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. Profile for the XV Bishop of Maryland | 11
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
Profile for the XV Bishop of Maryland | 15
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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