Journal Part II clergy Directory and Journal of Proceedings of The Seventy-Fourth Annual Meeting of the Convention of The Diocese of Oklahoma of The Episcopal Church November 4-5, 2011 St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church
CLERGY CANONICALLY BUT NOT ACTUALLY RESIDENT
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- OFFICIAL LIST OF CLERGY LIST OF CLERGY CANONICALLY AND ACTUALLY RESIDENT IN THE DIOCESE OF OKLAHOMA
- Convention 2011 – Minutes of the Meeting
- APPENDIX I Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma 74th Diocesan Convention
- Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma
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CLERGY CANONICALLY BUT NOT ACTUALLY RESIDENT ANDERSON, Otto P2 5901 Canterbury #1, Culver City, CA 90230
2455 Sulphur Creek Street, Cody, WY 82414 JONES, S. Ross (Gwin) P2 385 Racquet Club Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 JORIS, Stanny P2 APTDO: 0819-05097, El Dorado, Panama, Rep. de Panama KENNEY, Christine (Joe) P2 4700 W. Guadalupe Street, Unit 310, Austin, TX 78751 MCKENNA, Cynthia P2 PO Box 187, Boerne, Texas 78006, 210-557-1715 SPANGLER, Robert P2 7 Strathmore Dr., Arden, NC 28704 -24-
OFFICIAL LIST OF CLERGY LIST OF CLERGY CANONICALLY AND ACTUALLY RESIDENT IN THE DIOCESE OF OKLAHOMA (R=Received) (O=Ordained) (Res=Restored) BISHOPS The Right Reverend Dr. Edward J. Konieczny, Diocesan September 15, 2007 (O) PRIESTS DATE ORDAINED OR RECEIVED IN THIS DIOCESE May 23, 1959 (O) Hillyer Barnett Jackson, Jr. April 25, 1962 (R) Robert Morgan Shaw June 22,1962 (O) John Carter Powers August 15, 1963 (R) James Lloyd Mahan June 17, 1966 (O) Paul Michael Gilmore June 17, 1966 (O) Paul Copeland Ostrander June 21, 1969 (O) Max Bright Berry, Jr. June 16, 1970 (R) William Vincent Powell June 20, 1970 (O) Richard Elliott Brewer June 20, 1970 (O) Robert Hayden Fellows January 27, 1971 (R) Charles Homer Brown June 29, 1971 (O) Noel James Doherty June 23, 1974 (O) Mauldin Alexander Ray November 12, 1976 (R) Arlen Lowery Fowler, Ph.D. June 18, 1977 (O) John Roy Norris June 17, 1978 (O) Robert Justin Gates July16, 1978 (O) Thomas Leo Haifley June 17, 1979 (R) Kenneth Leon Armstrong July 31, 1979 (R) H. Daniel Edwards August 24, 1981 (R) Joe Ted Miller September 8,1982 (R) David A. Egbert October 18, 1982 (R) John P. Ryan November 1, 1982 (R) George Henry Back December 31, 1982 (R) Hal Greenwood February 8, 1983 (R) Howard Wilson July 25, 1983 (O) William Holly August 30, 1983 (R) Edwin L. Miller September 25, 1985 (R) Clyde Calvin Glandon February 13, 1987 (R) John E. Borrego January 22, 1988 (R) Halbert Daniel Edwards June 26, 1988 (O) Margot Lord Nesbitt, Ph.D. September 1, 1988 (R) John H. Marlin October 15, 1988 (R) Patrick Douthitt December 8, 1988 (R) -25- James Blagg March 17, 1989 (O) John David Norvell June 1, 1989 (R) Michael T. McEwen June 17, 1989 (O) Mary Esther Hileman, Ph.D. October 6, 1989 (R) Norman Alexandre June 22, 1991 (O) M. Susan Colley Joplin March 15, 1992 (R) Richard Burris June 13, 1992 (O) Lynn Griffith Borrego November 10, 1992 (R) Dwight Helt November 1, 1993 (R) Mary Davis February 4, 1994 (R) James Hunkins December 17, 1994 (O) Ernest Maddon April 11, 1995 (R) Patrick Bright December 13, 1995 (R) Clark Shackelford November 25, 1996 (O) Mary Lucia Walker January 1, 1997 (R) T. Lee Stephens, Ph.D. July 28, 1997 (R) Shelby H. Scott September 12, 1997 (R) Dale Petley April 22, 1998 (R) Haynes W. Dugan II July 1, 1998 (R) Kathleen Murray June 9, 1999 (R) Jo Anne Wright August 12, 1999 (R) Michael Jarvis December 19, 1999 (O) Carol McDonald Hampton, Ph.D. September 18, 2000 (R) Laddie Tlucek December 21, 2001 (O) Philip Lawrence January 14, 2002 (R) Michael Jasper July 9, 2002 (R) William B. Carlin II August 1, 2002 (R) Mark Story July 21, 2003 (R) Robert R. Evans June 30, 2005 (R) David Stock June 30, 2005 (R) Emily Schnabl July 1, 2005 (R) Steve Samples August 1, 2005 (R) Jack Wilcox December 21, 2005 (O) Jeffrey Huston December 21, 2005 (O) Cathy Metivier January 7, 2006 (O) John Rule January 7, 2006 (O) Stephanie Swinnea February 8, 2006 (R) Michael Glenn October 15, 2006 (R) Irving T. Cutter IV January 24, 2007 (R) Kristina Maulden July 14, 2007 (O) Charles Blizzard July 21, 2007 (O) Susanne Methven January 19, 2008 (O) Susan Lindley May 7, 2008 (R) José McLoughlin January 1, 2009 (R) Lisa A. Goforth -26- July 24, 2009 (O) Everett Lees July 24, 2010 (O) Joseph Farber July 31, 2010 (O) Stephanie Mitchell June 28, 2011 (O) Sylvia Shirley July 23, 2011 (O) Kirsten Baer July 23, 2011 (O) Timothy Baer July 30, 2011 (O) Joshua Blake Woods DEACONS June, 1966 (O) Gary Wayne Williams July, 1968 (O) James H. Easter 1974 (R) Andrew Palmer June, 1977 (O) Lois Gatchell June, 1984 (O) Gayle Bridges July 6, 1985 (O) James Knowles August 31, 1985 (O) Charles Woltz June 27, 1987 (O) Robert L. Bibens July 1, 1987 (O) Arthur Paul Scrutchins August 24, 1987 (O) Gary Lynn Templeton June 19, 1988 (O) James Paul Holley July 1, 1989 (O) Kay N. Conner Greenshields July 1, 1989 (O) Nancy English King July 1, 1989 (O) Norman Wesley Kiker July 2, 1990 (O) Stanley R. Upchurch July 2, 1990 (O) Charles E. Bradley June 29, 1991 (O) Lynn Christophersen Woodward June 27, 1992 (O) Dana Maynard Orwig June 26, 1993 (O) William Hesse June 24, 1995 (O) Judy Gann June 24, 1995 (O) Tomas Harrington June 22 ,1996 (O) Kay Boman Harvey June 21, 1996 (O) Steven Mallory June 21, 1997 (O) Anthony Moon May 30, 1998 (O) Carole Sue Clark June 19, 1999 (O) Beth Hill Bell June 19, 1999 (O) Helen Ann Waddle June 23, 2000 (O) Nancy Nabb Brown June 23, 2000 (O) Michele Duff Rahhal June 23, 2001 (O) Nancy Bridges June 23, 2001 (O) James Young June 22, 2002 (O) Gerald Butcher June 22, 2002 (O) Ed James June 21, 2003 (O) Karen Altebaumer Hansen June 21, 2003 (O) Alan Barrow June 21, 2003 (O) Murray McComas
June 19, 2004 (O) Steve Lewis June 19, 2004 (O) Patricia Kardaleff June 19, 2004 (O) Suzanne Mollison June 19, 2004 (O) Michael Trachman June 18, 2005 (O) John Belzer June 19, 2005 (O) Cindy Ritter June 24, 2006 (O) Doug Freebern June 24, 2006 (O) Mary Lord June 24, 2006 (O) Janet Schisser June 16, 2007 (O) Karla Dillon June 16, 2007 (O) Katherine Dutcher June 16, 2007 (O) Melissa Harris June 16, 2007 (O) Linda Paul June 16, 2007 (O) Robert Trammell June 16, 2007 (O) Nancy Wakely October 15, 2007 (R) Gregory Sinclair June 21, 2008 (O) Marilyn Robertson June 21, 2008 (O) Deborah Underwood June 20, 2009 (O) Doyal Davis June 12, 2010 (O) Bobby Saunkeah June 19, 2010 (O) Paul Snyder June 18, 2011 (O) Therese Ann Starr
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Convention 2011 – Minutes of the Meeting The Seventy-fourth Annual Meeting of the Convention of the Diocese of Oklahoma was held November 4 and 5, 2011 and hosted by St. Patrick’s, Broken Arrow. Business meetings were held in the Renaissance Hotel, Tulsa. The business meeting was called to order by the Rt. Rev. Dr. Edward Konieczny, Diocesan Bishop, at 9:00 a.m., Friday, November 4, 2011. A service of Morning Prayer, led by the Rev. Kirsten Baer, Curate, St. Patrick's, Broken Arrow, included installation of Delegates. The meditation was given by the Rev. Mary Ann Hill, Rector, St. Dunstan's, Tulsa. The Rev. Shelby Scott, Rector, St. Patrick's, Broken Arrow, welcomed the delegation. The Rev. Canon Susan Joplin, Secretary of Convention, certified the presence of a quorum. Canon Joplin moved that the following clergy, not canonically resident in the Diocese of Oklahoma, but who are licensed and/or serving on the staff of a congregation or the Diocese, be given seat and voice at this Convention: the Rev. Gary Baldwin - Interim, Emmanuel, Shawnee, the Rev. Don Bretz – Chaplain at Vance Air Force Base, Enid, the Rev. John Locke – Curate, All Souls', Oklahoma City, the Rev. Jenny Pratt – Interim, Holy Cross, Owasso, the Rev. Katherin Radach - Seminole and Holdenville and the Rev. Tammy Wooliver – St. David's, Oklahoma City. Hearing no objection, seat and voice were extended by Bishop Konieczny. Mr. Scott Hambrick, Chair of the Nominating Committee, nominated the Rev. Canon Susan Joplin for Secretary of Convention. Bishop Konieczny asked for nominations from the floor. Hearing none, he moved that Canon Joplin be elected by voice acclamation. The motion carried. Hearing no objection, Bishop Konieczny appointed Mr. Jack Wise Assistant Secretary of Convention. Mr. Henry Baer, Chair, Treasurer, reported on parishes and missions: those congregations whose parochial reports have not been filed, congregations whose audits have not been received and congregations in arrears on Diocesan assessments. -29- All congregations had filed their parochial report for 2010. The following congregations had not filed an audit report for 2010: St. Peter’s, Coalgate, St. Alban’s, Cushing, St. James’, Oklahoma City, Church of the Redeemer, Okmulgee, Church of the Ascension, Pawnee and St. Martin of Tours, Pryor. The following congregations had not paid their Mutual Ministry assessments through September 30, 2011: St. Paul’s, Clinton, St. Paul’s, Holdenville, St. Christopher’s, Midwest City, Church of the Redeemer, Okmulgee, Church of the Resurrection, Oklahoma City, Church of the Ascension, Pawnee and St. Luke’s, Tulsa. Bishop Konieczny quoted Canon 6.2.4 which states: A Parish or Mission failing to timely submit its audit report and financial statements is not entitled to Lay representation in Convention, unless the Convention specifically waives this prohibition. Canon 6.6.2 states: A Parish or Mission that has not paid its assessments through September of the current year is not entitled to Lay representation in Convention until all accrued assessments are paid, unless the Convention specifically waives this prohibition. Canon 6.8.2 states: The Parish or Mission submits its Annual Parochial Report to the Bishop of the Diocese, or, where there is no Bishop, to the Secretary of the Diocese by March 1. A Parish or Mission failing to timely submit its Annual Parochial Report is not entitled to Lay representation in Convention, unless the Convention, unless the Convention specifically waives this prohibition. Bishop Konieczny reminded the delegation that Convention must waive the prohibition for the Lay Delegates of these congregations in order for them to have seat and voice at this convention. The Rev. Steve McKee moved to waive the prohibition. The motion was seconded by Mr. Matt Livingood and carried by voice acclamation. The Rev. Canon Susan Joplin, Secretary of Convention, moved the Rules of Convention, as published in the Delegates Handbook, be the rules by which the business of Convention will be conducted. Bishop Konieczny asked for questions or clarifications needed. Hearing none, he ordered the Rule of Convention as published in the Delegates Handbook, be the rules by which the business of Convention will be conducted. (See Appendix I for the Rules of Convention.) -30-
The Rev. Canon Susan Joplin, Secretary of Convention, moved the Schedule of Convention, as published in the Delegates Packets, be the Agenda for the conduct of business of this convention. Bishop Konieczny asked for changes or additions to the agenda. Hearing none, he ordered the Schedule as published in the Delegates Packet be the agenda for the conduct of business of the Convention. Bishop Konieczny announced appointments to fill the Committees of Convention: Ms. Linda Brown – Dispatch of Business, Mr. Gary Derrick – Chair, Constitutions and Canons, Mr. Scott Hambrick – Chair, Nominations Receiving, Ms. Kris Bonner – Chair, Resolutions, the Rev. Canon Susan Joplin – Chair, Liturgical Committee for the 2012 Diocesan Convention; the Rev. Kirsten Baer and Robert Yadon – Committee to Approve the minutes of the 74rd Diocesan Convention; Suzanne Brown, Head Teller, Ms. Kathy King, Mr. Michael Bromiley, Mr. Fred DeMier, Mr. Jay Powell, Mr. Merrit Ford, Ms. Lisa Strickland, Mr. Calvin Warren, Ms. Becky Warren, Ms. Ashley Haggard, Mr. Jim Wamsley, Mr. John Hall, Ms. Julie Beard and Ms. Lisa Wagner – Tellers to the Committee on Conduct of Elections under the supervision of Assistant Secretary, Mr. Jack Wise, Ms. Linda Brown, Local Planning Committee Chair for the 75th Convention in 2012, working under the direction of Ms. Melanie Wignall, Acting 2012 Secretary of Convention. Bishop Konieczny declared the 74th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Oklahoma, to be organized for business. The Rev. Canon Susan Joplin, Secretary of Convention, reported that the minutes from the 73rd Convention of the Diocese of Oklahoma have been prepared and incorporated in to the Diocesan Journal and that the Committee to Approve the Minutes has certified that they are a true and accurate account of the events and business of the 73rd Diocesan Convention. She moved the acceptance of the minutes as certified and published. Bishop Konieczny, hearing no objections, ordered the minutes be approved. Ms. Linda Brown, Dispatch of Business, moved the Adoption of the Advance Reports, which had been provided prior to Convention, listing Program Divisions and all committees of the Diocese. The motion carried. -31- Bishop Konieczny introduced the clergy new to the Diocese: the Rev. Anita Slovak – All Saints, Duncan and the Rev. Tammy Wooliver – Part-time Vicar, St. David's, Oklahoma City. The delegation welcomed the new clergy with applause. Bishop Konieczny introduced those clergy ordained to the Priesthood since the 73rd Convention: the Rev. Kirsten Baer – Curate, St. Patrick's, Broken Arrow, the Rev. Tim Baer – Curate, St. John's, Tulsa, the Rev. Edmund James – Regional Supply to Poteau, Okmulgee and Wagoner, the Rev. Sylvia Shirley – Vicar, Christ Church, El Reno and the Rev. Blake Woods – Curate, St. Dunstan's, Tulsa. Bishop Konieczny introduced those clergy ordained to the Vocational Diaconate in June, 2011: the Rev. Therese Starr – Trinity, Eufala. The new clergy were welcomed with applause. Bishop Konieczny remembered the clergy who have died since last Convention: the Rev. Norman Alexander, the Rev. Patrick Douthitt, the Rev. Nancy King and the Rev. Jim Knowles. They were remembered with a moment of silence. Bishop Konieczny concluded the moment of silence with a benediction: May their souls and the souls of all the departed rest in peace. Bishop Konieczny welcomed current Postulants and Candidates for Holy Orders who were present at Convention: Tim Sean Youmans, candidate for Holy Orders - Nashotah House, Cyntha Gilks - 2nd year of Deacon Formation, Neal Servais - 2nd year of Deacon Formation. Bishop Konieczny introduced the Diocesan staff: the Rev. Canon Jose McLoughlin – Canon to the Ordinary, Mr. John Sorensen – Comptroller, Ms. Jeni Kaufman – Executive Assistant to the Bishop, Ms. Diane Ellsworth – Administrative Assistant to the Canon of the Ordinary, Ms. Sharon Miller – Payroll Administrator, Ms. Nancy Thompson – Insurance Administrator, Ms. Denise Phillips – Receptionist and Energy Royalties Administrator, Ms. Sabrina Evans – Director of Christian Formation, Ms. Charlene Fabian – Director of Stewardship and Planned Giving, the Rev. Nancy Brock – Missioner for Prison Ministries, and Mr. Bill Cathcart – Chancellor and Ms. Pat Wollenberg – Convention Coordinator. Mr. Scott Hambrick, Chair, Nominations Committee, reported on nominations. The following nominations have been submitted in accordance with the Diocesan Canons: -32-
Standing Committee - Clergy (One Clergy Member – three year term) – the Rev. Everett Lees; Standing Committee - Lay (One Lay Member – three year term) – Mr. Dale Billam, Mr. Stuart Chai and Mr. Field Griffen; Hearing no nominations from the floor, Bishop Konieczny declared the nominations closed. Bishop Konieczny announced the following appointments which require ratification by Convention and are for one year terms: Mr. William Cathcart – Chancellor, Mr. Henry Baer – Treasurer, Ms. Jeni Kaufman – Secretary of the Corporation and Registrar of the Diocese and Archivist – position is open and the Diocese is seeking applicants. All appointments were confirmed by voice acclamation. Bishop Konieczny announced the following appointments which do not require confirmation by Convention and are for one year terms: Mr. Henry Baer – Chair, Finance Committee (an appointment which requires approval of Diocesan Council), Finance Committee Members – Ms. Sharon Bell, Mr. Dale Billam, Mr. Stephen Parker, the Rev. Dr. Mark Story, Mr. Richard Clements; The Rev. Hal Greenwood – Chair, Commission on Ministry, Commission on Ministry Members – the Rev. Irv Cutter, the Rev. John Belzer, Ms. Judith Lewis, the Rev. Kristi Maulden, the Rev. Tony Moon, Dr. Steve Orwig, the Rev. Emily Schnabl, the Rev. Clark Shackelford and Mr. Chuck Steil; Board of Examining Chaplains – the Rev. Hal Greenwood, the Rev. Clark Shackelford, the Rev. Emily Schnabl, Dr. Judith Lewis and the Rev. John Belzer; Commission on Episcopal Schools – the Rev. Art Scrutchins – Chair; The following individuals have been nominated or elected as Regional Representatives: -33- Regional Deans, who have been nominated by the regions and appointed by the Bishop for three year terms: the Rev. Mary Hileman – Northwest Region, the Rev. John Norvell – Southeast Region; Regional Representatives elected to Diocesan Council for three year terms: the Rev. Mary Davis – Northwest Region Clergy Representative, Ms. Jackie Saylor – Northwest Region Lay Representative; the Rev. Steve Bilsbury – Southeast Region Clergy Representative, Ms. Ruth Dickinson – Southeast Region Lay Representative. Bishop Konieczny delivered the Diocesan Bishop’s address, thanking the delegation for their support and trust. He proclaimed the Diocese well and alive with 100% of congregations participating in the Mutual Ministry Support. Mutual Ministry support has been reduced from 21½ % to 18%. Bishop Konieczny presented the Bishop’s Cross award to the Rev. Bob and Georgia Gates for the sacrificial offering of themselves in the running of St. Crispin’s. They were presented with replicas of the Bishop’s pectoral cross which had been presented to him by the clergy at his Consecration as Bishop of Oklahoma. With St. Crispin’s as the heart and soul of the Diocese, the Diocese will be undergoing a capital campaign for renovation of St. Crispin's. Bishop Konieczny informed the delegation about important committee work within the Diocese: the Anglican Covenant Response Group, which has included all the Regions and the Committee to structure our partnership with the Diocese of Uruguay. A video tape of Bishop Tomayo, outgoing Bishop of Uruguay, was presented. Bishop Tomayo urged the delegation to continue in prayer support. A new Bishop will be elected December 9, 2011. Bishop Konieczny serves on the Budget and Finance Committee for General Convention. Barely over 50% of funds collected by the National Church are used for mission with the other 50% used for governance. He invited the delegation to send a resolution to General Convention supporting examination of the structure of the Church if the delegation is so inclined. Important events are coming our way in 2012, including a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, led by Bishop Konieczny, to which he invited the delegation. Next year is 75th anniversary of the Diocese, which will be celebrated at Convention 2012, at St. Paul's Cathedral, Oklahoma City. -34-
Bishop Koniecnzy's address was received by the delegation with a hearty round of applause. (See Appendix II for the Bishop’s address.) Ms. Linda Brown, Dispatch of Business, gave the announcements. Break - out sessions were announced: Partnering Opportunities with Uruguay – the Rev. Debra Jennings, Anglican Covenant – the Rev. Lee Stephens, Social Networking – Mr. Scott Hambrick, Christian Formation – Ms. Sabrina Evans and Our Aging Churches: Serving our Senior Members – the Rev. Dr. John Belzer and Dr. Alma Belzer.
Bishop Konieczny called upon Mr. Henry Baer, Treasurer, to present the budget for 2012. -35- Mr. Baer explained that the financial objectives of the Budget Committee are to review and evaluate programs, to preserve endowment resources and to allow new programs and initiatives to develop. Increases in the budget for 2012 include funding for new Diocesan programs, the addition of an Administrative Assistant and an anticipated addition of a Congregational Development officer. A decrease in expenses includes a $40,000 savings due to discontinuing the previous Diocesan newspaper and providing the Diocese with a new email communication system. An expectation of the budget for 2012 assumes all congregations will be faithful to the Mutual Ministry Support, a continuation of financial market appreciation and utilizing reduced endowment spending rate of 3.5% versus the previous rate of 5%. Following brief discussion, Bishop Koniecszny announced that the budget would be voted upon the following morning. Bishop Konieczny called upon Mr. Henry Baer, Treasurer, for a report on Mutual Ministry Support. Mr. Baer moved a rate of Mutual Ministry Support for 2012 be 18%. Bishop Konieczny announced the Mutual Ministry Support rate of 18% would be voted upon the following morning. Mr. William Cathcart, Chancellor of the Diocese, submitted and moved the following resolution: BE IT RESOLVED, that Bishop Konieczny be, and it hereby authorized to borrow from any bank approved by the Diocesan Council during 2011-2012 such amount of money as may be necessary for the administration of the program of the Diocese, provided that such amount shall not at any time exceed fifty thousand dollars. The motion was seconded and carried by voice acclamation. Mr. Scott Hambrick, Chair, Nominations Receiving Committee, gave the report on supplementary nominations. He reported that the previous nominations have been submitted in accordance with our Canons and that the Pages have distributed the biographical information on each candidate. -36-
There were no additional nominees. Bishop Konieczny reminded the delegation that only one candidate was on the ballot for Standing Committee, Clergy: the Rev. Everett Lees. It was moved and seconded that the Rev. Lees be voted by voice acclamation. The motion carried by voice acclamation. Mr. Jack Wise, Assistant Secretary of Convention, gave instructions on voting. Mr. Wise asked that the ballots be distributed to voting clergy and lay delegates. The ballots were cast. Mr. Wise reminded the delegation that all elections would be determined by the highest number of votes as designated in the Canons. Bishop Konieczny declared the voting closed. Bishop Konieczny asked various members of the delegation to give reports on activity in the Diocese. The Rev. Debra Jennings gave a presentation on our Diocesan partnership with the Diocese of Uruguay. She spoke of newly emerging projects which will reflect the new mission of our partnership. She invited congregations to build our partnership on the local level by sending Christmas cards to congregations in Uruguay. The Rev. Kristi Maulden, Trinity, Tulsa, gave a presentation on the Church Down-Under, a newly emerging Christian Education program at Trinity. The program features a participatory service which involves children in all parts of the service, including writing prayer cards and other physical means of being involved in their faith. A video was shown. Mr. Aaron Mooney, St. Crispin's Summer Camp Director, spoke on Lend-A-Hand ministry, which provides funds for camp scholarships. The camp experience is thriving, with additional programs being incorporated and children of the Diocese being provided with a supportive environment for their Christian development. With the increase of Camp fees, some campers are taking on projects to raise money to help with extra costs. A video was shown. Ms. Jessica Pfou, Executive Director of Ardmore Village, gave a presentation on -37- Ardmore Village, speaking of the vision of Ardmore Village, which is to provide high quality and affordable homes for seniors. Ardmore Village, with 180 seniors living on campus and directors that facilitate many activities, supports a capacity for growth at all ages. With seniors supplying a rapidly growing part of our population, she encouraged us to focus on seniors and older adult ministries. Ms. Linda Brown, Dispatch of Business, gave the announcements. Seeing no other business, Bishop Konieczny recessed the meeting at 1:55 p.m. For the remainder of the day, delegates attended break-out sessions, Convention Eucharist and an evening of dinner and fellowship. Bishop Konieczny reconvened the meeting at 9 a.m., Saturday, November 5. A lively service of Morning Prayer, led by youth of the Diocese, included a meditation by the Rev. Mary Ann Hill. Bishop Konieczny reminded the delegation that the ministry of the Diocese of Oklahoma includes not only parochial ministries but other kinds of ministries, including schools and retirement communities, which also spread the love of Christ. A video was shown on Oak Hall School, Ardmore, currently in search of a new Headmaster. In the loving and supportive environment of Oak Hall, Christian values are instilled in the students. Character building, incorporation of various learning styles and the spiritual and emotional well being of students are all carefully considered in the educational style of Oak Hall. The connection with community is highly valued. Many students are the recipients of scholarships. Ms. Lindsay Fick, President and C.E.O. of St. Simeon’s, Tulsa, gave a presentation on St. Simeon’s, a retirement community, caring for 180 residents. The primary focus of St. Simeon's is for the frail elderly, although a video shown on Western Day at St. Simeon’s, indicated an additional and more vigorous part of the population. The mission of St. Simeon’s is to provide the very best of care with a staff that has a heart for caring. The clergy of Tulsa are good supporters of St. Simeon’s. She thanked the Rev. Bill Holly, Chaplain. She thanked the Episcopal Church and especially Bishop Konieczny for his tireless support. -38-
Mr. Chris Bright, in his fourth year as Headmaster of Casady School, Oklahoma City, gave a presentation on Casady School. Casady School, founded in 1947, under Bishop Casady, has strong foundational ties to the Diocese of Oklahoma and has recently undergone a renovation of the Chapel. Mr. Bright thanked Bishop Konieczny for providing a strong direction in the Chapel renovation. The school, with a population of more than 850 students, shows a diversity of population. Financial scholarships are frequently given. Casady seeks to educate the entire child: mind, body and spirit, with faith and reasoning skills as complementary pursuits. Parents of students are strong supporters in the annual giving of Casady. Mr. Bright expressed pride in being part of the Diocese. A video was shown. Mr. John Marshall, in his first year as Head of School of Holland Hall, Tulsa, gave a presentation on Holland Hall. He thanked Bishop Konieczny, an active members of the Board of Directors. Holland Hall, founded in 1922, became affiliated with the Episcopal Church in the 1950’s. Enrollment in 2011is about 950 students, and is both economically and racially diverse, with ¼ of the population receiving scholarships and ¼ of the population being non-Caucasian. More than 10% of the seniors are National Merit achievers. In the future, the school will initiate a strategic planning initiative, revisiting what it means to be an Episcopal School. Holland Hall is focused on the values of Christ, although is religiously diverse. He thanked the Rev. Art Scrutchins and the Rev. Bert Bibbens for their involvement in the school. He thanked the Episcopal Diocese for support. A video was shown. Mr. Sonny Varela, Assistant Chaplain of Casady School, introduced the Rev. Canon Paul Jeffries,who brought greetings from Bishop McAllister College, Uganda. He spoke of the plight of so many orphans in Uganda and the struggle to attain an education. However, through the greatness of God's grace, many great things are accomplished. He thanked all from the Diocese of Oklahoma who have supported Bishop McAllister College through V.O.O.M. and B.A.R.D., saying those ministries continue to make a difference. The ministry of educating children of Uganda has grown immensely from the beginning of 48 students receiving an education. Presently, more than 700 children receive affordable education. From the beginning of one small office building, an entire campus has developed. On behalf of the children, he thanked the Diocese for loving them. A video was shown. Bishop Konieczny reminded the delegation that the Episcopal Church in Oklahoma is alive and well world-wide. -39- Ms. Kris Bonner, Chair, Resolutions Committee, gave a report on Resolutions. Resolution No. 1, Special Commission on Ministerial Structure and Strategy, which had been submitted on the previous day of business, had been submitted according to the Canons. The Rev. Bill Holly, author of Resolution No. 1, read the content of the resolution and moved the adoption of Resolution No. 1. Bishop Konieczny asked for discussion. Hearing none, he asked for vote by voice acclamation. Resolution No. 1 carried by voice acclamation. (See Appendix III for Resolution No. 1 in it's complete form.) Mr. Henry Baer, Treasurer, gave a report on the 2012 Budget. He offered clarification on scholarships for summer camp programs. He moved the adoption of the 2012 budget as presented. Bishop Konieczny reminded the delegation that due to the budget coming out of committee, adoption of the budget does not require a second. Hearing no discussion, the 2012 Budget was adopted by voice acclamation. Mr. Henry Baer, Treasurer, moved an 18% Mutual Ministry support for 2012. The motion passed by voice acclamation. The Rev. Dr. Lee Stephens, Chair of the Anglican Covenant Response Group, moved the endorsement and acceptance of A Response to the Proposed Anglican Covenant From the Diocese of Oklahoma. Bishop Konieczny explained that the task of the delegation is to affirm to the General Convention what is heard concerning the Anglican Covenant, by our Diocesan membership. Bishop Konieczny asked for comments and discussion. Hearing none, the endorsement and acceptance of A Response to the Proposed Anglican Covenant From the Diocese of Oklahoma was voted by voice acclamation. (See Appendix IV for A Response to the Proposed Anglican Covenant From the Diocese of Oklahoma in it's complete form.) Bishop Konieczny thanked the Covenant Review committee. A copy of the Oklahoma response will be sent to the Presiding Bishop, General Convention and Archbishop Rowan Williams. -40-
Canon Susan Joplin, Secretary of Convention, gave the election results: Standing Committee – Lay, Field Griffin. Bishop Konieczny recognized all who were newly elected and/or appointed during the 74th Convention, commissioning them according to the ministry to which they have been called. (See Appendix V for the Commissioning of the Newly Elected and Appointed liturgy.) Ms. Kris Bonner, Chair, Resolutions Committee, moved the adoption of the Courtesy Resolutions, which included a Resolution expressing appreciation and gratitude for Bishop Konieczny and Debbie Konieczny for their ongoing ministry and service to the Diocese. They received a hearty round of applause and a standing ovation. The motion to approve adoption of the Courtesy Resolutions carried. (See Appendix VI for Courtesy Resolutions in their complete form.) Bishop Konieczny thanked the Local Planning Committee of St. Patrick’s, the Rev. Shelby Scott, Rector and the people of St. Patrick’s. There were more than 100 volunteers involved in co-ordinating the Convention. Bishop Konieczny offered special thanks to those who had taken on leadership roles: Mr. Eric and Ms. Melanie Wignall, Local Planning Committee Co-Chairs and Ms. Suzanne Shepherd, Parish Administrator. He also thanked all the Chairs of Committees, the Rev. Mary Ann Hill, Chaplain of the 74th Convention and all those who had offered technical support and given assistance with translations. Bishop Konieczny thanked the Diocesan staff for their hard work and dedicated service throughout the year. He thanked the Convention Hotel for their help and assistance. Bishop Konieczny thanked the Rev. Canon Susan Joplin, who had served 8 years as Secretary of Convention and Ms. Linda Brown, who had served 9 years as Dispatch of Business, and presented each with the Bishop's distinguished service award. Bishop Konieczny also thanked Mr. Jack Wise, Assistant Secretary of Convention, Ms. Kris Bonner, Chair, Resolutions, Scott Hambrick, Chair, Nominations Receiving, Gary Derrick, Chair, Constitutions and Canons, Bill Cathcart, Chancellor and Pat Wollenberg, Convention Co-ordinator. He thanked the entire delegation, remarking on the good health of the Diocese of Oklahoma. -41- Bishop Konieczny thanked Debbie Konieczny for her support and love. Bishop Konieczny called upon the Rt. Rev. Steven Charleston, Interim Dean of St. Paul's Cathedral, to invite the delegation to the 75th Convention. The Convention will be held at St. Paul's Cathedral and the Reed Center, Midwest City. Bishop Konieczny thanked Bishop Charleston for accepting his invitation to serve as Interim Dean of St. Paul's Cathedral and for the leadership he has provided there and for his friendship in the House of Bishops. Bishop Konieczny announced that Ms. Melanie Wignall will be Acting Secretary for next year’s Convention. Ms. Linda Brown, Dispatch of Business, gave the final announcements. Mr. Jose Escalera announced the 25th anniversary of Santa Maria Virgen in 2012. He thanked Bishop Konieczny and the Diocese of Oklahoma for support and extended an invitation to the delegation for the Santa Maria 25th anniversary celebration. Bishop Konieczny adjourned the 74th Convention at 11:25 a.m. -42-
I hereby certify that the Minutes of the Meeting of the Diocesan Convention, 2011, as recorded in Journal Part Two, are an accurate representation of the business conducted at Convention.
___________________________________ The Rev. Kirsten Baer
Robert Yadon -43-
St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, Broken Arrow November 4-5, 2011
1. The Convention shall convene at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, November 4, 2011. 2. Presence on the floor of convention is limited to deacons, priests, and bishops who are canonically resident in the Diocese; licensed clergy in charge of congregations granted seat, voice, or vote; Lay Delegates elected to represent parishes, missions, affiliated congregations; or diocesan institutions; and nonvoting visitors who have been granted seat and voice. Any alternate desiring to substitute for an absent Lay Delegate must notify the Secretary of Convention of the change before taking seat. 3. Delegates desiring to address the Convention must do so from one of the microphones provided on the Convention floor. To use the motion to “move the previous question”, delegates must approach a microphone and be recognized in order. 4. When recognized by the Chair, the delegate shall identify himself or herself by name, congregation and city. Any person addressing the chair while Convention is in session shall address the chair as "Right Reverend Sir" if the Bishop is in the chair. If some other person is in the chair, the address shall be "Mr. / Madam President". (As President of the Convention, the Bishop may call to the chair any qualified person to relieve him temporarily.) 5. No motion shall be debated, or shall be considered as before the Convention, unless seconded and, when required by the Chair, submitted to the Secretary in writing. 6. To expedite the business of convention, discussion on any question shall be limited to five (5) minutes by the proposer and two (2) minutes by additional speakers, alternating sides. No person shall speak more than once on the pending matter until all other persons who so desire have had an opportunity to be heard, and unless given specific permission by the Chair. Any amendment on any question shall be limited to three (3) minutes by the proposer and two (2) minutes by additional speakers. The time for discussion shall be divided as equally as practical between the proponents and opponents of the pending matter. The Chair has discretion to allow additional time for discussion. -44-
7. The Chair, without debate, shall decide all questions of order, but any delegate may appeal such decision. A two-thirds (2/3) vote is required to reverse the Chair’s decision. 8. When a count is called for, the Chair may designate the use of red and green cards for counting purposes. Red and green cards are to remain in the possession of the voting delegate for the duration of the convention. 9. Voting by written ballot, voice, the use of red/green cards or otherwise, is limited to deacons, priests, and bishops canonically resident in the diocese; licensed clergy in charge of congregations granted seat, voice, and vote; Lay Delegates elected to represent parishes, missions, affiliated congregations; or diocesan institutions. 10. The Dispatch of Business must approve distribution of any printed material not included in the Convention packet. Leafleting and other distributions to delegates’ seats on the Convention floor are specifically prohibited. All submissions must meet the following criteria: a. 400 hard copies for distribution b. A PDF (Portable Data Format) file of the above for inclusion in the electronic record of Convention and for distribution to those who need that form. c. Large Print (minimum 18pt) form in hard copy or acceptable electronic format. 11. Nominations from the floor of Convention are received according to Canon 2.12.5 - "The Convention may nominate persons from the floor, if the Nominations Receiving Committee determines that their nomination meets the requirements of Section 2.12.3 and the nominee is canonically eligible." and 2.12.3. – "A nomination sets forth the nominee’s name and congregational affiliation, the office or position for which nominated, and a biographical sketch, not exceeding 500 words in length, setting forth: (i) the attainments that make the nominee a suitable candidate, (ii) whether the nominee is currently an incumbent of that office, (iii) the nominee’s willingness to serve if elected, and (iv) any statements the nominee may wish to make concerning issues and needs facing the Church in this Diocese." Each nominee from the floor must be prepared with 400 copies of the biographical sketch for distribution to Convention. 12. Candidates for uncontested seats may be elected by voice vote. 13. In contested elections, voting shall be by written ballot. 14. A plurality of valid ballots cast [in each Order, when required] shall be sufficient for election. 15. When procedure is not otherwise covered by the Constitution and Canons of the General Convention or of the Diocese of Oklahoma, or these Rules of Convention, Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised shall prevail. 16. A proposal to table will not be voted on until one person on each side of the main issue is given the opportunity to speak. -45-
17. The Chair of Convention may call for prayer at any time during deliberations. 18. Any of the above rules may be suspended by concurrence of two-thirds (2/3) of the members present and voting. -46-
74th Diocesan Convention November 4-5, 2011 - Broken Arrow, Oklahoma Bishop’s Address My sisters and brothers, Grace to you and peace in Jesus Christ our Lord! It is with great humility and affection that I stand before you this morning, in the fifth year of my consecration as your Bishop, to report to you on the State of our Diocese and the mission of our church in Oklahoma. I am constantly aware of the enormous trust you have placed in me; and pray daily that God will give me the wisdom and courage to fulfill the responsibilities of this office. Thank you for your continued support, I am honored to serve as your Bishop! The state of our Diocese is good! As I travel throughout Oklahoma visiting our various congregations and institutions I am assured of the good works and faithful commitment that each of you make to the mission of our church and serving others in the name of Christ Jesus our Lord. We can be confident that the Episcopal Church is alive and well in Oklahoma, and focused on the mission to: “Restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ”. Finances As we are all aware the last two years have been financially challenging. In 2009 we cut 22%, more than $1 million from the diocesan budget, requiring us to look more closely at the programs and ministries of the diocese; and to re-envision our mission practices. I am proud to say that even with these significant cuts, programs and ministries have not suffered, and in most instances have been enhanced with a renewed energy and commitment. This is a direct result of the faithful service of the Diocesan Staff and the leadership of our Diocese. In 2009 we implemented a new Mutual Ministry Support approach to the canonically required assessment of our congregations resulting in lowering an assessment rate of 21.5% to 18%. This lower rate has resulted in nearly $1million remaining in congregations for local ministries. I am proud to share that in this past year, 100% of our congregations have made some contribution through the Mutual Ministry Support. While not every congregation has been able to fulfill their full 18%, every congregation has participated. I want to thank all of you for your faithful effort in living into this new process. Historically the response to the Mutual Ministry Support has been around 95%; however, in 2010 that rate dropped to 92.3%. You have heard me say that my goal over the next number of years is to see the Mutual Ministry Support rate at 15%. We have been able to reduce the rate from 21.5% to 18% with budget adjustments, critical evaluation of our programs and ministries, and revised mission strategies. Finding the additional 3% reduction will take 100% participation of all our congregations at the full percentage and an intentional focus on church growth. -47-
In 2010, the diocese transitioned to new investment advisors to assist in the management of our endowment. We have been blessed in significant ways by those who have provided these resources. While the major portion of our endowment is restricted to ministry for the aged and education of our youth, resources do exist for the mission of the church. These resources have allowed us to partner with congregations to ensure access to the sacraments and appropriate pastoral oversight. In an effort to protect the endowment from the current volatility in the markets, we have consciously reduced the draw of funds from the allowed 5% to 3.5%. This conservative approach to use of the endowment will help protect the long range availability of resources. Budget Later this afternoon our Diocesan Treasurer, Mr. Henry Baer will present the 2012 Budget for your consideration. You will note that while the budget is mission oriented, it remains fairly constant from last year, increasing only 3.99%, or about $166,000. By reviewing every line item in the budget and making some adjustments, the Budget Committee was able to recommend a budget that actually expands programs for Youth, Young Adults, and Christian Formation. Direct support to Congregations, Clergy and Chaplaincies saw an increase from $1.2 to $1.32 million dollars. And, Funding in support of our Diocesan Schools and Ministry to the Aged at St. Simeon’s and Ardmore Village remained constant at the 2011 levels. In addition the budget provides for changes made in the Holy Orders and Aspirancy process to assist seminarians financially, support an enhanced program for Vocational Deacon Formation, and provide funds for the expansion of the formation program for Bi-Vocational Clergy to respond to the needs of smaller and rural congregations. A small merit increase for staff and executive compensation has also been recommended. St. Crispin’s At my request, the budget includes a continuation of $100,000 for operational support of St. Crispin’s. As you all remember St. Crispin’s experienced a transition in leadership two years ago. In February this past year we welcomed Joanne and Mike Roberts, along with their children, Parker and Sydney, as the new Directors of St. Crispin’s. Mike and Joanne bring a wealth of experience in the camp and conference center industry to our Diocese. Please stop by the St. Crispin’s Booth to say hello and welcome them to Oklahoma. You will also remember that during the time of transition we were blessed with the leadership and faithful commitment of Georgia and Fr. Bob Gates. As I shared with this convention last year, Bob and Georgia literally put their lives on hold when I ask for their help. -48-
Since becoming Bishop I have wanted to provide a means of recognition for those who have gone above and beyond in their service to our diocese. This past year I commissioned pewter replicas of the Pectoral Cross given to me by the clergy of this Diocese at my ordination and consecration. I am calling this recognition the “Bishop’s Cross” and can think of none more deserving to be the first recipients of the Bishop’s Cross then Georgia and Bob Gates. (Bob and Georgia would you please come forward.) (Present Bishop’s Cross)… For more than 50 years St. Crispin’s has been the Heart and Soul of our Diocese. The Camp Program has touched the lives of thousands of children and youth in and out of the Episcopal Church. We only need to look across this room to see the many faces of those who share the St. Crispin’s Community. Just a few months ago I ordained in the persons of Kirsten and Tim Baer, and Blake Woods, three individuals who found a part of their life formation at St. Crispin’s. St. Crispin’s has partnered with Camp New Hope to provide a safe environment for ministry to children of incarcerated parents; and with Royal Family who minister to children victimized by abuse and neglect. Past St. Crispin’s Community members have gone onto life vocations from clergy to teachers to business leaders to rappers… The ministry offered at St. Crispin’s is transforming and empowering the youth of our church and beyond. In 2008 I announced an anonymous gift of $1 million toward building new camp facilities at St. Crispin’s. With the economic downturn that followed the next year, we placed plans for new facilities on hold. This past year, under the direction of Sabrina Evans we gathered folks from across the diocese to envision a facility to meet the needs of our camp program today and into the future. Through that work we have developed a Master Plan for the whole of St. Crispin’s Camp and Conference Center; and specific plans for new Summer Camp Facilities. While we are still working with our committee, architects, and St. Crispin’s Board to determine the cost, I am announcing that in the year ahead we will begin a Diocesan Wide Capital Campaign for building new facilities at St. Crispin’s for the youth of our diocese. Once again I invite to go by the St. Crispin’s Booth and see the proposed Master Plan and renderings of the new facilities. It has been said that the youth are the future of our church. I believe that the youth are very much a part of our church today and it is incumbent upon us to provide the resources that will guide them in assuring there will be a church of the future. I hope that you will prayerfully join me in this effort… Anglican Covenant At our convention last year I asked every congregation to take time to study the Anglican Communion Covenant. The proposed covenant is in response to the Windsor Report that was issued following the controversies surrounding the consecration of the Bishop of New Hampshire in 2006. At our General Convention in 2009 a resolution was passed asking each diocese to reflect upon the covenant and offer a response to the General Convention in 2012. -49-
This past Spring I asked Dr. Donna Farrior, The Rev Mary Ann Hill, The Rev. Dr. Lee Stephens, and the Rev. Dr. Mark Story to form an Anglican Covenant Response Group and design a listening process to hear from the clergy and laity of our diocese. In eight, two hour sessions in all six regions of the diocese, members of our church gathered to share their thoughts, concerns and suggestions for the covenant. You have each received a copy of the response prepared following those gatherings. Obviously it is impossible to express every point of view in a document such as this; however I want to thank Donna, Mary Ann, Lee and Mark for their work and preparation of our response. Tomorrow morning we will take some time to discuss the response before it is sent to General Convention. Uruguay At our convention last year we were blessed by the presence of Bishop Miguel Tamayo and his wife Marta from the Diocese of Uruguay. With unanimous support we ratified a Companion Relationship Agreement formally establishing a companion relationship with the Diocese of Uruguay. Following our convention I attended the Annual Synod in Uruguay where they also unanimously ratified the agreement. Since then a companion relationship committee has been formed under the chairmanship of the Rev. Debora Jennings, Vicar of St. Basil’s, Tahlequah. This committee has worked to put a structure around how we will live into this new companion relationship. One of our immediate goals is for our congregations to identify a congregation in Uruguay with which to partner. One of the breakout sessions today is focused on our companion relationship. At that session you will be able to learn more about Uruguay and the Anglican Church there, as well as specific information about the various congregations and their ministries. In the next month we will be developing plans for the first mission trip to Uruguay next year. Information about this mission opportunity should be available after the first of the year. I want to also share that the Diocese of Uruguay will be electing a new bishop in just a couple of weeks. Bishop Tamayo has reached the age of mandatory retirement and must resign. I will be traveling to Uruguay to be present for the Bishop’s Election on Dec 9th followed by their Annual Synod Meeting on Dec 10th. Please keep the Diocese of Uruguay in your thoughts and prayers as they elect their new Bishop. Bishop Tamayo was not able to be with us today, but he sent us all a message. (Play Message) Holy Land Pilgrimage You will recall that in August of 2010 I led a group of 25 on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. For many in our group this was a life changing experience. In June of next year I will be leading another group on a pilgrimage. To date we have about 20 people registered. I invite you to consider joining us on this journey to explore, learn, and grow more deeply in our faith. Information for the trip can be found on the Diocesan Web Page. -50-
Over the last year I have attended a number of church wide meetings and events where we have tried to examine the larger structure of our church and our mission in the world. Parts of those conversations have focused on the hierarchy and governance of our church. Just as we have explored new ways to govern ourselves in this diocese, it is important for our church as a whole to reflect on more efficient ways to be the church. One of the key questions that have emerged is: are we living into being the Missionary Church we intend to be, or a church overburdened with bureaucracy? Did you know that the General Convention, the governing body of The Episcopal Church is the 2nd largest governing body in the world; Second only to the parliament of India. We are the largest bi-cameral governing body in the world. The Parliament of India governs 1.2 billion people. The Episcopal Church has responsibility for just at 2 million. It costs approx $15 million, $1million a day to hold General Convention; the cost to individual dioceses range from $30,000 to nearly $50,000 every three years. As one of my responsibilities in the House of Bishops I serve on the Program, Budget and Finance Committee of The Episcopal Church. In reviewing the current budget of the Episcopal Church in preparation for preparing a budget for the next triennium, it was pointed out that nearly 50% of the budget goes to administration and governance. The official name of The Episcopal Church is the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society, yet barely over 50% of the resources of the church are used for mission. At the House of Bishops meeting a couple of months ago a suggestion was made to ask the General Convention to create a task force or committee to examine the governing structures of our church and explore ways to help us be more mission oriented. Amazingly this suggestion has met with significant opposition. In a grass roots effort to encourage the General Convention to intentionally look at this issue, many Bishops are asking their diocese to send a resolution to General Convention in support of having a conversation around the structures of the church. Such a resolution was passed at our Province VII Synod meeting just a couple of months ago. I am one of the bishops that support the examination of our current church structures and would ask that if this convention is so inclined to add their voice to that support, we draft a resolution asking the General Convention to appoint a group to examine the structures of our church. Haiti When we speak of the larger Episcopal Church it is important for us to remember that The Episcopal Church resides in 16 nations. We often refer to The Episcopal Church as the National Church we when speak about our larger body. This is incorrect and lessens the presence of our sisters in brothers in Province Nine which represents other countries. -51-
One of those dioceses outside the United States is the Diocese of Haiti. You will recall Haiti suffered a devastating earthquake a couple of years ago. Since then that country has struggled to rebuild itself. The Episcopal Church is one of, if not the largest denomination in Haiti, with over 1million members and growing! The Episcopal Church has played a significant role in the effort to restore infrastructure, housing, provide food and water, and medical services. We here in Oklahoma certainly know what it is like to see entire neighborhoods, towns, or cities devastated in a matter of seconds. We are also very aware of the devastation experienced by our sisters and brothers in Joplin, Missouri; and our friends in Japan. I am very aware that in the last two years many of you have responded in extraordinary ways to provide support and relief to each of these places. This last year, The Episcopal Church launched an effort to raise funds to rebuild Haiti. Over the last few weeks you should have received information through your congregations of this effort. My request was that each congregation invites their members to contribute to Rebuild Haiti Project and that those contributions be brought to our convention Eucharist this evening so we as a diocese might join with others throughout our church in support of the people of Haiti. We have a short video that I would like to show you about this effort. Show Video We will collect your gifts of support this evening when we gather in worship and celebration. Looking Ahead Next year we celebrate our 75th anniversary as the Diocese of Oklahoma. The Episcopal Church in Oklahoma began as a Missionary District in 1837, becoming a recognized Diocese of the Episcopal Church in 1937; 175 years of Episcopal presence in Oklahoma! When we look at the history of Oklahoma, members of our church have been there at every turn. As teachers, nurses, doctors, laborers, business leaders, politicians, University Deans and Presidents, athletes, entrepreneurs, and everyday folks: without question the Episcopal Church can claim our place in the life and history of this great state. But, if we are going to continue to be that presence in the future we need to again emphasize the importance of focusing our efforts on strengthening and growing our congregations. We need to give ourselves permission to let go and be the church God is calling us to be today. The challenges that face our church today are not new in our generation. Those who have gone before us were challenged and struggled just as we do to follow where the Spirit is leading. I believe we can do it! I am encouraged when I look across our diocese and see congregations partnering with one another; when I see clergy and laity gathering together to be about the mission of the church; when I see the youth of the church reaching out and transforming lives. -52-
I am encouraged when I see our institutions and schools caring for the aged and educating our children. I am encouraged by the many who discern a call to ministry and offers themselves to service. I am encouraged when I visit our churches and experience the spirit filled commitment of the faithful. Whether it is a church of 5 or 500; whether we use Rite I or Rite II; the 1979 prayer book, or the 1928; whether it is classical hymnody or contemporary music, I am encouraged. For all the reports of the declining church; for the opposition to displays of faith in public; to the arguments for the separation of church and state, I am still encouraged… I am encouraged because as Paul writes, “neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present , nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” In Christ Jesus we have been given all things necessary to be His Church. I believe we are being called to boldly and unapologetically proclaim the Good News of God in Christ. I pray that God will give us the strength, courage, and wisdom to do so… -53-
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