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Summer is drawing to a close, and fall is just around the corner. Even thinking about the season brings up a multitude of associations; hopefully, stewardship is on your list. These days, the church is one of many things that compete for our time and support. While there are practical aspects to the equation, more importantly, stewardship is a chance to show the value the Church holds in our lives. For me, church is my community, supporting me in ways I would not expect.
As I think of the value my church has in my heart, I must put into context how I demonstrate that. Jesus tells us in Luke 12:34, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This seemingly simple statement challenges us as Christians to consider where we place our trust, priorities, and ultimate allegiances.
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A Word from Canon Katie Pearson to Parish Leaders
Next Tuesday, August 18, Carpenter House is launching a monthly Leadership Newsletter that will be sent to all diocesan clergy, parish administrators, and wardens. The purpose of this monthly enews will be to share news of the practical: open enrollment information, supply clergy, clergy conference and diocesan convention updates, stewardship, and the like. Our weekly offering reaches about 11,000 people, and this will be much more focused for parish leaders in the diocese.
You can expect the Leadership Newsletter to hit your inbox the 3rd Tuesday of each month around noon. I hope you will reach out to me at kpearson@dioala.org or 205.358.9231 if you have suggestions for content or any other feedback.
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Calling All Spiritual Directors
If you are a Spiritual Director practicing in the Diocese of Alabama, please contact Canon Katie Pearson at kpearson@dioala.org. She is putting together a list of directors in the diocese as a resource for postulants, clergy, and others seeking a spiritual companion.
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Join us in celebrating the Rev. Thomas Joyner of St. Dunstan’s Church in Auburn on the release of his first book, A Blessing in Order to Bless.
On Monday, August 17, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., Bishop Richard will sit down with Father Thomas for a special conversation at St. Dunstan’s as we celebrate the release of the book. All are invited to attend.
About the book
What is the church for? Who would you say God’s people are? What does abundant life look like? With is the most important word in the Bible, and with the most important word for what abundant life looks like. This book explores how to live out those questions in the context of Jesus with us. It’s a reflection on just what abundance looks like, how to live into it, and where our treasure lies: in relationships with one another and with our neighbor.
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Join Bishop Richard for an Episcopal Parish Network Webinar
We invite you to join Bishop Richard and the Rev. Dr. Russ Levenson, Jr. on the Episcopal Parish Network webinar Hope and Holiness: Ancient Ways for a New Generation happening August 27 at 2:00 PM CT. Moderated by the Rev. John Burruss of St. Stephen’s, Vestavia Hills, the conversation will explore the enduring relationship between hope and holiness.
Two long-time leaders in the Episcopal Church, now entering new seasons of ministry, reflect on what faithful leadership demands in a rapidly changing world — and why the Church's future depends not on abandoning its traditions, but on rebooting ancient ways for a new generation.
| | Calling all College Students | | Are you—or a student you know—heading to college this fall? Our Diocese's campus ministries offer students a welcoming community where they can connect, grow in faith, and find support. Please send your information to Jen Manning, Missioner for Formation, and we’ll connect them with the right campus ministry. We are continuing to add new ministries, so check back often. | | |
DOK Hosts Fall Assembly
By Pamela J. Measel | Diocesan President of the Order of the Daughters of the King
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The Order of the Daughters of the King held its annual Fall Assembly last week. Approximately 100 Daughters from 34 parishes across the state gathered at Church of the Holy Comforter in Gadsden, AL. Sarah Pilkanis and Cindi Gilliom, along with Daughters from Holy Comforter, provided hospitality for the annual Assembly.
The program included inspiring words from National President of the Daughters of the King, Jane Searcy. The Diocese of Alabama elected officers to serve 2027 -2030. Daughters were excited to hear from Bishop Richard Lawson, who provided an uplifting message to the Daughters.
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Volunteers Needed for Christ Church, Fairfield Food Bank
Christ Church Fairfield is seeking volunteers to serve in its Food Pantry Ministry on Wednesdays from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. at the church campus, 4912 Lloyd Noland Parkway, Fairfield, AL 35064.
If you are available to help, please contact Ruthie Thomas at 205-470-5412 or Edwin Murray at 205-760-0771. Your time and service can make a meaningful difference.
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This Saturday, hundreds of pilgrims will gather in Hayneville, Alabama, to walk, pray, and remember at the annual Jonathan Daniels and the Martyrs of Alabama Pilgrimage.
Together, we will remember those who gave their lives for justice, resolve to continue their witness, and carry on the work of building the Beloved Community.
Register today to receive important information about parking, food options, pilgrimage T-shirts, and more.
Questions? Contact Breanna Carter, Missioner for Racial Healing and Pilgrimage, at bcarter@dioala.org
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Vocational Discernment (Diocesan level) Nominee Orientation | August 20
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Clergy and Lay Leaders of Color Retreat | Sept. 12, 2026 | Register Here
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Candidates for Ordination's Fall Meeting with COM and Standing Committee| Sept. 17
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Clergy Conference | October 14-16| Camp McDowell
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ECW Fall Conference | October 23rd-24th
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Scottsboro Boys Pilgrimage | October 30
| |  | | CLERGY NEWS AND JOB OPENINGS | | |
Celebration of Recent Retirements:
The Diocese of Alabama gives thanks for the ministry of:
| | The Rev. Rob St. Germain-Iler | who retires after 20 years of remarkable service, including 14 years as rector of St. James Church, Alex City. | | who retires after 21 years of remarkable service, including 7 years as rector of Holy Comforter, Montgomery. | | LAY JOB OPENINGS ACROSS OUR DIOCESE | | |
The Diocese is looking to hire a Finance and Administrative Assistant who is responsible for supporting the organization's accounting and financial operations by maintaining accurate financial records, preparing reports, and assisting with month-end and year-end close processes. This role requires strong analytical and organizational skills, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. View job description here. Send resumes to Makenzie Oeder.
St. Matthew's Church in Madison is looking to hire a part-time Communications Director. The Communications Director works under the direct supervision of the rector and is responsible for shaping, producing, and coordinating the parish's communications across print and digital platforms, and telling the story of St. Matthew's to the congregation and the wider community. Check out the job description here. Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume, and three references to the Rev. Emily Rowell Brown.
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi in Indian Springs is seeking a part-time Parish Administrator, Monday-Thursday, 20 hours per week. The Parish Administrator provides essential administrative, financial, and communication support to ensure the smooth operation of the Parish. This role serves as the key point of contact for parishioners, staff, and vendors, maintaining financial records, preparing reports, and coordinating Parish communications. View the full job description. Interested candidates should email a CV and a letter of introduction to the Rev. Jamie McAdams at rector@saintfrancisindiansprings.org
St. Joseph’s on-the-Mountain in Mentone is seeking a Director of Music & Pianist. This part-time position is responsible for music planning, scheduling practices and rehearsals, and providing piano music for Sunday morning worship service and other services where music is an essential part of worship. Full job description available HERE. Send applications to the Rev. Drew Brislin at drew@stjom.church
St. John's Church in Decatur is seeking a dynamic, faithful, and visionary leader to serve as our Director of Youth and Family Ministries. This individual will shape and lead a vibrant, Christ-centered ministry for children, youth, and families—cultivating a community where young people are known, loved, and empowered to grow into their identity and calling in Jesus Christ. Please submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to: The Rev. Chase Ackerman, Rector chase@stjohnsdecatur.org. Job description available here.
| | All articles placed in the e-news run for a period of two weeks upon submission. | | |
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