Paul R. Shackford, Chief Financial Officer of the diocese, has advised the Bishop of his intention to retire this summer.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my nearly six years as the CFO of the diocese," Paul said. "Working with a wonderful and dedicated team at Episcopal House has been motivating, exciting, energizing and challenging. I've been honored to have had the opportunity to not only oversee the finances of the diocese, but to work with many clergy and lay persons in our congregations. I will miss being part of the diocesan staff."

Paul has also focused much of his time in Joining God in Shaping Our Future, and looks forward to continuing on that journey in the diocese and at his parish, St. Andrew's in Harrington Park.

The Bishop will appoint a committee to search for Paul's replacement. Further details will be available when the position is posted.

Prompted by the departure of the diocese's Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministries, an exploratory team of parents, clergy, diocesan staff, and youth ministers will be intentionally listening to our youth and those who care for them, and then will discern the implications of those learnings to youth ministry in our diocese and identify next steps. All are welcome and encouraged to attend one of the two Youth Ministry Listening Tables - adults, youth, clergy, lay. Registration ends March 30. Find out more.

We have also arranged four Listening events specifically for the youth of our diocese, to give them an opportunity to be heard among their peers. Both Youth Groups and individual youth or young adults are encouraged to attend. RSVPs are needed. Find out more:

The diocesan "Women's Commission" is being reborn as women of faith focusing on action as well as self-care and balancing work, family and faith. Find out more.

This conference, hosted by the Commission on Ministry, will provide an overview of the discernment process.

Those expected to attend are the people discerning their next steps in ministry (called Aspirants), their rectors and all members of their Discernment Committees. Individuals who want to attend by themselves for information and exploration are also invited. Register by Wednesday, April 19. Find out more.

This conference, facilitated by Bishops United Against Gun Violence (of which Bishop Mark Beckwith is a co-convenor), is open to everyone who is committed to exploring the intersection of racism, poverty and gun violence as people of faith. Find out more.

Handouts from Vestry University 2017, held on March 25, are being posted on the diocesan website at dioceseofnewark.org/vestry-university as they become available.

Find out more at crossroadsretreat.com/employment.

Deadlines for The VOICE Online April issues  

TODAY for Apr. 5 issue  

New deadline for Ward J. Herbert Fund applications

In order to better facilitate disbursement of checks for grants prior to the summer break, Diocesan Council has moved the Ward J. Herbert Grant application deadline for the 2nd cycle (late spring funding) to April 15. Because that date falls on a weekend this year, applications may submitted before 12 noon on Monday, April 17. Find out more.

• The Rev. David DeSmith, Rector of St. David's, Kinnelon - June 25

See all clergy ministry transitions in 2017.

Time is 10 AM to 12 noon. Please bring a lunch for afterward if your schedule allows. See the full schedule.

New Start meeting

Clergy Renewal of Vows 

TUE, APR 11, 11 AM @ GRACE, MADISON

Celebration of New Ministry, the Rev Mark Collins 

SAT, APR 29, 5 PM @ ALL SAINTS', GLEN ROCK

Standing Committee
Diocesan Council

Nominations are now being accepted for various Episcopal Church positions, committees or boards that will be elected during the next General Convention in July 2018. Information is available in English, Spanish and French. The application deadline is May 10. Find out more.