{e} Connections | July 19, 2022 |
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148th Annual Convention to be held November 19 |
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The 148th Convention of the Diocese of Southern Ohio will take place on Saturday, November 19, 2022. The convention will be a hybrid event – voting clergy and delegates can attend either in person at Christ Church Cathedral, or virtually via Zoom.
Important dates and deadlines
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August 21: (90 days prior): Requested Constitution/Canonical changes due for review
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September 19: Registration opens
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September 20: (60 days prior): Deadline for proposed Constitution/Canonical changes
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October 5: (45 days prior): Deadline for proposed resolutions; nominations requested
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November 1: (18 days prior): Deadline for nominations
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November 2: Pre-convention meeting and Nominee Forum, 6:30 p.m.
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November 4: Registration closes
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November 12: (7 days prior): Deadline for 2022 Commission Reports
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Elections
Convention delegates will elect leaders for several positions on diocesan commissions as well as deputies and alternates to the next General Convention. All of the positions and their descriptions can be found here.
We seek nominees for these positions who are broadly representative of diocesan demographics. Advances in technology have made it possible for people of all areas of the diocese to serve without the time and expense of traveling to commission meetings. Prayerfully consider if God is calling you to serve in a position of leadership in our diocese, then fill out a nomination form here.
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Resolutions
Convention resolutions are one of the ways we do the practical work of our life together and express our love in action. To submit a resolution, please follow the sample format, newly revised as of 2022. Resolutions intended for the 148th Diocesan Convention need to be submitted by October 5, using the online form here.
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Proposing changes to the Constitution or Canons
The Committee on Constitution and Canons is charged with assisting in the screening, preparation, and presentation of constitutional and canonical amendments. The committee is chaired by the diocesan chancellor.
Because of the time involved in research and preparation, and to ensure any proposed amendment is properly drafted, the committee requests all proposals be submitted 90 days prior to the date of convention. In 2022, that date is August 21.
By canon, any amendments to the Constitution and Canons must be submitted in writing no later than 60 days prior to the date of convention. In 2022, that date is September 20.
Send any proposed changes to the Constitution and Canons to Joseph J. Dehner, Esq. at jdehner@fbtlaw.com.
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Check the convention website, dsoconvention.org, for the latest convention information, and watch upcoming issues of this newsletter for details and deadlines.
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Becoming Beloved Community news |
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From its inception three years ago, the Becoming Beloved Community movement in Southern Ohio has been working toward an increased commitment to racial healing, evangelism, and creation care (the three pillars of Becoming Beloved Community), seeking to “become the church that looks and acts like Jesus.” Amy Howton, coordinator for the group, created an Impact Report, which outlines the accomplishments and findings of this work in the diocese as she and other leaders discerned the future of the movement.
The newly-organized core team includes Amy Howton and Miriam McKenney, co-leaders, both contracted by the diocese, Catherine Duffy, and the Rev. Canon Jason Oden, Canon for Formation and New Episcopal Ministries. The team continues to use the community of practice leadership model. “The premise of this model is that wisdom emerges in and through relationships rather than a top-down approach,” Howton says.
This team has worked over recent months to plan and submit the Becoming Beloved Community budget for 2023 and determine priorities for the next two years. The common goal is to build capacity, innovate, and re-form our diocese into one that looks and acts like Jesus by integrating Becoming Beloved Community into our culture and structures; the Community would have us remember and know God’s transformative love as seen in each other.
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Cincinnati Festival of Faiths August 7 |
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The Greater Cincinnati Festival of Faiths is an event like no other! Join with 30 other faith traditions and 13 different world religions to learn how we all, in our own way, contribute to a compassionate community.
The Festival of Faiths offers multiple online events beginning July 31, and culminates August 7 with an in-person exhibition filled with cultural foods, merchandise, activities, music and entertainment for all ages. The event is free to attend. Learn more at https://www.equasion.org.
Volunteers needed!
The Diocese of Southern Ohio is a major sponsor of the Festival of Faiths, and will host a large interactive exhibit at the Cintas Center on Aug. 7. Volunteers are needed to help staff the booth. If you like talking with people and are interested in helping out, please fill out the online form here.
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Forms, policies, and other information for congregational management can be found on the resources hub on the diocesan website.
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Stewardship webinars offered |
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In August, TENS, The Episcopal Network for Stewardship, will offer three webinars to help congregations develop good stewardship practices for their giving campaigns. The free, lunchtime webinars will be held on Tuesdays from 12 to 1:30 p.m. Dates and registration links are listed below, and can also be found on the calendar.
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Telling Your Stewardship Story – Making the Case!
Tuesday, August 2, 2022 12PM – 1:30 PM
Your members give their gifts to support your mission! Help them know and tell the story of your work in the world by learning how to tell the story of how your Church changes the world. We’ll review some design tips and tools to help you make great materials, explore the best practices on donation websites and pledge forms, and discover how to create messaging that shows impact. Join us for this live webinar by registering here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/380609863347
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Breaking Through the Pledge Plateau
Tuesday, August 16, 2022 12PM – 1:30 PM
Are your pledge campaigns falling flat, achieving the same results year after year? It’s time to learn some strategies and ideas on how to get your members excited about your ministry and ready to support it with their best stewardship gifts. We’ll explore formation ideas, campaign strategies, and new approaches to pledge campaigns. Join us for this live webinar by registering today: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/380620876287
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Recruiting and Training a Stewardship Committee
Tuesday, August 30, 2022 12PM – 1:30 PM
Not everyone is called to serve on a stewardship committee and not everyone is trained to be a fundraiser. Learn how to identify and mentor members of your leadership and congregation who have a knack for communicating the good news of your mission. We’ll uncover formation strategies for your adult education programs, some preaching and teaching tips, and some best practices in supporting your stewardship leaders. Join us for this live webinar by registering at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/380630314517
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Annual reporting deadlines |
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Below are upcoming annual reporting deadlines for congregations in the Diocese of Southern Ohio.
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Diocesan Ministries & Initiatives |
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Becoming Beloved Community |
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With support from the United Thank Offering, the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio has committed to the call of Becoming Beloved Community, with deepening focus on the work of racial healing, reconciliation, and justice-making. Learn more and subscribe to the Diocese of Southern Ohio Becoming Beloved Community newsletter.
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For more information about seasonal opportunities as well as ongoing opportunities such as Education for Ministry, Safe Church Training, and Anti-Racism Training, visit the Formation page on the diocesan website and subscribe to the Diocese of Southern Ohio Formation newsletter.
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Director of Children, Youth and Young Adult Ministries Adam Hayden is looking forward to connecting with all congregations in the diocese. Give him a call (812.430.4464) or send an email to ahayden@diosohio.org to jumpstart the conversation!
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If your congregation would like to have news or an event notice published in the newsletter, email Julie Murray.
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Jammin' at the James presents Pure Chemistry July 23 |
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Jammin’ at the James is a family-friendly, free summer concert series held on the lawn at St. James, Westwood, located at 3207 Montana Avenue in Cincinnati. For our July concert, enjoy jazz, funk, and R&B by Pure Chemistry and food by Jill’s Mobile Kitchen. The food truck gets here at 6 p.m., and the concert starts at 7 p.m. More information available here.
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8th Annual Gaslight Chamber Music Series July 22-23 |
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Please join us this summer for the 8th Annual Gaslight Chamber Music Series featuring members and guests of the Cincinnati Fusion Ensemble. The program will feature American, British & German music for solo and various combinations of voice, organ & piano.
VOICE: Quinn Patrick Ankrum, Audrey B Luna, Mary Elizabeth Southworth & Daniel Weeks
ORGAN: Mitchell Miller & Michael Unger
PIANO: William Averill, Brad Caldwell & Howard Helvey
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 PM
July 22 & 23, 2022 (different repertoire on each program)
Generously underwritten and open to all; no tickets required; open seating.
$20 suggested donation per recital for CFE’s educational/outreach initiative.
Calvary Episcopal Church, 3766 Clifton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45232
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PIMIL International Luncheon returns July 23 |
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The Partners in Ministry in Liberia (PIMIL) annual International Luncheon and Silent Auction is back after two years of COVID-19 cancellations! The event will be held at St. Philip, Columbus, on Saturday, July 23 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Proceeds support the education of more than 200 students in Liberia, who now include survivors of COVID-19.
Consider the gathering and fellowship as a reunion of reconnecting with friends, making new friends, and enjoying delicious American and Liberian menus. You will also be able to read student essays on this year’s theme, Prepare your Mind for Action – Education is the Key (based on 1 Peter 1:13v), buy souvenir items, including dolls dressed in exquisite Liberian clothing, and much more. The featured speaker is Clifton Flemister. Tickets are $20 for adults, children 12 and under are free. Donations accepted for students between 13-17 years old.
If you cannot attend the luncheon but would like to donate, you can do so by PayPal, or by check made out to PIMIL, and mailed to St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 30 E. College Avenue, Westerville, OH 43081.
Image: The 2019 PIMIL International luncheon
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Updates from Christ Church Cathedral |
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Cathedral welcomes new Associate Musician for Children and Youth
Christ Church Cathedral is pleased to announce Jason Alexander Holmes as the Cathedral’s new Associate Musician for Children and Youth, effective August 1. Jason has extensive experience as a conductor and educator of both children and adults. At the core of Jason’s teaching and performing is the belief that we are all expressive and musical beings who deserve to witness and participate regularly in moments of truth and beauty. Stay tuned for information about children’s music ministry.
Jason is a music educator and performer from Ridgeway, VA, and currently serves as the Artistic Director of the Cincinnati Boychoir. Before coming to Ohio, he was Director of Educational Programming at the Boston Children’s Chorus. Prior to his time in Boston, Jason taught music at the elementary and secondary levels, and led the University of Rochester Gospel Choir and the Eastman Young Children’s Chorus. Jason holds degrees from the Eastman School of Music and Ithaca College. More information is available here.
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Cathedral Choir Audition Information
Do you love to sing? Then consider auditioning for a position in the Christ Church Cathedral Choir. As a cathedral chorister, you will sing at weekly Sunday morning services, monthly Evensong services, and other major liturgical observances in the church year. The cathedral also maintains a roster of substitute choristers. Positions are open for paid and volunteer choristers, as well as substitute choristers.
The cathedral holds choir auditions at the end of July every year, as well as other times by arrangement with the director of music. Those interested in auditioning for the 2022-23 season can learn more online and complete an application. For more information or to schedule an audition time, contact Stephan Casurella, Director of Music, at 513.842.2065.
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Items needed for new After School program
Procter is starting an after school program for nearby Madison Plains Elementary School. We are in need of kid-sized tables and chairs, as well as book shelves that close up so that the after school program materials will be safe and out of sight when Hobson Hall is being used by other groups. We are also looking for a set or two of Godly Play to be used in after school and at day camp.
If you have any of these items at your church that you could donate to Procter, please contact Executive Director Amy Boyd at aboyd@proctercenter.org. We would be most grateful.
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Yes, We Van!
Procter Camp & Conference Center is working on a special project.
Procter furthers the diocesan mission through outreach and creation care. The property was originally a farm when it was gifted to the diocese, and a portion of the property is still worked by a local farmer through a long-term lease.
In addition, Procter has its own farm, managed by Procter staff, which not only produces food to use at the Center for Diocesan events and camps, but also sells food in Central Ohio through a shop, Procter Store, and farmers’ markets.
The farm has become enmeshed into the life of camp. Campers can learn about the circle of life, and growth, and how it connects to our Christian faith and Creation Care. What a gift!
In recent years, Procter has extended its outreach into the surrounding community, offering Day Camp, Respite Care, and coming soon, Procter After School, to our neighbors, opportunities that are rare in this rural area.
We can bring young people and their families to Procter to demonstrate the love of Christ in a safe, healthy, and fun environment – in the shadow of our beloved Red Barn.
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To help make these programs easier to deliver, we need something really practical – a new van. We need a safe passenger van to bring children from the surrounding area to Day Camp – they don’t always have family available who can bring them to us. We also need a vehicle with the flexibility to remove seats and transport our produce and meat to farmers’ markets and our store, in London. Currently, the staff must lift a heavy freezer into the back of a truck – no easy feat. We have determined that we can accomplish both needs with one vehicle – we run a tight ship!
We are asking e-Connection recipients to prayerfully consider contributing to “seed” the purchase of the van and leverage contributions from other Procter friends and diocesan members to make an investment.
We hope that you will consider supporting an important resource and ministry of Procter Center and the diocese in this way. The total we hope to raise, purchase, outfit the van, and provide signage is $50,000. If you can contribute, or have questions, please contact Amy Boyd at 740.206.2036. Checks may be made out to Procter Center, and mailed to 11235 St. Rt. 38 SE, London, Ohio 43140.
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Bishop Smith's visitations |
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Rector, Christ Church, Springfield
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Music Director, St. Andrew's, Ft. Thomas, KY
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Missioner for Black Ministries, Diocese of Southern Ohio
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Director, Transfiguration Spirituality Center
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Chaplain and Spiritual Services Lead (part-time), Episcopal Retirement Services
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Parish Administrator (part-time) St. Andrew's Pickerington
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Youth Minister, St. Barnabas, Montgomery
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Intentional Interim Priest, Indian Hill Church
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Communications Associate (part-time), Trinity, Hamilton
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Nursery Supervisor, La Iglesia Episcopal del Espíritu Santo
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Administrative Assistant, Holy Trinity, Oxford
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Priest-in-Charge (part-time), St. Philip, Columbus
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The {e} Connections newsletter is published each Tuesday. Please send submissions to communication@diosohio.org by noon on the Monday before publication.
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The Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio
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