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September 2023

Welcome to the House of Deputies Newsletter

Welcome to the Episcopal Church House of Deputies monthly email newsletter. If you're a deputy or an alternate, you've been subscribed automatically. If you've come across this issue in another way and would like to subscribe to this monthly newsletter, you can sign up on our website or on our Facebook page.

Do you have suggestions, ideas, or news about the work of deputies to share? Please email us. Want to learn more about the House of Deputies? Check out our website.

 A Message of Hope: Reflections from the PHOD as we prepare for the 81st General Convention.

Click here to read video transcript

Prayer for Bishop Curry on the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels

Almighty God, on this feast of St. Michael and All Angels, we lift up Presiding Bishop Michael Curry in prayer. Surround him with your loving protection as he shepherds your church. Be his shield and rampart, that he may dwell secure under your wings. Keep continual watch over him, that no harm befall him. Uphold him with your grace, that his footsteps do not slip. May your angels guard and guide him in all his ways, as we look to you, lifting our eyes up to the hills, the source of our help. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Deadline October 2!

Preparations for the 81st General Convention are well underway! It is time for deputies to apply to be appointed to a legislative committee that will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our church. 

Click here to fill out the preference survey

Click here for the full list of Legislative Committees 

What are Legislative Committees?

Legislative Committees are fundamental components of the General Convention, responsible for examining proposed resolutions and legislation that address important matters affecting our Church and its members. Each committee is assigned specific resolutions based on their topic area of expertise, and they carefully review, discuss, and amend the proposed resolutions.

How can you participate?

As elected lay and clergy deputies of the Episcopal Church, your participation in these committees is vital, as you will help craft and deliberate upon the resolutions and legislation that will define our path forward. As a Deputy, you have the unique opportunity to contribute actively to the decision-making process at the heart of our Church's governance.

Deadline October 2

In advance of the 81st General Convention, some deputies are organizing themselves into caucuses. These caucuses are independent, voluntary organizations. Three of these groups have reached out to the office of the president of the House of Deputies to be included in this survey: the Deputies of Color (Asian/Pacific Islander Caucus, Indigenous Caucus, Latino Caucus, Black Caucus), the LGBTQ+ Caucus, and the Under 40 Caucus. 

If you want to join one of these caucuses, fill out the interest form here.

Next steps for Proposed HOD Rules of Order

Over the past two months, the Special Committee on HOD Rules of Order heard valuable and constructive feedback on its proposed draft. This feedback has been collected, and the committee is reviewing it. Looking ahead, the Special Committee is planning a November workshop to discuss possible revisions to the draft proposal based on the feedback received. More information on this workshop will be made available in the coming weeks.

House of Deputies Chaplain's September reflection

Celebrating Latino/Hispanic Heritage Month at The Seminary of the Southwest

Celebrating Latino/Hispanic Heritage Month, President Ayala Harris made a special visit to the Seminary of the Southwest, which was filled with celebrations and fellowship. Her visit highlighted the seminary's commitment to embracing diversity and honoring the Latino experience.

The evensong service was a particular highlight, where President Ayala Harris delivered a sermon that both highlighted the Latino experience and brought a message on finding hope amid adversity. President Ayala Harris also engaged with students and faculty in meaningful conversations, toured the campus, and visited the Mexi-Arte Museum.

One of the most memorable parts of the visit was a celebratory gathering with the seminary's Latinx Concentration students. Together, they honored the beauty of diversity and reflected on nurturing their unique identities with pride. This video highlights the importance of commemorating Latino/Hispanic Heritage Month, as well as delivers a powerful message on the significance of embracing our unique identities and the strength that lies within diversity.

“I am inspired by the seminary's dedication to preparing faith leaders who champion diversity, promote human dignity, and build a more just society. My visit was a reminder of how intercultural understanding can strengthen and unite us. It was a privilege to take part in this special commemoration of Latino/Hispanic Heritage Month. I am grateful for the warm welcome and hospitality.”- President Ayala Harris

Apply today!

Episcopal teens ages 16 to 19 are invited to apply to become part of the 81st General Convention’s Official Youth Presence, a group whose members have seat and voice in the House of Deputies and can testify at hearings before and during the summer 2024 convention. The deadline to apply is Nov. 17.

Up to two youth from each of the church’s nine provinces will be selected to participate in the Official Youth Presence from June 20-28, 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky. Youth who are selected must also attend orientation and training in Louisville from Feb. 16-19. The Episcopal Church budget covers travel,

lodging, and meals for those attending orientation and General Convention.

Applications and nomination forms—in English and Spanish—can be found online, as well as additional criteria and information for potential applicants. Nominators must not be related to the applicant.

Key Details

Application Deadline: November 17, 2023

Location: Louisville, Kentucky

Youth Presence Dates: June 20-28, 2024

Orientation and Training: February 16-19, 2024 (Louisville)