July 23, 2025

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We may be afraid, but we're going to do it anyway

Bishop Hughes speaks candidly about a challenge many of us face but rarely name: fear. Whether it's fear of speaking up, taking action, or even praying, she reminds us that fear doesn't disqualify us from God's call – it’s often part of the journey – and she encourages us to “do it anyway... and do it afraid.” (Time: 5:49 | Read the transcript.)

Convention Corner:

2025 Convention is in the works

By Donna Caputo

Believe it or not, the 151st Annual Convention of the Diocese of Newark is just around the corner—and this year brings a new twist. Set for Saturday, November 15 at Calvary Church in Summit, the Convention will be a one-day event focused on business, worship, and connection.

Curious what this streamlined format means for you? Over the next several issues of The VOICE Online, we’ll break it all down—from logistics and liturgy to how you or someone you know can get involved behind the scenes. Get ready to be informed, inspired, and engaged! Read the article.

Breaking bread together:

The Saturday Luncheon Social at St. John’s, Boonton

By Sandra Lee Schubert

Every Saturday in the parish hall of St. John’s Church in Boonton, something quietly extraordinary happens: neighbors from all walks of life gather not just to share a meal, but to build community. The Saturday Luncheon Social, now in its 25th year, offers far more than food—it’s a place of warmth, connection, and hope. Come meet the people behind the tradition, discover its inspiring roots, and see how this weekly event continues to nourish both body and soul. Read the article.

Nurturing faith from the start: Supporting children, families, and formation across the diocese

An update from the First Third of Life Commission

By Donna Caputo

The insights shared at our March 15 gathering are already shaping our planning for future initiatives, resource development, and connection opportunities, and we're excited to announce our next gathering on August 14. Read more.

Webinar: Preparing for Fall 2025 Stewardship Campaigns

MON, AUG 11 | 7-8:30 PM | Zoom

In this Zoom webinar presented by TENS, we will focus on recession-proofing ideas for congregation finance and review how to present mission-focused fundraising in the midst of economic uncertainty. Find out more.

Seasons of Faith – A Curriculum Conversation

THU, AUG 14 | 7-9 PM | Zoom

Join the First Third of Life Commission for a Zoom gathering of Sunday School teachers from across the diocese as we prepare for the 2025–2026 curriculum year. Find out more and register online.

Make-up day for clergy headshots (rescheduled)

THU, AUG 7 | 2 PM | Episcopal House, Livingston (94 E. Mt. Pleasant Avenue)

Our photo session for professional headshots of staff and clergy had to be postponed from July 9 to August 7.

Clergy who were not able to have a professional headshot taken after the April 15 Renewal of Vows are invited to take advantage of this opportunity. To do so, you must sign up by 5 PM August 1.

Grant opportunity to support Invite Welcome Connect ministries accepting applications starting August 15

The Diocese of Newark is thrilled to announce a new grant opportunity designed to uplift and empower our Invite Welcome Connect ministries!

Thanks to an additional one-time cycle of the Marge Christie Fund approved by Diocesan Council, grants of up to $2,000 per parish – or $5,500 for joint applications between two or more parishes – will be awarded to fund creative and intentional projects aligned with these values.

Starting August 15, applications will be open for this opportunity to foster spiritual growth and deepen community engagement. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a lasting impact — mark your calendars and prepare to take action! The deadline for applications is October 15. Find out more from this Fact Sheet.

Diocese of Newark 2026 budget deadline is September 1

The 2026 budget process will follow a similar process to the one adopted by Diocesan Council for use in preparing budgets in recent years. This process allows individuals and organizations to request funding as part of the 2026 Budget. The big change is that everything is happening earlier than in the past due to the desire to present a budget to Diocesan Convention in November. Funding requests for 2026 are due by September 1, 2025. Find out more.

Help us support neurodiversity in our diocese

The BOOST Task Force for Neurodiversity Advocacy has launched an important survey designed to deepen our understanding and support for neurodiversity within our diocese. This initiative is separate from the Clergy and Lay Leadership survey conducted recently, and we wholeheartedly invite every member of our community to participate, whether you identify as neurodivergent or not. Your unique insights and experiences are crucial in our collective effort to foster a more inclusive and nurturing environment for everyone.

We kindly ask you to take a few moments to complete the survey and contribute to this vital ministry, as your voice can help shape a brighter future for our entire diocese.

They all have their fans, but "Salty ocean breeze" takes first place, with "Fresh-cut grass" just one vote behind.

The VOICE Online is published every other Wednesday

Next issue: WED, AUG 13

Submission deadline: FRI, AUG 8, 10 AM

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