The 145th Diocesan Convention

Grand Rapids, Michigan | November 1-2, 2019 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Agenda...... 3 Convention Leadership...... 4 Directions to Convention Eucharist...... 5 Upcoming Events...... 5 In Memoriam...... 6 Morning Prayer...... 10 Noonday Prayer...... 14 Nominations to the Standing Committee.....16 Nominations for GC Deputy...... 18 Resolutions...... 32 Reports to the Convention...... 36 CONVENTION AGENDA

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1ST

8-10:00 AM Registration 9:15 AM New Delegate Orientation 10:00 AM Morning Prayer 10:15 AM Opening and Introductions Business Session 11:15 AM Bishop’s Address Noon Noonday Prayer Lunch 1:00 PM Keynote Address - Dr. Lisa Kimball, Virginia Theological Seminary 2:30 PM Business Session Elections and Affirmation of Appointments Budget Review 4:00 PM Presentations 4:45 PM Announcements 5:00 PM Adjourn 7:30 PM Celebration Party

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND

9:00AM Rehearsal for Confirmands, Participants in Eucharist Service, Thornapple Covenant Church 10:00 AM Convention Eucharist with Confirmation, Reception and Reaffirmation,Thornapple Covenant Church 12:30 PM Lunch 1:30 PM Business Session Resolutions, Courtesy Resolutions 2:30-3:00 PM Bishop’s Closing Prayer and Adjournment

*These times are subject to change. The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 3 CONVENTION & DIOCESAN LEADERSHIP

CONVENTION

Chancellor & Credentials Chair Bill Fleener, Jr.; St. David’s, Lansing Constitution/Canons Chair Bill Fleener, Jr.; St. David’s, Lansing Convention Secretary The Rev. Canon William Spaid Assistant Treasurer Dave Croal; St. Mark’s, Coldwater Parliamentarian Bill Fleener, Jr.; St. David’s, Lansing Chaplain The Rev. Canon Michael Spencer Dispatch of Business Janet MacKenzie; Epiphany, South Haven Nominations/Elections Chair Fred Skidmore; St. Andrew’s, Grand Rapids Resolutions Chair The Rev. Jennifer Adams; Grace, Holland Convention Committee Chair Roberta Schorle; Grace Church, Holland Exhibitor Chair Anne Davidson; St. Mark’s, Coldwater

DIOCESAN STAFF

Bishop The Rt. Rev. Whayne M. Hougland, Jr. Canon Missioner for the Northern Region The Rev. Canon Anne C. Hallmark Canon Missioner for the Central Region The Rev. Canon Valerie Ambrose Canon Missioner for the Southern Region The Rev. Canon William Spaid Canon for Evangelism & Networking Canon Katie Forsyth Finance & Benefit Administration Tammy Mazure, CPA, CGMA Diocesan Office Administrator Willa Williams

4 | The 145th Convention DIRECTIONS TO THE CONVENTION EUCHARIST

THORNAPPLE COVENANT CHURCH DIRECTIONS TO THE CHURCH 6595 Cascade Rd SE This is a 2.2 mile trip. Grand Rapids, MI 49546 1. Head out of the hotel parking lot toward Kraft Avenue and turn right onto Kraft. 2. After 0.6 miles, turn right onto Burton Street. 3. Follow Burton Street for 1.4 miles. Thornapple Covenant Church will be on the left hand side of the road.

UPCOMING DIOCESAN EVENTS

Confirmation Services 2019 April 11 at Grace, Holland August 8 at Grace, Traverse City Advent Youth Retreat (Middle School)* October 31 at Diocesan Convention December 7-8 at Plainsong Farm Register: edwm.org/confirmation Register: edwm.org/adventretreat Clergy Retreat* May 5-7 at the St. Francis Center, Dewitt 2020 DREAM Mission Project* The Gathering Youth Event* June 20-27 in the Dominican Republic February 7-9 in Kalamazoo Register: michigan-dominican.org Register: edwm.org/thegathering Episcopal Youth Camp Provincial Youth Leadership Event* Summer 2020 | www.episcopalyouthcamp.org February 28-March 1 at Bellwether Farm in the Diocese of Ohio The Episcopal Youth Event* Apply: edwm.org/provVyouth July 7-11 in Washington, DC Apply: edwm.org/EYE Leadership Day Workshops* South - February 22 at St. Luke’s, Kalamazoo Joint Diocesan Convention with Eastern Central - March 7 at St. David’s, Lansing Michigan, with guest PB Michael Curry* North - March 28, Northern location TBD October 30-31 in Lansing

CHARGE Youth Event* March 20-22 at the Great Wolf Lodge *Collaboration with the Diocese of Eastern Michigan Register: edwm.org/charge The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 5 IN MEMORIAM REMEMBERING THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED, OCTOBER 2018 - SEPTEMBER 2019

O God, the King of saints, we praise and magnify thy holy Name for all thy ser- vants who have finished their course in thy faith and fear; for the blessed irginV Mary; for the holy patriarchs, prophets, apostles, and martyrs; and for all thy righ- teous servants, known to us and unknown; and we beseech thee that, encouraged by their examples, aided by their prayers, and strengthened by their fellowship, we may also be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light; through the merits of thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

ST. JAMES, ALBION Irma A. Howard ST. JOHN’S, FREMONT Joan Kuehnle Kaufman John Earl Ayers Russell E. Price Alice Frazer Slaughter Judy L. Leedy Greer Marilyn I. Smith Carolyn Huvendick ST. JOHN’S, GRAND HAVEN Ella Stephenson Andrew Masternak Carolyn F. Bean Irma Marie Webber Russell C. Rowan Phyllis D. Blake The Rev. Edward Scully Connie A. Deal ST. PHILIP’S, BEULAH Lucile S. Strohmenger Timothy S. Fluckiger Mary Catherine McKinley Victor Lynn Williams Dilts Dana M. Gezon Beverly Ann Compton David R. Greer GOOD SHEPHERD, ALLEGAN Stephen A. Hansen Linda Anne Pullen CHRIST CHURCH, James Huggins Kenneth Leroy Mills CHARLEVOIX Nancy A. Dykehouse Jeanne Michael Douglas H. Jones RESURRECTION, BATTLE Paula Miller Hilda M. McBride CREEK Norma Teague Lynn D. Middlebrook David Barnes James C. Mitchell Thomas Cowan ST. PAUL’S, ELK RAPIDS Nancy A. Powell David Mahoney Ruth B. Klein Gerald L. Walter Patricia Walter ST. THOMAS, BATTLE CREEK ST. PAUL’S, DOWAGIAC Clara M. Wexstaff Janine R. Adrianson Martha Deming Phillip E. Bicknell

6 | The 145th Convention IN MEMORIAM, CONT.

TRINITY, GRAND LEDGE Elaine Boerigter Betty Lou Campbell Ruth Brown Corinne Betty Cummins Sharon Gilmore George Gallaway Gary Eugene Curtis Linda Raymond Birney C. Hoyt Michael DeGraw ST. ANDREW’S, GRAND Tammy K. Kelly Robert Garfield Etter RAPIDS Warren Parker Carl Fahrenbach Mary Jo Owczarzak Carol Rickey Betty Ann Carnegie Floyd Armen Oumedian Jack Shinabarger Christine Leigh Francis Glenn Laverne Rotier, Jr. The Rev. Thomas L. Toeller- Anthony P. Gaines Novak David Alan VerHeul Stephanie Ann Gibb Charles A. Turturici Carol Ann Magnan Teresa M. Gullett (Peterson) William R. Van Ark Theresa Marie Hanes Jack Henry Demmink Melvin Van Oosterhout Gerald Steward Hopkins Joseph A. Parini Charles William Jones Jr. ST. LUKE’S, KALAMAZOO John Steven Pratt Jerry Nathaniel Jones Jean Mitchener Calloway Mary Louise Davies Dennis Mentzert S. Richard Goss Donald Robert Milley Sr. Richard Emil Hartenberger ST. MARK’S, GRAND RAPIDS Jeffery Scott Milner The Rev. Beth Anne Barbara Carduff Stanley Cecil Milner McLaren Phyllis Danielson John Peter Morris Dave Thorton William VanDerBos Douglass Ray Payne Janet Marie Vanderberg Janet VanDeusen Horton William Alfred Pope Paula Jeanne Walker Theresa Joann Rendel ST. PAUL’S, GREENVILLE John Jay Smiley Ruth Bedore ST. MARTIN’S, KALAMAZOO Janice Marie Sevarns Bernadette Coyne Mavis J. Ardis Paul Robert Smith Susan Rineheart Mary Ellen Bays Albert Raymond Steffens Edward Allen Bickow Sarah Margaret Taylor EMMANUEL, HASTINGS Elaine Joanne Bickow Gordon J. Weiland Donald Leon Blaszak Timothy David Blount Patricia Carol Bergh Harold Bolles ST. DAVID’S, LANSING Kenneth James Robbe Suzanne Bronner Michael K. Benoit Horace Wade Bulger Jr. Pearl I. Brooks GRACE, HOLLAND Anthony K. Burns Marc A. Byers

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 7 IN MEMORIAM, CONT.

Anna J. Cannell Philip Stoffan EPIPHANY, SOUTH HAVEN Calvin Helmick Keith Nelson Harold Higgins ST. CHRISTOPHER’S, NORTHPORT Samuel T. Miller ST. PAUL’S, ST. JOSEPH James T. Ulmer, Sr. Marjorie Bennison Malcolm David Jennings Mike Danaher Bette Anne Smith GRACE, LUDINGTON Halen Maher The Rev. H. Steward Ross John Ashley Joanne McCallum Joan Priscilla Durren Virginia Kaines Sarah Strauss GRACE, TRAVERSE CITY HOLY TRINITY, MANISTEE ST. MARK’S, PAW PAW Jane Carol Buller William Henderson Tod Marla Rae Brinkmoeller Carol Anne Butcher Evan Hughes Benedict M. Clapp TRINITY, MARSHALL Ronald Charles Eckert Lorna R Llewellyn ST. JAMES, PENTWATER William Phelps Foster Eleanor Mae Lindberg Alice Jean Amstutz Marian Lucille Ingersoll Newell Ware Wright Richard Kies ST. PETER’S, MONTAGUE Maxcella Allegra Latimer Andy Nuttall EMMANUEL, PETOSKEY JoAnne Boyt McCallum Harold Dorf Carmen G. Miller ST. JOHN’S, MT PLEASANT The Rev. William James Ann Elizabeth Nichols Allan Lively McGill Larry Scott Nuismer Stanley Milton Beard, Sr. Millie May Oxford Virgil Angelo Ritondale The Rev. Wayne Philip Nicholson ST. BARNABAS, PORTAGE Bonnie G. Rollings Joan Salmonsen Dave L Hageman Marion Lloyd Talbot Alfred B Warwick John Curtis Zimmerman ST. PAUL’S, MUSKEGON Bruce A Watts William Ashley HOLY TRINITY, WYOMING Dr. Harold Bowman ST. TIMOTHY’S, RICHLAND William Van Ark Dennis Cornwall Emil J. Gallay Eunice Converse Charles Dobberstein Delbert L. Holroyd Diane Farage Janet Obenauf Michael A. Speicher Betiann Turner

8 | The 145th Convention The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 9 MORNING PRAYER FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1st | GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN

The Invitatory and Psalter All stand. Officiant Lord, open our lips. People And our mouths shall proclaim your praise. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

Officiant The mercy of the Lord is everlasting. People Come let us adore him.

Jubilate Psalm 100 Be joyful in the Lord, all you lands; * serve the Lord with gladness and come before his presence with a song. Know this: The Lord himself is God; * he himself has made us, and we are his; we are his people and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise; * give thanks to him and call upon his Name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; * and his faithfulness endures from age to age.

Psalm 111 1 Hallelujah! 6 He has shown his people the power of his works * I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, * in giving them the lands of the nations. in the assembly of the upright, in the congregation. 7 The works of his hands are faithfulness and justice; * 2 Great are the deeds of the Lord! * all his commandments are sure. they are studied by all who delight in them. 8 They stand fast for ever and ever, * 3 His work is full of majesty and splendor, * because they are done in truth and equity. and his righteousness endures for ever. 9 He sent redemption to his people; 4 He makes his marvelous works to be remembered; * he commanded his covenant for ever; * the Lord is gracious and full of compassion. holy and awesome is his Name. 5 He gives food to those who fear him; * 10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; * he is ever mindful of his covenant. those who act accordingly have a good understanding; his praise endures for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

10 | The 145th Convention The First Lesson Reader A Reading from Esdras. Ezra, saw on Mount Zion a great multitude that I could not number, and they all were praising the Lord with songs. In their midst was a young man of great stature, taller than any of the others, and on the head of each of them he placed a crown, but he was more exalted than they. And I was held spellbound. Then I asked an angel, “Who are these, my lord?” He answered and said to me, “These are they who have put off mortal clothing and have put on the immortal, and have confessed the name of God. Now they are being crowned, and receive palms.” Then I said to the angel, “Who is that young man who is placing crowns on them and putting palms in their hands?” He answered and said to me, “He is the Son of God, whom they confessed in the world.” So I began to praise those who had stood valiantly for the name of the Lord. 2 Esdras 2:42-47 Reader Hear what the Spirit is saying to the Church. People Thanks be to God.

Canticle 13 Benedictus es, Domine Glory to you, Lord God of our fathers; you are worthy of praise; glory to you. Glory to you for the radiance of your holy Name; we will praise you and highly exalt you for ever. Glory to you in the splendor of your temple; on the throne of your majesty, glory to you. Glory to you, seated between the Cherubim; we will praise you and highly exalt you for ever. Glory to you, beholding the depths; in the high vault of heaven, glory to you. Glory to you, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; we will praise you and highly exalt you for ever. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Second Lesson Reader A Reading from the Book of Revelation. Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “See, the home of God is among mortals. He will dwell with them; they will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them; he will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.”

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 11 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city. On either side of the river is the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, producing its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. Nothing accursed will be found there any more. But the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him; they will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And there will be no more night; they need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever. Revelation 21:1-4, 22:1-5. Reader The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

The Apostles’ Creed Officiant and People together, all standing I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

The Prayers The people stand as they are able Officiant The Lord be with you. People And also with you. Officiant Let us pray.

Officiant and People pray The Lord’s Prayer together. Then follows the Suffrages: V. Show us your mercy, O Lord; R. And grant us your salvation. V. Clothe your ministers with righteousness; R. Let your people sing with joy. V. Give peace, O Lord, in all the world; R. For only in you can we live in safety. V. Lord, keep this nation under your care; R. And guide us in the way of justice and truth. V. Let your way be known upon earth; R. Your saving health among all nations. V. Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten; R. Nor the hope of the poor be taken away. V. Create in us clean hearts, O God; R. And sustain us with your Holy Spirit.

12 | The 145th Convention Collect for the Feast of All Saints Almighty God, you have knit together your elect in one communion and fellowship in the mystical body of your Son Christ our Lord: Give us grace so to follow your blessed saints in all virtuous and godly living, that we may come to those ineffable joys that you have prepared for those who truly love you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

A Collect for Fridays Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

Then, the Prayer for Mission is added: Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of your faithful people is governed and sanctified: Receive our supplications and prayers which we offer before you for all members of your holy Church, that in their vocation and ministry they may truly and devoutly serve you; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

The General Thanksgiving Officiant and People: Almighty God, Father of all mercies, we your unworthy servants give you humble thanks for all your goodness and loving kindness to us and to all whom you have made. We bless you for our creation, preservation, and all the blessings of this life; but above all for your immeasurable love in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ; for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. And, we pray, give us such an awareness of your mercies, that with truly thankful hearts we may show forth your praise, not only with our lips, but in our lives, by giving up our selves to your service, and by walking before you in holiness and righteousness all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory throughout all ages. Amen.

A Prayer of St. Chrysostom Almighty God, you have given us grace at this time with one accord to make our common supplication to you; and you have promised through your well beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will be in the midst of them: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen.

Officiant Let us bless the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

The Officiant concludes with the grace Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20, 21)

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 13 NOONDAY PRAYER FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1st | GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN

The Invitatory and Psalter

All stand. Officiant O God, make speed to save us. People O Lord, make haste to help us. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

Psalm 121 1 I lift up my eyes to the hills; * from where is my help to come? 2 My help comes from the Lord, * the maker of heaven and earth. 3 He will not let your foot be moved * and he who watches over you will not fall asleep. 4 Behold, he who keeps watch over Israel * shall neither slumber nor sleep; 5 The Lord himself watches over you; * the Lord is your shade at your right hand, 6 So that the sun shall not strike you by day, * nor the moon by night. 7 The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; * it is he who shall keep you safe. 8 The Lord shall watch over your going out and your coming in, * from this time forth for evermore.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Officiant If anyone is in Christ he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation. People Thanks be to God.

The Officiant then begins the Prayers Officiant Lord, have mercy. People Christ, have mercy. Officiant Lord, have mercy.

14 | The 145th Convention Officiant and People Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Officiant Lord, hear our prayer; People And let our cry come to you. Officiant Let us pray. Heavenly Father, send your Holy Spirit into our hearts, to direct and rule us according to your will, to comfort us in all our afflictions, to defend us from all error, and to lead us into all truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord.Amen .

Free intercessions may be offered including thanks for the meal we are to receive.

We will observe a moment of silence for those remembered In Memoriam.

Officiant Almighty and everlasting God, increase in us the gifts of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain what you promise, make us love what you command; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. Officiant Let us bless the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 15 CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS TO THE STANDING COMMITTEE

Clergy Nominee The Rev. Diane M. Pike The Southwest Michigan Episcopal Covenant

Brief Biography: Prior to accepting God’s call to ordained ministry, my career was in non-profit management, primarily in institutional advancement (fundraising) and organizational development. I worked with teams as large as 10 persons and budgets as large as $3+M. This career has served me well in ordained ministry and parish ministry as we strive to be better stewards of God’s resources. I am a Michigan native having served congregations in Rhode Island, Western New York, and Nebraska. Currently serving as rector of the Southwest Michigan Covenant since December 2018, each day blooms with new opportunities to serve God’s people and build Christ’s kingdom. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Rector, Southwest Michigan Episcopal Covenant Associate Rector, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Omaha, NE Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: Diocesan Finance Committee Certified trainer - SafeChurch, Anti-racism Anti-racism training or engagement: Anti-racism trainer for the Episcopal Diocese of Western New York. Certification on file in diocesan office. Current service in the community: Interfaith Action Group of Southwestern Michigan - focus on anti-gun violence initiatives.

16 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS TO THE STANDING COMMITTEE

Lay Nominee Carole Redwine St. Philip’s, Grand Rapids

Brief Biography: Born in Northwest Indiana Graduate of Indiana University (BS, MA) Educator for 40 years; most recently - retired English professor, Grand Rapids Community College Member of St. Philip’s since my coming to Grand Rapids in 1986 Mother of one adult son Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Current Sr. Warden Past Vestry member Past Vestry Clerk Current Lay Reader and Altar Server Past president of ECW Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: Current member of the Commission for Dismantling Racism Anti-racism training or engagement: CORR (Congregations for Racial Reconciliation) St. Andrews Workshop 2018 Current service in the community: Participant Intake Interviewer for the Women’s Resource Center Member of the Community/School Leadership Team, MLK Leadership Academy Member of Delta Sigma Theta (Service) Sorority Member of Building and Grounds Committee, Avalon Pointe Condominium Association

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 17 CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Lay Nominee Laurie Atwater St. Martin of Tours, Kalamazoo

Brief Biography: Uncurched in childhood, I became an Episcopalian at the age of 11 after attending my aunt’s wedding at Trinity, Marshall. I fell in love with the church, the liturgy, the music – all of it. I was baptized and confirmed and began a long stretch of significant involvement. I was a member of the Diocesan Youth Council (back when we had one!), went to camp, counseled camp, was a member of the ICTHYS Players, doing medieval mystery plays.As an adult in Indiana I attended St. Peter’s in Lebanon. I moved back to Kalamazoo in 2010 and found St. Martin’s and a church family. I have two grown daughters, one teaches in Florida, the other raises my granddaughters and has her own business in Ohio. I am working through the two year discernment process to become an oblate of the Community of St. Mary in Sewanee. I now live quite happily downtown Kalamazoo, where I read every chance I get, do a daily video blog on Facebook with affirmations and challenges, write, crochet, and do community work. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Parish ministries are a huge part of my life. I love St. Martin’s, its missions and its people. I have served several years as an EfM mentor; a co-chair of our Social Justice Outreach committee; visited India two times as part of delegations to see progress of our St. Martin’s Children’s Hostel and Sewing Center in Purulia, West Bengal, the anti-human trafficking site in Malda, and the Blood Bank at the hospital in Sarenga; member of the Vestry--Junior Warden; AND I know how to turn on the sound system! Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: I served as the secretary treasurer of the St. Joseph Deanery when we were organized by Deaneries. I have served out a one year term on Diocesan Council and have truly loved this service. Anti-racism training or engagement: Did Diocesan Anti-racism training with Joanne Mundy in Grand Rapids about three years ago. Did the Trinity Institute Anti Racism training in 2018. Am about to enroll in Eraace Training in Kalamazoo as a new board member of the PFC (People’s Food Co-Op). Current service in the community: I volunteer with St. Martin’s at Loaves and Fishes, our local food bank. I help with gathering items for Welcome Packs for SEITA Scholars, WMU students coming in from foster homes. I work with Open Doors on affordable housing issues as a member of their activism team. I serve on the Kalamazoo Hunger Free Community Coalition. I am an Advisory Board member for Humanities for Everybody. I am a member of the Board of Directors of the PFC (People’s Food Co-Op).

18 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Lay Nominee Pam Chapman St. Philip’s, Grand Rapids

Brief Biography: Cradle Episcopalian Member St. Philip’s for 51 years Present work: The Grand Rapids Times -Administrative Assistant the Editor Past work: Spectrum Health Heart Reach, United Methodist Community House and Sysco /Frost Pack Mother of Sandra Michele (Gift from God) Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Episcopal Church Women - President Lay Minister Lead person John M. Burgess Wellness Center - Program Director Delegate Diocesan Convention Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: Episcopal Church Women President Lay Alternate Deputy General Convention 2018 Dismantling Racism Parish Stragey and Mentering Sub Committee Anti-racism training or engagement: St. Mark’s 2018-19 St Andrew’s 2018-19 Current service in the community: Volunteer Grand Rapids Health Institute Community Garden Rock the Block Community Fair American Heart and Stroke Associations

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 19 CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Lay Nominee Anne Davidson St. Mark’s, Coldwater

Brief Biography: Lifelong Episcopalian, raised in Wisconsin (Diocese of Fond du Lac), with 9 years spent in Utah and South Dakota prior to coming to West Michigan in 1974. Currently a member of Standing Committee, formerly a member and chairperson of Diocesan Worship Committee, former member of the Diocesan Consulting Team, and the Transition Team for the most recent two Bishop Searches. Long-time member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Coldwater, serving as Vestry member, Verger, chair of the Worship Committee, the Shawl Ministry, and the Memorial Fund Committee. I have served as Senior Warden in the past. General Convention Deputy 2012 & 2018, Gen. Conv. Staff 2015. I have been painting (writing) icons for the past 13 years, show my icon work at Diocesan Conventions, and serve the diocese as Vendor Chairperson. Married to my husband, Neal, for 55 years, we have two daughters and one grandson. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Member of the Vestry (current) Verger (current) Chair of Memorial Fund and Co-Chair of Worship Committee (current) Member of Parish Life Committee (current) Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: Member of Standing Committee (current) Member of new Task Force for Liturgy General Convention Deputy - 2012 and 2018, Member of General Convention Staff - 2015 Chair of the Committee on Certification of Minutes at General Convention 2018 Anti-racism training or engagement: Trinity Institute’s Values in Action (certificate) Current service in the community: Member of Women Who Care of Branch County, supporting local charitable causes Former member of the Board of Directors of Tibbits Opera Foundation Supporter of the Branch Area Food Pantry and Branch County Foster Closet Former chair of the Tibbits Summer Theatre Committee Former Girl Scout leader

20 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Lay Nominee William Fleener St. Davids, Lansing

Brief Biography: I am married to Yvonne father of Trey and Eryn. I have been a member of the diocese for about 50 years. During that time I have served in many leadership positions and I am current the chancellor. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: I have served on several vestries in my time in the diocese. Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: I am the chancellor for the diocese and have been for over 20 years. I have also served on several committees and have been a deputy to General Convention several times. I have chaired our deputation to General Convention the last several times. Anti-racism training or engagement: I have participated in such training both at work and in the wider church. Current service in the community: I am an attorney and serve children in special education cases pro bono. I also volunteer my time for several non-profit organizations.

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 21 CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Lay Nominee Genia Lenore Holy Trinity, Wyoming

Brief Biography: Genia is a wife & mother and puts her heart into everything she does. She’s a full time engineer and loves the job she’s gets to do everyday. Genia has been an active member of several parishes in the West Michigan area since 1993. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Genia is a regular lector and Eucharistic minister. She sings in the choir and shares her trumpet music for special occasions. She is helping organize this years Thanksgiving Basket Drive. Genia pitches in and helps where needed. Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: Genia has been a long term representative to Diocesan Convention. She was slated to go to General Convention several years ago but was unable to attend due to a surgery. Anti-racism training or engagement: This is something that Genia will have to take part in as soon as another training is available. Current service in the community: Genia is currently the chair of Ottawa Area Center for Pride which is just beginning the work to start a LGBTQ Pride Center in the Hudsonville area. v

22 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Lay Nominee Matthew Roney Grace, Traverse City

Brief Biography: Matthew (Matt) Roney was born in Detroit and grew up in Gaylord, Michigan. He developed a strong spirituality over thirteen years at St. Mary Cathedral School, and spent considerable time in his adult life seeking a spiritual home. In 2006, Matt moved to Ann Arbor, MI, graduating from the University of Michigan with a degree in liberal arts in 2009. In 2013, he followed a job opportunity to Seattle, WA. Matt felt a pull to return to church and, in 2016, fell in love with the Episcopal Church. After two years attending and participating at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Seattle, Matt was received in April 2018. Since returning home to Michigan in August 2018, Matt has been active at Grace Church, Traverse City as a member of the Chancel Choir and, since January 2019, the Vestry and Communications Committee. He and his wife, Nora, were married at Grace Church on July 20, 2019. By day, Matt works as a Marketing Strategist at a small digital marketing agency. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: At Grace Episcopal Church, Traverse City: - Member - Vestry - Member & Vestry Liaison - Communications Committee - Member - Chancel Choir - Service participant (primarily, though not exclusively, as lector) Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: Member - Taskforce for Evangelism Anti-racism training or engagement: Participated in Dismantling Racism at St Philip’s Episcopal Church, Beulah, MI on June 1, 2019 Current service in the community: - Organizer of monthly event for TCNewTech, a 501(c)(3) organization focused on economic development (2018 - present) - Meals Services Volunteer at St. Luke’s Edible Hope Kitchen at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Seattle, WA (2016 - 2018) - Pro bono marketer/Development Intern at Puget Sound Christian Clinic, Lynnwood, WA (2018)

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 23 CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Lay Nominee Mary Simpson St. Andrew’s, Grand Rapids

Brief Biography: I am an active member at St. Andrew’s Grand Rapids and in the Diocese of Western Michigan. Currently you will find me working as the Business Administer at St. Andrew’s as well as two other part time jobs. The Dominican Center at Marywood’s Spiritual Direction Practicum also keeps me very busy. As a staff person I am aware of the many ministries at St. Andrew’s but have stepped back this year from parish ministries. Serving on the Commission on Ministry has taught me much about Church on a different level. Representing EDWM in 2018 at General Convention was a great honor which I hope to repeat in 2021! Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Dismantling Racism committee which is part of St Andrew’s outreach program Lay Eucharistic Minister Health Council Member Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: Dismantling Racism 2018 Lay Delegate to General Convention Commission on Ministry Anti-racism training or engagement: Healing Racism Workshop May 29,2017 Current service in the community: None currently.

24 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Clergy Nominee The Rev. Jennifer Adams Grace, Holland

Brief Biography: The Rev. Jen Adams is a life-long Episcopalian, born and raised in the Detroit area. She came to West Michigan via Kalamazoo College where she played soccer (and majored in math and religion.) While at K College, Jen immersed in the intersections of faith, justice work, and learning, fell in love with Lake Michigan, scored a few goals, and, with the help of St Luke’s, Kalamazoo, discerned a call to the priesthood. Rev. Jen attended CDSP in Berkeley, California (making sure there was always a large body of water to her west.) In 1994, she became the Assistant Rector at Grace, Holland through the diocesan “Priest in Formation” program. Rev. Jen has since grown with Grace and served the diocese and vlarger church in varieties of ways. She became Rector in 2012 and this December will celebrate her 25th anniversary as priest. Rev. Jen and her spouse, Beth, a recently retired creative writing professor immersed in creating comics and graphic novels, live with their dogs and cats in West Olive. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Rector of Grace, Holland. Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: CHURCH WIDE: Five time deputy to General Convention and four-time Co-Chair of EDWM’s deputation. Media Spokesperson for the House of Deputies. Member of the Task Force for Reimagining the Episcopal Church. Co-Convener of the Chicago Consultation, an international group of bishops, clergy, and lay people working for LGBTQ inclusion in the Episcopal Church and Anglican Communion. Member of the Commission on Ministry Development and Title III canon revision team. Member of General Convention Committees on Structure, Ministry Development, and Vice Chair of the Committee on Christian Formation. EDWM: Chair of the Task Force on Restructuring, Convention Resolutions Chair, two-term Member of Commission on Ministry, consultant to parishes in transition, two-term member of Standing Committee, Chair of COM, member of the Commission on Christian Formation. Anti-racism training or engagement: Lenten Study/Parish/Diocesan Program on Dismantling Racism, 2017; Participant in the Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity’s Summit on Racism, 2019, 2015, 2013, 2011; Crossroads Anti-Racism Training; ACEH Training, Holland Current service in the community: Founding member of Faith Leaders for Justice in Holland, an ecumenical group of clergy and lay leaders collaborating to address issues of affordable housing, racism, immigration, and LGBTQ inclusion. Founder of Holland is Ready and Out On The Lakeshore, groups working for LGBTQ rights and inclusion including the opening of the OOTL Community Center in Holland. Grant writer for OOTL. Regular guest speaker at Hope College.

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 25 CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Clergy Nominee The Rev. Dr. Jared Cramer St. John’s, Grand Haven

Brief Biography: In my mid-thirties, after a decade of priestly ministry, I am deeply committed to the present and future of the Episcopal Church (TEC). Born in Eastern Michigan and raised in Grand Haven, for the past nine years I have served as the rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Grand Haven, where I also lead our El Corazón Latino Ministry Initiative. I hold the degrees of Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies, Master of Divinity, Master of Sacred Theology, and Doctor of Ministry. In 2020 I will begin the Executive Master of Nonprofit Administration at Mendoza College in the University of Notre Dame. As a two-time previous Alternate to General Convention, I wrote commentary on the Taskforce for Reimagining the Episcopal Church which was published by the House of Deputies News in 2015 and then blogged through much of the “Blue Book” in 2018. My ministry has been focused on a passion for the marginalized, a commitment to good governance, and the richness of our Anglican traditions. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Rector, St. John’s Episcopal Church, Grand Haven Current Mission Developer, El Corazón Latino Ministry, St. John’s Episcopal Church, Grand Haven Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: 2015 - 2019: Member of the Genesis Gatherings for Church Planters & Mission Developers (through the TEC grant which funded our Latino Ministry Initiative) 2015 & 2018: Alternate Deputy to General Convention 2010 - 2017: Dean of the Lakeshore Deanery, Convener of the Deans 2012 - 2015: Commission on Ministry, Chair from 2013–2015 Anti-racism training or engagement: In the current program year, 2019–2020, I am facilitating the “Sacred Ground” gatherings project for St. John’s and the surrounding community, a film- and readings-based dialogue series on race, grounded in faith. “Sacred Ground” is part of “Becoming Beloved Community,” our church’s long-term commitment to racial healing, reconciliation, and justice in our personal lives, our ministries, and our society. Current service in the community: 2013–Current: Leadership Team, Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Initiative North – Formerly the Diversity Initiative of Northwest Ottawa County, LEDA North promotes racial equity and the active inclusion of people from all racial and ethnic backgrounds who work, live and play in Northwest Ottawa County

26 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Clergy Nominee The Rev. Brian Coleman Church of St. Thomas, Battle Creek

Brief Biography: Fr. Brian celebrated his 20th ordination anniversary this year. He has been the Rector of St. Thomas, Battle Creek since 2008. He is married to Dr. John Moore. His family live in Texas, Georgia, Ireland, England and Wales. He was born in Ft. Worth, Texas; grew up in Alabama, Illinois and California. Went to college at the University of the South, and California State University, Fullerton (B.A. in Philosophy); and trained for ordination at Seabury-Western Theological Seminary (M.Div.) in Evanston, Illinois. He has served in parish ministry in Los Angeles, Sheffield (England), and Battle Creek. He recently finished his first half marathon this summer, and ran a 20K trail race in September. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Fr. Brian’s ministry at St. Thomas includes, among other things: pastoral care, which he understands as being alongside people in their daily hopes and fears, sorrows and joys; preaching as effective Christian communication, both in word and deed by helping others understand how the Bible relates to their lives; daily prayer, through the public worship services provided in the Book of Common Prayer, and through personal prayer and spiritual disciplines, including iconography; and community action and outreach, through service, support and collaboration with local community leaders and organizations. Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: In addition to his parish responsibilities Fr. Brian serves as Chairman of the Board for Plainsong Farm and Ministry in Rockford, Michigan, and has recently been appointed to the Diocesan Taskforce on Liturgy. He has served as a deputy to General Convention in 2015 and 2018. Anti-racism training or engagement: E/RACE Training Diocesan Racial Healing Workshops (2010, 2015, 2018) Elimination of Racism Training Program through the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Current service in the community: Fr. Brian serves as a Trustee for the Battle Creek Community Foundation, on the City of Battle Creek’s Human Relations Board, and is teaching Introduction to Religion classes at Olivet College this semester. He is also active in local LGBTQI advocacy and support.

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 27 CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Clergy Nominee The Rev. Nurya Love Parish Holy Spirit, Belmont

Brief Biography: The Rev. Nurya Love Parish has been in ministry since 1993, was previously ordained in another tradition, became an Episcopalian in 2007 and was ordained in the Episcopal Church in 2011. She attended Harvard Divinity School (M.Div. 1996) and Seabury- Western Theological Seminary (Anglican Studies, 2011). She served as the part-time associate priest at St. Andrew’s, Grand Rapids as her first call in the Episcopal Church, then became part-time priest- in-charge at Holy Spirit, Belmont when the congregation was still a mission. She co-founded Plainsong Farm, a new ministry of the diocese, in 2015. Her book Resurrection Matters: Church Renewal for Creation’s Sake was published by Church Publishing Inc. in 2018. She speaks nationally on the intersection of food, agriculture, climate and faith. She has been an alternate, a deputy, and a member of the church’s Advisory Council for Creation Care (2015-2018). She lives in Ada, Michigan with her firefighter husband and their two teenage children. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Rector, Holy Spirit Episcopal Church, 2019-present Priest-in-Charge, Holy Spirit Episcopal Church, 2017-2018 Associate Priest, St. Andrew’s Grand Rapids, 2011-2016 Christian Education Director, St. Andrew’s Grand Rapids, 2009-2011 Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: Executive Director, Plainsong Farm & Ministry - charitable food, environmental education, young adult discipleship, national partnerships helping church-owned land to be used for creation care - a new Episcopal ministry Evangelism Commission, Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan, 2019-present Advisory Council for the Stewardship of Creation, 2015-2018 (churchwide) General Convention Deputy, 2018 General Convention Legislative Committee on Care of Creation, 2018 General Convention Alternate, 2015 Anti-racism training or engagement: Participated in diocesan Healing Racism Training, October 27, 2018. Current service in the community: Executive Committee & Board Member, North Kent Connect (pastoral representative on poverty relief/development agency, representing Holy Spirit) Sustainability Committee, Lower Grand Organization of Watersheds

28 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Clergy Nominee The Rev. Diane M. Pike The Southwest Michigan Episcopal Covenant

Brief Biography: Prior to accepting God’s call to ordained ministry, my career was in non-profit management, primarily in institutional advancement (fundraising) and organizational development. I worked with teams as large as 10 persons and budgets as large as $3+M. This career has served me well in ordained ministry and parish ministry as we strive to be better stewards of God’s resources. I am a Michigan native having served congregations in Rhode Island, Western New York, and Nebraska. Currently serving as rector of the Southwest Michigan Covenant since December 2018, each day blooms with new opportunities to serve God’s people and build Christ’s kingdom. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Rector, Southwest Michigan Episcopal Covenant Associate Rector, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Omaha, NE Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: Diocesan Finance Committee Certified trainer - SafeChurch, Anti-racism Anti-racism training or engagement: Anti-racism trainer for the Episcopal Diocese of Western New York. Certification on file in diocesan office. Current service in the community: Interfaith Action Group of Southwestern Michigan - focus on anti-gun violence initiatives.

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 29 CONVENTION BUSINESS ELECTIONS FOR GENERAL CONVENTION DEPUTY

Clergy Nominee The Rev. Anne Schnaare Trinity, Marshall

Brief Biography: The Rev. Anne Schnaare grew up as an Episcopalian at St. Matthias, in Waukesha, Wisconsin. She attended the University of Wisconsin- Parkside, where she majored in Theatre and Music, and met her husband, Matthew. They were married in 2001 and soon after went on a short-term mission trip to Brazil. After Anne discerned a call to the priesthood, she and her husband relocated to Sewanee, Tennessee, where she earned a Master of Divinity and their daughter, Phoebe, was born. Mother Anne spent the first two years of ordained ministry as a curate at Calvary Episcopal Church in Americus, GA. Although she enjoyed her time Down South, she was glad to return to the Midwest when she was called to serve Trinity, Marshall in 2011. They have just celebrated their eighth anniversary of ministry together. During the summer of 2019, Mother Anne went on sabbatical during which she reconnected with friends in Germany, visited Chartres and Taizé in France, and walked the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: Rector of Trinity Church, Board of Missions, Pastoral Care Committee, Finance Committee, Vestry, Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: Commission on Ministry, Standing Committee, General Convention 2018, Diocesan Taskforce on Liturgy. Anti-racism training or engagement: Trinity Institute: Values in Action Training (2018) Dubose Lectures at Sewanee: University of the South, Dr. Emilie Townes presenting “Premeditated Indifference: Facing (In)Justice With the Power of Hope” (2019) Current service in the community: Speaker for World Religion Day at Marshall Middle School, Oaklawn Hospital Disaster Drill volunteer, speaker for Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast, United Way Celebration Breakfast, Marshall Area Community Services (M.A.C.S.)

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Clergy Nominee The Rev. Canon Bill Spaid Diocesan Staff

Brief Biography: I have been a priest in the diocese for over thirty years. I was rector at St. Martin’s in Kalamazoo for 16 years and since have served the Bishop as Canon to the Ordinary and Canon Missioner. Prior to ordination I was an elementary school teacher. I love working with vestries and transition search committees, and I still love to teach. I find it a joy to support the ministry of the Bishop as well as our clergy and parish wardens. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy cooking, painting with watercolours, and music. Part of my Rule of Life includes some time daily at the piano. I also enjoy journeys to Lyric Opera. I exercise regularly. My biggest delight is time spent with my four grandchildren. Most recent parish level ministries and offices: I am not a member or regular participant in any one parish, but try to be supportive of and available to parishes in the southern region for special events and programs. Most recent diocesan or church-wide ministries and offices: In the past I served on the Commission on Ministry and the Standing Committee of the diocese. For fifteen years I was a chaplain at our youth camp, and participated in a number of Cursillo weekends. I’ve also been Convention Secretary, member of the Canon’s Committee, and the director of the Diocesan Church Development Institute (DCDI). I have worked with our joint disciplinary board and I have been a deputy to the three recent General Conventions and was appointed to the GC Legislative Committee on Constitution and Canons. Anti-racism training or engagement: I have participated in a number of eliminating/dismantling racism trainings or workshops over the years, most recently a presentation by Dr. Catherine Meeks of the Absalom Jones Center for Racial Healing at the 2018 General Convention, and the Becoming Beloved Community workshop last fall at St. Mark’s in Grand Rapids. Current service in the community: I’ve served on Open Doors Ministry board and CARES board (an AIDs ministry) in Kalamazoo. Currently I am the chaplain to the Southwest Michigan Chapter of the American Guild of Organists.

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 31 CONVENTION BUSINESS PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS

Resolution 1 - To amend the Canons of the Diocese to allow for recognizing “Cooperating Ministries” Submitted by: The Taskforce for Evangelism Rationale: The Taskforce for Evangelism of the Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan proposes a change to our diocesan canons to allow for non-congregational entities to be formally recognized as participating members of our community. We believe that by making ourselves hospitable and expecting of new and innovative forms of community and discipleship, we might allow for new ministries to flourish within our diocese.

Resolution: Resolved, that the 144th Convention of the Diocese of Western Michigan amend the following portions of Canon 1.1, Canon 1.8, Canon 1.28 to read:

CANON 1 DEFINITIONS Terms used in these Canons are defined, for purposes of this document, as follows: a. “Bishop” refers to a Bishop Diocesan elected to that position as provided by the Constitution and Canons of this diocese. b. “Calendar Year” refers to a year beginning at the first moment of the day on January 1 and ending at the last moment of the day on the following December 31. c. “Church” refers to The Episcopal Church as a constituent member of the Anglican Communion. d. A “Communicant in Good Standing” shall include all persons who have received the Sacrament of Holy Baptism with water in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, whether in this Church or in another Christian Church, and whose Baptisms have been duly recorded in this Church. An “Adult Communicant in Good Standing” in a Congregation is a communicant in good standing who is sixteen (16) years of age or older in that Congregation; and who, for the previous year, have been faithful in corporate worship, unless for good cause prevented, and have been faithful in working, praying, and giving for the spread of the Kingdom of God. [As amended, April 21, 2012.] e. A “Cooperating Ministry” is an organization, located within the diocese, whose mission, purposes, and activities have been determined by the Bishop and Diocesan Council, and ratified by the Diocesan Convention, to merit an established and recognized status as an ongoing partner in ministry with the diocese. (Further Text of Canon 1, unchanged, will be saved for re-lettering to reflect the amendment per Canon 71.02).

CANON 8.02 MISSION REGIONS

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Section 8.02 The Mission Region provides a vehicle for parishes, new congregations, and cooperating ministries in proximity to each other to undertake projects and activities in furtherance of their respective missions and the mission and vision of the diocese, which would be too difficult for one parish or new congregation to undertake alone, or which would so drain the resources of one parish or new congregation as to make the effort impracticable.

The Mission Region shall be responsible for carrying out the following duties: (a) Promoting and aiding in the implementation of cooperation collaboration among the congregations and cooperating ministries in the Region;...

CANON 28 AUDITS and INSURANCE

Section 28.01.AUDITS As soon as may be after the close of each fiscal year, the accounts of all officers handling funds, whether of the Diocese or its auxiliaries, or of congregations and their auxiliaries, or of all cooperating ministries shall be audited in accordance with the Episcopal Church Manual of Business Methods in Church Affairs and The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan Policy “Annual Audit of Congregations”. Copies of audit reports shall be submitted to the Diocesan Treasurer for review by September 1 following the close of the fiscal year.

And be it further resolved that the 144th Convention of the Diocese of Western Michigan add Canon 15 to read

CANON 15 COOPERATING MINISTRIES Section 15.01 APPLICATION FOR COOPERATING MINISTRY STATUS (a) If a chaplaincy or organization, formed or to be formed for religious, educational or charitable purposes within this diocese desires to enter into an agreement with the diocese as a Cooperating Ministry, such organization shall file an application with the diocese on forms approved by the Bishop.

The application form must include the following: • Financial records; • Summary of demographic research and/or asset mapping; • Summary of conversations between the applying ministry and any other cooperating ministries and parishes within ten miles.

Section 15.02 ESTABLISHMENT OF A COOPERATING MINISTRY

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 33 CONVENTION BUSINESS PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS

If the Bishop determines that the purposes and activities of the chaplaincy or organization are sufficiently related to those of the diocese and that the organization should be considered for designation as a Cooperating Ministry, an Agreement for Designation as a Cooperating Ministry shall be executed by the organization and the diocese, which, among other items, shall contain the following provisions: a. The Agreement shall not be effective until it is approved by the action of the Diocesan Council. Upon such approval, the agreement shall be deemed provisionally approved, and in temporary effect until such time as it is ratified by the Diocesan Convention at its next regular meeting. The initial term of the agreement shall commence on the effective date and expire on March 31st of the second calendar year following the effective date. b. The terms upon which the cooperating ministry shall be governed under relevant state and federal statutes, including a complete copy of its proposed by-laws. c. The organization shall be required to deliver to the diocesan council within sixty (60) days after the end of its fiscal year an annual report describing its activities and present a financial statement for such fiscal year, including an operating statement in reasonable detail and a balance sheet. d. The organization may use the title A Cooperating Ministry only so long as the agreement shall remain in force and effect.

Section 15.03 RENEWAL OF COOPERATING MINISTRIES The agreement may be renewed for annual periods ending March 31, upon agreement by the organization and approval by the Diocesan Council acting upon the recommendation of the Bishop, but only if the organization shall have been in compliance with the agreement and if the Bishop determines that the activities of the organization and the continued use of the title Cooperating Ministry by the organization is consistent with the mission and purpose of the diocese.

34 | The 145th Convention The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 35 CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS BISHOP WHITTEMORE FOUNDATION submitted by Robert D. Brower, President

The Bishop Whittemore Foundation is an Total grants in any calendar year are limited independent nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation. It is to 4% of the Foundation’s assets, computed in its 67th year of service to the Diocese of West annually on a rolling average of the ten previous Michigan. During calendar year 2019 to date, quarters. Individual grants are generally limited the Foundation trustees met quarterly to review by Foundation policy to 10% of annual available loan and grant proposals in support of Diocesan grant funds. Loans to any one parish are limited to and parish objectives. Many of our meetings $100,000 and typically have a maturity not longer were attended by third-party grant applicants or than 5 years with a 20 year amortization, bearing a representatives of parishes. competitive interest rate.

The following grants were approved: The trustees of the Bishop Whittemore Foundation remain committed to the growth of the January 2019 Meeting: endowment fund balance, the prudent investment of the Foundation assets, careful and balanced • St. Augustine, Benton Harbor - $9300 (Tiny consideration of every grant application to ensure House Project) the best use of available funds. • Diocese of West Michigan for Canon Missionary - $30,900 (organization and administration) In 2018-2019, the trustees of the Foundation continued its analysis of how the Foundation may • St. Paul’s, Muskegon - $10,000 grant and $16,000 grow its endowment funds and better achieve the promissory note over 3 years (roof repair) stated objectives of the Foundation. Individual • St. Gregory’s, Muskegon - $3,000 grant (hearing contributions throughout 2018-2019 to date loop) and particularly following the annual Bishop Whittemore Foundation Sunday exceeded amounts April 2019 Meeting: contributed in recent memory.

• St. John’s, Charlotte - $9,700 note and mortgage Anyone making a contribution to the Bishop to be considered for periodic partial forgiveness Whittemore Foundation can be assured that the over 3 years (air conditioning) contribution will be vigilantly guarded, carefully • Diocesan Youth Camp - $10,000 grant invested and wisely dispensed to fund worthy projects. July 2019 Meeting: Annually in May, the diocese has an official Bishop • Holy Spirit, Belmont - $3,000 grant and $2,000 Whittemore Foundation Sunday, when all parishes “dollar for dollar” match incentive (reading are requested to remind parishioners of the good program for kids) works of the Foundation and encourage gifts to the • Emanuel, Hastings $6,000 grant (solar panels) Foundation. • St. John’s, Grand Haven $9,286 grant (building The Foundation trustees deserve recognition and security and access) thanks for their long-time devoted service and use of their expertise for the important work of the The total amount available for grants in 2019 is Diocese of Western Michigan. + $103,000.

36 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

CHAPLAINS TO THE RETIRED CLERGY submitted by the Rev. Ed and Ann Emenheiser

The Church Pension Fund of the Episcopal Church church assists and supports our retired clergy has called upon the Bishops of all its dioceses through The Pension Group. to appoint Chaplains to the Retired Clergy as an extension of their pastoral ministry, to be a In order to convey how much we value our retired catalyst, maintaining an ongoing relationship and clergy, spouses, widows and widowers, we sent pastoral connection with retired clergy, spouses cards on each person’s birthday, anniversary of and partners and widows and widowers, with ordination, and at Christmas. We have also made sustained contact when needed, a convener for phone calls and sent get well or sympathy cards, social occasions, and being the eyes and ears of and when possible made personal visits, or attended the Bishop, who is alerted when there is a crisis or funerals. We hope in the future to have additional special need. chaplains in each region of the diocese, so that we can be more present to our retired clergy. At the In this past year Ann and I have attended the Amen Conference at the Grand Hotel in October we National Convention of all the Chaplains in Denver, hosted a dinner, together with Bishop Hougland and Colorado. It was an extremely informative time Dana, for over 50 retired persons from the Western learning how to be more supportive of our retired and Eastern Diocese. Hopefully we will have a clergy, and to learn precisely the benefits available gathering of retired clergy at Convention. to our retired clergy. We ask all of you in your congregations to offer in We welcomed two members of the Pension Fund the Prayers of the People, prayers for our retired Pastoral Staff, who held sessions of the Enriching clergy, spouses and partners, widows and widowers, Your Retirement program in two areas of our who have given so much to the life of this diocese, diocese – Traverse City and Grand Rapids. We and in many cases, continue to do so. believe the participants found the time spent together very informative of how our national We thank you for your support of this ministry. +

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 37 CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS COMMISSION ON MINISTRY submitted by the Rev. Michael Ryan, Chair

In the Diocese of Western Michigan, the process. This fall’s joint candidacy interviews Commission on Ministry (COM) oversees the resulted in a process that by all accounts proved discernment of people to Holy Orders and mutually enriching and effective for ascertaining establishes guidelines and programs for formation the progress of each applicant’s formation for for every order of the church. It also guides people ordination. through the ordination process. One other notable contribution the Commission The COM is established the Constitution and made of the ministry of the Diocese was the Canons of the Episcopal Church, requiring every development of a policy and process for receiving diocese to have a group consisting of priests, clergy ordained by bishops in churches that stand deacons, and lay persons whose function is to assist in Historical Succession but which are not in the Bishop in three distinct areas: Communion with the Episcopal Church (e.g. The Roman Catholic Church). Like so much of ministry 1. In the implementation of Title III canons related it seems we are called to build the air plane as we to ministry. fly it. The reception of the Holy Orders for the 2. In the determination of present and future Rev. Daniel Snyder was very much the work of opportunities and needs for the ministry of all establishing a process by the trial and error while baptized persons. meeting the task’s canonical requirements. Fr. Snyder contributed greatly to the establishment of 3. In the design and oversight of the ongoing this process as he was led through. The Commission process for recruitment, discernment, was particularly grateful for the Rev. Michael formation for ministry, and assessment for Fedewa’s part in serving as a mentor and guide for readiness thereof. Daniel during this process. Western Michigan currently has 22 individuals Lastly, I wish to acknowledge the contributions in the ordination process. 14 are discerning or of two outstanding members of the Commission, preparing for ordination to the priesthood, 6 are Ms. Dare Cox and Ms. Mary Simpson who have discerning or preparing for ordination to the served two terms and will be rotating off of the diaconate. This is an extraordinary volume of people Commission. Mary and Dare have taught me much in the process for any single diocese and it is an of what it means to be a faithful and discerning indicator of the health and vibrancy of the Episcopal Christian in these unsettled times. + Church in Western Michigan. Members of the COM: In 2019, we entered into our 2nd year of using the interview day model for discerning with people • Virginia LeDare Cox (St. John’s, Mount Pleasant) who are seeking postulancy to Holy Orders. In • The Rev. Michael Fedewa (St. Andrew’s, GR) addition, we join with the Standing Committee this • The Rev. Sr. Diane Stier (St. John’s, Mount Fall to host a Candidacy Interview Day at which we Pleasant) interviewed 6 postulants for candidacy (3 diaconal • The Rev. Darlene Kuhn (St. James, Albion) and 3 priestly). During the past 24 months, the • Joanne Lemieux (St. John’s, Grand Haven) President of the Standing Committee, Mr. Dave • The Rev. Michael Ryan (Epiphany, South Haven Croal, the Standing Committee’s Liaison to the • The Rev. Janet Gockerman (St. Mark’s, GR) Commission on Ministry, the Rev. Dr. Randall • The Rev. Rick Schark (St. Mark’s, Coldwater Warren, and the Commission members worked • Mary Simpson (St. Andrew’s, Grand Rapids) diligently to strengthen our collaborative efforts, • Karen Varanauskas (St. John’s, Mount Pleasant) while maintain our distinct roles in the ordination

38 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

DAUGHTERS OF THE KING submitted by Lois Weed, Assembly President

Diocesan Assemblies July 12 & 13 – Big Provincial Gathering (BPG) in Kalamazoo, MI. Set up information table and prayer March 23, 2019 – A Quiet Day was held at Holy area. Trinity, Wyoming, MI with the theme “Be still and know…” Installation of new Chapters and Daughters

October 12, 2019 – Our Fall Assembly will be held at September 22, 2019 -Installed one new Daughter in Trinity, Three Rivers. We will do a “Talk and Tour” of Keepers of the Kaleidoscope Chapter, Dowagiac, MI. St. Gregory’s Abbey. October 5, 2019 – Keepers of the Kaleidoscope Diocesan Meetings Chapter instituted in Dowagiac, MI with five new Daughters installed. November 2018 – Set up chapel and a DOK information table at the Diocesan Convention November 10, 2019 – Trinity Chapter instituted in Marshall, MI with five new Daughters installed. March 16, 2019 – ECW board meeting in Sturgis General Comments April 27, 2019 – ECW Annual meeting in Sturgis As of September 2019, we currently have 12 May 6, 2019 – Visited Julian of Norwich Chapter in Chapters on the books in the Diocese of Western Mt. Pleasant Michigan, with one Chapter in danger of being disbanded for falling below the required June 15, 2019 –Diocesan executive board meeting membership of at least three members. Two new to rewrite bylaws to conform with Province V and chapters are being instituted in Dowagiac and National Marshall this fall, adding 11 new members. November 1 & 2, 2019 – Diocesan convention in There are 91 members in Chapters and 8 Daughters Grand Rapids, MI. Set up DOK table and the chapel. at Large for a total of 99 members in the Order Province V Meetings in our Diocese. There is one additional parish in discernment about starting a senior chapter, and February 1-3, 2019 - Province V board meeting one in discernment about starting a Junior Chapter. + May 17-19, 2019 – Province V retreat, Adrian, MI

June 5, 2019 – Worked with Celeste Hillyard to rewrite Province V bylaws so they conform with new National bylaws

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 39 CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

DOMESTIC MISSION - PROGRESSIVE MISSION TRIP submitted by Jeff Brown, Mission Trip Coordinator

The Progressive Mission Trip is an event in which high school aged leaders travel throughout the state, forming relationships and joining in short-term mission projects with local churches and organizations.

Each day we travel to a new location seeing how that community is living into their baptismal covenant. This was the fourth time this trip has been held in the last five years. It is not held in years the triennial Episcopal Youth Event (EYE) is held, therefore the next trip will be held in 2021, in conjunction with the Diocese of Eastern Michigan.

This year we had 13 youths from the diocese representing Emmanuel-Hastings, Holy Spirit Belmont, St. Andrew’s-Grand Rapids, St. Mark’s-Grand Rapids, St. Paul’s-Greenville, and Trinity-Marshall. This was the largest group yet and also included myself, Nioclle Brown from St. Andrew’s-Grand Rapids, and Bea Rocco from St. Mark’s-Grand Rapids, as leaders.

Our theme this year was The Way of Love. Youth learned about the seven practices of The Way Love: Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Praying at St. Andrew’s, Flint before serving food. Bless, Go, Rest. Youth were called to notice where these practices were being lived out in each community and had many opportunities to help put them into action.

The stops on our trip this year included St. Paul’s-Muskegon, Plainsong Farm-Rockford, , Church of the Epiphany-South Haven, and St. Paul’s-Flint, ending with a fun day at Michigan’s Adventure in Muskegon. +

The participants of the 2019 Progressive Mission Trip. 40 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

DOMINICAN MISSION PROJECT submitted by Beth Drew, Deacon for International Mission

On June 15, 2019, our small group gathered at of worship with Iglesia Episcopal Santa Maria Virgen Detroit Metro Airport. and rest for the coming week.

Our roster consisted of two missioners from We were able to connect the main viaduct in Puerta Eastern Michigan, Rose Duncan and Nancy Mayhew Plata with PVC pipelines to Mosovi. from St. Alban’s, Bay City. The Western Michigan group consisted of Richard Southby, Christ Church This was not an easy task as multiple leaks were Charlevoix, Deborah and Alexandra Egnatuck, discovered once the water was able to flow down Trinity Marshall, and Beth Drew, Diocesan Deacon the mountain. We even had to dig around an for International Mission. electric utility pole which had been placed directly above the pipeline. That gave us a few nervous Our group was small but we accomplished much moments when the pole wavered a bit. We painted through the course of the week. Sunday was a day both the inside and outside of Divina Gracia and also installed a chain link security fence. This involved cutting and bending the rebar, building the footers and supports, and mixing the cement on the nearby road.

We had a wonderful week filled with laughter, conversation, and insights gained during our time with our Dominican brothers and sisters. We left the island with grateful hearts and looking forward to returning to complete the Mosovi project next year. Thanks to Christ Church Charlevoix and the Dioceses of Eastern and Western Michigan for supporting this vital mission. +

At work on the mission project in the DR. DR Missioners in Mosovi.

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 41 CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

ECUMENICAL & INTERFAITH MINISTRY submitted by the Rev. Mike Wernick, Ecumenical and Interfaith Officer

In referring to my 2011 call to serve both Schori named this diversity when she said: “For us an Episcopal congregation and a Lutheran Christians, Jesus is our doorway to God; but for Congregation, (which for five years now have us to think that God couldn’t possibly act in some worshipped not only in the same building but in other way, is for us humans to put God in a very the same worship service), my former bishop in the small box.” We acknowledge this, by affirming other Diocese of Southern Ohio said: “You were born for paths. this.” I think he was referring to highlights of the journey that God and I have been on, zigzagging Earlier this year, I attended the National Workshop across various boundaries (like Samaria and on Christian Unity. And in conversations with clergy Galilee) and up and down mountains (like Sinai and and laity from other denominations, I discerned an Gerizim). emerging awareness that religion ought to be more about transformation in the here and now, and less From Reform Jew to Episcopal Christian. From about salvation in the hereafter. And in the face of high school graduate to graduate school graduate. the global challenges we face as the human family, From being married to a woman to being married the voices which insist “we’re right and you’re to a man. From father to father-in-law. From lay wrong” are losing steam and traction. The 2019 person to deacon to priest. From introverted to LARC Conference was held just last week, and we just barely extroverted. From Spiritual Directee to continued the conversations about how to respect Spiritual Director. And woven into this journey are our differences without raising one theology over the lessons I’ve learned about religious diversity and and above the others. acceptance, as expressed through local Kaufman Interfaith Institute events, and the differences in As the Episcopal–United Methodist Dialogue practice and polity between the Episcopal Church Committee continues its conversations, both and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. denominations continue their plans to bring the full communion proposal (A Gift to the World: The Rev. Bill Fleener once named this richness Co-Laborers for the Healing of Brokenness) to the when he said: “Look around at creation, and if 2020 United Methodist General Conference and the you’re able, show me evidence that God favors 2021 General Convention. After all, our Presiding uniformity.” God does not, and diversity was never Bishop Michael Curry says: “If it’s not about love, meant to be divisive. Minister Michael Kinnamon it’s not about God.” Because in our baptismal vows, recognized this aspect of parochialism when he we promise to strive for justice and peace among all said: “Denominations are wonderful adjectives, people, and to respect the dignity of every human but idolatrous nouns.” We must overcome this being; and we do that out of love. + tribal mindset. And former PB Katharine Jefferts-

42 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

EPISCOPAL CHURCH WOMEN submitted by Pam Chapman, President

This 2018 year was very challenging for the Board It did not work for 2018 because schedules did not from recruiting new Board members to finding work. meeting dates and places. The Board was blessed with a new member at our Thanks be to God for his grace. He puts us in places Annual Meeting. Courtney LeRoy of St. David’s where we should be. Lansing.

Our Annual Meeting was held at St. John’s Sturgis, Members of the Board are Pam Chapman, President; April 27, 2019. Fr. Aaron Evans and the parish Marilee Roth, Vice President; Gail Donovan, UTO welcomed us. The Board had never been to St. Coordinator; Ruth Smith Mission and Outreach; Kay John’s Sturgis. The theme for this year was Amazing Hanson, Secretary; new member Courtney LeRoy Grace. and Tammy Mazure, Treasurer.

The Board purchased 10 Dinka Prayer books for the Thanks be to God as we start a new year with Sudanese congregation. We attempted to visit some mercy, grace and opportunity. + of the other church missions in order to help out.

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 43 CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

JUBILEE MINISTRIES submitted by Martha Bartlett, Jubilee Officer

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has This quote is from Resolution B029, “Reaffirmation anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He of Jubilee Ministries,” adopted at the 79th General has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and Convention of the Episcopal Church held in July recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go 2018. Further, this resolution directs that training free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. Luke be offered to connect the Jubilee Movement with 4:18-19 the Jesus Movement work of racial reconciliation and Jubilee Ministry was economic and environmental established through the justice work. actions of the 67th General Convention held in 1982 The Episcopal Church, – and has continued ever nationally, has adopted the since! use of Asset Mapping to make known and enhance Currently there are seven each and all of our parish active Jubilee Ministry ministries. Canon Katie Centers in our diocese: Forsyth has this Asset Mapping/Information • St. Luke’s Thrift Shop Sharing on our diocesan and Partners in Housing website - edwm.org. The Transition each at St. inclusion of every parish’s Luke’s, Kalamazoo information strengthens the • Life Guides at Goodwill, ability to learn from each Kalamazoo other. So, it is worth asking: • The Baby Pantry at St. “Is your parish’s entry up to Philip’s, Beulah date?” • Vera’s House at St. General Convention’s Mark’s, Newaygo Resolution B029 recognizes • The Wellness Ministry the effectiveness of Jubilee at St. Andrew’s, Grand Jubilee Center - Partners in Housing Centers as our “outreach Rapids Transition (St. Luke’s, Kalamazoo) arms” and the Episcopal Church, nationally, will • Jubilee House at Grace continue to designate Jubilee Church, Traverse City Centers. What ministry is Each of the ministries lives out the focus of your parish known for? Where is your ministry Jubilee: “joint discipleship in Christ with poor and most effective and Spirit filled? Is your parish a oppressed people, whenever they are found, to Jubilee Ministry Center waiting to be recognized? meet basic humans needs and to build a just society If so, or, if you have questions, please contact me at as an incarnational expression of the core mission [email protected]. + of the church.”

44 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

THE ORDER OF NAUCRATIUS submitted by the Revs. Christian and Jodi Baron, Co-Founders

The Order of Naucratius - West Michigan is a invited anglers to donate the fish they themselves network of hunters, anglers, and feeding programs couldn’t consume at the annual Benzie Fishing working together to help reduce food insecurity Frenzy. This year’s fish went to Benzie Area in our communities. In 2019, The ONWM saw Christian Neighbors and to the Empire Food Pantry. strengthened and new relationships. The amount of protein distributed was impressive and also created Advocacy Work: good problems for us to navigate. The Order met with several local and state officials to discuss the interpretation of Michigan Food New & Old Partnerships: Our first partners in this Laws (Wild Game Act 92) - specifically how they ministry have continued to be champions for the pertain to local food pantries and food distribution people on whose behalf they work, fish, hunt, and programs. State Senator Curt Vanderwall (35th cook. This year we added several new partnerships District) met with us to hear our concerns about from across EDWM. Our partners now include: the ambiguities in the current laws. As we have expanded our partnerships, it has become clear that • Beaver Island Food Pantry, Beaver Island a more consistent, state-wide, interpretation of our • Benzie Area Christian Neighbors, Benzonia food law is needed. Currently, the law is interpreted • Benzie County Sheriff’s Office, Beulah by county Health Inspectors. This has made it very • Empire Food Pantry, Glen Arbor challenging to advise various partners as to the • Community Action House, Holland safest way to distribute donated fish. • Kalamazoo Gospel Mission, Kalamazoo • Ministry with Community, Kalamazoo With Grateful Hearts: • Dreamweaver Charity Tournament, Muskegon Thanks to every human who helped clean and • Fishers of Men Ministries, Zeeland package fish, promote events, recruit teams, offer funds or raffle prizes, say prayers, or fished. Thank The Numbers: Together, Naucratites processed 2 you to the EDWM Cursillo for the donation of deer and 4,200 lbs of fresh/frozen fish from 80+ the trailer and funds and to the Rev. Canon Anne humans, and with the help of one airplane trip to Hallmark for facilitating the safe delivery of fish deliver a cooler of fish to Beaver Island Food Pantry. caught at The Big Red Classic to Beaver Island. A special thanks to the generous grant awarded The official Naucratius Tournament in Holland by The Father Lovett Foundation, enabling us to gathered 10 teams, collecting 25 fish, 230+ lbs total, purchase necessary food storage supplies to help all generously donated by anglers. Community make sure that the food was safe and processed Action House turned those contributions into tasty properly. We couldn’t have been nearly as successful meals for hundreds of hungry Hollanders. this year without your help. Other Tournaments: Future Formation: The Big Red Classic Pro/Am (Holland) asked ONWM We are in conversation about holding a Naucratius to collect fish. We easily collected over 10,000 summer camp in 2020. This would involve great pounds of big lake fish which translated into enough fishing, great food, and optional prayer and portions to fill the freezers of Community Action worship. The hope is that this camp would offer House, Benzie Area Christian Neighbors, Ministry time and space for connections around fishing and with Community and Kalamazoo Gospel Mission in friendships. Stay tuned for more information. Kalamazoo, the Empire Food Bank, and the Beaver Island Food Pantry. Get in touch: visit us at www.onwm.org, like us on Facebook at facebook.com/onwm.edwm or email us The Tournament Trail organizers, along with the at [email protected]. + Chamber of Commerce in Frankfort, once again

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 45 CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

PASTORAL CARE & COUNSELING submitted by Kenneth E. Reid, LMSW, Ph.D.

The Pastoral Care and Counseling Program has 30, 2019, one-to-one counseling (139 hours) was the been an outreach ministy of the diocese for more primary format, followed by group, and family. than 46 years. Laucnhed in the 70s by Bishop Bennison, the program’s mission is to foster healing, Self-stustaining, the program recieves no funds growth, and wholeness. More specifically: from the diocesan budget. The fee for services, simliar to that of other agencies in the community, • Strenghten and preserve family life is based on the individual’s ability to pay. • Support clergy, congregations, and ministries of the diocese A unique askepct of the program is its commitment to the health and well-being of clergy and their Counseling occurs in a Christian setting where families. Phone consultation is availble and we are individuals are encouragd to develop to the fullest begnning to use Skype as a way of reaching out to of their God-given potential. clergy beyond the Kalamazoo area.

Located at St. Luke’s in Kalamazoo, a wide range of Additional information is available by at edwm.org/ counseling is available including: individual, group, resources/care-counseling or emailing ekreid@ marital, family, and premarital. During the twelve chartermi.net. + months between OCtober 1, 2018 and September

46 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

PLAINSONG FARM submitted by Polly Hewitt, Interim Communications Director

2019 was a fast-paced, transformational year In addition, our national programs, under the for Plainsong Farm, the center for farm-based leadership of The Rev. Nurya Love Parish, continue discipleship in the Diocese of Western Michigan. As to educate and advocate for renewed connections our fifth year progressed, we saw ourselves living between faith practice and land stewardship. We into our mission to restore connections between are particularly excited about our new Churchlands people, places and God. Despite our small budget pilot program, created in partnership with The Rev. – and even smaller staff -- we saw many of our Darriel Harris of Johns Hopkins University, Newborn prayers realized and dreams come to life. Community of Faith Church, and the Black Church Food Security Network. This groundbreaking In early June, we greeted our very first cohort of initiative will provide Scripture study, practical Plainsong Fellows, young adults who are being theology and land-use education for those who care equipped for leadership roles in the growing food- for church-owned land. and-faith movement. Our summer staff person moving from North Carolina and Fellows joining us Although we are formally a ministry of the Diocese from California, Massachusetts, and Ohio provided of Western Michigan, Plainsong Farm receives evidence that there is a hunger for this type of no financial support from the diocesan budget. ministry being felt around the country. Our work is funded through grants, program fees, facility rentals and individual donations. We invite Over the summer, we hosted Kendall Vanderslice, you to visit our website at www.plainsongfarm.com author of We Will Feast, for Breadbaking and Dinner to become a donor or just learn more about the Church workshops that drew participants from Farm. Our Board Chair, The Rev. Brian Coleman, and across the state of Michigan. And we were honored our Executive Director, The Rev. Nurya Love Parish, to welcome the Bishop of Indianapolis, the Rt. Rev. are always available to answer questions about our Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows, and a delegation from local and national work. Finally, we always invite her diocese. your prayers for our mission, Board of Directors and staff members. + We also continued our environmental education programming for local public students and welcomed a number of youths from churches like Sudanese Grace for farm tours and immersive education. Our Heirloom Wheat program, which hand-sows and harvests nutritious, flavorful wheat for local churches to use for baking communion bread, grew again; of our 13 member churches, nine are Episcopal.

Our Sabbath at the Farm seasonal Sunday gatherings reached 50 multigenerational participants for simple, farm-based worship and a shared meal. This weekly event attracted a significant number of young adults and families; in fact, we redesigned our liturgy in the early summer to incorporate the growing number of children. And finally, our busy CSA farm delivered hundreds of pounds of tasty, nutrient-dense vegetables to The summer staff of Plainsong Farm, including co- our shareholders and charitable food partner, founders, young adult fellows, program staff. North Kent Connect.

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 47 CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

TASKFORCE FOR THE CARE OF CREATION submitted by the Rev. Canon Anne Hallmark, Canon Missioner for the Northern Region

Before he left on Sabbatical this past May, Bishop Hougland appointed me to serve as coordinator and the following folks to serve as the first members of the Care of Creation Taskforce:

• The Rev. Canon Anne Hallmark, Coordinator • The Rev. Christian Baron - St. Philip’s, Beulah • Tobi Hanna-Davies - St. Luke’s, Kalamazoo • Polly Hewitt - Plainsong Farm • Laura Rauwerda - St. John’s, Grand Haven • Gary Street - Emmanuel, Petoskey

My first step was to meet one-on-one with each of the Taskforce members. I was able to do that by the end of this summer. I was touched, moved and humbled by the work and witness that Christian, Tobi, Polly, Laura, and Gary have already made in their respective caring for creation ministries.

Given our geographic distribution from Petoskey in the north all the way to Kalamazoo in the south, and points in between, we set our first Taskforce meeting using Zoom technology for Tuesday afternoon, October 15. We also plan to gather during the 145th Convention at lunch time on Saturday, the 2nd of November so we can continue our collaboration in person. Greta Thunberg, teenage environmental activist. Our initial conversations will concern themselves with spelling out our proposed scope of work, the goals we set for ourselves, and the challenges and other young people. If they can offer the world opportunities we see in furthering the identified such a powerful witness, who am I, and who are priorities of the Jesus Movement in Western you, to hang back from standing with and working Michigan. We will also be seeking a couple of young with them? people to serve with us on the Taskforce. May the same God who gave us this good earth This seems a daunting time to be active in the care of which to be stewards give us the vision, the of creation given the speed and severity of harmful energy, and the courage to repent of the things changes taking place around the planet. However, we have done and the things we have left undone I am inspired and encouraged by the prophetic and to become active in cleaning up the disastrous courage and work — see Jeremiah 27:2 and following consequences of our lack of caring stewardship to — being done by Greta Thunberg and countless date. +

48 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

TASKFORCE FOR DISMANTLING RACISM submitted by the Rev. Deacon Cynthia Nawrocki, Committee Member

This has been a year of organizing for our group. day program which was presented at St. Philip’s, Beulah. It was very well-received and we hope to We realized that our work needed many more offer it again in other areas. people involved with us. Canon Forsyth sent out application requests and we had overwhelming We are also collaborating with the Diocese of response. Eastern Michigan.

We have established four sub-committees to lead We are recommending a book for parish book the following activities: studies and have them available for purchase at this convention. The title is “A City Within A City” and • Training/ Facilitation it chronicles the racial history of Grand Rapids. It • Evaluation/Assessment is especially eye-opening for any parish because of the information it relays about how systemic racism • Parish Strategy/Mentoring began and is allowed to continue. • Marketing/Public Relations We continue to search for ways to further the We have met with the co-chairs of each of these work of dismantling racism in our diocese and our groups and expect to be able to begin offering new society. + initiatives in the near future. Dismantling Racism Task Force We are recommending a two and a half day training program through a group called • The Rev. Canon Valerie Ambrose, Convener CORR, Congregations Organizing for Racial • The Rev. Sue York, Chair Reconciliation. It is really comprehensive and can be • Joyce Henry, Vice-Chair transformative. Since we realize that not everyone • Carole Redwine can take this much time, they have designed a one- • The Rev. Cindy Nawrocki

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 49 CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

TASKFORCE FOR EVANGELISM submitted by Katie Forsyth, Canon for Evangelism and Networking

The Taskforce for Evangelism was one of four Canons, the “Cooperating Ministry”. This progress task forces created by resolution last year at the would enable the recognition of existing new, non- Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan’s 144th congregational communities already within our Convention. midst and would pave the way for future ministries to be developed in the future. Earlier this Spring, Bishop Hougland appointed the following people to serve on the task force: One major challenge before us is a lack of funding. The task forces were created by resolution that • Canon Katie Forsyth, Coordinator did not attach funding recommendations. As we • The Rev. Deacon Beth Drew - Trinity, Three continue to imagine what resources it will require Rivers to equip our leaders and address our structures, • The Rev. Nurya Love Parish - Holy Spirit, it is clear that we would like to be able to host Belmont gatherings, pay for facilitator mileage, and perhaps • Matthew Roney - Grace, Traverse City bring in outside speakers. Without funding, these • The Rev. Mike Wernick - Two Churches, things may be difficult to accomplish. We anticipate Kentwood submitting a budget request in the next funding cycle. We met for the first time in August at the Diocesan House in Wyoming and again in October, by Zoom. We look forward to the potential of bringing Over the course of these two meetings and by email more people into this conversation. We have one correspondence, we identified areas of focus for our remaining seat on our task force for a participant work, identified some assets and challenges before from Western Michigan and are excited at the us, and took the first few steps along the way. possibility of making our task force truly bi- diocesan, adding folks from Eastern Michigan into We have identified two areas of focus: Resourcing our work. and Structure. Through this work of the Taskforce for Evangelism, Through resourcing, we want to empower people we’re hoping to equip all of our folks to be able to of all orders to do the work of evangelism. This may speak of Christ and his Church in their own words, include trainings, online resources, and storytelling articulating for themselves - This is who we are. opportunities. We look forward to inviting the This is why we’re here. This is what we do. We invite people of Eastern and Western Michigan into our you to join us. + first initiative at our diocesan conventions.

Through examining our structures, we want to create an environment in our diocese that nurtures new ministries to develop. We believe the Diocese of Western Michigan can be a place where innovative, creative, and forward thinking New Episcopal Communities can thrive, supported by their diocesan network. As the wider church is moving to steward new ministries with more intentionality, our diocese can also take steps in this direction.

To begin this work, our taskforce put forth a The taskforce met over Zoom in early October. resolution to create a new category within our

50 | The 145th Convention CONVENTION BUSINESS MINISTRY REPORTS

UNITED THANK OFFERING submitted by Gail Donovan, Coordinator for EDWM and Province V

It has been an exciting first year serving on the Santiago de Compostela was the third holiest site United Thank Offering National Board. I’m grateful in Christianity in the Middle Ages (after Jerusalem for this opportunity to represent Province V and and Rome). Their pilgrimage combines walking our diocese in this ministry. And I’m thankful for portions of the Camino with visits to UTO grant each of you who have recognized the many ways sites in Madrid and Northwest Spain. Over 250,000 you have been blessed, made a thank offering, and people walk part of the Camino every year – shared your blessings and gratitude with others. more and more of them are Protestants; in fact, Protestants walking the Camino now outnumber Our diocese contributed $13,023.12 to the UTO in Roman Catholics. Roman Catholics can end their 2018! That’s more than the combined total for 2016 pilgrimage by celebrating the Eucharist together &17 and the largest total since 2010!!! There were in the cathedral; however, Protestants are not no church or group grant applications from our welcome to receive communion there, so there is diocese submitted in 2018; however, we had at least no place to end their journey together. Since 2015, five regular grants and a young adult grant filled plans to build an Anglican Centre in Santiago have in that 8-year timeframe. The 2020 grant criteria, been developing and UTO is joining in that work. applications, and deadlines are detailed on our The Board has issued a UTO Camino Challenge website: unitedthankoffering.com. I am also available Grant that will match donations of up to $60,000 to assist you with questions – email: gadonov@ to support the building and development of the aol.com. Don’t wait until the last minute to apply. Anglican Pilgrim Centre in Santiago. We can only submit one grant application in each category. You can donate to the Challenge grant, obtain grant application information, subscribe to our This year was the first time I’ve been involved in e-Newsletter, read a short description of all the scoring the grant requests for funding. Its vary time grants funded from UTO’s inception, join the consuming but interesting to read all the great ideas UTO-Reads book club, order supplies, and more for new ministries. There is never enough money to all by visiting the UTO website. And, yes, we are on fund all the applicants, but one that was my favorite Facebook with lots of pics from the Camino walkers! and did get funded was for the Diocese of Michigan. + The money you put in your Blue Box last year, maybe in thanksgiving for rain after a long dry spell, helped fund the Corner Shower & Laundry at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. It received $70,000 for a basement renovation so that the homeless guests at Manna Community Meal Soup Kitchen can shower and do laundry to have clean clothes after eating. The homeless will also have supportive employment by providing laundry service to the local Corktown restaurants.

As I write this, some members of the UTO Board, accompanied by a group from the Diocese of Northern Indiana are walking the Camino de Santiago de Compostela. The Camino is one of oldest routes of pilgrimage in Christianity and

The Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | 51