UBE planning bus trip to Virginia Theological Seminary

The James Solomon Russell Diocese of Southern Virginia Chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians is planning a bus trip to Virginia Theological Seminary on Saturday, September 17. The group will enjoy a private tour of the seminary, particularly the African-American historical collection, which includes contributions from John Harris, past national president of UBE and a chapter member. Cost will be $40 per person. Please contact David Flores ASAP if you would like to participate, drf71137@gmail.com. 

Summer opportunities for feeding children

Virginia Feeds Kids is an interfaith and interagency initiative of the Virginia Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The Virginia Feeds Kids website provides a repository of ideas and lessons learned to help Virginians find and feed hungry children.

There are some upcoming opportunities for kids to get a meal in Hampton, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach and Norfolk. Click here for information. For opportunities in the Richmond area, click here. Please help spread the word!

Administrative & Financial Best Practices conference on Sept. 15

Join us on Thursday, September 15, at the diocesan office in Newport News for a day designed for church financial and administrative personnel.  Whether you are new to your job or have been at it for years, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn, ask questions, and connect with your colleagues in other churches. Register early; space is limited. $15 fee includes lunch. Click here for more info and to register.   

 

Gwaltney School at Jackson-Feild graduates eight students

June 10 was a very special day for eight students who attend the Edna Hayden Gwaltney School at Jackson-Feild Behavioral Health Services. Four students received their standard high school diploma and four received their GED. In addition, seven graduates and undergraduates received their Home Health Care Aide certificate and pin.

 

Dr. Bill Bowling, Director of Education, presided over the ceremony held at the Golden Leaf Commons at Southside Virginia Community College, Emporia Campus. Dr. JoAnn Smart, Director of Clinical Services, was the commencement speaker.

 

Two students addressed the members of their class expressing their thanks to the school and faculty. They challenged their fellow graduates to build upon the education they received at Gwaltney School.

 

Six scholarships were awarded to students to help with college expenses. Nancy Sands, President of the Episcopal Church Women from the Diocese of Southern Virginia, presented each graduate with a $100 honorarium.

 

Over the last eighteen years, 157 students have graduated from the Gwaltney School with either a diploma or GED certificate. Each year, in honor and recognition of the student's work, an anonymous donor has provided a bouquet of roses for each girl, a wallet for each boy, and a gift card for every graduate. Another donor underwrote the cost of class rings which were presented to every graduate.

Spring LARCUM Service is now Christian Unity Service

On Sunday, June 26, at 7:00 p.m., Holy Apostles, Virginia Beach, will host the Christian Unity service featuring Biblical Storytelling. (This service was formerly known as the "Spring LARCUM" service.) The service will focus on Christian Unity through the lens of bible passages; how Holy Scripture demonstrates that unity is part of God's plan for the world.

The centerpiece of this service will be proclamation and illumination of God's word by local members of the Network of Biblical Storytellers. The Network is an international group, both lay and ordained, dedicated to telling Bible stories as authentically as possible. The goal of Network members is to recreate to the greatest extent possible what members of the early churches would have experienced and enjoyed as they heard the word of God. The two tellers at this service will be the Rev. Mark Wilkinson, rector of St. Aidan's, Virginia Beach, and Ellen Clements. As is the tradition at this service, a Question & Answer time will be offered so those attending can have a conversation with the Network presenters.

 

Church of the Holy Apostles is at 1593 Lynnhaven Parkway, ­Virginia Beach. For more information, please email admin@holyapostlesvb.org, call 427-0963, or visit www.holyapostlesvb.org.

   

Cursillistas refurbish Chanco shed

By Mike Nickelsburg, Emmanuel, Virginia Beach   

During the week of June 6, 26 Cursillo volunteers cleaned out and refurbished Chanco's shed, inside and out. While one group unloaded the shed to a POD, inventoried, and cleaned out years of accumulated stuff, the rest of the crew removed the rotten wood, added new siding, caulked and painted, rebuilt the porch, added a roof over the porch, cleaned out the interior, and added new storage shelves. A new roof was installed the following week, and a new HVAC unit will be installed shortly. Many thanks to all those who worked and to those who supported the project through prayer and monetary donations.

Save the date: International Black Clergy Conference in November

Save the date for an important upcoming conference and educational event, the International Black Clergy Conference, scheduled for Wednesday, November 16 to Saturday, November 19 in Houston, TX. The theme of the event is "The Jesus Movement: Embracing Our Call." The pre-conference begins on Tuesday, November 15 with meetings of affinity groups: clergy ordained five years or less; deacons; retired clergy; diocesan leadership staff; New Visions Team; and clergy serving in multicultural and/or white congregations. On Wednesday, the conference keynote address will be presented by Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop and Primate Michael Curry on "Embracing the Call." Click here for more information and registration.

Registration opens for Evangelism Matters conference

Evangelism Matters, an Episcopal Church Evangelism Conference held November 18-19 in Dallas, TX, is for anyone who would like to learn more about evangelism and available resources to share our faith. This innovative churchwide event is co-sponsored by Forward Movement and the Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop's Office, and is hosted by the Diocese of Dallas and Church of the Transfiguration, Dallas, where the activities will be held. Among the planned activities are an address by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, plus plenary sessions and workshops by evangelism leaders. A portion of the Saturday events will be live webcast to allow for individual and group viewing during conventions, discussion groups, and local evangelism gatherings. Click here for info and registration.

Litany for Gun Violence Prevention offered for use in Sunday services

A Litany for Gun Violence Prevention written by the Rt. Rev. Stephen T. Lane, Episcopal bishop of Maine, is offered for use in liturgies throughout the Episcopal Church this coming Sunday or at any other time. The litany is available here, and includes downloadable bulletin inserts in English and in Spanish. A full Eucharistic liturgy, prepared by St. Mary's Episcopal Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, is also available.

Ordination to the Sacred Order of Deacons

 

L to R: Bishop Hollerith; Charlie Bauer; Josh Stephen; the Rt. Rev. Neil Alexander; the Rev. Chris Epperson, rector of Bruton Parish.

On Saturday, June 11, at Bruton Parish, Williamsburg, Bishop Hollerith ordained Charlie Bauer and Josh Stephens to the Sacred Order of Deacons. The Rt. Rev. Neil Alexander, Dean of the School of Theology at The University of the South, preached. Charlie will begin as Curate at Hickory Neck, Toano in July and Josh will begin as Associate Rector for Family Ministry at Bruton Parish in August.

Join the Union of Black Episcopalians

The Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) invites ALL Episcopalians, regardless of race, to become members of UBE and join them in their mission of fighting racism and encouraging the involvement of Black people in the total life of the church. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry is a lifetime member of UBE - won't you join him and support this vital ministry?

The James Solomon Russell chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) meets on the second Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. at Grace, Norfolk (1400 E. Brambleton Ave., Norfolk). All Episcopalians in the Diocese of Southern Virginia are invited and encouraged to join the UBE and become members of this diverse and concerned group. Annual dues are $70 for individuals, $60 for retired, and $105 four couples. For more information contact David Flores, drf71137@gmail.com.

BB&T Emporia Branch shines light on Jackson-Feild through Lighthouse Project

Employees from the Emporia branch of BB&T partnered with Jackson-Feild Behavioral Health Services by painting common areas in Gwaltney Cottage.

 

This partnership is based on BB&T's "Lighthouse Project" a company-wide community service program. BB&T believes an investment in their communities is one of the best investments they will ever make! Whether it's a financial contribution, an investment of time or both, they feel their support can truly make a difference.

 

This project gave BB&T an opportunity to provide corporate financial support to local charities, while associates roll up their sleeves and go to work. Since the Lighthouse Project began in 2009, their associates have contributed more than 385,000 volunteer hours and have improved the quality of life for more than 11 million people

 

The Emporia team members eagerly accepted this challenge to paint one of JFBHS's residential cottages Mark Owen and his team arrived bright and early on May 21st with paint brushes and rollers in hand. They got right to work and by the end of the day the cottage had a whole new look. The funds to purchase the paint and supplies was provided by a grant from BB&T.

 

Mark and his family have been involved at JFBHS for years. He knows the good work that is being done daily to help children with mental health disorders understand and manage their disorders.

 

JFBHS is most grateful for the help and support that the Lighthouse Project has provided to improve the quality of life and upgrade the living quarters for its children.

Congratulations to the 2016-2017 EYC Board!

Pictured clockwise from top left at their first meeting on Sunday, June 5 at the diocesan office: Jimmy, Alex, Trafton, Anthony, Audre'ana, Clare, Courtney, and Dan.

Each year at May Weekend, nine teens are elected democratically by their peers to the Episcopal Youth Community Board. These teens represent the youth of the diocese as advocates and plan and lead our EYC weekends at Chanco. The following individuals were elected this year on May 22:

 

Trafton Addison- St. Andrew's, Norfolk

Anthony Alfano- St. Christopher's, Portsmouth

Dan Barnum- St. Andrew's, Norfolk

Alex Ellis- St. Andrew's, Newport News

Audre'ana Ellis- St. Andrew's, Newport News

Clare Harbin- St. John's, Portsmouth

Courtney Mason (President)- St. David's, Chesterfield

Jimmy Murphy- Emmanuel, Hampton

Stephen Peabody- Emmanuel, Hampton

News from Mission of the Holy Spirit

By Keith A. Josey, Lay Pastor, Mission of the Holy Spirit

	Easter Day at Mission of the Holy Spirit.

I would like to take a moment and say thank you to every individual and church that embarked on a journey with us to systematically lift up the lives of the people we serve. This process required our gathering resources and scattering seeds of hope. This meant that we had to be intentional about establishing relationships with individuals and churches that would not only support our efforts with volunteers, finances and other vital resources, but we also needed to implement programs that would bear fruit over time.

We have begun to see the fruit of our labor, thanks to everyone who has taken the risk and heard the call. Through your giving, we have had many triumphs over the years. Recently, four of our long-term members have graduated from college. Several others are continuing their education, and many of our families' lives are becoming stable. Although there are many challenges, we are confident that our purpose in the communities we serve remains vital.

I'm asking each of you to continue to support this ministry and to help us provide opportunities for the families we serve. As summer begins, many of our young people will find themselves searching for activities that will give them safe and new experiences. Every summer we strive to provide just that, and your gifts and support makes it possible. In order to continue to provide quality services that include Sunday worship, tutoring, music and arts, health programs and life skills groups for our adults, we need your help. Your commitment to support the Mission of the Holy Spirit allows us to be a very helpful presence in a truly hurting community. Too often we hear or read about violence in our communities. Every child, adolescent and adult that we are able to serve has not only the ability but also the responsibility to share the good news to those around them. 1 John 3:17 says, "But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?"

Each of you shares the love of God when you find it in your heart to give, thus ensuring that new seeds will be scattered and more lives will be changed. 

For more information contact the Mission at 757-858-0010 or info@missionoftheholyspirit.org. www.missionoftheholyspirit.org.

Redeemer, Midlothian, hosts ECW Spring Annual Meeting

Boys Home Graduates Receive ECW Love Gifts

By Nancy Polick Sands, ECW President, Diocese of Southern Virginia

	Left to Right: Nancy Polick Sands, ECW president, Diocese of Southern Virginia; Jo Anne Simpkins, ECW president, Redeemer, Midlothian; Megan-Drew Tiller, Church Relations, Boys Home of Virginia and the Rev. D. Donald Dunn, III

On Saturday, May 21, we had our Diocesan ECW Meeting at Redeemer, Midlothian. I want to thank Mrs. Jo Anne Simpkins, Redeemer's ECW president and the ECW members for hosting a wonderful meeting. Despite the rainy weather and getting stuck in traffic on I-64, we had 40 members present for the meeting - the biggest ECW meeting that we have had so far these two years I have been president. As each member registered we were asked if anyone had told us how important we were, and we were given a long stem rose. What a wonderful treat! Lunch was great, and a special thanks goes out to the Rev. D. Donald Dunn, III for having a wonderful church service and helping us celebrate Louisa Taylor Letcher Day in memory of our founder.

 

Our speaker, Megan-Drew Tiller, church relations, Boys Home of Virginia, brought us up to date on activities at the Boys Home. She expressed thanks for ECW's continued support and especially for our recent love gifts to the Boys Home graduates. It was my pleasure to attend the 2016 Boys Home of Virginia Award Banquet where I presented each of the eight graduates with a $100 gift as part of our God Bless the Children Outreach Project. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to the gifts. Megan told us that Mr. Donnie Wheatley, Boys Home executive director, cannot remember a single year when ECW did not support the Boys Home. See more on the God Bless the Children graduation gift in the next issue of The Diocesan Connection newsletter.

Zika virus fact sheet from Episcopal Relief & Development

Across the US, Episcopalians are gearing up for summer activities like VBS, mission trips and summer camp. But this summer, with concerns about the Zika virus moving north into the continental US, new questions are popping up. Responding to these concerns, Episcopal Relief & Development assembled a taskforce of experts in public health and safety, disaster response, church programs and communications to sort through the information floating around about the Zika virus, and to create a resource that would help Episcopal churches in the United States to respond appropriately.

 

Click here for a copy of Episcopal Relief & Development's Zika Fact Sheet.

The overall message is that while Zika is a concern for women who are pregnant or could become pregnant, most people who are infected with Zika do not become sick, and there is a low chance that there would be an epidemic in the continental United States. As long as normal mosquito bite prevention is practiced (protecting skin with clothing or repellent, using window screens or mosquito nets), there is no reason to cancel summer camp or mission trip plans - unless you are part of a couple that is currently pregnant or planning to be. 

James Solomon Russell chapter of UBE meeting

The James Solomon Russell chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) will meet on Thursday, June 9, 10:30 a.m. at Grace, Norfolk (1400 E. Brambleton Ave., Norfolk).

This chapter of the UBE meets the second Thursday of every month at 10:30 a.m. at Grace, Norfolk. All Episcopalians in the Diocese of Southern Virginia are invited and encouraged to join the UBE and become members of this diverse and concerned group. For more information contact David Flores, drf71137@gmail.com.

The mission of the UBE is to unite the diverse cultures, concerns and gifts of black Episcopalians. By providing preparation and encouragement for living the Baptismal covenant and fully participating in the mission and governance of the Episcopal Church. 

Election Toolkit helps Episcopalians engage in nonpartisan activities

The 2016 election in the United States remains the top of the news in media outlets, and it is inevitably a topic in personal conversations. To provide education about the election as well as assisting in being prepared, The Episcopal Church has developed an online toolkit with a webpage that outlines how individual Episcopalians and congregations can participate in the electoral process through a number of nonpartisan activities.

Through the Episcopal Public Policy Network (EPPN), information is also available on an important initiative, the Episcopal Pledge to Vote.  The EPPN is calling on all Episcopalians to pledge that they will cast a vote in the general election. You can make your pledge to vote and find the toolkit which is designed to assist Episcopalians in being informed and engaged voters on the EPPN election webpage.

Among the possible non-partisan activities offered are: engaging young adults who are eligible to vote for the first time; hosting a candidate forum; advocating for voting rights legislation; and hosting Get Out The Vote campaigns.

In search of an affordable family vacation? Family Camp, Aug. 18-21

Is summer looming and the hotel, dining and travel costs of a family vacation have you down? We have the answer for you! Family camp is perfect for all generations as there is something for everyone and you can be as active or relaxed as you wish. Campers ages 0-100 can come and laugh, sing, play and pray together. Enjoy our NEW paddle boards, swimming, boating, archery and the adventures of our zip lines and rock wall or simply relaxing by the pool or river. Family Camp is also a fantastic way to introduce a younger child to camp before attending on their own. With all meals and activities included, Family Camp is a bargain at $125 per person to stay in chalets or $225 per person for motel lodges. Questions? Contact us at 888-7CHANCO (888-724-2626) or director@chanco.org. Visit www.chanco.org for more information and easy on line registration.  

Golfers swing their way to help Jackson-Feilds' children

	Members of the Modern Woodmen   winning team

May 9 could not have been a better day for a golf tournament. The weather was perfect and the course at The Country Club at the Highlands in Chesterfield County was in excellent shape. The 83 golfers who participated enjoyed their time on the links and the volunteers who worked the event had a great time, but it was the children at Jackson-Feild Behavioral Health Services were the ultimate winners of the 21st annual Go Golfing for the Kids tournament.

 

Proceeds from the 2016 tournament will be matched dollar for dollar by an anonymous foundation and be used to build an outdoor recreation center with a sports court and swimming pool. Over the years, proceeds from the tournament have been used to finance a variety of special needs such as start-up initiatives and children's programs in addition to providing scholarship funding for children with no money for their care.

 

JFBHS would thank the following: Boddie-Noell Enterprises for being the tournament sponsor for the 21st year in a row; Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial for being the presenting sponsor; Jones LTC Pharmacy for being the dinner sponsor; and Hardee's for providing delicious box lunches to all the participants and volunteers.

 

Applications now accepted for 2016 Jubilee Ministry grants

Applications are now accepted for the 2016 Jubilee Ministry grants to further the mission and ministry of The Episcopal Church. The 2016 Jubilee Grants will be awarded in two categories, totaling $65,000: Jubilee Development Grant and Jubilee Impact Grants. The Jubilee Development Grant, up to $25,000, will be awarded to a new or existing ministry that can demonstrate a new or re-visioned strategy and methodology to address systemic issues affecting domestic poverty. This grant is intended to seed a sustainable program that makes a difference locally and can inspire others for similar work beyond itself. The Jubilee Impact Grants, in amounts of $750 to $1,500 for a total of $40,000, will be awarded for initiatives of Jubilee Centers that make a positive and measurable impact in the lives of those in need. Application forms are available here. Deadline for applications is June 17 at 5 p.m. All currently-designated Jubilee Ministries are eligible. Proposals must be approved by bishop of the diocese.

Episcopal Church Evangelism Conference in November

Save the dates for Evangelism Matters, an Episcopal Church Evangelism Conference on November 18-19 in Dallas, TX, for anyone who would like to learn more about evangelism and available resources to share our faith. This innovative churchwide event is co-sponsored by Forward Movement and the Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop's Office, and is hosted by the Diocese of Dallas and Church of the Transfiguration, Dallas, where the activities will be held. Among the planned activities are an address by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, plus plenary sessions and workshops by evangelism leaders. A portion of the Saturday events will be live webcast to allow for individual and group viewing during conventions, discussion groups, and local evangelism gatherings. Schedule, registration and other details will be announced in June.

Episcopal Digital Network launches new service to authors

Authors and publishers are invited to share news about their religious and theological books and publications in the newest section to be launched on the Episcopal Digital Network, the Featured Books section. The Episcopal Digital Network is an ad-supported media network that delivers news, information and resources to church leaders, members and general audiences through the Episcopal News Service, Sermons That Work and Lesson Plans That Work websites. The Featured Books section offers a free space to promote new books and publications, with the option of purchasing a featured listing on the homepages of the network websites and in the newsletters of the Episcopal News Service and Sermons That Work. Click here for more info.

Church Periodical Club - changing the world, one book at a time

The Church Periodical Club is an Episcopal institution; its ministry is to supply books, magazine, e-books and educational tapes, videos and computer programs free to those who cannot obtain them and to raise the money to do this. Materials may be religious or secular, but must be used within the mission of the church.

The observance of a Church Periodical Club Sunday is an important way you can support the work of CPC and help make it a concern of the whole church. CPC materials were distributed at Annual Council. Please be sure to display them prominently in your parish. If more materials are required, contact Deborah Austin at complianceretired@gmail.com or 757-538-1797.

Donations are needed to continue the CPC ministry. If you would like to make a donation to CPC, please make checks payable to Church Periodical Club, note the name of your church on the memo line, and mail check to: Deborah Austin, 2033 Hickorywood Drive, Suffolk, VA 23434. 

CE-Net: Challenges of church in the 21st century

Monday, June 6, 5:30 p.m. at Ascension, Norfolk

Parishes in Southern Virginia, and throughout the church, continue to wrestle with decreasing attendance and participation in formation programs. Join CE-Net (Christian Education Network) for dinner and conversation on Monday, June 6, at 5:30 p.m. at Ascension, Norfolk, as we share and discuss our challenges going forward in 2016 and develop strategies for meeting the new reality of church in the 21st century. Are we doing what we are called to do, or are we just recycling the same programs? Your voice is important! We hope to see you there.  Questions? Contact Lynn Farlin, 757-423-6715 or Lfarlin@ascension-Norfolk.org , or Jennifer Nauroth, 757-759-5107 or Jenny.nauroth@cox.net.

Summer camp & VBS are just around the corner - get staff and volunteers Safe Church training now!

Summer camp and Vacation Bible School season is almost here. Time to make sure your staff and volunteers have completed the required Safe Church training. There are two classroom trainings: May 21 at St. Christopher's, Portsmouth and June 18 at Good Shepherd, Norfolk. Online training is also available. Click here for more information about Safe Church training. Questions? Contact Susan Allen, sallen@diosova.org or 757-213-3391.

Festival Gathering of the Network of Biblical Storytellers Aug. 3-6

 Biblical Storytellers from all over the world will gather at the 4H Center in Chevy Chase, MD August 3-6 for a fabulous week of storytelling. The Network of Biblical Storytellers is dedicated to spreading the gospel through the dramatic presentation of Bible stories. This summer's event will feature epic tellings of the entire book of Ruth and the Jacob Saga from Genesis. The Rev. Mark Wilkinson (St. Aidan's, Virginia Beach) and the Rev. Wendy Wilkinson (Good Samaritan, Virginia Beach) will be among the tellers. There are also workshops for everyone from beginners who have never told a story to experienced tellers. The gathering is a wonderful continuing education opportunity for clergy and a great way to involve members of your congregation in worship using the techniques that are taught. More than anything else it is just a lot of fun. Click here for more information or contact the Rev. Mark Wilkinson, rector@aidanvbva.net.

Network of Biblical Storytelling - Tidewater Tellers chapter

The Revs. Mark and Wendy Wilkinson invite you to consider being involved the Network of Biblical Storytellers. The local chapter is the Tidewater Tellers. They meet monthly to practice our skills and also offer storytellers for area congregations. If you would like to learn more or would like the tellers to come to your parish, email Mark Wilkinson, rector@aidanvbva.net. Visit the Network's website at http://nbsint.org.

Join us for our Chanco Open House this Sunday!

This Sunday, May 15, from 1 to 5 p.m. Chanco is open to the public and will be offering tours, hayrides, face painting, games, rock climbing and more. You can even fly along a zip line if you dare (adults, you too)! Join us to learn more about our diocesan summer camp and see why more and more campers are coming every summer to the best summer camp in eastern Virginia (as voted by Virginia Living magazine). Bring a friend! For every new camper you refer that registers, you can receive $50 off your own camp tuition. Questions? Contact us at 888-7CHANCO (888-724-2626) or director@chanco.org.  See you soon!

 

Episcopal Church Archives unveils new website

The Archives of the Episcopal Church has unveiled a newly-designed and content-rich website here featuring historical items and the rich, important stories of the church.

"The Archives website has been completely reorganized to enable users to locate information more quickly and intuitively," noted Mark Duffy, Canonical Archivist and Director. "The upgrade enables the Archives to reach inquirers with timely news of its holdings and to publish new educational content from the Church's historic collections."

The Archives of the Episcopal Church, located in Austin, TX, is dedicated to observing and honoring the history of the Episcopal Church. "In addition, our mission is to support the faithful in fulfilling the Baptismal Covenant," Duffy added.

Ridley Scholarship applications due June 20

Through the great generosity and charity of Miss Roberta Ridley, an endowed trust was established many years ago to provide financial support for continuing education for qualified members of the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Southern Virginia and for residents of Southampton County and the City of Franklin. Scholarships are based on academic excellence and financial need. In addition to the application forms and transcripts, students also submit tax records for themselves and/or their parents, a copy of the FAFSA Student Aid Report, and letters of recommendation from the clergy of their parish. Applications are due by June 20 or consideration for the fall semester. Click here for more information and application forms. 

Report from Province III Synod

Scott Norris elected vice president; Joyce Douglas elected to Provincial Council   

The Province III Synod meaning was held April 25 in Martinsburg, WV. The Rev. Frederick Walker and Andrea Morgan were in attendance as deputies from Southern Virginia. Joyce Douglas and Scott Norris were also present.

Scott Norris is a member of the ad hoc committee formed last year to formulate a proposal for revitalizing our Province, which was presented at this meeting. In addition, Norris was elected to fill the vice president position that would became vacant when Bishop Mike Klusmeyer was elected President.

Under the Ordinances of Province 3, the members of the Provincial Council are elected by the Synod and need not be Synod deputies. Our deputies selected Joyce Douglas to be our Provincial Council member, and her selection was approved by the Synod.

eFormation: A conference on ministry is a digital world

Is your congregation getting serious about its online presence, or hoping to take it to the next level? Would you like to learn with other ministry practitioners using technology in faith formation, communication, and other ministries?

 

If so, jump-start your learning with hands-on training and big-picture inspiration at e-Formation 2016. Join our supportive learning community June 6-8 at Virginia Theological Seminary near Washington DC for just $289 or by webinar for just $89. Limited Spanish interpretation and inexpensive evening programing in Spanish and in English are also available.

Explore the full program,  webinar schedule, and registration options  at  eformationvts.org. You can join the conversation using #eform16.

Lay Eucharistic Ministry 101 and other new courses from ChurchNext

ChurchNext has just launched three new courses. For those interested in training and working in Eucharistic Ministry in a congregational setting, Lay Eucharistic Ministry 101 offers training in the practicalities of offering the chalice to communicants, but also offers a great deal more. Another new course, How to Become a Christian, discusses the journey towards becoming a Christian and practicing Christian faith. Finally, there's a very inspiring course, My Church is Not Dying: finding Hope in the Mainline Church, offers a sobering and practical view of just how well poised mainline churches are to address the spiritual needs of a new generation.

ChurchNext is a website where you can learn from expert teachers in scripture, liturgy, and important Christian topics. Students can interact in a safe, online environment that's convenient, engaging, and affordable. Classes are available for both groups and individuals.