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In this edition of ENews:
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The 114th Diocesan Convention
- Congregational Development Grants Now Available
- Free Advent Resources Available
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A Quick Look Back at our 114th Diocesan Convention! | |
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The 114th Diocesan Convention was a well-organized and joyous gathering. During the meeting, several individuals were elected to various positions:
- Rev. Maryly Adair was chosen as the Deanery Rep. for the Alta Deanery,
- Mr. Steve Mershon for the Central Deanery, and
- Ms. Robin Cardona for the Semper Virens Deanery.
Additionally, Ms. Jo Ann Williams and Rev. Delia Fay were elected to the Board of Trustees at-large.
Mr. John Torres was elected to serve on the Standing Committee.
The keynote address was delivered by The Rev. Dr. Michael Moynagh from Oxford, England, a leader in the Fresh Expressions Movement. We highly recommend his book and website, Godsend, which can be accessed at godsend.cloud.
Several reports were presented by our Commissions, Committees, and groups, including updates from The Belfry, the Commission on the Environment, and the Commission for Intercultural Ministries. The Convention was also briefed on the progress of the Racial Justice Audit and the work of our General Convention Deputation.
There was one resolution considered at the Convention, which involved updating Canon 50 on Budget and Apportionment. This change removed the sunset clause for Creative Staffing positions.
In addition, there were two petitions brought forth to close churches: Holy Spirit in Lake Almanor and St. Andrew’s in the Highlands in Antelope.
Both the resolution and the two petitions passed overwhelmingly. We also shared remembrances and gave thanks for the two congregations.
We are excited to gather again next year in Redding on November 7-8, 2025!
To review the Convention, click here
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Congregational Development Grants Now Available | |
Do you have a project in mind that could make your church stronger but needs a bit of financial support to bring it to life?
The Congregational Development Committee is here to help! We are offering small grants of up to $5,000 to churches across the diocese.
These funds can be used for a variety of purposes, including staff expenses, capital improvements, community outreach, Christian formation, and stewardship programs.
If you're unsure whether your project qualifies, just reach out and ask!
To apply, have the clergy-in-charge — or, for lay-led congregations, the senior or bishop’s warden—send an email to julie@norcalepiscopal.org. Your email should include:
- Amount requested
- Brief (2 paragraphs) explanation of how the funding will strengthen your church
- Commitment to share photos and a story about your project in the first half of 2025
Please submit your application by Tuesday, December 3. The committee will review applications and determine grant recipients by December 10, with funds being distributed before the end of the year.
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your church’s mission and ministry!
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Deadline Extended: Sustainable Development Grants | |
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The deadline for applications for our sustainable development grants has been extended to November 26th. This year, we have a grant pool of $12,750 available. Funding for this program is mandated by the diocesan convention which requires .007% of our annual diocesan revenue to be set aside to support projects that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Click here for more information
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The Episcopal Church (TEC) | |
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby to resign over handling of youth abuse scandal | |
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby will resign under pressure for his delayed response to extensive and devastating allegations of “physical, sexual, psychological and spiritual attacks” by a British lawyer on young victims he met at youth camps tied to the Church of England.
Click here to read more
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Free Advent Resource Available! | |
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The Diocesan Partners in Ministries of Health are pleased to offer the Living Compass 2024 Advent Devotionals for individuals and congregations—at no cost! These devotionals are available in both English and Spanish.
To request your copies, please email us with the quantity needed and a residential street address (per Living Compass' request). We'll handle the rest! Email your request to Susan Wahlstrom at wahlstrom@volcano.net
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A Sign for You: Episcopal Advent and Christmas Resources | |
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In Luke’s telling of the Christmas story, startled shepherds are the first to hear the good news of great joy given to all people. Since then, through generations and generations, across the world, we keep sharing this Good News, receiving signs from God that, in the coming of Jesus Christ, we have received the greatest gift of all. The Episcopal Church wants to help you and your congregation share that Good News with each other and your neighbors, especially this Advent and Christmas.
Click here for free resources on the invitation, the Way of Love, racial reconciliation, and faith formation.
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Seeking Episcopal Young Adult Input through ‘Toward a New Generation of Leaders’ survey | |
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The Episcopal Church’s Department of Faith Formation is seeking survey participants ages 18-32 as part of a three-year, partially grant-funded project to identify the gifts and challenges of Gen Z ministry within the church and enhance program development. The survey—available online here—is open until Dec. 2.
The first phase of data collection, which surveyed parish leaders and Episcopal camp counselors, resulted in these initial findings.
Young adults currently or recently engaged in Episcopal Church activities, particularly those involved with Faith Formation’s youth ministries, young adult and campus ministries, Episcopal Service Corps, and Young Adult Service Corps, are encouraged to respond to this newest survey. Participants will be asked for their impressions, experiences, and recommendations for ministries.
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Mission for Disaster Relief | |
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Of Weather, and French Toast….
I grew up in Siskiyou County in the 1980s, and (this makes me feel old) we used to have real weather back then. Winter would hit and the forecast would be for snow, etc. and I would wake up the next morning to 5 feet of snow with no indication of it stopping. It was not unusual to have 7+ feet of snow and for me to ride a snowmobile into town so I could live with a friend for two weeks until the road was open.
Click here to read more
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Application Deadline is December 2!
The West Coast Collaborative (WCC) is now accepting applications for the 2025 English-language cohort and the deadline for applications is less than three weeks away. This ministry training program, serving the dioceses of El Camino Real, San Diego, and Northern California, prepares participants for licensing as Lay Preachers in their home congregations. (Spanish cohort applications open in January.)
Application Process:
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Trinity Cathedral in Sacramento Christmas Market
Join us at Trinity Cathedral, Sacramento, on Sunday, November 24th, from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm for the much-anticipated Alternative Christmas Market—hosted by TREE (Trinity Respecting Earth and Environment).
Shop early for Christmas and support local artists, craftspeople, and non-profit organizations. This beloved annual event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with joy, community, and sustainable shopping. Don't miss out on this fun and festive day!
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St. Michael’s in Fort Bragg Shared Service of Thanksgiving
Join us on Tuesday, November 26th at 7:00 p.m. for a cherished tradition: our Shared Service of Thanksgiving with Trinity Lutheran Church and everyone who wishes to celebrate! This year, St. Michael's has the honor of hosting.
We'll gather in the Sanctuary for a Holy Communion service, followed by a delightful Pie Social, with contributions from both congregations. This is a beautiful opportunity to come together, give thanks, and celebrate our Shared Ministry over the past year.
All are welcome! Invite your friends and family, and if you're able, please bring a pie to share. Let's make this evening a joyful and grateful celebration!
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St. Paul’s in Healdsburg Holiday Boutique
St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Healdsburg will host their annual Holiday Boutique on Saturday, November 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the parish hall, 209 Matheson St., just a block east of Healdsburg's downtown plaza.
The event offers a variety of holiday foods and home goods, perfect for seasonal convenience and cheer. Shoppers will find an array of homemade jams, jellies, chutneys, soup mixes, and baked goods, with popular cookie mixes that come with easy-to-follow instructions for quick, fresh-baked treats.
In addition to the food items, the Boutique also features a selection of jewelry, ceramics, crystal, and seasonal decorations. Cash, checks, and most major credit cards are accepted, and nearby parking is free. For details, contact (707) 433-2107 or visit www.stpauls-healdsburg.org.
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Our Savior in Placerville Retreat
Join us for an inspiring and peaceful one-day retreat:
Saturday, December 14
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
at the Episcopal Church of Our Savior in Placerville!
Led by church member, retreat leader, and spiritual director Sheryl Trainor, this experiential retreat, Cultivating Calm and Navigating Uncertainty Using the Tools of St. Benedict, promises to guide you through the timeless wisdom of St. Benedict. Dive into practices that foster calm and resilience, inspired by the insights from St. Benedict’s Toolbox by Jane Tomaine, which some members have been exploring under the guidance of Tom Weikert. Everyone is welcome—come refresh your spirit and find practical tools for today’s challenges. Lunch will be provided, and parking is conveniently located behind the church.
To reserve your spot, email your name and contact info to oursaviouroffice@gmail.com, or call Sheryl at 530-306-8487 with any questions. Don’t miss this chance to restore and renew!
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Church of our Savior Christmas Concert Fundraiser
Get ready for an unforgettable evening on Tuesday, December 17, at 7:00 p.m., as Rick and Susan Taseff host a Christmas Concert Fundraiser at their home (5533 Gold Hill Road, Placerville) for the Church of Our Savior. Join us for an enchanting night of music featuring renowned pianist Rob Sabino, who has performed with icons like Madonna, Hall & Oates, Simon & Garfunkel, and Chic!
Adding to the magic will be the extraordinary voices of professional opera singer Gabriel Silva and the talented Cassie Campanello. After the concert, stay for drinks and festive treats. Susan warmly invites all to come—and don’t forget your checkbook for donations! For details, call Susan at 916-467-2555.
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Retirement Celebration of Father John Vafis at
St. Stephen’s
Join us on Sunday, November 24, at St. Stephen’s in Colusa to celebrate the retirement of Father John Vafis! After 19 years of leading our church with hope and unity, we’re thrilled to honor Father Vafis as he embarks on this new chapter. The church service begins at 10 a.m., followed by a reception at 11 a.m. Come together with us for a heartfelt morning of fellowship and celebration.
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Pathways 2025: Nuevas Fronteras
Mark your calendars for July 5-10, 2025! We’re thrilled to invite teens aged 15-19 on a meaningful journey to Tijuana, Mexico, where we’ll partner with Via International and the Diocese of San Diego for an immersive experience in immigration ministries. This unique opportunity will allow our group to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and hopes surrounding immigration, while actively supporting and learning from those on the front lines of this important work.
Through hands-on activities and meaningful conversations, you'll build connections, develop a greater sense of empathy, and explore how faith calls us to serve others. We'll wrap up with a beach day in San Diego.
Stay tuned: signups will open soon! For more info: julie@norcalepiscopal.org
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Camp Galilee Adventures!
Camp Galilee announces upcoming retreats and camps! Join us for a Youth Leadership Weekend, a Men’s Retreat, and Youth & Family Camps. These gatherings are more than just a getaway—they offer a unique opportunity to build lasting friendships, strengthen your faith, and deepen your relationship with God in the beautiful, serene setting of Camp Galilee.
Whether you're looking to develop leadership skills, connect with fellow believers, or spend quality time with loved ones, there's something for everyone. Come experience personal growth, spiritual renewal, and the joy of community.
Click here for more information.
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All Saints’ Thrift Shop in Redding Celebrates 30 Years!
In 1994, two families at All Saints Episcopal Church in Redding created a thrift store to benefit the local community. Thirty years and over half a million dollars donated to local charitable organizations later, the All Saints’ Thrift Shop remains a vital part of the Redding community. Run entirely by volunteers, the Thrift Shop is a crucial component of All Saints’ outreach to the community.
Fr. Aidan Rontani, Rector at All Saints’ says: “For the last thirty years, the All Saints' Thrift Shop has been an important part of our ministry and outreach in Shasta County, not only in offering low-cost items to those who may be disadvantaged but in turning around the majority of the proceeds into grants to community organizations that also serve the less fortunate. If this were not enough, every month I hear stories from our volunteers about holy conversations that are being had each day with the patrons of the shop, of the opportunities they have to serve as a listening ear and a warm heart. Everywhere I go in Redding, I receive compliments that we have the finest thrift store in town, with the best stock and the kindest people. I am incredibly proud of our hard-working volunteers who work each day to show the face of Christ to our community. “
In honor of the 30th anniversary, the Thrift Shop was featured in Enjoy Magazine’s November issue Getting Thrifty - Enjoy Magazine
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Alta Deanery Hub at the 2024 Convention
Twenty-six enthusiastic participants from the Alta Deanery Hub gathered at All Saints' in Redding for the 2024 convention. They enjoyed a warm welcome with a delicious continental breakfast, followed by a lunch featuring deli sandwiches, fresh fruit, a generous salad bar, and cookies. As a special treat, each attendee received a bag of popcorn to enjoy while listening to the convention proceedings. It was a day filled with good food, great company, and engaging discussions!
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St. Michael’s in Carmichael Welcomes Rev. Andy Lobban
We are excited to announce that on Sunday, November 3, 2024, we warmly welcomed the Rev. Andy Lobban as our new Interim Rector at St. Michael’s, during our All Saints' Day celebration. It was a beautiful service, featuring a special Liturgy of Welcome for Rev. Andy, which included a heartfelt letter from Bishop Megan.
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Job Openings in The Diocese | |
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Missioner for Congregational Vitality
Click here for more information
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Christ Church, Eureka, part-time Administrative Assistant to the Parish Rector.
Click here for more information
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Trinity Cathedral, Sacramento, Parish Administrator and Communications Coordinator
Click here to learn more
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The Episcopal Diocese of Northern California
Making Disciples, Raising Up Saints & Transforming Communities for Christ
www.norcalepiscopal.org
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