Diocesan Profile - Episcopal Maryland Bishop Search 2022

PROFILE FOR THE XV BISHOP OF MARYLAND

A Prayer for Our Bishop Search Almighty God, giver of every good gift, look graciously upon your church and so guide the minds of those who shall choose a bishop coadjutor for this diocese, and those who offer themselves as candidates, that we may receive a faithful pastor who will care for your people and equip us for our ministries through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

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PROFILE FOR THE XV BISHOP OF MARYLAND Table of contents Welcome Letter.................................................................................................................. 1 Who We Are........................................................................................................................ 2 What We Do........................................................................................................................ 6 History.............................................................................................................................. 10 Finances........................................................................................................................... 12 What We Are Looking For In A Bishop............................................................................. 14 Strengths, Challenges, Hopes, and Dreams.................................................................... 16 What Is Needed To Apply To Be Our Next Bishop Coadjutor......................................... 18 Timeline............................................................................................................................ 18

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List of Search Committee Members CO-CHAIRS

Randy Callender+ Co-Chair, St. Philip’s, Annapolis Victoria (Vicki) Willard Co-Chair, Trinity, Elkridge Monique Ellison+ Chaplain, St. Matthias Baltimore & Church of the Messiah, Baltimore Judy Stark Consultant Jeffrey Ayres Church of the Redeemer, Baltimore Terrell Boston-Smith Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Baltimore Margaret S. Brack+ St. Thomas, Hancock Nathaniel (Nat) J. Gibson, II+ The Episcopal Church of St. Michael & All Angels, Baltimore Sally Goss St. John’s, Ellicott City R. Matt Humm+ St. Paul’s, Prince Frederick Amanda Morell St. James, Baltimore Jane O’Leary+ St. John’s, Havre de Grace Jessica (Jess) Sexton+ Trinity, Long Green William (Will) Shaw Church of the Holy Comforter, Lutherville Joan Shisler Middleham and St. Peter’s, Lusby M. Dion Thompson+ St. Anne’s, Annapolis +

after the name denotes clergy member

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Dear Friends: The Search Committee in the Diocese of Maryland invites your consideration of our profile as we seek a bishop coadjutor who will become our 15th diocesan.

In the following pages we share with you what we have learned in many months of listening sessions, a detailed survey, conversations with committees, governing bodies, and leaders of our diocese, and our own deep prayer and discussion.

We look forward to discerning with our candidates who will be the bridge-builder we seek, above all, someone in love with Jesus Christ who is eager to bring the Good News to our traumatized, post-Covid world.

Our next bishop will unite us in a new vision of what the Church can be…will excite and inspire us…and will bring together a diverse diocese that is divided geographically by mountains, water, and distance; someone who generates energy and creativity to move our congregations toward vitality and health; someone who inspires, motivates, and expands our pool of current and future leaders.

Of course, we hope our next bishop will be an Orioles and Ravens fan and will enjoy our fine Chesapeake Bay seafood and the mountains of western Maryland as much as we do.

We invite you to discern the future and dream with us.

The Rev. Randy Callender

Ms. Victoria Willard

Bishop Search Committee Co-Chairs

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Who We Are

ALLEGANY

WASHINGTON

The Diocese of Maryland

CECIL

CARROLL

HARFORD

GARRETT

you not perceive it?

The Diocese of Easton

BALTIMORE

FREDERICK

I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do

BALTIMORE CITY

ISAIAH 43:19

A new era is upon us. For more than two years we

ANNE ARUNDEL

MONTGOMERY

have labored under the shadow of Covid-19. There

The Diocese of Washington

KENT

HOWARD

QUEEN ANNE’S

has been lamentation and loss, deep reflection, and reassessment. Questions abound. Who are we?

TALBOT PRINCE GEORGE’S

Where have we been? Perhaps most importantly, Where do we want to go?

CHARLES

CAROLINE

CALVERT DORCHESTER

You’ll find answers to those questions in this profile.

WICOMICO ST. MARY'S

It is a journey through the life, mission, and min-

WORCESTER

istry of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland. You will

SOMERSET

read about our challenges and failures, our joys, and moments of celebration. You will also come away with a glimpse of the incredible and diverse followers of Jesus Christ who call this diocese their home. God

Regions While the land area of the Diocese of Maryland appears small, it draws from a robust variegation of culture and regionalisms which include coal country, an industrialized port city, fishing and waterperson culture, as well as a complex history of agriculture.

Our landscape ranges from the Chesapeake Bay and the Allegheny Mountains to the urban streets of

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Maryland is a state that hospitably welcomes

You could start your morning in the coal country

anyone who decides to make this great state their

of Western Maryland, take in an afternoon at Fort

home. We have many colleges and universities,

McHenry in Baltimore, then dinner in historic

sports teams, research centers, museums, world

Annapolis, before calling it a night in a cozy bed-

renowned hospitals, and great schools. Aquariums,

and-breakfast in Southern Maryland.

science centers, parks, beaches, zoos, mountains,

You can call Maryland “America in Miniature.” As a border state, Maryland offers cultural aspects from both the North and the South. While many Marylanders have deep roots and a strong sense of family connection to the state over many generations,

and options to experience forms of history, music, and art, are just a few of the variety of “things to do” depending on where you find yourself in the state of Maryland. We have so much to offer anyone who lives here or visits here. We have whatever you are looking for. Come join us.

PHOTO: BRIAN FLORENCE

into our world.

Baltimore and the horse farms of Harford County.

PHOTO: NICHOLAS_T

shepherd to help us see it, nurture it, and bring it

PHOTO: LET IDEAS COMPETE

is doing a new thing in our diocese and we need a

Congregations

and sexual orientations, political affiliations, and

the dignity of all of God’s children. As the Psalmist

Along the way you’ll pass a few of the 104 parishes

theological perspectives find a home in our diocese.

said: “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name

and missions in our diocese. Some welcome hundreds of worshipers on a Sunday morning, while in others a few dozen gather to praise God. Each has its own story to tell. Each one has their own traditions.

Some date back to the original colonial charter of 1632. Others are new incarnations, bringing together Lutheran and Episcopal parishes, recent mergers, and innovative approaches to ministry.

As members of the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement, we rejoice in our common purpose. We are the Body of Christ. Rich and poor, all races

While our ground and roots are Episcopalian, our worship and liturgy flower and flourish in the soil in which they have been planted. High Church, Low

we give glory,” for we know that it is only with God’s help that we are able to do these amazing things.

Church, Broad Church, all of these expressions of

Diversity is the heartbeat of our congregations but,

liturgical piety and more are here. Our faith is cen-

urban, rural, small, or large we have a common

tered on the Good News revealed in Holy Scripture

goal. We hope to welcome all God’s people who feel

and made real in the life, death, and resurrection of

the call to come through our doors.

Jesus Christ.

You can read our parochial report here.

The Baptismal Covenant helps guide us as we proclaim the gospel by word and deed, seek and serve Christ in all persons, strive for justice, and respect

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Clergy Clergy Priesthood

encourage the servant ministries of all, inspiring

The relationship between our priests and the

diocesan level, deacons serve on commissions,

bishop should have a unique blend of collegiality,

committees, and task forces. They provide prophetic

trust, transparency, and engagement. Our priests

voices and leadership for a range of initiatives

expressed that while the bishop coadjutor observes

including (among many) Truth and Reconciliation,

the current status of the diocese it is important

Reading Camps, Sutton Scholars and the Maryland

that they develop a clear vision for the future

Episcopal Public Policy Network.

that will allow the Diocese of Maryland to thrive.

Collaborative ministry and support are appreciated.

Multi-level communication between the diocese, priests, and congregations is paramount. Developing trust comes with recognizing the past, addressing issues that require healing, and moving forward. The priests seek a leader who is inspirational, spiritual, and intentional in reaching out and working together with them and their congregations to show that The Episcopal Church can still be influential, powerful, and strong in faith. We need someone who will inspire the relevance of the church for people in today’s culture.

Diaconate

from their role in liturgy and preaching. On the

Statistics There are 306 clergy (priests, bishops, and deacons) canonically resident, active and retired, in the serve as chaplains in schools, hospitals and prisons and others serve in diocesan outreach ministries

positions. “We are engaged in the exciting holy adventure of leading the People of God out to transform the world,” said one Deacon, emphasizing how deacons point the Church outward to address suffering and injustice. In parishes, deacons build leadership for community engagement and

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40 40 36

35

30 29

20 10

12

0

≤10

10–20

20–30

30–40

40–50

50+

Note: Only for canonically resident clergy ordained in the Diocese of Maryland.

total canonically resident clergy: 306 canonically resident bishops: 4 canonically resident priests: 246 canonically resident vocational deacons: 54

AGES OF CANONICALLY RESIDENT CLERGY

150 146

125

canonically resident transitional deacons: 2 canonically resident retired clergy: 155

ministers in congregations and diocesan leadership

50

CANONICALLY RESIDENT CLERGY (AS OF JAN 1, 2022)

Diocese of Maryland with 54 vocational deacons

appoints deacons to serve as non-stipendiary

63

or other non-parochial capacities.

(due to be ordained priest in June 2023)

supportive oversight of archdeacons. The bishop

60

diocese. Most serve parishes and missions. Some

The Order of Deacons is alive and well in the serving under the authority of the bishop with

YEARS OF ORDAINED MINISTRY

70

(51% of resident clergy)

100 75

83

canonically resident retired bishops: 2 canonically resident retired priests: 112 canonically resident retired deacons: 41 gender of canonically resident active clergy:

76 women, 76 men, 1 gender neutral person race of canonically resident active clergy:

12 women of color, 10 men of color clergy couples (including multi-denominational): 23 clergy couples (Episcopal only): 19

62

50 25 13

0

≤40

40–60

60–72

72+

Diocese of Maryland Demographic Data Data based on 2020 Parochial Reports OVERALL PARISH INFORMATION total parishes and missions: 104 federated congregations: 6

■ 4 Episcopal/ELCA partnerships ■ 1 Episcopal/ELCA/ PCUSA ■ 1 Episcopal/ Episcopal Diocese of Nakuru, Kenya imperiled congregations: 2 congregations in transition: 13

congregations with only part-time clergy: 29 Note: does not include congregations sharing a full-time cleric

DISCERNMENT

schools in the diocese: 17

is very important in our diocese. Traditionally,

CONGREGATIONAL ATTENDANCE average church membership: 313 congregational membership ranges (2019): 23–2276 congregational membership ranges (2020): 16–2337

Discernment of one’s call to ordained ministry our bishops have taken a proactive role in this process, and we would expect our next bishop coadjutor to do likewise. Approximately 51 priests and 42 deacons in our current Clergy Directory went through our Diocesan Discern-

overall diocesan sunday attendance (2019): 8455

ment Process. Many other clergy went through

overall diocesan sunday attendance (2020): 8270

our process and serve outside our diocese. Still

average sunday attendance ranges (2019): 15–448

others have participated in our process and

average sunday attendance ranges (2020): 14–442

discerned that their true call is to the ministry of the laity. We are proud of our discernment processes and results, which are important to us.

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What We Do Mission & Ministry in the Diocese Our diocese has much to be proud of that provides great opportunities to enrich our ministry together.

The Bishop’s Annual Ministries Appeal is an annual call for people throughout the Diocese to support specific ministries that offer hope to those in need in our own backyard. While we hope our new bishop will consider supporting these ministries, we know there will be opportunities to adopt new ministries as well. Some of the ministries supported are:

THE CLAGGETT CENTER

The Claggett Center, located in western Maryland, has been a retreat and conference center for mission and ministry for our diocese since 1952.

THE SUTTON SCHOLARS

Set on over 220 acres in Adamstown, Maryland, along the Monocacy River, Claggett offers a variety

The Sutton Scholars® High School Enrichment Program helps Baltimore youth become confident, competent individuals by teaching them life skills necessary to develop socially and emotionally in order to achieve academic, workplace, and personal success. This was one ministry that almost everyone commented we should continue. Some suggested we expand this program to include more of the diocese than just Baltimore City.

of accommodations to serve not only guests, campers, and diocesan events, but also hosts a multitude of secular and religious non-profit groups including educational institutions and social justice organizations. Adults and youth give Claggett high praise as a place where they can find joy and peace. Raising the Barn is a capital campaign to renovate one of the most iconic buildings on campus. The project will create sacred space on the barn’s main floor and provide meeting room for 273 people with modern accessible amenities.

Renovations to the lower level will provide dining for 192 people. The first round of fund raising, launched last summer, has already raised more than 80% of its $3 million goal.

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BALTIMORE INTERNATIONAL SEAFARERS’ CENTER (BISC)

READING CAMP

Baltimore International Seafarers’ Center (BISC) is an interfaith ministry rooted in the tradition

MARYLAND EPISCOPAL PUBLIC POLICY NETWORK

We are a safe place to learn and grow in new skills.

The Maryland Episcopal Public Policy Network is

Reading Camp provides tutoring in a day camp set-

an advocacy program. We join the words “Faith”

ting to strengthen children’s reading and writing.

and “Justice” into a single term to reflect our belief

Qualified, caring volunteers offer comprehensive

that faith and justice are intimately bound together.

reading and writing support for elementary school

God calls us—as individuals and as communities—

children in an environment filled with love, healthy

to act on behalf of the vulnerable, weak, and

food, and lots of fun.

of Christian hospitality, believing in unconditional love of God for all people and demonstrating this love thought a commitment to serving the personal and spiritual needs of seafarers in the Port of Baltimore.

oppressed. Through working together, we ask people of faith to revisit and renew their commitment to the Gospel and the common good by helping to promote the legislative priorities of our diocese.

The Episcopal Chaplaincy to Johns Hopkins

GREENGRACE

Hospital is a longstanding collaborative effort between the hospital and the Diocese of Maryland, providing emotional and spiritual support to patients, families, and staff. The Johns Hopkins

THE COLLEGE FOR CONGREGATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

in Baltimore. Providing spiritual care to patients and their caregivers in a hospital setting gives students invaluable hands on chaplaincy experience while developing their pastoral skills.

to love God and our neighbors. GreenGrace Ministry emphasizes the interconnectedness of all of us with

Academic Medicine System has the only accredited Association for Clinical Pastoral Education program

GreenGrace is an expression of the commandments

The College for Congregational Development is a comprehensive training program that seeks to nurture and develop congregational development practitioners from within existing parish lay and clergy leadership in order to help support parishes live into their calling, face challenges, and build connections between congregations.

the environment and the impact spiritual leaders and volunteers can have in promoting the need for climate action, environmental literacy, and care for creation supporting a healthful environment.

Our new bishop should appreciate the need for environmental justice and help us move forward in that direction.

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YOUTH MINISTRY

Youth Ministry is a vital part of diocese. Our youth are eager to have their voices heard and find ways to participate in the life of the diocese. The new bishop should be receptive to harnessing their energy and helping to cultivate these future leaders. This year members of the Maryland Episcopal Public Policy Network’s Youth Advocacy Team met with state legislators and testified before the House Ways and Means Committee. Through gatherings such as “Happening” and through campus ministry, our young people are offering their distinctive take on The Episcopal Church and its future.

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CAMPUS MINISTRIES

Campus Ministries is church on campus. It is an opportunity to have an Episcopal presence at universities and graduate schools and a way to engage young adults in not only the traditions of The Episcopal Church, but also enlighten them to the fact that ministry and participating in ministries is a way to faith and spiritual nourishment.

A call to bring in the youth starts here.

Other ministries supported by the Diocese of Maryland include: Formation, Korean Ministry, Ministerio Latino, Music ministry, Older Adults Ministry, Reparations Grants, Social Justice and Reconciliation, Youth Ministry, Feeding Ministries, International Ministries, and Episcopal Schools. The Diocese also supports Cursillo, Daughters of the King, Episcopal Church Women, EFM, Happening and Trails 2 Truth. Almost all our parishes throughout the diocese proudly and faithfully support these and other ministries.

Please click here to learn more about The Bishop’s Appeal.

EPISCOPAL SCHOOLS

There are 17 Episcopal Schools in the Diocese of Maryland. Some schools are affiliated with congregations while others are independent. The schools offer a range of Pre-K-12 education grounded in Episcopal values. These schools are critically acclaimed for their success in preparing students for higher educational pursuits.

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History And you shall remember the whole way that the Lord

as a result, many of our parishes benefitted from

Black communities throughout the diocese. They

your God has led you.

the slave economy. Like so many other institutions

are one way to repair the breach and, to paraphrase

throughout the country, we are going through

the prophet Jeremiah, seek the welfare of the places

a period of self-examination. Parishes are

where God has placed us.

DEUTERONOMY 8:2

The Diocese of Maryland has a rich and robust history, dating back to the earliest years of colonial America. If you are interested in learning more about us, our extensive archives are a wonderful place to start.

researching their histories, often making painful discoveries. In one instance a deacon and a parishioner in one of our congregations learned that the parishioner’s family had owned the deacon’s. This

In the interest of transparency, please read our compilation of the history of racism in the Diocese of Maryland.

Contrary to the teachings of Jesus, our history is

led to a time of healing and a special ceremony to

A more recent trauma involved the brief tenure of

not without its share of trauma, misfortune and

remember those who had been enslaved.

Heather Cook as our Suffragan Bishop. Consecrated

racial injustice. Maryland was a slave state and,

Our Truth and Reconciliation Committee has led the way in not only making these issues a part of the diocesan conversation, but also making genuine efforts in the area of reparations. This year, the Reparations Task Force issued the first grants from its $1 million fund. These grants are designed to help restore African American and

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in September 2014, she had barely begun her episcopate when in December of that year she killed a bicyclist in a traffic accident in Baltimore. A subsequent conviction on numerous charges, including driving while impaired, led to her imprisonment and to her being deposed from the ministry of The Episcopal Church.

The entire incident sent shock waves through the diocese and led to much soul-searching. How was this ever allowed to happen, we asked? Who was responsible? Did this reveal systemic problems within the diocese in the past and present? What we do in the future is currently on our plate. As a result, a heightened vigilance and sensitivity emerged regarding all forms of addiction. Education and open conversation regarding treatment options have improved and there is a greater awareness of the role alcohol plays in our culture, from how it is used in the Eucharist to whether it should be available at church social functions.

The issue of trust, perceived or real, needs to be addressed. Communication, or lack thereof, is a concern of some clergy and congregations as it relates to diocesan polity, activity, and decision making. A policy of more openness to sharing the methodology and motivation for the actions taken by the diocese is necessary to help rebuild the trust that was shaken from the past undertakings.

We hope and pray that with God’s grace we, along with our new bishop coadjutor, will continue the good work we have begun by confronting the tragedies of our distant and recent past. The future is the history we look forward to making with our new bishop.

The Diocese of Maryland recently hosted the 80th General Convention of The Episcopal Church. We welcomed convention goers with rich information about our diocese.

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Finances For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also LUKE 12:34 Financial transparency at the diocesan level is essential. Finding ways to educate and inform the congregations, who support the diocese financially, about the initiatives and ministries of the diocese

Contributions and Bequests ($4,543,402)

Camp and Conference Center ($2,274,532)

Camp and Conference Center ($5,785,819)

Ministry in the World ($1,327,690)

5%

Investment Income ($4,575,310 ) Other Miscellaneous Income ($824,086 )

29%

23%

27%

29%

Ministry for Christian Formation ($175,535)

is critical.

Ministry of Communications ($109,869)

The listening sessions showed huge support for under the umbrella of the Bishop’s Appeal. These

11% 1% 2%

young and old, not only in Baltimore, but across

diocese were cited as important components of

Ministry of the Bishop's Office ($1,806,398)

37%

initiatives enrich the lives of countless people,

decisions, mission support, and the stability of our

15%

23%

continuing and expanding the diocesan ministries

Maryland. Information on stewardship, budget

Ministry to Congregations and Institutions ($936,208)

Management and General Expenses ($1,965,472)

Note: Approximately $4,000,000 of the contributions received in 2021 are future promises to pay.

Thriving congregations without endowments often

Fundraising is a key factor in achieving financial

struggle to make ends meet. Financial concerns are

stability for the diocese. Our new bishop should be

common for all congregations, especially in this

bold in undertaking fundraising endeavors. A gap

post-pandemic era. In many cases help from the

in the diocesan budget will be more than noticeable

diocese is not only needed but expected. Thus, our

should the incoming bishop not to be fully engaged

The financial disparity among our parishes presents

incoming bishop will benefit from being knowl-

in personal fundraising achievements.

a unique challenge. Some congregations have

edgeable about financial matters and comfortable

dwindling attendance, but large endowments.

with talking about money.

financial transparency and need to be shared with clergy and congregations. We should seek better ways to promote the variety of grants and resources offered by the diocese.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

Cash and Accounts Receivable

5,485,930

3,145,959

4,160,707

4,221,765

3,197,982

Loans Receivable

3,186,980

3,583,025

3,807,658

3,108,884

3,212,338

Investments

44,009,319

38,447,630

34,937,587

31,210,332

34,505,125

Property Plant and Equipment

13,910,564

14,219,095

13,382,993

13,947,014

14,271,985

$66,592,793

59,395,709

56,288,945

52,487,995

55,187,430

815,961

944,896

786,946

802,683

790,182

ASSETS

Total Assets LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS Accounts Payable Loans Payable Investments Held for Congregations Net Assets Total Liabilities & Net Assets

984,200

1,134,143

984,200

1,596,289

1,876,659

2,599,649

2,299,200

2,367,675

2,025,311

2,319,983

62,192,983

55,017,470

52,150,124

48,063,712

50,200,606

$66,592,793

59,395,709

56,288,945

52,487,995

55,187,430

4,543,402

5,128,617

4,650,673

5,796,778

5,681,907

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES SUPPORT & REVENUE Contributions and Bequests Camp and Conference Center

5,785,819

452,894

2,118,324

1,785,221

1,794,595

Investment Income

4,575,310

3,049,060

5,336,556

(2,068,527)

4,044,419

824,086

949,151

279,232

234,993

127,192

$15,728,617

9,579,722

12,384,785

5,748,465

11,648,113

Camp and Conference Center

2,274,532

1,855,878

2,318,133

2,074,175

2,061,001

Ministry in the World

1,327,690

1,254,588

1,178,065

1,100,983

1,132,789

936,208

525,668

713,505

882,671

975,310

Other Miscellaneous Income Total Support & Revenue EXPENSES

Ministry to Congregations and Institutions Ministry for Christian Formation

175,535

155,237

179,220

172,423

193,674

Ministry of Communications

109,869

112,932

112,877

75,760

36,100

1,806,398

1,648,538

1,470,098

1,152,049

1,164,607

Ministry of the Bishop's Office Management and General Expenses Total Expenses Assets transferred from closed churches Increase / (Decrease) in Net Assets

1,965,472

2,302,935

2,326,475

2,427,298

2,514,841

$8,595,704

7,855,776

8,298,373

7,885,359

8,078,322

42,600

1,143,400

—

—

80,000

$7,175,513

2,867,346

4,086,412

(2,136,894)

3,569,791

The Diocese of Maryland receives most unrestricted income from congregational allocations and a 4-5% withdrawal from investments. Other funds are raised through an annual Bishop’s Appeal, solicitation of gifts from major donors, and capital campaigns. The Diocese has four distinct business units:

■ T he Middendorf Fund providing loans to churches for capital improvements: 2021 net assets of $7.1 million ■ The Suton Scholars High School Enrichment Program: 2021 net assets of $500,000

■ The Diocese of Maryland: 2021 net assets of $50.6 million ■ The Claggett Camp and Conference Center: 2021 net assets of $9.6 million

In 2021/2022, the Diocese engaged in a capital campaign to renovate a historic barn into a second conference center and dining hall at the Claggett Center. Represented in the financial figures above is $1.8 million raised and an additional large pledge receivable over three years. The Diocese has a $1 million line of credit to fund operations and a $4 million line of credit to fund working capital needs. Both facilities are collateralized by the Diocesan Investment Fund. Outstanding debt at December 31, 2021 was $984,200.

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TOP THREES FO R OUR NEXT BISHOP

What We Are Looking For In A Bishop

PERSONAL QUALITIES

1. Experience in strategic planning and consistent

1. Sound judgment and wisdom

The saying is sure, whoever aspires to the office of

2. Personal Integrity

bishop desires a noble task.

3. Deeply spiritual and prayerful

Throughout the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland,

CRITICAL ABILITIES

people would like the Diocesan leadership, led by

congregations by helping them move towards

1. Strategic Vision: Ability to articulate a clear vision

our incoming bishop, to work on establishing a

becoming vital parts of their community.

for the future.

2. Community Building: Ability to create unity of purpose among diverse groups.

3. Pastoral Care: Ability to be pastoral and approachable.

1 TIMOTHY 3:1

shared uniting vision. Proverbs 29:18 says: Without prophetic vision people run wild.

make leadership more representative of the

sized into the series of top threes shown at left.

Diocese with ready paths to encourage and

important for the next bishop to demonstrate for a

members.

3. Develop a discernment process to rethink how to be vital Episcopal churches in our region.

SHOULD HAVES

1. Demonstrate a servant’s heart and a passion for justice, as well as commitment to roles the Church can play in solving community problems and addressing human need.

2. Lead, with confidence in the Good News of Jesus Christ, as the Church faces the great challenge of remaining relevant and redeeming in a divided, doubtful world.

3. Understand that the past can have an impact on the present but move forward with confidence in your ability to overcome adversity and fulfill your purpose through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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towards creating strong and effective leaders.

These skills should also include clear ways to

1. Take a leadership role in working with churches

with strategies geared toward bringing in new

3. Good leadership development skills that work

685 people, clergy and lay, participated are synthe-

The data indicated that the following skills will be

2. Equip Clergy and other leaders in congregations

2. A track record of using creative ways to support

The responses to a diocesan-wide survey in which

INTENTIONAL FOCUS AREAS

that are struggling.

implementation of strategic targets.

successful episcopacy in the Diocese of Maryland:

mentor new leaders.

4. An openness to create ways to engage people diocesan-wide in meetings that add value to the ministry of the Diocese and the churches it serves.

While the survey determined that there are no

Statement of Preferred Future:

areas that need urgent attention—Whew!—there

In the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland, we will be a Diocese that provides responsive and meaningful support to our congregations so they can navigate the hardships they are facing. We will be an effective resource for congregations helping them become vital parts of the region and communities they seek to serve.

are places that need improvement. Work in these areas will have the greatest impact on improving satisfaction throughout the diocese. The data also showed that when important decisions get made, it is essential that the leadership take the opportunity to consider different opinions and approaches in that decision-making. We also are looking for ways that our leadership can be more representative of the membership as well.

That final desire calls to mind the words Jeremiah wrote to the exiles in Babylon: Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the

We will commit ourselves to leadership development and a system-wide decisionmaking process that is transparent with representative leaders who are approachable and open to different ways to work through challenges.

Our time spent together in meetings, ministry and other work will have a clear, uniting purpose that leaves participants feeling that we do good work together to better serve Christ and our communities.

LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.–Jeremiah 29:7

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Strengths, Challenges, Hopes, and Dreams Then you will know that I am the Lord, those who

The pandemic forced us to adapt how we “do

hope in me will not be disappointed.

church,” and in some instances technology helped

ISAIAH 49:23B

The conversations in our listening sessions provided thoughts on our strengths, challenges, hopes, and dreams for the Diocese of Maryland. As a leader of the episcopate, the bishop is the face of the Church. Your voice has weight and expressing it on the causes you support is important and necessary.

Taking care of the inner workings of the Diocese

us reach more people than before. Smaller city and rural parishes were challenged with fewer people and limited financial resources. Some larger churches maintained the status quo, but still feel the need to reach more people. We see attracting and retaining young parishioners and young families as a major opportunity for our next bishop.

is part of the job, as is being aware of the outreach

Congregations will be looking for leadership as

aspect of the position. The Diocese of Maryland

shrinking membership, age demographics, and

has taken the lead on consequential issues. This

the critical need to recapture lost vitality are a

provides an opportunity for the bishop to step up

cause for concern.

and embrace new or existing ministries or causes that can change lives. The destination of the Diocese of Maryland is “to be a community of love,” and the bishop has the potential to move the needle on social problems, set the bar high, and challenge the flock to engage as well.

Our mission to be seen as welcoming to all people in our diverse communities, whether characterized by ethnicity, race, sexual and gender orientation, language differences, age, or economic circumstances has not wavered. The people of our diocese state the importance of being more inclusive and

As we move towards ending the restrictions of

open to minorities, both clergy and lay. Many of our

a pandemic, we believe that growing the Diocese,

congregations welcome and embrace a relationship

while considering today’s demographics, is a

with LGBTQ+ people. We see our diversity as a gift,

priority for our next bishop. Reversing declining

and we work faithfully and intentionally to hold the

membership and growing our membership will

many differing perspectives of our church family in

require the development of creative and innovative

a creative tension and dialogue that enriches us all.

ways to help existing congregations stay in business. Some suggested closing or merging parishes, while others believe we are ripe for church plantings. The new bishop will have to take the time to evaluate the reality of both these options and the impact it would have on specific regions and congregants in the diocese.

The next bishop should be open to engaging conversations about racial reconciliation, have an active role in the reparations programs of the Diocese, and be aware of individual parishes’ initiatives. At the 236th Diocesan Convention, Resolution 2020-06 passed, allocating a $1,000,000 seed fund to support the work of reconciliation and racial restitution throughout the Diocese.

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The Diocese of Maryland has been exploring the

There is a strong desire for involved leadership in

legacy of slavery and its impact on congregations

expanding fellowship between parishes and for

and communities throughout the diocese for many

collaboration in programming and common

years. The Trail of Souls, several General Conven-

resources. Increasing communication at all levels

tion resolutions, and the establishment of the Truth

is necessary to achieve and maintain a connection

and Reconciliation Commission are just a few of the

with the Diocese. Our next bishop has a great

measures the diocese and individual congregations

opportunity to increase the quality and frequency of

have utilized to keep conversations about racial

communications from the diocese. It was suggested

and social injustice at the forefront of diocesan

that there be more fellowship opportunities for

ministries. The evidence of systemic racism,

clergy and workshops for sharing ideas and activ-

though denied by some, has remained a fallout of

ities at both the diocesan and parish levels. Clergy

our past and should be an issue the new bishop can

and congregations want more communication about

address. How we approach these issues and others

what our diocese does, how it supports our parishes,

like it, can lead to some disagreement and conten-

and about our relationship with The Episcopal

tiousness. The next bishop should be a reconciling

Church and the worldwide Anglican Communion.

person who will listen to all sides of an issue, understanding that there are vastly different experiences and perspectives among our congregants.

Sometimes polar opposite positions, perspectives, opinions, views, and stances are vocalized. We are seeking someone who can navigate and occupy

Fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5), having a recognizable connection with God in both a prayer life and service life is a good place to start. A diocese and its congregations are never healthier than their leader.

Taking care of oneself in all ways is important in order to lead, and do so by example. It is important to carry the position humbly, lead with collegiality, be able to take criticism, and admit when they are wrong. Take advice in the spirit that it is given. Also,

The work of a bishop is rewarding, but it is also

being able to laugh with others and even at yourself

demanding and challenging and requires a lot of

is a gift. We are humbled by this opportunity to seek

energy. Paying attention to spiritual, physical, and

a new bishop for the Diocese of Maryland. We are

emotional self-care and well-being is important.

eager to share our future together.

Don’t let the job wear you down. Embracing the

spaces of tension and conflict and be a source of resolution and healing.

Profile for the XV Bishop of Maryland | 17

What Is Needed To Apply To Be Our Next Bishop Coadjutor Our present schedule calls for the consecration

job. This transition time will be an exciting period

of our bishop coadjutor in the fall of 2023. Once

for you as you learn firsthand of the possibilities

the world? How do you balance world issues with

consecrated, the bishop coadjutor will work along-

God has planned for you and for our diocese.

diocesan issues?

side our current bishop, the Right Rev. Eugene Taylor Sutton, for about a year until his retirement in 2024.

Candidates are asked to respond to the following

4. Where is your voice when big issues come up in

5. In the Diocese of Maryland, a part of our discern-

essay questions as a part of their applications. These

ment process for ministry includes a program

questions are intended not only to learn more about

known as Exploring Baptismal Ministry. In this

As bishop coadjutor you will be fully engaged with

the candidates but also their thoughts and visions

program, those exploring their call, read books

Bishop Sutton in episcopal ministry, which includes

for the future of the Diocese of Maryland.

on a variety of topics. These books have included

parish and other visitations, pastoral care of the clergy and people of the diocese and assistance with administrative duties. Shadowing Bishop Sutton will provide insight into the responsibilities of the

1. What in our profile sparks excitement in your becoming the next Bishop of Maryland? What skills, gifts, and possibilities do you bring to meet us where we are?

2. In the OTM, you discussed your experience with conflict. Has there been an experience where you have felt the need to apologize? If so, how did you apologize?

3. The Diocese of Maryland has a broad diversity in its geography and membership. Many people expressed a desire to be more connected across the diocese. Describe your experience and leader-

theological texts, memoirs, social justice and scriptural materials. If you were creating this program, which book would you want to ensure was read during this program?

6. Our people have identified that openness, transparency and communication are important issues in the diocese. What experience do you have to work on this with us?

The combined length of your responses should not exceed six pages (12 point font, standard margins, single-spaced). Responses to these questions will be shared publicly for finalist candidates.

ship style in navigating systems across lines of difference.

XV BISHOP SEARCH TIMELINE 2022

2022–2023

Aug 8

Profile posted and application available

Sept 5

Applications due

Sept–Nov

Application review and interviews

Nov 17–19 Discernment retreat Dec

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Final slate presented to standing committee

Dec–Jan

Slate announced/petition period

2023

Jan–Mar

Candidate introduction

Mar 25

Election

Sept 16

Consecration

A Prayer for Guidance Direct us, O Lord,

Application Instructions for the Bishop Coadjutor of the Diocese of Maryland

In all our doing

Thank you for participating in this search process.

We pray for you and those you love, and we will continue to do so throughout this journey.

with your most gracious favor,

To apply, the following supplemental items must

and further us with your

be submitted to the search committee:

continual help;

■ Cover letter ■ Current resume

that in all our works begun, continued,

■ Current OTM portfolio

and ended in you,

■ Reference sheet ■ Answers to essay questions

we may glorify your holy Name,

■ Candidates who are in recovery should provide

and finally, by your mercy,

a statement affirming a minimum of five years of continuous sobriety and active participation

obtain everlasting life;

in a program of recovery.

Applications should be submitted in an electronic

through Jesus Christ our Lord.

format with all supplemental application materials directly uploaded into the application. The applica-

Amen.

tion can be found here or directly on the Diocesan website. Completed applications must be submitted by 11:59PM Eastern Time on September 5, 2022.

Nominations from clergy and members of the Diocese are warmly welcomed. Nominated candidates will be contacted by the Search Committee and invited to submit an application.

Search Committee, Rev. Randy Callender and Vicki Willard at bishopsearch@episcopalmaryland.org.

PHOTO: MIKE MAGUIRE

Please direct any questions to the Chairs of the

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