A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP AKIYAMA | | |
Dear Friends in Christ,
There is much talk these days about “enemies” and “those who oppose us.” I heard recently that some extreme supporters of the President are referring to the Democratic Party as “demoncrats.” In times of extreme anxiety, Rabbi Edwin Friedman teaches that we humans devise ways to identify the problem person or persons and then demonize them. To alleviate our anxiety, we displace it onto another source—one who is not us. In this way, we can relieve ourselves of accountability or responsibility for the health of our system by maintaining the belief that “it’s those evil others who are the real problem.”
Our gospel this past Sunday (Luke 8:26-39) told the story of a man possessed by demons who Jesus healed. In his restored state, the man was not only in his right mind he was now a disciple, sitting at Jesus’ feet. Seeing this, the people of the village were “seized with great fear.” They feared him as fully healed and restored to community rather than as the possessed man who broke through the chains intended to bind him.
If we are going to talk faithfully and intelligently about the evil one, we must understand that real evil seeks to break, alienate, and pull apart any and all unity or communal well-being. Faith that builds up God’s people and that heals and restores us to wholeness is the enemy of the evil one. Knowing this, we are left to ponder the gospel story’s implication of the villagers: in the end, who in fact was in the grip of evil?
In his recent remarks to the Executive Council, our Presiding Bishop spoke eloquently about our faith and the work of evil in these times:
I do not need to tell you that these are challenging times for the church we serve and for God’s people in our communities. Many of our dioceses and congregations are responding to unprecedented need—feeding people who are hungry, comforting those who are afraid, and struggling to find new models for ministry and to hold onto hope of the future of the church. Everywhere in our church, faithful Episcopalians are watching what is happening and discerning how to respond. As Christians, we are seeking to live by our baptismal promises: to persevere in resisting evil, to strive for justice and peace among all people, and to respect the dignity of every human being…But we live in a time when the evil one is seeking to divide us from one another in myriad ways, especially in political life and on social media. Even as we make our witness to the gospel, we struggle not to be conformed to this world, as Paul put it in his letter to the church at Rome [Romans 12:2]. We too often behave as if our first allegiance is to our nation or political party, and not to the kingdom of God here on earth.
This can make it difficult for us to discern the next right thing. For every message I get demanding that we speak on a particular issue, I get a letter telling me that the church is dying because we won’t stop talking about politics. We are not of one mind about how to respond to what is unfolding around us as followers of the Risen Christ.
Although this broad range of opinion in the church can sometimes make discernment difficult, I find great hope in our diversity of opinion. Because we are not of one mind, we can resist the urge to give ourselves over to the excesses of either party in the United States, or in any other country. We are a living laboratory for how to build community with the creative tension of disagreement, and when we are at our best, The Episcopal Church can make a powerful witness to the world through our unity in diversity.
Our work as Christ followers is laid out before us. Often the way is unclear or disturbing because of what it asks of us. But however murky or challenging, our call is to follow faithfully so that lives will be saved, even our own. The Gerasene demoniac, healed and sitting at Jesus’ feet, is an apt role model for us. Once, we were separate and alienated from one another, but in Christ we are made whole. The evil one has no dwelling place in the hearts and minds of those who share the bonds of Christian love.
As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is no longer Jew or Greek; there is no longer slave or free; there is no longer male and female, for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:27-28)
Blessings,
| | DIOCESAN DIGEST TAKING A JULY BREAK | | |
Please note that the Diocesan Digest will be on hiatus during the month of July. Our final edition before the break will be published next Thursday, July 3, and we will pause on July 10, 17, 24, and 31. The Digest will resume on Wednesday, August 7.
If you have announcements, events, or news you'd like included in the July 3 edition, please send them to communications@ecwo.org or use our Event & News Submission Form by 12 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2.
Thank you, and we look forward to returning in August!
| | | HOPE & FIRE SUMMER YOUTH HIKE | | It's time for a hike! Youth entering grades 6–12 (and their guardians and friends!) are invited to join us at the Knoll Open Space Trailhead in Lincoln City on Thursday, July 24 at 11 a.m. for a beautiful summer hike. Participants should bring good walking shoes, layered clothing, a water bottle, and a packed lunch. RSVP here. Carpooling will be available, RSVP to receive details. | | POSTULANT EMILY GUIMARAES PUBLISHED IN CROSSINGS | | |
We’re delighted to share that Dr. Emily Guimarães, a postulant for Holy Orders from our diocese and an M.Div. student at Church Divinity School of the Pacific (CDSP), has been published in the latest issue of Crossings, CDSP’s magazine.
In her article, Emily reflects on an ecumenical site visit to a local Ethiopian Orthodox church, part of her historical theology coursework. Her thoughtful observations offer a glimpse into the richness of Orthodox liturgy, tradition, and the deep connections across Christian communities.
Read the article here.
Please join us in celebrating Emily’s growing ministry and her insightful contribution to the wider church conversation.
| | BECOMING BELOVED COMMUNITY GRANTS: INFO SESSION JULY 1 | | |
Becoming Beloved Community grants support Episcopal initiatives that foster truth-telling, healing, reconciliation, and systemic change aligned with the Church’s vision of racial justice and beloved community. Applications open July 3, with awards of up to $15,000 available.
An information session will be held July 1 at 4 p.m. EST (1 p.m. PT, with Spanish interpretation). To register for the info session, follow this link.
Applications are due August 31. For more information, read the press release from The Episcopal Church Office of Public Affairs.
| | DEADLINE APPROACHING: SAFE CHURCH SELF-AUDIT | | |
To all clergy and parish administrators: beginning in 2025, each congregation is required to complete a Safe Church self-audit. While the form is thorough by design, it plays an important role in helping us assess how well we are implementing Safe Church practices across the diocese.
This self-audit is mandated by The Episcopal Church and forms part of our diocesan Safe Church Audit process, which will take place every three years starting in 2026. It reflects our shared commitment to fostering safe, accountable, and faithful communities.
Please ensure your congregation completes the self-audit by June 30. Visit the Diocesan Safe Church page (which also includes diocesan Safe Church policies) or access the form directly here.
Questions? Contact Canon Derek Moyer at dmoyer@ecwo.org.
| | HELP US BUILD MODEL BYLAWS FOR PARISHES AND MISSIONS | | |
This year, in response to numerous requests from congregations, the Diocesan Support Center is developing a set of model bylaws for parishes and missions. These model bylaws will illustrate best practices and serve as a helpful template for congregations looking to revise their own governing documents.
To support the creation of this resource, we are asking congregations to share their current bylaws with us. By reviewing and summarizing common practices from across the Diocese, we hope to create a model that reflects the wisdom and experience of our local communities.
We would greatly appreciate your participation in this effort. Please email your bylaws as an attached file to Canon Derek Moyer at dmoyer@ecwo.org. We hope to collect as many as possible by June 30.
| | RESOURCES FOR PRIDE MONTH | | |
The Episcopal Church has released a collection of Pride resources, reflecting our continued journey toward becoming a church where all are welcomed, cherished, and called to serve. Included are graphics, liturgical materials, and customizable templates for individuals and congregations seeking to celebrate Pride Month faithfully and joyfully.
Visit episcopalchurch.org/organizations-affiliations/lgbtq for more information.
UPCOMING PRIDE EVENTS IN WESTERN OREGON
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SAVE THE DATE: ANNUAL MEETING 2025
The 2025 Annual Meeting of the Diocesan Convention will take place Friday & Saturday October 17–18, 2025 at the Salem Convention Center. Details will be published next week.
| | DEADLINE APPROACHING: BUDGET REQUESTS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2026 | | |
Calling all Program Leaders and Budget Preparers:
Applications are open for funding through the Episcopal Church in Western Oregon’s Program Budget for the 2026 calendar year. You may submit your application anytime between now and June 30, 2025.
If you’re requesting funding for a new program, please complete this form.
If you are renewing funding for an existing program, please use this form.
To complete the application, you’ll need to upload a finished budget worksheet. You can access the worksheet here. Be sure to go to File → Create a Copy or Download a Copy to begin.
Program leaders whose ministries currently receive diocesan budget funding can expect a phone call from a member of Diocesan Council before the end of May. If you don’t hear from someone by then, feel free to reach out to the Diocesan Support Center: we want to ensure everyone is connected and supported.
Important Dates:
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June 30, 2025 – Application deadline
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October 18, 2025 – Budget to be finalized at the annual convention
Funding decisions will be shared following final approval of the diocesan budget.
Thank you all for the meaningful work you’re doing in our diocesan community!
| | RESOLUTIONS OF POLICY, RESOLUTIONS TO GENERAL CONVENTION, AND CANONICAL AMENDMENTS | | |
The Diocese is now accepting two types of resolutions for consideration at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the Diocesan Convention, October 17–18, 2025: resolutions of policy, which apply to the life and work of our own Diocese, and resolutions or memorials to the General Convention of The Episcopal Church, which address matters at the national church level.
The canonical deadline for submission is September 3, 2025.
All resolutions must be submitted as editable documents via email to Canon Derek Moyer at dmoyer@ecwo.org.
Whether you're submitting a resolution for diocesan policy or a memorial to General Convention, resources and support are available. For assistance in drafting a resolution, contact Alan Murray, chair of the Committee on Resolutions, at sfalanmurray@gmail.com.
To learn more about the submission process, resolution types, and formatting guidelines, visit ecwo.org/guidelines-for-resolutions-2025.
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Additionally, the Diocese is now receiving proposed amendments to the diocesan Constitution and Canons for consideration at the 2025 Annual Meeting.
The deadline for submission is July 18, 2025 (90 days prior to the Annual Meeting). Amendments must be submitted via email to Canon Derek Moyer at dmoyer@ecwo.org.
Submissions will be reviewed by the Committee on Constitution and Canons, which may suggest revisions for clarity, consistency, and alignment with our governing documents. Proposed amendments must not conflict with the Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church or our diocesan governing documents.
| | DISCERNMENT IS FOR EVERYONE! | | |
The Commission on Ministry invites you to consider joining us for one of our newly designed daylong Discernment Is for Everyone! retreats. Discernment Is for Everyone! is a new curriculum being developed by the Commission on Ministry and the Diocesan Support Center. The first retreat will be held Saturday, September 6 at Church of the Resurrection, Eugene (register here).
What to expect:
- Space to discern alongside others what ministry or ministries you are called to in our Church,
- Learn about how to practice discernment as a regular part of your spiritual practice,
- Learn more about licensed lay ministries in our Church,
- Share resources that may be used by individuals and congregations for practicing ongoing discernment as an individual and in your community.
Retreats will be facilitated by members of the Commission on Ministry and the Canon for Lifelong Formation. The cost to attend is $12 (to help cover expenses). Coffee, tea, and lunch are provided, with dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan options.
Registration for the September retreat is open now. If you have questions please contact Canon Derek Moyer at dmoyer@ecwo.org.
Upcoming Discernment is for Everyone! retreats:
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Saturday, Sep. 6: St. Matthew's, Eugene – Register here.
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Saturday, Nov. 15: Portland - To Be Announced
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Saturday, Jan. 31: Salem - To Be Announced
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IMMIGRATION SUPPORT & ADVOCACY RESOURCES: STILL HERE, STILL VITAL
The Immigration Support & Advocacy Resources page on our diocesan website remains a key tool for parishes and individuals seeking to stand with immigrants and other vulnerable communities. Whether you're looking for legal information, advocacy opportunities, or guidance on pastoral response, this resource hub offers practical tools grounded in our faith’s call to justice and hospitality.
You’ll find Know Your Rights materials, updates on immigration policy, and a clear, step-by-step flowchart outlining how to respond if immigration enforcement arrives at your church. We encourage you to revisit this page, share it widely, and consider how your community can continue to show compassionate support.
Explore the resources here: ecwo.org/immigration-support-advocacy-resources
| | STEWARDSHIP RESOURCES AND CAMPAIGNS | | |
Congregations are welcome to use the diocesan membership to access The Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS) resources and campaigns. This year’s theme is “Inspiring Abundance.” TENS offers a wealth of annual pledge and stewardship materials to support congregations in their ministry.
To explore their extensive library, visit tens.org/resource-library and use the diocesan membership password: Luke1:46. This password allows you to download any of the materials free of charge.
For questions, please contact Canon for Lifelong Formation Derek Moyer at dmoyer@ecwo.org.
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NEED ASSISTANCE WITH PARISH COMMUNICATIONS?
If your parish is facing challenges with its website, social media, email, or any other communications platform, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the diocesan Director of Communications, Paul Schutz. Paul is here as a resource to support you in strengthening your digital presence and outreach. Contact him M–F, 9–5 at communications@ecwo.org or by phone at 971-204-4108.
| | NEW INTERIM RECTOR AT ST. PAUL’S, SALEM | | The Vestry of St. Paul’s, Salem has announced the appointment of the Rev. Bob Williams as Interim Rector. Fr. Bob brings a rich background in interim ministry and a personal connection to the parish, having previously served as a lay leader at St. Paul’s. Ordained in 2012 after a long career in the pharmaceutical industry, Fr. Bob has since served in several parishes across the diocese and currently assists at St. Bartholomew’s, Beaverton. The community looks forward to his leadership during this season of transition. | | |
THERE IS STILL TIME TO REGISTER FOR SUMMER CAMP!
July 14–18, 2025 is the official "Episcopal Camp Week" at beautiful Suttle Lake Camp in Sisters, OR! Two sessions are offered: Elementary Week 1 (completed grades 1–5), and Mid-High Week 1 (completed grades 6–11). For more information or to register, follow the above links or visit suttlelake.gocamping.org. Registration deadline is Monday, June 30!
| | QUILT SHOW AT GRACE, ASTORIA, JUNE 28 | | SCREENING: MY NAME IS PAULI MURRAY, JUNE 29 AT ST. MICHAEL & ALL ANGELS, PORTLAND | | INCONOGRAPHY EXHIBITION, JULY 1–31, MOUNT ANGEL ABBEY LIBRARY | | UPCOMING SCREENINGS: NO PLACE TO GROW OLD, JULY 10 & 16 | | |
All are invited to two upcoming showings of No Place To Grow Old, a powerful local documentary exploring the growing crisis of senior homelessness in Portland. Directed by Davey Schaupp and produced by Humans for Housing, the 48-minute film invites viewers into a deeper understanding of the challenges facing unhoused older adults in our community.
Screening Dates & Locations:
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Trinity Cathedral – Wednesday, July 10, 6 pm – Read more here.
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St. Andrew’s, Portland – Tuesday, July 16 – This screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring staff, residents, and partners from WeShine’s St. Andrew’s Village, a microvillage supporting unhoused individuals over 45 or those with physical disabilities. Register here.
Watch the trailer here.
| | DISMANTLING RACISM WORKSHOP, JULY 19, ST. MARTIN'S, LEBANON | | St. Martin's, Lebanon is hosting a Dismantling Racism workshop led by diocesan missioner for racial reconciliation Rev. Ernestein Flemister, July 19 at 10 a.m. All are welcome to attend. RSVP by July 15 via email at stmartinslebanon@gmail.com. | | GODLY PLAY NORTH AMERICAN GATHERING, AUG. 14–16, VANCOUVER, BC | | |
Registration is now open for the Godly Play North American Gathering, taking place August 14–16, 2025 at the Vancouver School of Theology. This immersive event invites participants to renew their connection to Godly Play through story, wonder, and community. The gathering will include guest panels, reflective sessions, and participant-led conversations.
Financial assistance is available. Learn more and register here.
| | GODLY PLAY CORE TRAINING, AUG. 22–24 | | |
Join an immersive Godly Play Core Training August 22–24 at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Portland, offered in partnership with the Episcopal Church in Western Oregon. This hands-on training is ideal for Godly Play leaders, clergy, parents, and caregivers, and introduces the core stories, methods, and spiritual practices of Godly Play. Registration includes meals; participants are asked to read Teaching Godly Play by Jerome W. Berryman in advance. Register via the link below. For more information, contact trainer Charissa Simmons at charissa.r.s@gmail.com.
| | IN-PERSON SAFE CHURCH TRAINING, AUGUST 30 | | |
Join us for Safe Church Training at Emmanuel, Coos Bay!
Are you preparing for a new leadership role, ministry, or volunteer opportunity in the church? Safe Church training equips us to create and uphold spaces that reflect Christ’s love, where all can feel safe, respected, and supported.
Safe Church training is required for those serving in licensed ministries, vestry or BAC members, employees, and volunteers across the diocese.
Lunch will be provided, register here.
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If you can't make the in-person training in Coos Bay, mark your calendars for the final in-person Safe Church training of the program year, September 27, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. at St. Mary's, Eugene. | | | | |
Why is Safe Church Training Important?
Safe Church training:
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Ensures Safety and Well-being: Protects children, vulnerable adults, and all parishioners by fostering a safe and secure environment within the church community.
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Promotes Awareness: Educates clergy, staff, and volunteers on recognizing signs of abuse and neglect, ensuring timely and appropriate intervention.
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Establishes Clear Boundaries: Teaches healthy boundaries and appropriate conduct, reducing the risk of misconduct and misunderstandings.
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Encourages Trust: Builds trust within the congregation by demonstrating a commitment to the safety and protection of all members.
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Supports Compliance: Ensures the church adheres to legal and diocesan requirements, reducing liability and maintaining integrity.
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Fosters a Caring Community: Reinforces the church’s mission to provide a nurturing and compassionate environment for spiritual growth and support.
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Empowers Responders: Equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively to concerns or allegations of abuse, ensuring proper care and reporting.
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Do you still have questions about registering for Safe Church training? Diocesan Safe Church administrator Nik Grimsby has put together this helpful chart. If you still have questions please email Nik at safechurch@ecwo.org. | | | | EDUCATIONAL & SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES | | CHILDREN'S ART CAMP AT CHRIST CHURCH, ST. HELENS, JULY 28–AUG. 1 | | |
Christ Church, St. Helens, is launching a brand-new summer art camp for children ages 6–12, running July 28–August 1, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (with optional extended hours to 5 p.m.).
Led by experienced camp director Rev. Esme Culver, Gotta Have HeART invites kids to explore the creative arts—from painting and fiber arts to dance, theatre, music, clay, and storytelling—all grounded in the values of kindness, compassion, imagination, and joy.
Registration is $185 per child and is due by June 2. Space is limited! Download a registration form here.
For more information, contact the Rev. Esme Culver at esmejrculver@gmail.com.
“Do everything with love, follow your heart, and see where it leads you.”
| | ICONOGRAPHY CLASS FROM THE CLASSICAL ICONOGRAPHY INSTITUTE, AUG. 11–15 | | |
Discover the ancient sacred art of iconography in this contemplative, week-long intensive class held August 11–15, 2025 on the campus of St. Pius X Catholic Church. All are welcome to attend, no art experience needed. Participants will learn to “write” the Holy Face of Christ using traditional egg tempera, natural pigments from Florence, and 23.75 kt gold leaf. Space is limited; register by July 28.
| | FROM THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH | | Navajoland officially becomes missionary diocese with Executive Council vote on constitution | | The Episcopal Church welcomed its newest diocese on June 24 – the Missionary Diocese of Navajoland – though, as Navajo Episcopalians and church leaders noted, the elevation of Navajoland from an Episcopal mission formalizes a reality already felt for years in Navajo Nation communities. Read the full article here. | | HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE DIOCESAN CALENDAR | | UPCOMING VISITATIONS WITH BISHOP AKIYAMA | | |
Interested in what is going on around the diocese? Below are some selected events coming up in the next few weeks. Click the links for more information and contact the event host with any questions. Our entire calendar is available here.
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June 27: Say Their Names – St. David of Wales, Portland
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June 28: Quilt Show – Grace, Astoria
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June 28: 4th Saturday Meditation – Trinity Cathedral, Portland
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June 28: Hot Meals Every Saturday – All Saints, Portland
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June 29: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons – St. Barnabas, Portland
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June 29: Un-Erasing Pauli Murray – St. Michael & All Angels, Portland
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July 3: Standing Committee Meeting
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July 4: Say Their Names – St. David of Wales, Portland
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July 5: Hot Meals Every Saturday – All Saints, Portland
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July 6: Salon Series Concert: Claire Forstman in Recital – Ascension, Portland
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July 6: First Sunday Taizé Prayer – St. Francis, Wilsonville
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July 8: Virtual Grief Group – Online
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July 8: Contemplative Chanting – Trinity Cathedral, Portland
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July 10: Film Screening: No Place To Grow Old – Trinity Cathedral, Portland
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July 11: Say Their Names – St. David of Wales, Portland
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July 12: Hot Meals Every Saturday – All Saints, Portland
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July 13: Celtic Evening Prayer & Holy Eucharist – Grace Memorial, Portland
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July 16: Film Screening: No Place to Grow Old – St. Andrew's, Portland
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July 18: Say Their Names – St. David of Wales, Portland
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July 19: Dismantling Racism Workshop – St. Martin's, Lebanon
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July 19: Hot Meals Every Saturday – All Saints, Portland
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July 20: Monthly Taize Meditative Service – St. David of Wales, Portland
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July 22: Contemplative Chanting – Trinity Cathedral, Portland
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July 22: Virtual Grief Group – Online
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July 23: Afire with God with the Rev. Dr. Betsy Schwartzentraub – St. Paul's, Salem
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July 24: Hope & Fire Summer Youth Hike – Lincoln City
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July 25: Say Their Names – St. David of Wales, Portland
| | Each week, we pray for one or more faith communities in our diocese. This week we pray for St. Barnabas, McMinnville. | |
SUBMISSIONS FOR THE DIOCESAN DIGEST
If you have an item you would like to promote to the wider diocesan community, please email communications@ecwo.org. Submissions must be received by 12 pm Wednesday afternoon for Thursday publication.
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If you have recieved this email as a forward or a link and you would like to be included in our weekly mailing every Thursday, please sign up to receive the Diocesan Digest here.
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