish, FL 34219 Phone: (941) 556-0315 episcopalswfl.org

September 2021 My dear friends, It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 53rd Annual Convention of the Diocese of Southwest Florida. This year will embrace a hybrid schedule of live and online events that will connect our seventy-nine parishes and missions from Brooksville to Marco Island. The way we function as community continues to evolve during this ongoing pandemic. At its heart, we celebrate the same love of God and love of neighbor in our actions as a convention.

I am grateful for every congregation and the continued adaptations necessary in facing the ongoing pandemic. You are awe-inspiring. I commend the leadership and responsiveness of the diocesan staff to plan and execute a hybrid convention while keeping the health and safety of everyone central for the purpose of conducting the business that we are required by our canons to conduct. This year’s convention will continue this momentum of transition and encourage our community to embrace the Lord’s words, “See, I make all things new.”

Our 53rd convention has filled me with an abundance of love and hope as we gather and strengthen our bonds of affections as Christians and Episcopalians. If this year has taught me anything, it is that there is no hurdle we cannot overcome. We gather together as the Body of Christ to, with Christ, make all things new.

Thank you for your service of leadership this year as we continue to live into God’s Holy Mission.

Faithfully yours,

Dabney T. Smith Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Southwest Florida

2

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Al

n

m akE

gs n e w

e e, S .

I

l t hi

Index Welcome ....................................................................... 4 Worship Online ...................................................... 5 Workshops ......................................................................6 Saturday Agenda .............................................................8 General Details .............................................................9 Technical Details ........................................................10 Voting in Lumi .............................................................12 Rules .................................................................................14 Election Nominees......................................................16 Proposed Budget .......................................................22 Reports to Convention ..........................................38 Staff Directory ........................................................... 47 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

On the Cover: “See, I Make All Things New” original artwork by Sierra Mulholland,17, Junior Counselor, DaySpring Summer Camp Inside Back Cover: “See, I Make All Things New” original artwork by Colton Garis, 12, St. John the Divine, Sun City Center Back Cover: “See, I Make All Things New” original artwork by Carolina de la Torriente, 10, DaySpring Camper, St. James Episcopal Church, Ormond Beach 3

Welcome to Convention Convention Calendar

Dear Friends, Welcome to hybrid Diocesan Convention 2021!

Wednesday, Sept. 8

.

We’re mostly online again this year as we wait for the pandemic to run its course.

We made the decision to go virtual out of loving concern for everyone’s health, and it will be all the sweeter a year from now when — God willing! — we’re able to come together face to face once again.

7 p.m. Online All-Deanery Fall Convocation via

Zoom, for registered delegates

We will have a chance to greet old friends and new in person at the opening convention worship at Redeemer in Sarasota on Friday evening, Oct. 15. (And if you can’t attend the worship service live, please join us online.)

9 a.m. Online Convention Business Session

kE A

ll

gs

ma

new

See, I

thin

We’ll offer Zoom workshops in the weeks leading up to Convention. I’m excited about the lineup of topics in this year of transition. Our business meeting on Oct. 16 will also be online, and we’ll be voting -- speedily and accurately -using our digital devices.

I know we all miss being together in Punta Gorda -- to learn, to worship, to do the work of the diocese, and to enjoy loving fellowship and fun as the diocesan family and members of the Body of Christ in Southwest Florida. We are hungry for what the social scientists call collective effervescence -- “that sense of energy and harmony we feel when we come together in a group around a shared purpose,” as the New York Times puts it.

We won’t let Covid-19 stop us! I’ll bet we can create some collective effervescence this convention season -- whether we’re seeing each other face to face or on a screen. May the Holy Spirit bring it on!

Friday, Oct. 15 5 p.m. Worship with Bishop Dabney Smith at

Church of the Redeemer, Sarasota

Saturday, Oct. 16

Workshops Calendar

Wednesday, Sept. 15 7 p.m. Online Workshop:

Discernment for Ordained Ministry

Wednesday, Sept. 22 7 p.m. Online Workshop:

Racial Healing as the Work of the Church

Thursday, Sept. 30 7 p.m. Online Workshop:

General Convention: A Preview

Wednesday, Oct. 6 7 p.m. Online Workshop:

Searching for Our Next Bishop

Judy Stark Convention Program Chair

4

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Diocese Gathers for Worship

g hi n

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

lt

Website: Episcopalswfl.org/convention Twitter: @episcopalswfl Facebook: facebook.com/DioceseofSWFL/ YouTube: Episcopalswfl Vimeo: vimeo.com/episcopalflorida

e , Im e S

a k E Al

Each year in the life of the Diocese of Southwest Florida, the convention gathers for worship.

Join us on Friday, Oct. 15 at 5 p.m.

We will celebrate the Holy Eucharist in person at the Church of the Redeemer in Sarasota. Bishop Smith will be preaching and celebrating.

This worship will be also live-streamed to the diocese on our diocesan web page, Facebook page, and YouTube channels simultaneously. Our stream will be available on the following channels:

e n w. s

Holy Eucharist on Oct. 15

5

See, I

gs

kE A

ll

.

ma

new

Online Speakers & Workshops Similar to last year, we will offer live-streamed workshops on the weeks leading up to convention weekend. Participants will be able to post questions during the presentation on zoom.

thin

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 15

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22

7 to 8 p.m.

7 to 8 p.m.

Discernment for Ordained Ministry The process of discernment for ordained ministry involves many parts of our diocese: candidates, parish discernment committees, the Standing Committee, the Commission on Ministry (COM), the bishop. It impacts the wider church, as well as those who are ordained here may go on to serve elsewhere.

How does it work? God’s call to ministry is different for everyone, and yet it always begins with a personal sense of call that is discerned within community, where all people involved are led by God’s Holy Spirit. We are lay and ordained members of the COM who serve the church at the pleasure of the bishop, alongside an appointed member of the Standing Committee who serves as liaison.

We will explore the many facets of the process and the steps toward ordination. We’ll discuss how to explore a sense of call to ordained ministry and how to walk with those who are on this spiritual journey. We will share some of the spiritual and personal development that takes place in the process of seeking ordination and what it means to be guided by the Church. “However that may be, let each of you lead the life that the Lord has assigned, to which God called you.” — 1 Corinthians 7:17 Presenters: The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman, Canon to the Ordinary and other members of the Commission on Ministry including The Rev. Alex Andujar, The Rev. Janet Tunnell, The Rev. Deacon Michael Kitt, and Jackie Smith.

6

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

The Work of the Church in Reconciliation and Racial Healing The Diocesan Committee on Race and Reconciliation works to gather and create an array of resources to assist parishes and individuals in confronting racism.

Join us to learn about the available resources, including updated resources from our website, how to participate in a Sacred Ground dialogue circle to learn about racism in the community, and our upcoming discussion of the diocesan-wide book study of Jemar Tisby’s The Color of Compromise: The Truth about the American Church’s Complicity in Racism. We’ll preview the new Dismantling Racism training that will be available soon to diocesan clergy and laity. We will have an introduction to The Episcopal Church’s initiative focused on Truth and Reconciliation tasked with building on the church’s existing anti-racism efforts and extending them to every corner of the church. We will explore our history, today’s reality, and our future hopes as The Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Southwest Florida and hear about the work being done to address healing and justice in support of the Gospel.

Presenters: The Rev. Paige Alvarez Hanks and other members of the Diocesan Committee on Race and Reconciliation.

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

THURSDAY, SEPT. 30

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 6

7 to 8 p.m.

7 to 8 p.m.

National General Convention 80: A Preview Meet the members of our diocesan deputation to the 80th General Convention of the Episcopal Church next summer and get a preview of the legislation General Convention will take up. We’ll share the work of the committees and task forces to which we have been appointed or whose work we are following. Presenters will discuss Liturgical and Prayer Book Revision; Communion Across Difference; Race and Reconciliation (the Racial Justice Audit of Episcopal Leadership), and Church Planting and Congregational Redevelopment.

Postponed from its originally scheduled dates in 2020 because of the pandemic, the 80th General Convention will convene in Baltimore, MD, July 7-14, 2022.

Presenters: The Rev. Adrienne R. Hymes, chair; Ms. Anna C. Haeffner, Dr. Navita Cummings James, and The Rev. Ryan R. Whitley.

Searching for Our Next Bishop This presentation will introduce you to the 10-month-long process that the Bishop Coadjutor Search Committee is using to identify potential candidates for our next Bishop Diocesan.

Specifically, we’ll share the results of our diocese-wide survey and listening sessions, which together determine the characteristics we seek in our next leader.

Presenters: Trevor Whitley and The Rev. Jessica Babcock, co-chairs of the Bishop Coadjutor Search Committee (BCSC).

Workshops Open to the Diocese A reminder: You do not have to be a delegate to attend convention.

Each convention, we have held Friday workshops in advance of the business session of convention.

Because this year is a virtual convention, we are holding these online workshops. Workshop Zoom links are on our website at: episcopalswfl.org/ convention

Workshop Zoom Links are on our website at: episcopalswfl.org/convention 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

7

See, I

.

kE A

ll

gs

ma

new

Saturday Agenda Fifty-Third Annual Diocesan Convention

Live from DaySpring Episcopal Center Online at episcopalswfl.org

thin

1. Morning Prayer, Rite II: The Rt. Rev. J. Michael Garrison, Officiant ............................................................9 – 9:15 a.m.

2. Bishop’s Address............................................................................................................................... …….9:15 – 9:45 a.m.

Business Session.......................................................................................................................................................... 9:55 a.m.

3. Call to Order...................................................................................................................... The Rt. Rev. Dabney T. Smith 4. Credentials Report................................................................................................... The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman 5. Welcome Church of the Apostles Episcopal Church, Parrish, to Convention..................... The Rt. Rev. Dabney T. Smith 6. Report of the Committee on Dispatch of Business.................................................. The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman 7. Appointments for Convention ........................................................................................... The Rt. Rev. Dabney T. Smith 8. Report on Nominations, Elections and Explanation of Process............................... The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman 9. Final Credentials Report.......................................................................................... The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman 10. Election A. Standing Committee, Lay: Elect one (1)............................................... The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman 11. Election B. Standing Committee, Presbyters: Elect two (2)..................................... The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman 12. Election C. Diocesan Council, At large, Clergy: Elect one (2) to a two-year term... The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman 13. Election D. Ecclesiastical Disciplinary Board, Lay: Elect two (2)............................ The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman 14. Election E. Ecclesiastical Disciplinary Board, Clergy: Elect one (1)........................ The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman 15. Vote for Confirmation of Deanery Representatives to Diocesan Council…............ The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman 16. Bishop Appoints and Convention Confirms............................................................ The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman 17. Bishop’s Appointees............................................................................................................ The Rt. Rev. Dabney T. Smith 18. Report of the Treasurer and Budget Presentation.................................................................... Canon Anne Vickers, CFO 19. Report of the Resolutions Committee..................................................................................... Mr. Gregory Hearing, Esq. 20. Courtesy Resolutions............................................................................................................... Mr. Gregory Hearing, Esq. 21. Introduction of New Canonically Resident Clergy........................................................The Rev. Canon Richard Norman 22. Introduction of Non-Canonically Resident Clergy........................................................The Rev. Canon Richard Norman 23. Introduction and Welcome of the Newest Clergy Spouses.................................................. The Rt. Rev. Dabney T. Smith 24. Announcement: 2022 (54th) Diocesan Convention....................................................................................Ms. Judy Stark 25. Necrology...........................................................................................................................................................................

26. Noonday Prayer......................................................................................................................The Rt. Rev. Barry R. Howe 27. Closing Prayer and Adjournment........................................................................................ The Rt. Rev. Dabney T. Smith

8

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

General Details

9

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

new

gs

thin

Diocesan Canons list six (6) separate distinctions for clergy members of convention.

The preliminary roster was posted online in July so that you have adequate time for review and change requests. It is too late to make status changes on convention weekend.

•

The details of the 2022 Diocesan Budget are presented in this booklet.

Chief Financial Officer, Canon See, I .

Anne Vickers, will present and explain the details of the budget at our All-Deanery Convocations Sept. 8. She is also available by email at avickers@ episcopalswfl.org for questions before convention.

The budget as well as other financial topics are included in the Report of the Treasurer at the Saturday business session.

•

kE A

Clergy Members of Convention

•

ma

Chances are you were elected as a convention delegate at your congregation’s annual meeting or you were appointed by your vestry or bishop’s committee. To be a delegate, you must satisfy the same qualifications that apply to an “elector” or voting member of a parish: 1. at least 16 years of age 2. name is duly enrolled in the register of your congregation 3. regular in attendance at divine services 4. make stated contributions of record to the general support of the congregation If your congregation is a parish, you are one of three lay delegates. If your congregation is a mission, you have two delegates. Each congregation also has an alternate delegate in case a delegate is unable to serve. Clergy members of the convention have separate rules under the Constitution and Canons of the Diocese.

The Budget

ll

Delegate Requirements

Resolutions Per Diocesan Canon II, Section 4.b., a Resolutions Committee was appointed by Diocesan Council.

The Resolutions Committee is charged with ensuring that proposed resolutions coming before the Convention comply with the requirements of the Constitutions and Canons of the Episcopal Church and this Diocese, are not redundant, and are stated in clear and consistent language.

There were no resolutions received by the committee prior to the canonical 60-day deadline.

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Technical Details You are attending the virtual meeting with others in a group: Each individual person will log into the Lumi platform on their own device.

AND One device for the group will log into the Zoom meeting for all attendees in that group to view and hear the meeting proceedings.

Zoom (as a Congregation Host Site group)

Lumi (as an individual)

Use for delegates: • Viewing meeting proceedings • “Raise hand” function to speak • Enabling audio and video to participate in the discussion

Use for: • Voting on elections and motions • Viewing materials individually

Best Practice Tips The following are tips to prepare for the best virtual meeting experience: • If possible, connect to the Internet via an Ethernet cable. If using WiFi, ensure that you are close to your wireless router and that your connection is stable.

• Position the camera for the device logged in to Zoom so that a speaker can be seen while speaking.

• Please keep your audio muted in Zoom until called upon to speak.

• “Rename” the Zoom connection device as the church name, city.

Live Stream of the Convention The live stream of the convention proceedings can be viewed by any person on any device from any location. Only the delegates watch from Zoom.

• Diocesan website at Episcopalswfl.org/convention • Diocesan Facebook page: facebook.com/DioceseofSWFL 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

10

Orientation and Testing is Critical Attendance at the September 8 All-Deanery Fall Convocation is required for all members to receive an orientation to the platforms used for the virtual convention and receive the materials for consideration at Diocesan Convention.

Presentation starts at 7 p.m.

Members will be able to test their log in to the Lumi voting platform on the day prior to the All-Deanery Fall Convocation and Diocesan Convention Business Meetings.

We encourage you to make adjustments as necessary between the September 8 All-Deanery Fall Convocation and the October 16 Diocesan Convention Business Meeting.

DATES: All-Deanery Fall Convocation: Wednesday, September 8, 2021: Zoom opens at 6:30 p.m.

(Presentation starts at 7 p.m.)

Saturday, October 16, 2021 : Zoom opens at 8:30 a.m. (Presentation starts at 9 a.m.)

FAQ

e n w. s

What is my username to log into the Lumi platform?

e , Im e S

How do I speak?

hi n

When a motion/resolution is put before the meeting, the voting will automatically pop up within your Lumi platform. Simply click on your selection to cast your vote.

lt

How do I vote?

g

You will have received an email with this information. Email convention@episcopalswfl. org for assistance with obtaining your username.

a k E Al

Delegates with technical/log in issues may contact convention@episcopalswfl.org for assistance. Please note that unless there is a widespread outage, proceedings will continue.

If you would like to speak during the meeting, please utilize the ‘Raise hand” indicator in Zoom. To do this, go to your Zoom window and click on the “Participants” button from the bottom menu. Then click on “Raise Hand” from the participants window and wait to be called on for your turn to speak.

Which browsers are supported?

It is recommended to use the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. It is not recommended to use Internet Explorer.

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

11

Voting in Lumi VIRTUAL MEETING GUIDE 2021 Attending the Virtual 53rd Diocesan Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida Saturday, October 16, 2021, at 8:30 a.m. EST This year we will be conducting a virtual Convention, utilizing the Lumi platform for delegates to vote on resolutions and elections using your smartphone, tablet or computer.

To log into the voting platform, simply go to this meeting URL https://web.lumiagm.com/242250251 in your web browser (not a Google search). You will need the latest versions of Chrome, Safari, Edge and Firefox. PLEASE DO NOT USE INTERNET EXPLORER. The site is mobile optimized for voting on a mobile device or tablet.

Only delegates who have registered and received a log in credential will be able to log into the voting platform. Select the “I have a log in” button and enter your [insert user id] and the password: [insert password] (case sensitive).

Please join us for a Delegate Orientation session at the Fall All-Deanery Convocation Sep. 8 at 7:00 p.m. You will be able to log into the virtual voting platform and familiarize yourself with the platform.

If you experience any issues, please contact our Diocesan Convention Helpdesk at convention@episcopalswfl.org.

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

12

NAVIGATION When successfully authenticated, the Info Page will be displayed on your screen. Here you will find links to relevant reference information (Convention Guidebook pdf, presentation slides)

Once the voting has been opened, it will automatically appear on top of this Info Page.

While a vote is open, you can click on the Info Page icon to return to the Info Page at any time.

VOTING Once the voting has opened, the item you are voting on will be automatically displayed.

To vote, simply select your response from the options shown on screen. A confirmation message will appear to show your vote has been received. For - Vote received To change your vote, simply select another choice while the vote is open.

If you wish to cancel your vote, press Cancel.

If selecting more than one choice, you will be required to press the SEND button.

REQUEST TO SPEAK Any voting member attending the meeting is eligible to ‘rise to the microphone’ to speak.

If you would like to speak, go to the Zoom window and ‘Raise Your Hand’. Click on the “Participants” button from the bottom menu of Zoom, then click on the “Raise Hand” button from the Participants window.

The moderator will manage the speaker queue and unmute you when the Chair calls.

After you speak, please mute yourself in the Zoom meeting.

LIVE LOGISTICAL QUESTIONS .

General questions of a live nature may be asked via the Zoom chat. These questions will be managed by production staff and not be specifically addressed by the Chair.

Credentials (username/password) questions should be emailed to convention@episcopalswfl.org. This email inbox will be monitored throughout the proceedings.

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

13

(A) No items of any kind, except water and similar generic provisions, shall be placed on the tables on the Convention floor.

(B) Except for materials accepted for inclusion in the registration packets, no papers, including biographical data for persons running for office, shall be distributed on the tables on the Convention floor or to people as they register for Convention. * Not applicable to online convention

RULE III: OBJECTIONS TO CONSIDERATION OF A QUESTION Objection to the consideration of a question can be made only when the question is first introduced before it has been debated. Such objection requires no second, cannot be debated or amended, and must have a two-thirds vote to sustain it.

RULE IV: QUESTIONS OF ORDER All questions of order shall be decided by the Presiding Officer without debate. If a member wishes to request reconsideration of the decision, it must be requested immediately. The Presiding Officer shall take such consultation as seems advisable and make a final decision, which is not debatable or appealable.

new

gs

See, I

(F) No Member may speak a second time to a question if any other Member who so desires has not spoken for a first time to that question.

kE A

RULE II: DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS

.

ma

Unless otherwise specified, all decisions shall be by majority of the Members of Convention.

(E) No Member may speak longer than three minutes at one time, without leave of the Convention.

thin

RULE I: MAJORITY VOTE REQUIRED

ll

Rules of Convention

(G) No Member may speak more than twice in the same debate without leave of the Convention.

(H) Total debate on a motion shall be limited to fifteen (15) minutes, except when extended by a two-thirds (2/3) affirmative vote of the Convention.

(I) Total debate on any one Resolution, including all proposed amendments thereto, shall be limited to forty-five (45) minutes, except when extended by a two-thirds (2/3) affirmative vote of the Convention.

RULE VI: CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTIONS In order for a Resolution to be presented to and considered by the Convention, it must conform to the provisions of the Canons of the Diocese of Southwest Florida. A proposed resolution that is not presented to the Convention in accordance with the Canons shall be ruled out of order.

RULE VII: MOTION TO SUSPEND THE RULES A Motion to Suspend the Rules requires a two-thirds (2/3) affirmative vote, is not debatable, and cannot be amended or reconsidered.

RULE V: RULES OF DEBATE (A) Members of Convention intending to address the Convention shall preface their remarks with their name and congregation or organization.

(B) Remarks shall be addressed to the Presiding Officer and not to another member.

(C) Debate shall be confined strictly to the subject before the Convention.

(D) Members presenting nonprocedural motions shall have the motion written out prior to making the motion, and shall immediately furnish the written motion to the Secretary of the Convention to ensure that it is accurately stated to the Convention and recorded in the journal of the Convention.

Nonprocedural motions that are not written out prior to presentation shall be ruled out of order.

14

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Supplemental Rules RULES OF ORDER FOR AN ELECTRONIC MEETING

1. Login information. The Corresponding Secretary shall send by e-mail to every member, at least 3 days before each meeting, the time of the meeting, the URL and codes necessary to connect to the Internet meeting service, and, as an alternative and backup to the audio connection included within the Internet service, the phone number and access code(s) the member needs to participate aurally by telephone.

The Corresponding Secretary shall also include a copy of, or a link to, these rules.

2. Login time. The Recording Secretary shall schedule Internet meeting service availability to begin at least 15 minutes before the start of each meeting.

3. Signing in and out. Members shall identify themselves as required to sign in to the Internet meeting service, and shall maintain Internet and audio access throughout the meeting whenever present, but shall sign out upon any departure before adjournment.

4. Quorum calls. The presence of a quorum shall be established by the tally of logged in users as reported by the voting software. Thereafter, the continued presence of a quorum shall be determined by the online list of participating members.

5. Technical requirements and malfunctions. Each member is responsible for his or her audio and Internet connections; no action shall be invalidated on the grounds that the loss of, or poor quality of, a member’s individual connection prevented participation in the meeting.

6. Forced disconnections. The chair may cause or direct the disconnection or muting of a member’s connection if it is causing undue interference with the meeting. The chair’s decision to do so, which is subject to an undebatable appeal that can be made by any member, shall be announced during the meeting and recorded in the minutes.

7. Assignment of the floor. To seek recognition by the chair, a member shall indicate “Raise Hand” feature in the Zoom videoconference software at the congregation host site. The Zoom moderator will monitor the speaker queue and the chair will call on members by name of the congregation host site. When a member has the floor, their congregation host site will be un-muted.

recognized, post the motion in writing to the online area designated by the Recording Secretary for this purpose, preceded by the member’s name and a number corresponding to how many written motions the member has so far posted during the meeting (e.g., “SMITH 3:”; “FRANCES JONES 2:”). Use of the online area designated by the Recording Secretary for this purpose shall be restricted to posting the text of intended motions.

9. Display of motions. The Recording Secretary shall designate an online area exclusively for the display of the immediately pending question and other relevant pending questions (such as the main motion, or the pertinent part of the main motion, when an amendment to it is immediately pending); and, to the extent feasible, the Recording Secretary, or any assistants appointed by him or her for this purpose, shall cause such questions, or any other documents that are currently before the meeting for action or information, to be displayed therein until disposed of.

10. Voting. Votes shall be taken by the anonymous voting feature of the Internet meeting service, unless a different method is ordered by the Board or required by the rules.

When required or ordered, other permissible methods of voting are by electronic roll call or by audible roll call. The chair’s announcement of the voting result shall include the number of members voting on each side of the question and the number, if any, who explicitly respond to acknowledge their presence without casting a vote. Business may also be conducted by unanimous consent.

11. Video display. The chair, the Recording Secretary, or their assistants shall cause a video of the chair to be displayed throughout the meeting, and shall also cause display of the video of the member currently recognized to speak or report.

12. Nominations from the Floor. Any persons who have not been nominated through the Nominating Committee or the Secretary of Convention may be nominated for office in written form, completed and submitted to the Secretary no later than one week prior to the opening of Convention, accompanied by a confirmation of the nominee’s willingness to serve.

Adapted from the new Robert’s Rules of Order

8. Motions submitted in writing. A member intending to make a main motion, to offer an amendment, or to propose instructions to a committee, shall, before or after being 15

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Election Nominees Election A: Standing Committee, Lay Elect one lay person to a three-year term

Mr. Duane Anthony Hollier St. Martin, Hudson Biography: I have worked in the medical field for forty-six years. Graduate of Tuskegee University, Meharry Medical College Radiologic Technology Program, and Vanderbilt University Technology Program. I am married to Beverly, father to son, Duane II, and daughter, Ebony.

My volunteerism involves serving as Past President and Treasurer of the Southeastern Chapter of Nuclear Medicine Technologists. Past President of the Florida Nuclear Medicine Technologist (FNMT). Presently serving as the Finance Chair of the FNMT and member of the Quality Committee of the National Society of Nuclear Medicine Technologist. I also serve on the Advisory Council for the Nuclear Medicine Technology Program at Hillsborough Community College in Tampa. I also was a past Scoutmaster for my church for four years.

Nominee Statement: I am a lifelong Episcopalian and have served on the Vestry at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church in Hudson, Florida. I now act as the senior warden. What an honor it has been to serve on the Standing Committee for a partial term. Having experienced the working of the Standing Committee I understand the nature of the committee’s work and the role it plays in the life of the Church and the Episcopate. I have the commitment, and the energy necessary to once again (if elected) serve The Episcopal Church in Florida and work to build a healthy and thriving diocese.

Jack Day St. Thomas, St. Petersburg Biography: I was baptized at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in St. Petersburg as a preschooler in the 1950s, and grew up in the Episcopal Church. I have always been active in my home parish, from junior choir and acolyte to a youngster at Cursillo and leadership in numerous ministries as an adult. I have served multiple terms on our vestry and as senior warden. After attending 16

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

local public schools, I graduated from the University of Florida, attended graduate school at Emory University, and returned to UF to receive my law degree in 1977. I practiced law in the Tampa Bay area until I was elected to be a Circuit Court Judge in 2006. Since retiring from the bench at the end of 2019, I have returned to earlier work in mediation and arbitration. At the diocesan level, I have chaired the Constitution and Canons Committee and served as an elected member of the Disciplinary Board and as an appointed member of the Race and Reconciliation Committee.

Nominee Statement: This is a time of transition for the Diocese of Southwest Florida as we search for a Bishop Coadjutor, and - more broadly – a time of transition for the larger Church as it seeks to realize God’s kingdom and speak to the needs of God’s people in these difficult times. These are times of transition, but also opportunity. As chair of the Constitution and Canons Committee, I have had the experience of providing advice to the bishop, which is the very role Canon IV assigns to the Standing Committee. As a longtime mediator, I have cultivated the gift of helping people reach consensus, something that is valuable in the work of a collegial body like the Standing Committee. My decades of lay leadership in church administration and governance at both the parish and diocesan levels have prepared me and now lead me, to offer myself for this service.

Election B: Standing Committee, Presbyters Elect two presbyters.

Elect two presbyters to a three-year term.

The Rev. Christian M. Wood, Church of the Redeemer, Sarasota Biography: In 2016 I graduated from Nashotah House Theological Seminary (MDiv.). I was called to serve at Church of the Redeemer as the Priest Associate for Youth and Young Adult Ministry.

In this role, our high school youth attendance increased by 61%. As Priest Associate for Christian Formation, I was responsible for growing the Christian formation program. I instituted dynamic rector’s classes on Sunday mornings and numerous bible studies throughout the year. I also taught on the sacrament of reconciliation for adults, co-led with my wife Kate, our youth Confirmation classes, and facilitated Redeemers’ mission and outreach initiatives. In 2020 I was named Assistant Rector of DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Redeemer. The key and core element of ministry, in my opinion, is growth. In 2020 Redeemer added 108 new members. Much of this was because while we had to change the way we worshipped during the COVID-19 pandemic, we did not change our work ethic. I created a robust online Christian Education program. This was to develop a way to keep our parishioners and potential new parishioners engaged with the Church. Our digital efforts aimed to have a sustainable online education presence that would last long after the pandemic was over. With the help of all my colleagues at Redeemer, we accomplished this goal and continue to offer, during the academic year, up to four online classes per week. I believe my unique problem-solving and attention to sustainable solutions would be a great asset to our Diocesan Standing Committee. I also serve on the Race and Reconciliation Committee of the Diocese of Southwest Florida. I enjoy playing softball with Redeemer’s softball team in my spare time, nicknamed the “Big Red Machine.” I also love praying, cooking, walking, and spending time with my wife, Kate, and our three children, Maggie-Jane (11), Michael (8), and Martha (5).

Nominee Statement: My name is Christian Wood; I was born and raised in Queens, NY. I am a graduate of the City University of New York John Jay College of Criminal Justice (B.S. in Legal Studies) and Nashotah House Seminary (MDiv.). I am a lifelong Episcopalian, and in 2016 was called by the Church of the Redeemer in Sarasota to be Priest Associate for Youth and Young Adult Ministry. I currently serve as the Assistant Rector of Redeemer. I have pioneered our digital discipleship ministry, named “Redeemer’s Online Campus. Our online campus has had well over one hundred thousand views with a regular audience of folks who enjoy weekly online formation through Redeemer. I have a strong sense of commitment to our diocese and our bishop.

I am excited about being nominated to serve on the Standing Committee because I see it as a chance to continue to take my place in broader diocesan life. I have a keen interest and understanding of strategic planning, and I never act without prayer and time to reflect. I believe my sense of discernment and ability to process information logically and lovingly would make me an asset to the diocesan Standing Committee.

The Rev A Charles Cannon, III, St Hilary’s, Fort Myers Biography: I have been Rector of St Hilary’s in Fort Myers since January 2014.

Since my arrival, I have been an active member of SWFL Cursillo community and served as a spiritual director one weekend before the pandemic. I have served on Diocesan Council representing the Fort Myers Deanery, The Diocesan Endowment Committee, The Diocesan Canons, and Constitution Revision Committee, and as Dean of the Fort Myers Deanery. I am currently completing a two-year unexpired term on the Standing Committee. In addition, I served the Diocese for four years as a chaplain for students at Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers. I have been certified by Lee Memorial Healthcare System as a chaplain since 2014.

served for 11 years as a deacon in the Diocese of Southeast Florida concentrating my ministry on teenagers and families experiencing conflict. My training as a Clinical Social Worker bolstered that ministry. As a member of the Standing Committee(SC) the announcement of Bishop Smith’s intention to retire triggered several processes that are managed by the SC. Despite the pandemic, we have continued in our ministry of oversight and consultation with the bishop. Since I filled an unexpired term on the SC I believe that I am called to run for my three-year term which will provide continuity to the team we have forged. It is for this reason that I seek election to the Standing Committee for a second term. Thank you.

The Rev. James Teets St. Mary, Dade City Biography: I graduated with a Master of Divinity degree from the Sewanee School of Theology at the University of the South in 2017, and was ordained to the Sacred Order of Priests on June 3, 2017, at Trinity Cathedral in Miami, Fl. I, along with my wife Sharon and our chocolate lab, Shamus, moved to Dade City in 2019 following my call to serve as Rector of St. Mary’s. Sharon and I have two grown sons, Casey (Boaz, AL) and Crawford (Mooresville, NC). I am a Florida native and grew up in the western Palm Beach County agricultural area of South Florida. Before entering seminary, I worked in agriculture and spent 10 years as a teacher and Head of School at a private school in the Glades where I taught Physics, Chemistry, and Environmental Science. I also opened an accounting business which provided an excellent avenue for the accounting and management skills that I developed at Stetson University, where I earned a B.B.A. A cradle Episcopalian, I am a life-long servant of the Church. Through the power of the Holy Spirit working in my life, I model my deep love for Jesus Christ through my devoted ministry to others. While at Sewanee, I earned my Clinical Pastoral Education certification by serving as a chaplain at the Murfreesboro VA hospital. I have outstanding Field Education experience at St. Paul’s Episcopal in Murfreesboro, TN, and served as the Deacon there until my ordination to the priesthood. My first call was as the Vicar of the Church of the Holy Cross in Murfreesboro, TN before

Nominations for Diocesan Offices Nominations were formally submitted through the Nominating Committee.

Nominations printed here were submitted before the August 2021 deadline.

Take time to study the candidates and their qualifications and give prayerful consideration in determining whom you will choose to do the work of the diocese in the years to come.

Nominee Statement: Before ordination to the priesthood I 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

17

becoming Rector at St. Mary’s.

Nominee Statement: I have always believed that it is important for active Christian members to participate in the Church not only at the parish level but on a diocesan level as well. There is such a wealth of talented individuals in our diocese and making connections with them has always given me new insight into the common issues that we all face. These connections have helped to build vital partnerships and life-long friendships that help me to understand the needs of the diocese on a more comprehensive level. While serving in the Diocese of Tennessee, I served a twoyear term as a clergy representative and Secretary of the Bishop and Council (the Bishop’s Vestry) and was a Spiritual Director and board member of the Cursillo Commission of the Diocese. I am currently completing a vacated term on the Standing Committee and desire the opportunity to continue my work on that committee for a full term. There is much important work to do, particularly with the current search for and election of our next bishop. In addition, I take the responsibility of examining and shepherding our candidates for Holy Orders to help them hear and live into their calling. My life experience as a CFO, teacher, and Head of School has given me valuable real-world experience in dealing with difficult issues and resolving challenging problems of all varieties. That diverse, life-long experience has helped me to form the reasoning skills and patient judgment that would make me an ongoing asset to the Standing Committee.

Election C: Diocesan Council, At Large Elect two to a two-year, at-large term.

as the Town’s Mayor. After moving to Longboat Key, FL, I found a church (All Angels Episcopal Church) and became involved in the community. I was appointed to the Planning & Zoning Board and served as chair for most of my 14 years on that Board. I was elected to the Town Commission in 2020 and serves on several legislative committees for the Florida League of Cities as well as Manatee and Sarasota Counties. I was blessed to marry Dave Bishop at All Angels in October 2013. We had both lost spouses to cancer and met in a bookstore in Bradenton FL. I have two married sons and four granddaughters.

Nominee Statement: I have always been involved in my church. St. James Episcopal Church in Leesburg VA was a place of respite and spiritual nourishment. A faithful member, I served as a lay eucharistic minister and participated in a number of committees including long-range planning and capital improvements. I was a member of the Vestry for six years and part of the discernment process when searching for a new rector after the long-time rector (28 years) retired. I also was a student in Sewanee’s “Education for Ministry” program. When my late husband was diagnosed with cancer, my St. James family carried us through his battle and carried me in the difficult time after his death. We were part-time residents in Longboat Key (LBK) when he became ill and Father Danner made my return to Longboat after his death much easier by encouraging my involvement in the church. I became a member of the vestry several years after Bob’s death and served on the Finance, Endowment & Outreach Committees. I chaired the Search Committee when Father Danner retired. One of my last official duties as Senior Warden was to introduce Father Dave Marshall to our church membership. The Diocesan Council serves as the board of directors for the corporation of the diocese and serves as the “interim body” between conventions. That is a good fit for my background and experience in municipal management, property issues, and the programs and facilities at Day Spring. The plethora of issues from the pandemic that impact the diocese are issues dealt with on a daily basis in LBK. It has been an honor and privilege to serve with the outstanding clergy and lay members of the Diocesan Council as well as our incredible staff at the diocese.

B.J. Bishop All Angels, Longboat Key

Richard R Helms St. Luke’s, Fort Myers

Biography: I was born and raised in Virginia in an equestrian family. Public service and community involvement have always been a mainstay in my life. I have served on numerous boards in VA including The Loudoun Chapter of the American Red Cross, The American Cancer Society, Loudoun Chapter, Trustee of the Loudoun Country Day School, Trustee of the Westmoreland Davis Foundation, and numerous committees at the Virginia Municipal League. Following a career as a meeting and conference planner and working in legislative affairs for a national trade association in Washington DC, I became involved in public service - first as an appointee to the Planning Commission for the Town of Leesburg, VA, later serving as Vice-Chair of that body and then being elected to the Town Council, later being appointed as the Council’s Vice Mayor and then winning election

Biography: I am CPA and former Air Force pilot (B-52s and other various aircraft). I have been married to Mary Lou for 53 glorious years. We both participated in Cursillo as Pilgrims and team members. I have worshipped in parishes in Louisiana, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, California, and Florida. I am currently the Treasurer and member of the Search Committee at Saint Luke’s Parish in Fort Myers.

18

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

Nominee Statement: I am interested in working at the Diocesan level to increase and improve the lines of communication between the diocese and the parishes. As a member of the Finance Committee and parish Treasurer, I see the need for good communication.

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Election D: Ecclesiastical Disciplinary Board, Lay Elect two lay persons to a three-year term.

Kevin M. Fitzgerald, St. Mark’s, Marco Island Biography: I, along with my wife Lana, have been a part of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church on Marco Island since moving to Florida in 2002. I served as Jr. Warden, a three-time Sr. Warden, Stewardship and Endowment Committee member, and led a building capital campaign. I was elected to the deputation of the 78th General Convention of The Episcopal Church in 2015 and was involved with the Standing Commission on Liturgy, Worship, and Music, and was also a voting deputy in the election of our new Presiding Bishop, the Most Rev. Michael Curry. On a diocesan level, I currently serve as the Chairman of the Transition Committee for the Bishop Coadjutor and a member of the Diocesan Risk Management Team. I am also a master trainer for the Diocesan Safeguarding Faculty. Over the years I have been the past President of the Standing Committee, chaired the Congregational Development Committee made up of both clergy and lay members from around the diocese. And most recently retired from the Constitutions and Canons Committee.

I am a native of Chicago, graduated from The University of Missouri-Columbia. Lana and I own a full-service commercial real estate company, NAI Southwest Florida, Inc., with offices in Naples and Fort Myers, that focus on the west coast of Florida.

My experience is in corporate real estate, working with real estate executives around the world that have multi-market assignments with limited human resources. In 2011, I served as Board Chair of NAI Global, a worldwide commercial real estate organization with 6,700 advisors in 55 countries.

Nominee Statement: Having been involved in various committees and groups of authority at the diocesan level, I feel I am uniquely qualified to serve and be a leader on the Diocesan Disciplinary Board as a Lay representative.

Edwin M. Ortiz, MD, All Angels by the Sea, Longboat Key

University in Washington DC, practiced until my retirement three years ago. My wife Mary and I joined All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church five years ago. We have enjoyed our experience in this congregation because of the inspirational message and the very friendly atmosphere. We have been involved in many churchrelated activities.

Nominee Statement: As Junior Warden, the position I have held for two years, I have been intimately involved in the day-today operations. During that time I supervised the construction of the accessibility ramps and briefed the congregation on the progress. The rector and I have frequent conversations about medical and ethical issues, currently becoming more frequent because of the pandemic. He has stated that I listen, evaluate and give my opinion. The Church should maintain the high ethical standards I have observed. If called, would render opinions for the benefit of the congregations and maintain the image that we well deserve.

Election E: Disciplinary Board, Clergy Elect one clergy to a three-year term.

Deacon Chester Trow, St. Vincent’s, St. Petersburg Biography: I was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1946. My family moved to Jacksonville Florida in 1954 upon my father’s retirement from the Navy. I earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the University of Florida. I received my law degree from Florida State. I was ordained in the Diocese of Central Florida in 2014 and moved to St. Petersburg upon my retirement from my law practice. I began serving as the Deacon of St. Vincent’s in 2016. I have been married to my lovely wife Barbara for 27 years. I have on two sons. I enjoy travel and one of my favorite experiences was walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

Nominee Statement: I have been serving on the Disciplinary Board for the last three years and have enjoyed the opportunity to serve the diocese and the clergy that I have represented. I believe that this office performs a valuable service of discipline and oversight both for the diocese and the clergy involved. I recognize this as a pastoral calling.

Biography: I was born in Puerto Rico, (raised Catholic), and have been on the mainland since 1953. I received my medical degree from Georgetown 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

19

Elections in 2021 At Large Below are the six elections to be held at the 53rd Annual Convention: Election A: Standing Committee, Lay, Elect one (1) Election B: Standing Committee, Presbyters, Elect two (2) Election C: Diocesan Council, At large, Clergy, Elect two (2) Election D: Ecclesiastical Disciplinary Board, Lay, Elect two (2) Election E: Ecclesiastical Disciplinary Board, Clergy, Elect one (1)

e e, S .

I

l t hi

20

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

Al

n

m akE

gs n e w

Pictured above: Delegates vote in the 38th Annual Convention in Diocese of Southwest Florida.

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Behind-The-Scenes: A Virtual Convention

The 52nd Annual Convention was the first virtual convention in the Diocese of Southwest Florida. Pictured here are some behind-the-scenes images of our staff and studio crew who helped bring the convention to you at home.

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

21

2022 Diocesan Budget

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

22

23

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

24

25

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

26

27

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

28

29

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

30

31

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

32

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

33

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

34

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

35

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

36

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Episcopal Charities Grant Awards The Episcopal Charities Fund of Southwest Florida exists for the purpose of funding parish-based outreach and special needs ministries through a competitive grant program that is open to all churches within the Diocese of Southwest Florida. Grants are awarded annually by Diocesan Council following recommendations made by the Council on Deacons. Below are the 2021 grant awards.

All Saints, Tarpon Springs Pack A Snack $ 2,000 All Souls, N. Ft. Myers Wednesday Outreach $ 2,686 Church of the Ascension, Clearwater Food Bank Interview Room Improvement $ 1,700 Church of the Redeemer, Sarasota FYI: Foster Youth Initiative $ 4,000 Holy Innocents, Valrico TLC - Transforming Lives for Christ $ 4,500 St. George, Bradenton St. George’s Food Pantry Assistance $ 5,000 St. James House of Prayer, Tampa Cornertone Kids, Inc. $ 4,000 St. John, Pine Island Beacon Bites Meal Delivery Program $ 3,000 St. Margaret of Scotland, Sarasota Crafters for Hope $ 1,500 St. Mark, Marco Island Our Daily Bread Food Pantry $ 1,500 St. Mark, Venice Venice Area Community Dinners $ 2,500 St. Mary, Bonita Springs Lending Library and Reading Program Project $ 1,800 St. Peter, Plant City Friends in the Park $ 1,000 St. Thomas & St. Augustine, St. Petersburg Benison Farm Hen’s and Mangos $ 3,000 The Cathedral Church of St. Peter, St. Petersburg Fresh Food Program at Florida Resurrection House $ 5,000 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

37

Reports to Convention Bishop’s Cabinet for DaySpring Development

Pictured above: The groundbreaking of the new DaySpring Maintenance Building.

The Bishop’s Cabinet continues to drive the implementation of the 10-year Master Plan for DaySpring. In December 2019, Diocesan Council approved a set of three transitional projects that are appropriately placed between our completed Phase 1 Program Center and Pool to the next larger phase of new adult lodging facilities.

The 2021 projects include the Spring of Support fountain and gathering area which will honor the contributions of many and provide an iconic visual for the center of our campus; the relocation of our ropes course to the site defined in the 10-year master plan; and the construction of a Maintenance Building to consolidate our services away from the guest areas and make room for the future new meeting/ worship space.

These projects are supported by multiple grants from community foundations and individual donors that share our appreciation for DaySpring as a Sacred Place in the heart of our community. With the grace of God and love of Jesus Christ, DaySpring will continue as a caring and resourceful haven for all His people.

Michael H. Kline, Chair

Bishop Gray Retirement Foundation, Inc. The Bishop Gray Retirement Foundation’s financial assistance program continues to provide financial aid to lowincome senior Episcopalians from the Southwest, Southeast, and Central Dioceses of Florida seeking help with the costs of retirement living and medical expenses. We do still gratefully receive donations from individuals and parishes from the three dioceses, as well as through estate charitable planned 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

giving. The board of trustees would like to preserve the endowment fund as much as possible, using the income from investments for distributions.

In 2021, we helped 56 Episcopalians, living in retirement communities, assisted living, and senior facilities/apartments in the three dioceses, and about $550,000 was distributed for financial assistance mostly in the form of monthly housing grants. Sample retirement facilities housing foundation financial aid recipients: Savannah Court of Lake Wales; Riverview House, Lake Worth; Savannah Court of Maitland; Century Village, W. Palm Beach; Oakmonte Village, Lake Mary; Palm’s Edge ALF, Riviera Beach; Westminster, Winter Park; St. Andrews Residence, W. Palm Beach; Orlando Lutheran Towers; Arbors at Belleair, Clearwater; Westminster Towers, Orlando; Pinellas Heights, Largo; Magnolia Towers, Orlando; McCown Towers, Sarasota; New Horizon Share Home, Winter Haven; Woodlands Village, Bradenton; Trinity Towers West, Melbourne; Heron East, Sarasota; Haines Manor, Haines City; Hampton Point, Punta Gorda; Lake Point Senior Apt., Tavares; Sodalis Senior Living, Largo; Hampton Manor, Ocala; Grand Reserve, Zephyrhills BGR Foundation Board of Trustees: • Southwest Diocese: The Rt. Rev. Dabney T. Smith, President; Dr. C. Thomas Gooding; Ms. Barbara Kelly, Asst. Treasurer; The Rev. Bill Moyers; The Rev. Denise C. Healy • Southeast Diocese: The Rt. Rev. Peter Eaton; Dr. Helen Bhagwandin; Dr. Harlington “H” Hanna; Ms. Barbara MacKenzie; Mrs. Malvern V. Mathis • Central Diocese: The Rt. Rev. Gregory O. Brewer, Vice President; Mr. Alexander C. Mackinnon, Secretary; Mr. Guy D. Colado, Treasurer; The Very Rev. Hugh McGlashon, Jr.; The Rev. Kim Spear Ginger Van Valkenburgh, Exec. Director

Chaplains to Retired Clergy Our diocese has 13 chaplains who provide pastoral care for approximately 300 retired clergy and 250 spouses. The chaplains are assigned regionally by deanery and under the direction of the Office of the Bishop. We provide pastoral care when needed with illness and at the time of a death. Our focus is to connect the retiree with a local congregation if they are not already attached. In the spring the bishop sponsors an annual Retired Clergy/ Spouse Day at DaySpring. This year’s zoom conference was facilitated by the Rt. Rev. Frank C. Gray and was one of the best yet. The following is a sampling of our ministry: hospital visits, luncheons with clergy and spouses, mailing birthday and Christmas cards, attending funerals and following up as needed; phone calls and home 38

visits to the ill and infirm and transportation on occasion.

The Chaplains are: The Rev. Canon Chris Gray and Paula Gray (Diocesan Chaplains), The Rev. Leo Crawford and Ann Crawford (Clearwater Deanery), The Rt. Rev. Barry Howe and Mary Howe (St. Petersburg Deanery), The Rev. Jerry Stadel and Anne Stadel (Tampa Deanery), The Rev. Fred Robinson and Linda Robinson (Manasota Deanery), The Rev. John Warfel (Venice Deanery), The Rev. Kathy Schillreff (Naples Deanery), and The Rev. Suzanne Post (Ft. Myers Deanery).

The Rev. Chris Gray, Canon for Stewardship

“honor the essential role that each Clergy Spouse serves” and they expand the capacity for the CSA to fulfill its strong commitment to outreach to our community.

In closing, all spouses of clergy are warmly encouraged to join us for our unique fellowship with one another. Our annual events provide opportunities to create individual relationships and support systems throughout the Diocese of Southwest Florida. Clergy Spouse Association events are publicized through mailers, social media, diocesan publications and the diocesan website.

Joseph Gilpin, Secretary

Clergy Spouse Association

Commission on Ministry

The Clergy Spouse Association (CSA) continues in carrying out its mission of supporting the spouses of ordained clergy by providing opportunities for enrichment, fellowship and outreach. Our community strives to connect and engage with spouses of clergy who are active, retired or widowed. We gathered twice this year for annual events that were designed to build relationships for support and communication.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the CSA’s 2020 Annual Convention Luncheon was held as an evening virtual event on the Zoom Platform. The event featured the introduction of new clergy spouses, the election of the 2021 Slate of Officers, time for sharing and a guided meditation led by Fr. Michael and Dr. Rita Piovane. Those elected for 2021 Offices were: Ann Crow, President; Erika Cannon, Vice-President; Barbara Brotherton, Treasurer; Joseph Gilpin, Secretary; Betty Creelman, Chaplain; Sharon Teets, Sunshine Chair; Sherre Henley and Desiree Hudson, Communications.

The Annual Gathering and Retreat, scheduled for February 5-7, 2021, was cancelled due to continued concern for the safety of the community during the pandemic.

The CSA has continued to offer an opportunity to connect at the Zoom socials held on the third Thursday of every month. This monthly event remains enthusiastically supported by members who are grateful for the opportunity to check-in with one another on a consistent basis.

In the area of outreach, the CSA provided an annual Advent gift to diocesan students at residential seminaries through the Mary Ellen Smith Memorial Endowment Fund. The four residential seminarians to receive the 2020 Advent gift were: Brian Cleary, Marcella Robinson, Diane Leavengood and Anne Hartley. The Sunshine Committee sent greetings, good wishes and condolences to diocesan spouses of clergy as such occasions arose throughout the year.

Growth of the Mary Ellen Smith Memorial Endowment Fund was bolstered this year by a $15,000 donation given

by The Standing Committee and Finance Committee of the Diocese of Southwest Florida to honor Mary Wallis Smith for her time spent filling in as Executive Assistant to the Bishop. As a result, the fund ended the year just short of $40,000. Symbolic gifts such as these are made to

Members of the Commission on Ministry (COM) are lay and ordained persons who serve the church at the pleasure of the Bishop alongside an appointed member of the Standing Committee who serves as liaison. In conjunction with the Standing Committee, the Canon to the Ordinary, the Office of the Bishop, congregations, aspirants, postulants, and candidates, members of the Commission on Ministry have worked to create an environment of prayerful discernment. While COVID-19 presented numerous challenges, the COM continued to gather as a committee via ZOOM to conduct the business of interviewing and listening to those who are interested in ordained ministry. We look forward to continuing to serve and keep in prayer all those who seek to live out their baptismal ministry. For more information about the Commission on Ministry contact the Chair, the Rev. Janet Tunnell, at revjanet@allsaintstarpon.com The Rev. Alexander Andujar, Chair

39

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

Companion Diocese Committee Like so many who are engaged in mission and ministry, the members of the Companion Diocese Committee have had the challenge of how to stay in relationship with our brothers and sisters in Christ who live in the Dominican Republic. After much prayer and thought, we have discovered ways to work from afar in order to continue several projects.

For more than 25 years Church of the Redeemer has been actively involved in adult mission work in the D.R. During this time frame, some of the projects Redeemer has funded and helped build include several churches, a parish hall, a vicarage (priest residence on church property), an assisted living facility, and several schools. Our current project is to build a second floor parish hall on Monte Sión (the church that was constructed by mission groups from Redeemer over the last few years). Plans have been approved for a 6-10 person team to go to the D.R. in November of this year in order to complete work on this DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

addition that has been done by members of the Monte Sión congregation in the hope that the parish hall will be ready to be dedicated in late February 2022 to coincide with the Dominican Diocesan Convention.

Summer 2020 marked the twenty-first consecutive year that churches from the Tampa Deanery have participated in God’s work in the Dominican Republic. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, no Tampa teams were able to travel to the D.R. so arrangements were made to fund local workers to build a perimeter wall to secure a new site in Catalina in preparation for proposed construction of Santo Nombre de Jesús. The traditional model of mission was adapted and a “Mission from Afar” program was developed in which devotionals and services were live-streamed from the site.

St. John’s, Tampa, continues to support the Clinica Esperanza y Caridad, a medical clinic dedicated to bringing health services to the poor, in San Pedro de Macorís.

For the second year in a row, the Cathedral Church of St. Peter has been unable to send a mission team to help with the Vacation Bible School(VBS) program at the churches of La Anunciación and San Lucas, located in Santiago de los Caballeros. We are hopeful and anticipate that by summer 2022, we will be able to once again join our faithful Dominican Episcopalian friends and clergy.

Once we receive the theme and scripture passages from the Comité Educacíon Cristiana at the Diocesan office in Santo Domingo, we will once again create the VBS program booklet for all VBS teams or any Dominican Episcopal Church that would like to use it.

The Naples Deanery continues to support the Albergue Buen Samaritano (Good Samaritan Children’s Shelter) in San Francisco de Macorís which provides vital assistance to the children in this poor community through its quality nutritional and educational programing.

The ECW for SW Florida continues to support critical educational initiatives for the children in the Dominican Episcopal Church schools through the scholarship program. They also support the Santo Tomas children’s nutritional and educational programs.

Education programs sponsored by the Dominican Episcopal Church are being updated with a new online scholarship program on the DDG website, https://dominicandevelopmentgroup.reachapp.co/projects.

Several of the schools identified were constructed by teams from the Diocese of Southwest Florida.

The members of the SWFL Companion Diocese Committee pray that we will be able to once again join in person with our Dominican brothers and sisters in Christ to continue our mission and ministry in 2022.

Dcn. Kathy Gilpin, Chair

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

Council on Deacons Given the significant reduction in diocesan activities due to the COVID-19 restrictions during 2020, the major responsibility of the Council on Deacons has been the review of applications and the development of recommendations regarding annual awards under the Episcopal Charities Grant program. The recommendations for 2020 awards were developed at the Council meeting in July and approved

by Diocesan Council for promulgation at the Diocesan Convention. Parish-based outreach programs, with an emphasis on those that address food insecurity in our communities, were funded for a total of $43,000.

The Ven. Dr. Kathleen Moore, Archdeacon

Cursillo

Cursillo is a movement of the Episcopal Church, under the authority of the Presiding Bishop and diocesan bishops, to develop lay leadership across our diocese. Cursillo is one method for training, supporting, encouraging the ongoing development of Christian leadership. This experience gives an opportunity to grow in faith within our parish communities and out into our extended environments. Our Presiding Bishop spoke of how the Episcopal Church can help the world live out a life in Christ. He mentioned how having a Rule of Life can be an effective way to do this that will hold ourselves accountable. The Cursillo method contains two main components, a 3-day weekend filled with 15 talks, group discussions, worship, and fun. Cursillo of Southwest Florida has been working in this Diocese for 41 years to do just that.

There are two English language Weekends and one Spanish language weekend that teach the method. After attending a Cursillo weekend, Cursillistas (participants of the Weekend) are encouraged to meet in small groups on a regular basis for encouragement and accountability. Larger gatherings are held throughout the diocese for sharing and encouragement. There is a “witness talk” that is centered on apostolic action.

This past year still proceeding through a pandemic we have had many reflections of our past weekends to our upcoming weekends. The Cursillo community is still grouping with one another, sharing with one another, being patient, and helping others when called.

“Make a Friend, Be a Friend, Bring a Friend to Christ” As a lay ministry, we fully rely on spiritual direction from our diocesan priests and deacons, familiar with our rule of life. Are you looking to enhance your walk with Jesus? Are you feeling a call to serve but not sure of the next step?

Please visit our website cursilloswfla.org. We are all about living a Christ-centered life and would like to help you on your journey.

Kristina Hodge, Lay Director 40

Daughters of the King

Pictured above: Daughters of the King install new members at St. Monica’s.

Daughters of the King are women and girls between the ages of seven and one hundred and seven who desire a closer walk with the Lord. We are Christian women, both lay and ordained, who are strengthened through the discipline of a Rule of Life and supported through the companionship of our sisters. A Rule of Life is a self-imposed spiritual discipline practiced daily by an individual. It includes regular and seasonal devotions, both private and public, and is a commitment intelligently and prayerfully considered. A Rule of Life sets apart an order from other church organizations.

We are all at different stages of our Christian journey – some have just begun, and some have been on this path for a long time. But no matter where we are on our sacred journeys, our primary goal is the same – to know Jesus Christ and to make Him known to others.

We don’t just enroll as members and attend meetings.

After a three-month period of study and discernment, each new member takes vows to uphold the two Rules of The Order: the Rule of Prayer and the Rule of Service and Evangelism. The Daughters of the King hold two Southwest Florida Diocesan Assemblies each year at DaySpring and/or on Zoom. The Retreats have guest speakers bringing an uplifting renewing message to our Daughters as food and strength for journey.

Daughters who attend parishes that do not have a chapter are able to maintain their Rule of Life and membership as Daughters by becoming Daughters-atLarge or joining a Chapter in another church.

The Diocese of Southwest Florida has more than 30 chapters of the Order of the Daughters of the King. If you are interested in starting a chapter in your church, please contact Jackie Smith at jlsmith1211@icloud.com or 215.337.7615.

Jackie Smith, President

41

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

Disciplinary Board We are pleased to report that the Disciplinary Board services were not required this last year. Due to COVID-19, the bishop agreed to postpone our postconvention organizational meeting unless there was something actionable. Thank you to the members of the committee: Lay Members: Mr. Robert K. Sawyer, Jr., Esq., The Hon. Jack Day, Esq., Mrs. Glenna Hileman, The Hon Doug Spangler, Jr. Esq. Clergy Members: The Rev. Barry P. Kubler, The Rev. Paige A. Hanks, The Rev. Chester J. Trow, Esq., The Rev. David J. Marshall The Rev. Kevin C. Warner, President

Diocesan Altar Guild Our ministry has not been able to serve on a diocesan level during the COVID-19 pandemic but we remain available to support individual parishes and any event that may take place at DaySpring. We work under the bishop and carry out his wishes on liturgical matters.

The most effective part of what we do is to sponsor the very popular exchange tables at Convention during the annual convention. Churches bring liturgical items they no longer need or use and offer them to churches who can use them. No money exchanges hands and enables all to be good stewards.

We also deconsecrate and burn old linens and vestments every two years at DaySpring. These items are collected at Convention and burned in the winter.

During the pandemic we have been able to support smaller churches by helping clean out sacristies, and find ways to repair or clean liturgical goods. We are always available as a resource for ordering new items or training new members. There are lots of things in storage and we look forward to offering the exchange tables again.

Sarah Hill, Directress

Ecumenical & Inter-religious Relations The National Workshop of Christian Unity, usually held in-person in April of every year, was held this year entirely online, due to COVID-19 concerns. Hopefully in 2022 we can return to an in-person gathering. Some local ecumenical efforts have been able to continue during this time, however, several churches in the St. Petersburg Deanery joined with other denominations and participated in the 6th Annual “Not My Son” DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

rallies aimed at curbing violence and creating safer neighborhoods. Several of our churches band together with multiple denominations to work towards social justice. For example, St. Mark’s (Tampa) participates in HOPE (Hillsborough Organization for Progress and Equality), and in Pinellas County, churches like St. Augustine’s (St. Petersburg), Good Samaritan (Clearwater), and St. John’s (Clearwater) participate in FAST (Faith and Action for Strength Together). Good Shepherd (Dunedin) participated in the annual interfaith United Faiths Walk of Peace, which they began years ago. Other churches, like Annunciation (Holmes Beach), participate in broadly focused ecumenical organization, such as the All Island Denominations (AID) which helps with needs for people who live, worship or work on Anna Maria Island. Normally, they hold two ecumenical services at Pentecost and Thanksgiving, though those were cancelled this past year due to COVID. We hope, like all of you, that this pandemic is lifted soon and we can resume more robust normal activity.

The Rev. Ryan Whitley, Diocesan Representative

Education for Ministry Education for Ministry (EfM) began in our diocese in 1987. We are a sponsoring diocese, which means that our students receive a $110 discount on tuition each year. This program continues to be a source of education, theology, and individual development for many in the diocese. Some graduates have continued into ordination paths, but many more find their ministry developed for service within their churches and communities.

EfM has been described by some as ‘just another Bible study,’ but those who take part in the four-year study – one year at a time – know it to be much more. There is Bible study, yes. The first two years consist of studies of the Hebrew Scriptures (year one) and the Christian Scriptures (year two).

Then Church History (year three) and Theology, Ethics, and Interfaith Encounters (year four) are covered. Along with reading and discussion, theological reflection takes place, and for most, this becomes the most important part of the session each week.

During the 2020-2021 EfM year, there were five groups meeting in the diocese. Most of our groups sought to continue the program through virtual means. EfM mentor training events are offered here at least once a year and attract mentors from various dioceses. The 2022 EfM mentor training is scheduled for May 19-21, 2022 at DaySpring. Training of new mentors and regular in-service training for current mentors maintains the quality of the EfM program and assures students that mentors are well-prepared and able to effectively facilitate an EfM group.

If you have interest in and/or questions about this rewarding program, please contact The Rev. Deacon Martha Goodwill at marthag@stthomasstpete.org.

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

The Rev. Deacon Martha Goodwill, EfM Coordinator

Episcopal Church Women

“Almighty God, we pray that You will bless our work in mission and ministry in the world.” These are the opening words of the Episcopal Church Women’s Prayer. With these words the women of the Diocese of Southwest Florida, go and serve those around us.

In November of 2020, we held the 50th Anniversary Annual meeting for our Diocesan Episcopal Church Women (ECW). As with every activity during that time, our in-person participation was limited due to COVID-19 restrictions. New officers were installed for the executive board. Jackie Smith joins us as president-elect and Nancy Monti, is the new deanery director for the Manasota Deanery.

ECW continues to support and encourage our churches to be part of the United Thank Offering (UTO) and Church Periodical Club, Sundays. In 2020 we were able to provide 17 students and seminarians, with scholarships of $150.00 each. We currently have $16,912.00 in the UTO holding account to be sent to the National UTO. On November 11, 2021 our Annual Meeting will be held at DaySpring. Our theme for the meeting and 2022 is “Here I Am Lord”. Our speaker will be Dede Lomenick.

She is the founder of “Unleashed” a non-profit with this vision statement: “To form a movement of women in South Florida who embrace their gifts and maximize their power and potential to serve, lead and bring positive change in the world.”

As we continue to emerge from our time of being separated and quarantined, the women of the Diocese of Southwest Florida continue to serve our Lord with vigor, compassion, and joy.

Michelle Schombs, President

Episcopal Relief & Development Episcopal Relief and Development is the compassionate arm of the Episcopal Church. With their help of in-kind support of facilities, we are proud to consistently report that between 90% and 92% of every donated dollar helps in three major categories: Women, Children, and Climate.

Episcopal Relief & Development contributes to the transformation and healing of a hurting world by encouraging its staff, partners and wider constituency to act as facilitators that engage and energize people through an appreciation and affirmation of the gifts that exist within a community. This is done by recognizing and reinforcing people’s assets – their gifts, ideas, decisions and existing resources – versus simply their needs.

As with each new year, we encounter unexpected and unique challenges to keep us always focused on creative and productive ways to serve the needs of our target populations 42

and focus programs. The year 2021 has been no different.

With the ongoing pandemic associated with COVID-19, it has been challenging to continue to promote our programs and support our volunteer partners within the Diocese of Southwest Florida.

At convention in 2019, it was the bishop’s hope to have partners in every parish and school in the diocese. We reported in 2020 that we are represented in 33% of the parishes, but due to the pandemic we have experienced limited growth. Recruiting has been challenging due to the pandemic and the nature of isolation required to fight the spread. National staff has been offering Zoom workshops and services to anyone interested.

Ongoing fundraising and awareness campaigns are happening all over the diocese. The efforts are too numerous to mention in this short report, but the involvement of the parishes, missions, and schools is encouraging.

We are currently looking for two new coordinators to continue to support our partners in the parishes with Zoom meetings and personal contacts. Please consider who in your parish might be called to share with us in this ministry. Call 614-302-1267 or elightneri1@gmail.com.

Ellen Lightner, Diocesan Ministry Partner

Hispanic & Latino Ministries The Hispanic and Latino Committee of the Diocese of Southwest Florida has been tasked with increasing awareness of Hispanic and Latino Ministry, supporting existing congregations with Spanish speakers, and providing mission and outreach to the Hispanic and Latino community in the diocese.

After a year-long hiatus, the committee was excited to host its annual “Salt and Light” conference in person and online at Dayspring. The theme was “Discovering Our Spiritual Gifts”.

More than 50 people were able to attend in person with others watching at home. Workshops included learning about how to discern one’s spiritual gifts as well as learning from the examples of service from those who have gone before us.

Looking ahead, the committee hopes to reach out to every parish in the Diocese to share the importance of this mission and what all of us can do to welcome this growing population within our neighborhoods and cities. Have questions? Want to get involved? Email committee at Ministeriolatinoswfl@ gmail.com.

The Rev. Alexander Andujar, Vice-President

Race & Reconciliation The newly reconstituted Race and Reconciliation Committee of the Diocese of Southwest Florida serves the diocese as we live out our Baptismal Covenant and honor the resolutions of our General Convention. Our work focuses on education and advocacy with the purpose of dismantling 43

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

racism and lifting up racial justice and reconciliation in Christ. Our purpose is to develop and support training, resources, events, and communication to the diocese and its parishes to increase awareness and advocacy around individual and systemic racism. We strive to enkindle in the hearts of all a passion for, and action toward, an inclusive, diverse, and joyful vision of the Body of Christ, in which the image of God is celebrated in each and every human person.

The 2021 Race and Reconciliation Committee members include: Ning Bonoan; The Rev. Doris Buchanan Johnson; The Hon. Jack Day; The Rev. Deacon Martha Goodwill; Ayana Grady; The Rev. Paige Alvarez Hanks; The Very Rev. Peter Lane; Rebecca Lyons: Leila Meizer: The Rev. James Reho: The Rev. Kathy Schillreff: Tania Wilkes: The Rev. Christian Wood The committee is charged with developing anti-racism training for the diocese, providing resources and training for anti-racism work for parishes, and planning and implementing anti-racism events for the diocese. In the first year, the committee has accomplished much of this charge, and invites the parishes and other entities within the diocese to join in the work of dismantling the sin of racism in whatever way you feel called. Contact any member of our committee for support in this work of the Gospel.

The Rev. Paige Alvarez Hanks, Chair

School for Ministry At the end of 2020, the School for Ministry completed its second year as a member of the Iona Collaborative, a cooperative project directed by the Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas. Twenty-seven Episcopal dioceses throughout the country are members of the Collaborative. Through the Collaborative, clergy formation programs in the member dioceses work together to develop and maintain high-quality theological education for the formation of priests and deacons in local diocesan settings, educating a new generation of ordained leaders who for various reasons cannot attend a residential seminary.

Participation in the Iona Collaborative enables the School for Ministry to be part of an innovative curriculum and to take advantage of resources, facilitator training, and materials that would otherwise be unavailable locally.

In past years, the School for Ministry has focused exclusively on diaconal formation. In 2020, the School responded to a new and exciting charge from Bishop Smith and began development of a curriculum to prepare students for ordination to the priesthood. Three students are currently following this vocational path. The return from a COVID-19 driven, completely Zoom-based program to in-person class meetings at Dayspring Conference Center has been another most welcome development for the School.

The Ven. Dr. Kathleen Moore, Dean

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Standing Committee The Standing Committee works closely with the Commission on Ministry and has canonical responsibility for approval of applications for Candidacy and Ordination to both the Sacred Order of Priests and the Sacred Order of Deacons. In exercising that responsibility, the Committee is required to interview all candidates for Ordination and those from other branches of the Body of Christ seeking reception to ordained ministry in the Diocese of Southwest Florida.

Since bishops are elected to serve the entire church, they are canonically required to receive consents to their election by a majority of the diocesan Standing Committee. The Standing Committee acts on these requests for consent as they are received, deliberating on each with care. The Standing Committee also acts as a cabinet of advice for the Bishop and exercises canonical responsibilities related to property matters involving sacred spaces, clergy disciplinary actions, and matters involving clergy leaving The Episcopal Church. Much of the work of the Standing Committee is confidential. A major focus of our work has been the oversight for the search process for election of the Bishop Coadjutor. We are grateful for the work of the Co-Chairs the Rev. Jessica Babcock and Mr. Trevor Whitley and members of the Search Committee and for the Chair, Mr. Kevin Fitzgerald and members of the Transition Team who are coordinating with us in oversight of the search process.

Current members of the Standing Committee are the Rev. Carla B. McCook (President), Mr. Ray U. Stoll (Vice President), the Very Rev. Ryan R. Whitley (Secretary), Ms. Jackie Smith (Liaison to the Commission on Ministry), Mr. James H. Corn, Mr. Duane Hollier, the Very Rev. Charles A. Cannon III, The Very Rev. Michelle Robertshaw, and The Rev. Jim Teets. All the members of the Committee appreciate your prayers.

The Rev. Carla B. McCook, President

Youth and Family Ministry

Youth Ministry in our diocese has been in a process of reopening and rebuilding during 2021, and while the road to restarting everything that took place before the COVID-19 pandemic is still long, we have made great strides this past year. Our two biggest accomplishments being the return of Summer Camp and our New Beginnings retreat that was held in March 2021.

Through communicating with other dioceses during this past year, we learned that we were one of a handful equipt to host a weekend retreat. We did this through our health and safety protocols which included limiting numbers, extensive disinfecting, and wearing masks. The activities of the retreat had to accommodate these changes, but this was expected. Some activities which required people to be close were adapted, the adults on the weekend tended to skew younger, and singing was limited. The team and participants knew that simply being able to have this retreat take place was the priority.

Because of our success on that New Beginnings retreat, we were able to start developing Summer Camp with the retreat serving as a test run for how we’d run our camp protocol. First, our staff who could be vaccinated made the choice to get vaccinated. This was a huge step to ensure that any sickness didn’t transfer from weeks. Beyond that, we were able to focus our protocols on those things that had the biggest impact. Because of these efforts, no cases of sickness have been reported from our almost 200 campers.

Even during our summer, we didn’t encounter more than a stomachache or sprained ankle.

Heading into the fall, our Diocesan Youth Ministry is active in many of our parishes. Our congregations with full time or part time designated youth ministry programs have remained stable and, in some places, even flourished in the past year. This is a testament to the incredible work and outreach of our congregational youth workers. Beyond that, we are preparing for the return of Happening, New Beginnings, and already starting to place for Summer Camp in 2022. There is plenty of work ahead in 2021, and our youth are energized to walk this path of return.

Matthew Bowers, Director of Youth Ministry and

Convention Reports

Pictured above: DaySpring Summer Camp Summer 2021

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

Since the earliest days of the diocese and our predecessor dioceses, each of our conventions has published a series of reports of the committees of the diocese. These reports are scheduled to appear in our annual Journal of the Diocese of Southwest Florida, along with the events and minutes of this convention.

Please read them carefully and check in with the various chairs or leadership if you have questions about the work of any committee before convention.

44

Bishop Coadjutor Search Committee Update Below is an excerpt from the Bishop Coadjutor Search Committee website.

At the 52nd Annual Convention of the Diocese of Southwest Florida in October 2020, Bishop Dabney Smith announced to the gathered lay and clergy delegates that he was calling for the election of a Bishop Coadjutor, or successor bishop. Bishop Smith explained that the process to elect a new bishop, including the process for studying the diocese, screening and selecting candidates, and ultimately electing a Bishop Coadjutor, will take at the least 18 months.

A total of 10 clergy and 11 laypersons were selected as members of the Bishop Coadjutor Search Committee, charged with finding a candidate who will become the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Southwest Florida. On behalf of all the people of the diocese, they will be looking for, in the words from the Book of Common Prayer, “a faithful pastor who will care for your people and equip us for our ministries.”

The group includes two representatives from each of the seven deaneries in the diocese along with an additional seven people appointed by the bishop.

They are priests and deacons, teachers and lawyers, some who have lived a lifetime in this diocese and others who have come more recently. They bring to their work a multitude of perspectives borne of various cultures and life experiences. But in the end, all will have one thing in common: a desire to find the very best person to fill this important role.

Members of the Bishop Coadjutor Search Committee: Mr. Trevor Whitley (co-chair), The Rev. Jessica Babcock (co-chair), The Rev. Janet Tunnell, Mr. Phil Beauchamp, The Rev. Christian Maxfield, The Rev. David Marshall, Ms. Jackie Overton, Mr. Michael D. “Mick” Moore, Jr., The Rev. Robert Douglas, Ms. Katie Arp, The Rev. Roy Tuff, Ms. Kathy Silverberg, The Rev. Ann Dieterle, Ms. Hazel Hudson-Allen, Ms. Ning Bonoan, The Rev. Dr. Lynn Grinnell, Mr. Greg Hearing, The Rev. Adrienne Hymes, The Rev. Michael Kitt, Mr. Kraig Koach, and Mr. Steve Salvo.

Below is an excerpt from the “Election Of A Bishop,” printed in the 2021 Easter edition of Southern Cross.

Following the selection of the committee, the committee created and released a diocesan-wide survey in June of 2021, receiving close to 1,800 completed surveys. In July 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

Upcoming Important Bishop Coadjutor Search Dates September 2021 - The Search Committee will begin accepting nominations. Review of nominations, background work and interviews to follow through January 2022.

Spring 2022 - “Walkabout” opportunity for delegates to meet final nominees.

April 2, 2022 - Election date of Bishop Coadjutor. ​ eptember 24, 2022 - Pending Presiding Bishop S approval, Bishop Coadjutor will be consecrated and commence ministry with Bishop Dabney Smith.

and August of this year, the Search Committee hosted 12 Listening Sessions with more than 350 participants in attendance. In September the Search Committee will begin accepting bishop nominations. Review of nominations, background work, and interviews to follow through January 2022.

After the creation and publication of the diocesan profile, the application process can begin. The process of going through the submitted nominations can be lengthy; for instance, in 1995, there were 172 names submitted for consideration. Information on those nominees must be gathered and presented so that a slate for the election can be considered. In past elections, and in most dioceses, there is a second publication for the election itself. This is a booklet that includes nominee profiles, and information about a walkabout, a meeting that will help people learn as much as possible about potential nominees. The Search Committee is looking to schedule a walkabout in the spring of 2022.

After the election, the bishop will first be coadjutor, and then would be set to become the Sixth Bishop of Southwest Florida, pending approval by the wider Episcopal Church, and after serving a time alongside Bishop Dabney Smith.

Getting there is not a fast process. In the life of the Diocese of Southwest Florida, we have only gone through this process five times; the first election of Bishop Suffragan was Bishop William Hargrave, elected in 1961 before the 1969 creation of the Diocese of Southwest Florida. The last election held in the diocese was for Bishop Dabney Smith, in December of 2006.

For more information about the Bishop Coadjutor Search Committee, please email info@bishopsearchswfl.org.

45

EW.

AK

E, I M E S

SN

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

HI N G SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

LT

46

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

e AL

53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

Diocesan Contacts Bishop: The Rt. Rev. Dabney T. Smith dsmith@episcopalswfl.org

Diocesan House DaySpring Episcopal Center 8005 25th St. East Parrish, FL 34219 941-556-0315

Assisting Bishops:

The Rt. Rev. J. Michael Garrison The Rt. Rev. Barry R. Howe

Executive Assistant to the Bishop:

Ms. Wendy Martucci - Ext. 986 Cell: 941-374-3416 / wmartucci@episcopalswfl.org

Canon to the Ordinary:

The Rev. Canon Richard H. Norman – Ext. 978 Cell: 941-212-8009 / rnorman@episcopalswfl.org

Administrative Assistant to Canon Norman:

Archdeacon & Dean, School for Ministry:

Canon for Stewardship and Pastoral Care:

Mrs. Tana Sembiante - Ext. 983 tsembiante@episcopalswfl.org

Director Congregation Position Vacant, contact avickers@episcopalswfl.org Support: Bookkeeper: Mrs. Geraldine ‘Jerry’ Buss - Ext. 981 jbuss@episcopalswfl.org Exec. Director, DaySpring Mrs. Carla Odell - 941-776-1018

Episcopal Center: Cell: 941-524-9444 / execdirector@dayspringfla.org

The Rev. Carol Flemming Diocesan Missioner, Parrish Episcopal Church Cell: 330-749-5934/ cfleming@episcopalswfl.org

This Convention Guidebook is published by the

Communications Department, Diocese of Southwest Florida.

Questions? Contact Editor Lindsey Nickel at lnickel@episcopalswfl.org

Inside Back Cover: “See, I Make All Things New” original artwork by Colton Garis, 12, St. John the Divine, Sun City Center

ADJUNCT CLERGY

The Rev. Ann Dieterle DaySpring Program Coordinator Assistant Rector, St. Thomas, St. Petersburg Cell: 336-981-4445/ adieterle@episcopalswfl.org

Registrar/Reception: Mrs. Angie Ford - Ext. 987 aford@episcopalswfl.org

gs ne n i

h

Director Communications: Ms. Lindsey Nickel – Ext. 979

Cell: 727-560-0972 / lnickel@episcopalswfl.org

ll t

Canon Anne Vickers, CFA - Ext. 982 Cell: 813-760-4630 / avickers@episcopalswfl.org

m a ki

Administrative Assistant Mrs. Michelle Mercurio - Ext. 977 Youth/School For Ministry: mmercurio@episcopalswfl.org

gA

The Rev. Canon Christopher Gray Cell: 941-321-0249 / cgray@episcopalswfl.org

n

The Ven. Dr. Kathleen M. Moore - Ext. 989 Cell: 813-785-9400 / kmoore@episcopalswfl.org

am

ee, I S . w

Director Youth Ministry & Mr. Matthew Bowers – Ext. 976 Programming: Cell: 904-392-8924 / mbowers@episcopalswfl.org

Canon for Finance and Administration/CFO:

episcopalswfl.org dayspringfla.org

The Rev. Scott Nonken University of South Florida Chaplan snonken@episcopalswfl.org The Rev. Michael Todd State College of Florida Chaplain Rector, Church of the Holy Spirit, Osprey Cell: 928-388-9676 / mtodd@chsosprey.com

Back Cover: “See, I Make All Things New” original artwork by Carolina de la Torriente, 10, DaySpring Camper, St. James Episcopal Church, Ormond Beach 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION

47

See, I MAke aLL Things New 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA 48

SEE, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

DIOCESE OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA