News & Updates | August 05, 2026 | www.dioala.org

This Saturday, I am excited to be the speaker and preacher at the Daughters of the King (DOK) Fall Assembly in Gadsden.

The Daughters of the King are a fellowship of women of all ages and life experiences who share a deep belief in the power of prayer, especially intercessory prayer. DOK members pray daily by name for every person on their parish's prayer list, as well as for their clergy and bishop. I know firsthand how much these prayers mean. 

Daughters are often recognized by the silver cross they wear, a symbol designed exclusively for members of the Order. The Reverend Dr. Marge Doyle, a wise priest in our diocese, serves as the spiritual director. Click here to learn more about DOK in the Diocese of Alabama.

The Book of Common Prayer defines intercessory prayer as prayer that "brings before God the needs of others" (p. 857). Intercession is one of many kinds of prayer.

It's not always easy to see the results of our prayers. Yet we trust that the Holy Spirit is present, moving among us and bringing the help that this hurting world so deeply needs and seeks. I also trust that God answers prayers in ways I cannot understand or appreciate. May the Holy Spirit, then, inspire our prayers and, ultimately, our actions.

– Bishop Richard

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.

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.  

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.

We are excited to have Bishop Richard Lawson as the speaker at this year's Jonathan Daniels and the Martyrs of Alabama Pilgrimage, scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026, in Hayneville, AL.

There is something profoundly moving about returning to a sacred place and remembering. As we gather in Hayneville in Lowndes County, we will remember the witness of Episcopal seminarian Jonathan Daniels and the other 14 martyrs who lost their lives during the Civil Rights Movement. We hope you will join us as we gather together to remember, resolve, and carry on the work of building the beloved community. 

Questions? Contact Breanna Carter, Missioner for Racial Healing and Pilgrimage, at bcarter@dioala.org

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.

The Rev. Rosa Lindahl

who retires after 21 years of remarkable service, including 7 years as rector of Holy Comforter, Montgomery.

St. Barnabas Church in Hartselle is seeking a Part-time Priest to work 2–4 Sundays per month. St. Barnabas is a parish for those seeking to grow closer to God through worship, prayer, scripture, and outreach. Full job description here. Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Ed Tate at wallacetate@aol.com.

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.

Church of the Nativity is seeking a creative and energetic person to serve as Director of Youth Ministry. The Church of the Nativity has a vibrant and welcoming youth ministry program and seeks a person with mature faith, strong relational skills, creativity, and positive energy who can engage youth and families in authentic, life-giving ways. An updated job description and application information are available HERE.

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