Episcopal Church Women, Author at National Episcopal Church Women

Episcopal Church Women in the News 07-20-24

Episcopalians encouraged to apply for positions on church’s interim bodies for 2025-27

Serving on an interim body is a vital way for Episcopalians across the spectrum of our church to actively participate.

Sean Rowe: ‘I See Significant Changes’

What the next Presiding Bishop is going to do …

Religious Liberty Bars Priest’s Defamation Claim Against Bishop, Virginia Court Rules

A priest’s defamation claim against his bishop is barred by the religious liberty protections in the First Amendment

Cody’s First Church Was Built With Money Won In High-Stakes Poker Game

It all began one night in 1900 at Purcell’s Saloon where a lively, high-stakes poker game was underway.

Churchwide celebrations planned around July 29 to mark 50 years of women’s ordination to priesthood

Episcopalians across the church are preparing this month to celebrate those initial 11 trailblazing women

Kara Wagner Sherer ordained and consecrated 9th bishop of Rochester

“This ordination and consecration service is a celebration of a new ministry—my call to be your leader, pastor, and servant of your joy…”

Episcopal bishops respond to assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump, decry political violence

The way of love – not the way of violence – is the way we bind up our nation’s wounds.

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Episcopal Church Women2024-07-18T19:02:41+00:00July 18th, 2024|

Episcopal Church Women in the News 07-013-24

Only One Future

Bishop Rowe is a change agent who comfortably speaks the language of strategic planning and community organizing.

Durham Community Fridges Operate With a Spirit of Abundance

Community fridges tend to be set up as refrigerators, freezers, and food pantries where anyone can drop off or take food.

Tree removal at North Carolina church unearths centuries-old artifacts

The crew had hit something while digging up a pit for drainage underneath the stump.

Church Using Decades-Old Shattered Glass To Make Jewelry That Gives Back

The Phoenix Project has given $10,000 to Ukrainian refugees and $5000 to a church in Hawaii after the wildfires.

Vermont diocese’s ‘Green Mountain Abbey’ online community born in early pandemic days still thrives

It also serves as a place of formation, where Lenten and Advent studies take place

Orange Police Officers Do More Than Protect and Serve, They Make Dreams Come True

The women at Grace Episcopal Church and Community Outreach in Rutherford, N.J., assisted with prom dress selection.

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View Past Women in Action News Blasts

Episcopal Church Women2024-07-12T13:44:03+00:00July 12th, 2024|

Episcopal Church Women in the News 07-06-24

NECW National President, Lisa Bortner, Acceptance Speech Triennial 2024

Just as earthly parents are thrilled when we see our children flourish, I can only imagine how thrilled God is when we do His will.

Episcopal Church Revises Clergy Misconduct Protocols for Fairness, Transparency

“There’s been a lot of activity and action of distrust by the wider church, in the way Title IV has been adjudicated with bishops,” said Bishop Ian T. Douglas

ECW Celebrates 150 Years of Ministry

“Women are the backbone of the church,” Patterson said.

Laundry Love in Winter Haven helps those in need by paying for laundry

Other churches in the area are planning to join the movement.

Presiding bishop-elect to forego installation at National Cathedral

“God is calling The Episcopal Church into a new future, and this service will mark the beginning of that journey,” Rowe said’

81st General Convention finalizes reunion of the Diocese of Wisconsin

“The timing was absolutely right, and we paid attention,” the Rev. Jana Troutman-Miller, a deputy from Milwaukee, said in describing the diocese’s process

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Episcopal Church Women2024-07-05T20:24:15+00:00July 5th, 2024|

Lisa Bortner Acceptance Speech Triennial 2024

This is the transcript of National Episcopal Church Women’s National President, Lisa Bortner, at the Triennial 2024 closing ceremony.

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Just as earthly parents are thrilled when we see our children flourish, I can only imagine how thrilled God is when we do His will. I know today he must be really tickled to see how the National ECW is growing in love and developing new leaders in his church. Let us go out in joy to serve and do God’s work in our communities.

May the Holy Spirit empower us to use innovative avenues to reach out to help those around us to draw closer to God as we, ourselves, draw closer to him.

May the Holy Spirit have us listen to the voices of women worldwide.

May the Holy Spirit enable us to promote educational, spiritual, and social programs which minister to women and children.

May the Holy Spirit provide opportunities and tools to grow relationships with God and others through spirituality, prayer, and worship.

And may the Holy Spirit encourage the development of women’s leadership in stewardship, training, and education.

May we encourage and challenge each other as we leave Triennial.

Before we leave, I would like to share a few more ideas I will be asking the National board to work on. One is the creation of a speaker’s bureau that the dioceses and provinces can use to find qualified talent to present workshops and conferences.

The second is to reach out to Provincial and Diocesan ECW Presidents via Zoom to learn more about their specific needs. Together we will discover how the National ECW can better serve them.

The third builds on the second. We want to encourage and support our Diocesan Presidents to revitalize their organizations, especially those who have had difficulty restarting after the pandemic. . . This is not the time to draw back or be complacent. Now is the time to renew our energy, commitment, and resolve.

This is a time for HOPE.

ECW organizations at the diocesan level have been so important in building and unifying the church and can offer so much to Episcopal Church Women at the Parish level for spiritual growth. . . Now is the time to renew the Diocesan ECW organizations, in the name of Jesus Christ, with the help of the Holy Spirit and the blessings of God.

Perhaps pairing with a nearby Diocese that already has well established programs is the answer. Let’s make that happen!

Fourth, seeking out new women to take on leadership roles isn’t easy. We want to provide basic tools to enable finding, identifying, and involving new leaders. My husband says, “Look for the person who puts out the chairs.” New leaders are out there. I ask that God directs you to that next leader and puts it on each of your hearts to start a mentor relationship with one woman working toward a leadership role. – – –

Let’s take a second so you can think of who you could bless with this opportunity. – – – I am confident the relationships you develop will bless you both. I, myself, have been so blessed – both as a mentor, and especially as one who is receiving direction. When we leave here today, I want you to pray that God will direct you, and give you conversational opportunities with the specific person He has chosen.

Finally, this task will take some commitment on the part of each person here. Reach out to one person across the table from you and exchange contact information. Over the next three years, consistently pray for each other. When the opportunity arises, use each other as resources for further spiritual – or organizational growth. So please be intentional, as this is probably the most important thing I ask of you.

As I’ve said, if anyone is interested in serving on a committee, please contact me directly by email or phone. – – – If I see you setting up chairs, I may contact YOU!

Until we meet again at Triennial 2027, let us dwell on these words from Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Episcopal Church Women2024-07-05T19:30:02+00:00July 5th, 2024|

Episcopal Church Women in the News 06-29-24

Sean Rowe elected youngest presiding bishop in Episcopal Church history

The House of Bishops elected Rowe on their first ballot in a closed session.

Convention’s Official Youth Presence delegates represent future of the church

The 18 high school students making up the Official Youth Presence of the 81st General Convention have brought energy and fresh insight to the week’s proceedings

Mixed Support for Communion Across Difference in Deputies

Katie Sherrod of Texas testified that this provision was analogous to the “conscience clause” adopted by the House of Bishops

Deputies celebrate advance of Navajoland resolution creating missionary diocese

“Navajoland is ready for this next leap,”

House of Deputies President Julia Ayala Harris reelected on first ballot

The victory sends Ayala Harris to a second term

Episcopal youth gravitate toward Kentucky Night’s silent ‘Episco-disco’

Many of the youth attendees – as well as older ones – danced and sang around the cathedral’s nave during the “Episco-disco.”

Bishops Begin Adding Same-Sex Marriage Rites to BCP

Resolution A116 is the first reading for inclusion of a gender-neutral marriage rite into the Book of Common Prayer.

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View Past Women in Action News Blasts

Episcopal Church Women2024-06-28T13:56:21+00:00June 28th, 2024|

Arrival and Navigating General Convention 2024

View as Webpage | GCO Website

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81st General Convention –

Know Before You Go

We are less than a week away from the 81st General Convention of The Episcopal Church! Thousands of Episcopalians, exhibitors, guests and visitors will descend on Louisville, KY from June 23-28, 2024 and we are excited to welcome you. This comprehensive email has been prepared as a resource to help you prepare for the event. The General Convention website also has a comprehensive list of resources and information; you can also always email gc.support@episcopalchurch.org and a member of staff will be able to assist you.

Travel and Arrival

Before Traveling:

Please ensure you have the proper travel documents with you including a valid government issued ID (such as driver’s license or passport)
For international guests, please ensure you have your visa and supporting documents where applicable
It is advisable to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-3 hours in advance of your flight departure time.
For more information on staying safe and healthy on a business trip, please visit this website.

Upon arrival at Louisville Muhammed Ali International Airport (SDF):

Transportation has not been arranged from the airport to the hotel. The following options are available on the baggage claim level and we encourage you to Rideshare:

Taxi
Uber/Lyft
Ztrip is also available curb side, or call (502) 777-777
Buses – Ride like a local with Louisville’s Transit Authority of River City.

Hotel Arrangements

Please click on the links below to learn more about your respective hotel and the amenities they offer. Early check in and late check out requests are based on availability and cannot be guaranteed.

Galt House: 140 N. Fourth St, Louisville (3:00pm check in – 11:00am check out)
Hyatt Regency Louisville: 320 W. Jefferson St. Louisville (4:00pm check in – 11:00am check out)
Marriott Louisville Downtown: 280 W. Jefferson, Louisville (4:00pm check in – 11:00am check out)
Omni Hotel Louisville: 400 S 2nd St, Louisville (3:00pm check in – 11:00am check out)
Springhill Suites Louisville Downtown: 132 E Jefferson St, Louisville (3:00pm check in – 11:00am check out)
Fairfield Inn: 100 E. Jefferson St. Louisville (3:00pm check in – 11:00am check out)

At the Kentucky International Convention Center

Practical information

Louisville is a very walkable city and all hotels are no more than 2 blocks away from the Convention Center. We encourage you to wear comfortable walking shoes. A lightweight sweater, jacket or shawl is advised for the air-conditioned indoor environment.
Please click here for Louisville’s 10-day weather forecast and pack accordingly. Bring an umbrella or a raincoat in case of inclement weather.
In our ongoing commitment to practice loving and life-giving conservation, we ask that you bring your own refillable water bottle. Water filling stations are located at every restroom throughout the convention center.

Registration

Registration opens on June 21st at 9:00am in the South Foyer of the Kentucky International Conference Center. Access is through either entrance on the corner of 4th and Jefferson or 4th and Market street. The Marriott also has a pedway which leads directly into the South Foyer.

When registering, everyone will need to show photo ID and fill out a liability waiver and photo release. You can read the language that will be used on these forms here. Once you have obtained your credential, this will be your means of access into the Convention Center and all the official events. Please wear it at all times.

Exhibits

The exhibit area will run from June 21st to June 27th in Hall AB of the Kentucky International Convention Center. We have a SOLD OUT exhibit hall and invite you to visit, learn, browse, shop and enjoy a bite to eat at one of the concessions areas. To view the exhibitor map, click here.

Dining

There will be two concession stands in each corner of the exhibit hall serving lunch, along with a seating area to visit with others. There is a coffee bar, called the Oak and Brew located on the first floor which will serve coffee, breakfast items, and snacks. Please note that this is a cashless facility and accepts major credit, debit or tap-to-pay options. And if that doesn’t whet your appetite, there are many restaurants within a walkable distance from the Convention Center. Please visit the Louisville Tourism website to learn about the Best Places to Eat.

Worship with Us!

All are welcome to join us in the Ballroom at the Kentucky International Convention Center to worship each day of Convention. Anyone with a convention credential will have access. Anyone who isn’t registered to attend Convention and would like to participate in worship services can pre-register by completing this form and bringing their government issued photo ID and confirmation email to be admitted. Seating is limited and subject to availability on the day of the service, so please share with your friends and sign up! Worship Services will also be livestreamed on the GC Media Hub.

The bulletins for each worship services can be found here. Printed bulletins will not be available on site so we encourage you to print (if needed) ahead of time.
The Convention “All Y’All” Choir is open to anyone without audition and will be meeting an hour ahead of each liturgy in the worship space: Sunday, Wednesday and Friday at 7:30 in preparation for the 8:30 Eucharists and Monday and Tuesday at 8:00AM in preparation for the 9:AM Morning Offices. Thursday’s Morning Office is prayed separately in each House without choir.

Events

Events Calendar

The Official Schedule of General Convention can be found here.

An overview of all other associated and affiliated events can be found here.

Love. Always. Revival – Saturday June 22

All are invited to the Love. Always Revival on June 22nd from 7:00pm – 9:00pm at the KFC YUM! Center. Entrance to the Revival is by means of one of the following: convention credential and free pre-registration. If you haven’t yet signed up and would like to do so, please click here.

All bags are subject to search upon entering the arena. Backpacks of any kind, including drawstring, fanny packs, computer bags, and camera bags are prohibited. Bags no larger than 14″ x 14″ x 6″ will be allowed into the arena for events. Medical and parenting bags are permitted and subject to search. This is a cashless facility. Concessions selling refreshments and light snacks will be open.

Doors will open at 6:00pm.

Kentucky night – Monday, June 24th

Louisville is an experience like no other city, and to prove this, the Diocese of Kentucky has put together an exciting array of activities to showcase their town. From food truck rodeos, God Talks, Episco-Discos, Compline and Evensong, you can find out everything you need to know and register for any of these activities by clicking here.

Mobile App

Step into seamless event navigation with our cutting-edge mobile app! At the 81st General Convention, let the app be your personal guide, allowing you to discover interactive maps, exhibitor information, the full conference schedule, and the latest updates—all from the palm of your hand. This mobile app is compatible with iOS 14 and higher and Android 10 and higher.

Step 1

Search for the “Cvent Events” app on the iOS Apple App Store or Google Play Store:

OR

Scan the following QR code to download the “Cvent Events” app.

Step 2

Once downloaded, please search for “The 81st General Convention.” Then, download the event to the app.

When you’ve identified this event, it will automatically open when you select the Cvent Events app on your phone.

Don’t worry about logging in; the mobile application is available for all attendees!

Bishops and Deputies Only:

Floor Amendment Procedure

To streamline the process for accepting amendments from the floor, the General Convention Office has created a web form that any deputy or bishop can fill out.

iPad instructions

For all Deputies and Bishops, we have put together a video which provides you with helpful instructions on how to navigate the iPad. Please take the time to watch this video in advance of your arrival:

And last, it’s not too late to Volunteer!

Is your family traveling with you and looking for something to do? There are still spots available and we would love you to join us and become a part of our volunteer family! Click here to sign up and learn more!

We look forward to seeing you in Louisville shortly. Thank you for the time you are taking to join us for this important gathering of our church!

The Executive Office of the General Convention

The Rev. Canon Michael Barlowe, D.D., Secretary of the General Convention and Executive Officer

Ms. Betsey Bell, Executive Assistant to the Executive Officer

The Rev. Carrie Combs, Legislative Data Specialist

Ms. Iris DiLeonardo, Data Specialist and Meetings Assistant

Mr. Patrick Haizel, Deputy for Administration and Operations

The Rev. Molly F. James, Ph.D., Deputy Executive Officer of General Convention

Ms. Brittney Laws, Meeting Coordinator

Ms. Jennifer Mendez, A dministrative and Language Specialist

Mr. Brian Murray, Governance Technology Specialist

Ms. Fiona Nieman, CMP, Deputy for Convention and Meeting Planning

Ms. Twila Rios, Manager of Digital Information Systems

Executive Office of the General Convention website

About the General Convention | Staff of the Executive Office of the General Convention

Episcopal Church Women2024-06-14T14:16:00+00:00June 14th, 2024|

Episcopal Church Women in the News 06-15-24

Title IV matters involving presiding bishop candidates

Over the past year, many bishops, other clergy, and laypeople have called for greater transparency in our processes that address bishop misconduct.

‘Needful for This New Time’

Presiding Bishop Michael B. Curry weathered six hospitalizations in a year — three brain surgeries…

Episcopal Church Community Builds Interfaith Relationships in Challenging Times

Another participant talked about religious diversity within her family and the joys and challenges of keeping everyone together at the same table.

‘A Case for Love’ to be screened during General Convention, available for rental in October

The feature-length documentary “A Case for Love,” inspired by and featuring Presiding Bishop Michael Curry…

Prayer Book, Liturgy & Music committees hear testimony on Indigenous boarding schools, creation commemoration

South Dakota’s Diocesan Convention in 2022 originally proposed C032, which addresses the need for recognition of and remorse for The Episcopal Church’s role

Latino Episcopalians express hope for church’s future at Nuevo Amanecer

The Episcopal Church isn’t “dying,” but instead “the demographics are changing,”

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View Past Women in Action News Blasts

Episcopal Church Women2024-06-14T13:35:17+00:00June 14th, 2024|

La Plaza Edición de la Trienal 2024

La Plaza Edición de la Trienal – 2024

Dennis Clark, PPP

Parlamentario de la NECW

Este año 2024 marca los ciento cincuenta aniversarios de las reuniones Trienales de la Iglesia Episcopal de Mujeres a nivel nacional (NECW). La sociedad fue autorizada por la Convención General de La Iglesia Episcopal en 1871. Una serie de estatutos fueron adoptados ese mismo año con la primera reunión trienal llevada a cabo en Nueva York en 1874.

El evento del aniversario número ciento cincuenta se conoce como la celebración del sesquicentenario. Aprendí el término cuando el estado de Texas tuvo su celebración en 1986. 150 años antes, el general Sam Houston derrotó al general mexicano Santa Anna en la Batalla de San Jacinto, dando origen así a la República de Texas.

La reunión de la NECW en Louisville este verano en realidad será la sexenal debido a la cancelación de la reunión de 2021 debido a la emergencia de COVID. Esta será una reunión importante ya que los miembros, por primera vez en seis años, tendrán la oportunidad de seleccionar nuevos funcionarios y otros miembros de la junta nacional, y de esa manera proporcionar la dirección requerida a la asociación durante los próximos tres años. Dicho esto, se anima a las Diócesis a enviar los nombres de los delegados y suplentes de forma oportuna. Si se tiene alguna pregunta sobre este proceso, comuníquese con su representante de distrito o con cualquier funcionario de NECW.

Además de elegir nuevos funcionarios y miembros de la junta, se pedirá a los delegados que voten sobre cambios a los estatutos al igual que las resoluciones que podrían brindar la orientación debida a la junta nacional en el próximo termino de tres años. Quizás lo más importante es que será una oportunidad para que los asistentes se reúnan, adoren juntos y compartan ideas sobre cómo las diócesis de todo el país y más allá están cumpliendo con la misión de la asociación; que es empoderar a la Iglesia Episcopal para llevar a cabo la obra de Cristo en todo el mundo.

Se vaticina entonces que los delegados y suplentes hayan estudiado las posiciones de los candidatos y las modificaciones estatutarias a presentar. Los cambios propuestos a los estatutos se pueden encontrar en el sitio web de la NECW. Los candidatos a cargos públicos también serán presentados en varios lugares al igual que sus direcciones en la reunión.

También habrá una sesión informativa para delegados/suplentes al comienzo de las reuniones, así como un taller sobre procedimiento parlamentario durante la conferencia donde se podrán responder preguntas y se podrá disponer de información sobre cómo los delegados pueden hacer aportes y abordar adecuadamente las cuestiones que se les presenten de la manera que ellos así lo elijan.

Al reunirnos por la 150ª vez como una fuerza vital e impulsora para mejorar la suerte de la humanidad, ajustemos nuestras palabras y nuestras acciones al llamado del apóstol Pablo en la Primera carta a los Corintios 14:40: “Sean todas las cosas hechas decentemente y en orden”.

Episcopal Church Women2024-06-13T18:36:56+00:00June 13th, 2024|

The Square Triennial Thoughts 2024

The Square

Triennial Thoughts

Dennis Clark, PPP
NECW Parliamentarian

The year 2024 celebrates the one hundred and fifty-fourth anniversary of the National Episcopal Church Women. The society was authorized by the General Convention of the Episcopal Church in 1871. A set of bylaws was adopted that same year with the first Triennial meeting being held in New York in 1874.

The one hundred-fiftieth anniversary event is referred to as its sesquicentennial celebration. I learned the term when Texas had its celebration in 1986. 150 years earlier, Gen. Sam Houston defeated Mexican General Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto, thus birthing the Republic of Texas.

The NECW meeting in Louisville this summer will actually be a sexennial because of the cancellation of the 2021 meeting due to the COVID emergency. This will be an important meeting since members, for the first time in six years, will have an opportunity to select new officers and other members of the national board, and to help provide direction of the association for the next three years. Dioceses are encouraged to submit the names of delegates and alternates in a timely fashion. Should there be any questions about this process kindly contact your district representative or any NECW officer.

In addition to electing new officers and members of the board, delegates will be called upon to vote on changes to the bylaws and perhaps vote on resolutions which might provide direction to the national board in the coming three-year term. Perhaps more importantly, it will be a chance for attendees to meet together, worship together, and share ideas of how dioceses across the nation and beyond are fulfilling the mission of the association; which is to empower the Episcopal Church to carry on Christ’s work throughout the world.

It is anticipated then, that delegates and alternates will have studied the candidate’s positions, and the bylaws amendments to be presented. The proposed bylaws changes can be found on the NECW website. Candidates for office will also be introduced in a number of venues as well as their addresses at the meeting.

There will be a delegate/alternate briefing at the beginning of the meetings as well as a workshop on parliamentary procedure during the conference where questions can be answered and information made available as to how delegates may properly provide input and address issues to come before them, as they so choose.

As we meet together for the 150^th time as a vital, driving force in the improvement of the lot of mankind, let us square our words and our actions with the call of the apostle Paul in First Corinthians 14:40, “Let all things be done decently and in order.”

Episcopal Church Women2024-06-13T18:34:25+00:00June 13th, 2024|

Workshops 2024

Triennial 2024 Workshops

Monday 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Monastic Communities in a New World
Sister of the Way, Susan Moore

Church Periodical Club
The Rev. Deacon Judy Graves

Soul Connections for the Journey
Christina Butterworth, Episcopal Community

Episcopal Relief Development
Tamara Plummer

Tuesday 10:30 am to 11:30 am

Dancing with the Spirit: Healing through Music
The Rev. Belle Michaelson

Church Women United: Social Justice
Mira Washington, MSL ,CWU National President

Leading with Heart: Reignite your ministry
Evita Krislock

Episcopal Women’s History Project is For All of Us
The Rev. Dr. Jo Ann Barker

Wednesday 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

Caregivers in Today’s World of Alzheimer’s
Marge Burke

Girls Friendly Soc: Raising Awareness, Taking Action
Amber Buck

Science of Conducting Efficient Meetings: Part 1
Dennis Clark, Parliamentarian

Leading with Heart: Implementation
Evita Krislock

Thursday 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

The Beauty Way – Hozho Naah shaado
The Rev. Leon Sampson

Episcopal Coalition for Racial Equity and Justice
Ryan Kusumoto

Science of Conducting Efficient Meetings: Part 2
Dennis Clark, Parliamentarian

Art Empowers
Rebecca ‘Becca’ Gardner

Episcopal Church Women2024-06-13T18:20:25+00:00June 13th, 2024|

Episcopal Church Women

About Episcopal Church Women

Bishops and Deputies Only:

La Plaza Edición de la Trienal – 2024

The Square

Triennial 2024 Workshops