September 9, 2026

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Our Mission:

Join us in following Jesus Christ

with bold acts of

justice, peace, and love.

Our Vision:

A world transformed,

where all creation knows

God’s life-changing love.

Download this printable PDF with highlights from The VOICE Online to share with visitors, and with parishioners who are not online.

Includes a one-page calendar for diocesan events September 9-October 31.

From the Bishop

Meet Muffin, the new "Canine to the Ordinary"

Several years after the loss of their beloved cocker spaniel Abbey, Bishop Hughes and her husband welcome a cocker spaniel puppy, Muffin. At just 11 weeks old, Muffin can teach us a thing or two about curiosity, possibility, and the joyful work of becoming who God created us to be.


(Time: 3:24 | Read the transcript.)

Bishop Hughes: Meet Muffin, the new "Canine to the Ordinary"

Features

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Protecting the sacred gift of voting

By the Rev. George Dredden


Safeguarding the right to vote is holy work. When we defend that right, we help build the Beloved Community God calls us to create. Read the article.

Parishes support summer fun for children of Prison Ministry's PATCH Program

By the Rev. Audrey Hasselbrook

Thanks to the support of our churches, the Diocese of Newark's Prison Ministry provided children whose families are impacted by incarceration with:


  • over 170 filled backpacks;
  • over $7,000 in uniform vouchers;
  • celebrations of promotions and graduations (including one college graduation).


In addition, thanks to St. Stephen's, Millburn, children and youth had the opportunity to attend a week of drumming camp.

152nd Annual Diocesan Convention

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Convention Corner: Join the Arrangements Committee!

By Donna Caputo


This year, the retirements of two diocesan staff members have required us to adjust some of our procedures and created new opportunities for members of the diocese to join the committee as volunteers.


So, how can you get involved? Read the article.

Open Forum on the 2027 Diocesan Budget

WED, SEP 23 | 7:30 PM | Zoom


This is the opportunity for everyone in the diocese to get a first look at the proposed 2027 budget before it is reviewed by Diocesan Council in October and submitted to Convention in November. Find out more.

Wondering if your gifts can support the mission of the Diocese of Newark?


The Nominations Committee of the 152nd Annual Diocesan Convention invites YOU to prayerfully consider serving on one of the many Boards, Committees, and Councils of the Diocese. There are opportunities that appeal to a broad variety of gifts, interests, and availability. All of them are looking for members who desire to be part of a diocese known by God's love, mercy, and justice. Click here to get more detailed information about open seats and information about the Nominations Process.


In the videos below, the leaders of three diocesan bodies describe the role of each and the skills needed to serve.

What is Diocesan Council?

(Time: 3:19)

What is Diocesan Council?

What is a diocesan Trustee?

(Time: 4:08)

What is a diocesan Trustee?

What is the Disciplinary Board?
(Time: 2:20)

What is the Disciplinary Board?

September 11 Observances

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Parish observances


25th Anniversary of 9/11:

A Day of Remembrance Community Prayer Service

FRI, SEP 11 | 7 - 8 PM
St. Luke’s, Haworth


9/11 Remembrance Service

FRI, SEP 11 | 7:30 - 8:30 PM

At St. Stephen's, Millburn with Christ Church, Short Hills

September 11 liturgical resources


As the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks approaches, the Commission on Liturgy and Music offers these resources for the use of parishes, communities, and individuals.

Diocesan Events

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Breaking Bread with the Bishop:

Florence Li Tim-Oi Region

TUE, SEP 15 | 6:30 - 8:30 PM

The Diocesan Center, Livingston


Members of the Florence Li Tim-Oi Regional Ministry Network are invited to join Bishop Carlye Hughes for an evening of fellowship, conversation, and breaking bread. Please register here by September 10.

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Growing generosity: Practical tools for this year's annual stewardship campaign

SAT, SEP 19 | 8:30 - 11 AM

The Diocesan Center, Livingston


This one morning could change your pledge numbers.


Join us for Growing Generosity: Practical tools for this year's annual stewardship campaign, an in-person workshop for anyone committed to strengthening generosity in their congregation: wardens, stewardship committees, and clergy alike.


Attendees will leave with practical tools for reaching more households, sparking bigger gifts, and even putting AI to work for your stewardship efforts.


This workshop is free; registration is required. Find out more and register online by 5 PM Tuesday, September 15.

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Annual Diocesan Musicians’ Workshop

SAT, SEP 26 | 9 AM - 1 PM

St. George’s, Maplewood


This year’s presenter, organ builder and technician Jim Konzelman, answers the question: “What do you wish organists and music directors understood about the organ?” This event is open to all, but is geared toward organists and anyone who is responsible for overseeing the care and maintenance of an organ. Find out more and register online.

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Discernment Discovery Day

SAT, OCT 10 | 8:45 AM - 1:15 PM

The Diocesan Center, Livingston


Come and learn more about discernment for ministry generally as well as the resources and requirements for licensed lay ministries, the diaconate, and the priesthood. Lunch will be provided.


Space is limited to 25 participants, so sign up soon! Find out more and register online.

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American Dream Scavenger Hunt

SUN, OCT 25 | 1 - 7 PM


This event for youth in grades 6-12 returns by popular demand!


Cost: $15. Scholarships are available - please do not let any youth think they can't go because of cost. Find out more and register online.

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Anti-Sexism Training

SAT, SEP 26 | 9 AM - 4 PM

The Diocesan Center, Livingston


Find out more and register online.

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Anti-Racism Dialogues

SAT, OCT 17 | 8 AM - 4 PM | The Diocesan Center

TUE, OCT 27 | 6 - 9 PM | Zoom

Both sessions required for certification.


Find out more and register online.

Both Anti-Sexism Training and Anti-Racism Dialogues are required for all people serving in elected or appointed diocesan positions.

Parish Communicators Zoom Meeting

MON, SEP 14 | 6:30 - 8 PM

Guest speaker: John King, Secretary of Convention, on diocesan-wide opportunities at our upcoming Annual Diocesan Convention.


DIT Investor Zoom Presentation

WED, SEP 30 | 7:30 PM

Guest speaker: Lisa Gallo, the DIT’s portfolio manager at TIAA, on the portfolio’s investment strategy and methodology.

Pilgrimage to Iona with Bishop Hughes

MAY 27 - JUN 6, 2027


It's not too late to sign up - but only a limited number of spaces remain, and the price may be higher than the pre-August 31 lock-in rate.


For more information and to check availability, please contact McCabe Pilgrimages directly.

Community Events

Parish events

Saturday Luncheon Social

Saturdays | 12 - 1 PM

St. John’s, Boonton

Prayers for our Nation

WED, SEP 9 | 7 - 7:30 PM

Holy Communion, Norwood

Second Friday Labyrinth & Healing Prayers

FRI, SEP 11 | 4 - 7:30 PM

St. John’s, Montclair

St. Peter’s Church Rummage & Collectibles Sale

SAT, SEP 12 | 9 AM - 2 PM & SUN, SEP 13 | 12 - 3 PM

St. Peter’s, Mount Arlington

Celebration of New Ministry: The Rev. Asa David Coulson

SAT, SEP 12 | 10 AM

Grace, Nutley

Harmony in the House: Live Jazz

SAT, SEP 12 | 4 - 6 PM

Hosted by Epiphany & Christ Church, Orange at the Diocesan Center

Piano Recital

SUN, SEP 13 | 4:30 - 6:30 PM

St. Andrew’s, Harrington Park

Healing Prayer

WED, SEP 16 | 7 - 7:30 PM

Holy Communion, Norwood

Sing-a-long for Peace

SUN, SEP 20 | 3 - 4:30 PM

Messiah, Chester

34th Annual Food Drive

FRI, SEP 25 - SAT, SEP 27

St. Andrew’s, Harrington Park

St. Cyprian’s 100th Anniversary Celebration

SAT, SEP 26 | 12 - 4 PM | Hosted by St. Cyprian's, Hackensack at the Hilton Hasbrouck Heights/Meadowlands

Raising Healthy Kids in a Digital World

MON, SEP 28 | 7 - 8:30 PM

St. John’s, Montclair

A Town-Wide Celebration of Pets in Verona

SUN, OCT 4 | 1 - 4 PM

Hosted by Holy Spirit, Verona in the Verona Town Hall Square

Faith and Film Series

WED, OCT 7 | 6:30 - 8:30 PM

Holy Communion, Norwood

Ministry Partner Events

Reentry Simulation

SAT, SEP 19 | 2:30 - 5:30 PM

The Diocesan Center, Livingston


Presented by Home for Good, a new ministry partner founded by the Rev. Lorna Woodham, which provides stability, community, and hope so that citizens returning home from prison can not just survive, but thrive.

Events at Cross Roads Camp & Retreat Center

Back to Camp: Alumni Weekend

FRI, OCT 2 - SUN, OCT 4


Rally for Cross Roads

SAT, OCT 3 | 10 AM - 12 PM


Women’s Retreat

FRI, OCT 9 - SUN, OCT 11


See all upcoming Cross Roads events

Diocesan Announcements

Episcopal and NJ grant opportunities

Alleluia Fund grant applications accepted now through 12 noon September 15

Congregations and eligible ministry partners are invited to apply for grants of up to $15,000 to support outreach ministries that address needs in their communities and beyond. Learn more and apply.

United Thank Offering invites 2027 grant applicants

The United Thank Offering Board announces the opening of its 2027 annual grants process, with a focus on projects that seek to connect churches, dioceses, and provinces with the unique needs of their local communities. Applicants for this round are asked to observe three deadlines to complete the process: Dec. 4, Jan. 8, and Feb. 5. Learn more and apply.

NJ Nonprofit Security Grant Program accepting applications now through September 11

This program consists of two grant funding opportunities, one of which is up to $100K for "target hardening equipment" including items such as alarms, lighting, and fencing. Several of our churches have taken advantage of this grant program over the years.

Learn more and apply.

Clergy ministry transitions


Arrivals


  • AUG 1 - The Rev. Dr. Yesu Duraikannu
    Priest-in-Residence at Atonement, Fair Lawn


See all clergy ministry transitions in 2026.

Job Listings

Our Churches


Organist and Music Director - Part-time

St. Mark’s, Teaneck


Sunday School Teacher & Digital Ministry Coordinator - Part-time

Parish Administrator - Part-time

Both at St. Dunstan’s, Succasunna

Ministry Partners


Center Coordinator - Part-time

North Porch Women & Infants’ Centers, Newark & Clifton

September Poll

What are you looking forward to this September?

The VOICE Online is published every other Wednesday

Next issue: WED, SEP 23

Submission deadline: FRI, SEP 18, 10 AM

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