Weekly News & Updates

April 22, 2026

Diocesan News

From Bishop Stephen Lane

Dear Ones,

I believe the decision made by the Standing Committee to reset the Search and Transition Process is a good one. As the Standing Committee’s letter to the Diocese made clear, it has taken us longer to come to a full sense of who we are and who we want to lead and serve us than we thought at the outset. We need to achieve greater clarity about our identity and to strengthen our committees and improve our communications. We are going to work on all of that in the approximately six months of additional time now before us. We have lots of good data that was gathered in the listening process last summer and fall and in the Holy Cow survey. We’re going to dig into that data and continue listening to one another. We’re now pointed toward a Spring 2027 election and a Fall 2027 consecration.

It’s been my experience, over many years, that when we talk about ourselves as the church, we often talk about ourselves in terms of the church of sacred memory; that is, the church we have thought ourselves to be or the church of the glory days. We talk about the church in terms of the ways we like to think of ourselves or of our history in the community. Just as often, we talk about the church that we hope to become, the church as we will be when we realize our potential, deepen our faith, and find the courage to act. Both of these churches are important. We value and build on our history. We have dreams of what we can become. But neither describes the church we are now. Neither addresses these questions: What’s our reality now? Who are we as the Episcopal expression of the Jesus movement now? What are our gifts? What are our challenges? What kind of leadership will help us move from here to the church we dream of?

As we articulate the truths about ourselves, we will discover that there are clergy who will be excited to get to know us and to work with us to move into the future. There are pastors, builders, entrepreneurs, and innovators who will want to walk with us. I am confident of this.

I am also confident that we have the capacity to do this work, to use this reset well, and to create a process that will bring a faithful and skilled leader to our diocese. The members of our Standing Committee and of the Search and Transition Committees are devoted to our diocese and to the process. They have been working hard and will continue their faithful work on our behalf.

I plan to be with you for the whole of the Search and Transition process, and to support you and our leaders as we work together. Whether you’ve participated in the process up til now or not, I hope you will be an active participant going forward. Make sure the prayer for the Search and Transition process is said every Sunday in your worshiping community. Look for opportunities to comment and add your thoughts to the process. Continue to be active members of your worshiping community, and, if you need something from the Bishop’s Office, please call.

The cultural landscape of our time is very difficult, as we all know. But we’ve been on this journey for a long time, and we have lots of good experience. If we continue in faith following the God who has brought us this place, I have no doubt that we will elect a bishop and, more than that, continue to serve Christ in a world hungry for his love.

Peace,

Bishop Steve

A Message from the Standing Committee about the Bishop Search Process

Published April 17, 2026

Dear Friends in Christ,

Over the past several weeks, the Standing Committee has been in careful, candid conversation with members of the Search Committee, the Transition Committee, our consultants, and diocesan leadership about the current state of our bishop search process. These conversations have been thoughtful, honest, and rooted in a shared desire to move forward faithfully.

As many of you are aware—and as we have been discussing internally for some time—the search process has not been as smooth or as well-coordinated as we would have hoped. There are real reasons for this. The structure required by our diocesan canons creates a level of complexity that can be difficult to navigate and the timeline we initially set was somewhat aggressive. At the same time, we are living into a diocesan reality still shaped by the attempted partnership with Northwestern Pennsylvania and its dissolution. In many ways, we are undertaking this search while also rebuilding the systems, relationships, and shared identity that would normally support it.

That context helps explain where we are—and it also clarifies what is now needed.

Recently, members of the Standing Committee met with Bishop Lane, Search Consultant Devon Anderson, and Search Team leadership to reflect on the present state of the search. Their conversation affirmed several areas of concern that have become increasingly clear:

We need stronger communication capacity and expertise to help us share information clearly, consistently, and in ways that build trust.
The diocesan profile currently under development is reflecting a deeper truth—that we do not yet have a fully integrated or clearly articulated diocesan identity.
The structure and leadership of the search process itself would benefit from clearer roles, expectations, and coordination.

At the same time, we must also be honest about what many are feeling. There is a growing perception in parts of the Diocese that the process has lacked transparency, with concerns about decisions being made out of view. Whether or not that perception fully reflects reality, it is real in its impact. Trust is essential to any election process, and we must tend to it with care.

We also recognize that we are behind our original timeline. Other dioceses, including Lexington and Kansas, have recently had to reopen their searches after their initial applicant pools were exhausted—reminding us that moving too quickly, or without sufficient clarity, can ultimately hinder the process rather than help it.

It is within this context that we share the following: We are entering a season of reset in our bishop search process.

This decision has not been made lightly. It comes from a growing recognition that, while much good work has already been achieved, the process itself needs strengthening—particularly in clarity, communication, shared expectations, and broad diocesan engagement. We believe this reset will allow us not simply to continue the work, but to do it well.

At its heart, this is not about delay but rather faithfulness: faithfulness to one another and to our mission to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

We have heard clearly that our Diocese longs for a process that is transparent, collaborative, and grounded in who we truly are. We have also recognized that the profile we were developing did not yet fully reflect our shared identity, our challenges, our strengths or our hopes. Rather than move forward prematurely, we believe it is wiser to take the time needed to listen more deeply, speak more honestly, and discern more clearly.

In the months ahead, this reset will include a renewed season of listening across the Diocese, creating space for clergy and lay leaders to reflect on who we are and who God is calling us to become.

We will share more of the data from the Holy Cow Survey and our Listening Sessions and invite a collaborative and iterative approach to the diocesan profile, ensuring it reflects both our reality and our hope.
We will clarify expectations and strengthen the structure supporting the Search Committee, so that their important work is well-resourced and well-coordinated.
And we will invest in stronger, more consistent communication, so that all may remain informed and engaged throughout the process. This will include hiring a communication consultant to assist us.

Of course, this also means an adjustment to our timeline. While details are still being finalized, the overall process will extend beyond our previous expectations. We understand that this may be difficult news, but we are confident that taking this time now will serve the Diocese well in the long run.

We want to be clear: the work is continuing. This reset will build a stronger and more faithful foundation for what comes next.

Throughout this process, we remain deeply grateful for the faithful work already offered by the Search Committee, the Transition Committee, and so many across the Diocese. Your commitment, patience, and care for the Church are evident, and they matter.

We are also grateful for the steady leadership of Bishop Lane, who continues to walk closely with us in this season and remains fully engaged in supporting the Diocese through this transition. He is committed to remaining with us until the new Diocesan Bishop is ordained.

Friends, moments like this invite us to take a breath—not out of anxiety, but out of trust. We believe God is at work among us. We have the gifts, the wisdom, and the time to do this well. And so we move forward—not rushed, not reactive—but grounded, attentive, and hopeful.

Please continue to hold this Diocese, and this process, in your prayers.

Faithfully,

The Standing Committee

Episcopal Diocese of Western New York

Dignity Book Study Schedule

I’m delighted so many have expressed an interest in being part of the study of Dignity: Its Essential Role in Resolving Conflict, by Donna Hicks, PhD. Remember that the books you have reserved are available for pick up at the Diocesan Ministry Center between 9am and 4pm Monday through Thursdays.

We will read the book together over the next four weeks, beginning this week. To aid in our reflection on the material, we will meet on Zoom for four Tuesdays, beginning next Tuesday, April 28 at 7pm, for one hour, and continuing on May 5, 12, and 19 at 7pm each Tuesday evening.

To register for one or more sessions, CLICK HERE

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the session. Please keep this information for all future sessions.

The schedule for reading is as follows:

Week One: Introduction and the first five Essentials (April 28)

Week Two: The last five Essentials (May 5)

Week Three: The first five Temptations (May 12)

Week Four: The last five Temptations and the Conclusion (Healing Relationships) (May 19)

If you miss a session, they will be recorded, and viewing links will be provided each week in the newsletter.

If you are part of a parish group, you may have local sessions as well, and join the weekly Zooms. I will try to organize questions for discussion when we meet.

There are still books available. If you would like one, please be in touch with Canon Cathy Dempsey-Sims. Please let Cathy know the email address of each participant so we may send them the zoom registration link.

I look forward to our being part of this conversation with you.

Bishop Steve

CDRD Virtual Workshop Series with the Rev. Isaiah "Shaneequa" Brokenleg

What does it mean to be Two-Spirit and why are they given a revered role as healers and spiritual leaders? Episcopal Indigenous Ministries speak of "living in right relationship with humanity and all of creation." What is meant by the theology of relationship? Have you ever reflected on your personal theology of relationship?

The WNY & NWPA Commission to Dismantle Racism & Discrimination invites you to join us April 30 and May 28 from 7pm-8:30pm to explore these questions and more.

For more information, CLICK HERE

To register for the Virtual Workshop Series and receive a Zoom link, REGISTER HERE

April EpiscoPints

Our March gathering is on April 30 at 7pm at Fattey Beer Company in Kenmore.

The Rev. Bonnie Morris will lead our discussion, Exploring Faith Together.

Pull up a chair and join an open, relaxed conversation about what it means to be Episcopal. No pressure, no prep work — just thoughtful questions, shared stories, and space to wonder together.

Webinar on Proposal for Full Communion with United Methodist Church

On Thursday, April 23 at 3pm. The Office of Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations will host a webinar overviewing the proposed full communion agreement between The Episcopal Church and the United Methodist Church, which will be considered at the 82nd General Convention in July 2027.

Participants will learn about the meaning and potential benefits of the proposal, as well as the United Methodist Church’s perspectives on theological, social, and polity matters. Attendees will receive resources to share with their dioceses and congregations.

A link to the recording will be shared with all registrants 24 hours after the event.

To register, CLICK HERE

Episcopal News Service

Stay informed on everything in the wider Church by visiting and/or subscribing to the Episcopal News Service (ENS).

ENS WEBSITE

Prayer for the Bishop Search

Gracious God, we give thanks for your loving care for the people of the Diocese of WNY and the members of the Bishop’s Search and Transition Committees. Give us wisdom and understanding as we discern your will. We

ask for the gifts of honesty, to speak the truth in love; openness to the gifts and ideas of others and to the Holy Spirit; and willingness, to see your Light shining among us and on the path ahead. Prepare for our Diocese a bishop who will be a faithful pastor, and equip us for the ministries to which we are

called in these changing times. Help us to love and serve your world and one another in the Spirit of Christ, trusting in you to be our steadfast helper and guide; let us pray to the Lord. AMEN.

Ordination Anniversaries

The Rev. Laurence Wainwright-Maks:April 22

The Rev. Matthew Lincoln: April 26

Consecration Anniversary

The Rt. Rev. J. Michael Garrison

April 24, 1999

We give you thanks, almighty and gracious God, that you have blessed us with their ministry, and we pray that they may continue to exemplify in word and deed the Gospel of your Son. Amen

Youth & Children Ministry

YUM Schedule

Join Wendy Schumacher for Youth United in Ministry (YUM) for these upcoming events.

For details and to participate, please contact:

Wendy Schumacher

Missioner for Youth & Children

EMAIL or 716-830-5443

Church Profile

Christ Church, Lockport

What are the most vibrant ministries or strengths of your parish today?

Christ Episcopal church opens our fellowship hall to non-profit groups for their use: Two musical groups practice weekly and put on concerts throughout the year, a counseling group that comes in once a week and that volunteers to help the church when needed, our Outreach program which delivers nonperishable food to the "Little Pantries" in Lockport every other week, we provide school supplies to the area schools for children who cannot afford them, and every year we choose a family in need in the community that we sponsor for Christmas. We have three yearly events where we invite our larger community...READ MORE

Congregational Stories

Stolen 140 Year Old Cross is Returned

"I look forward to meeting the individual and really help him to be aware that we forgive him and that we can help him create a greater sense of community so that we don't have to end up taking things that aren't ours," Rev. Luke Fodor (St. Luke's, Jamestown) told WGRZ-TV, while adding that the church has no plans to press charges.

WATCH VIDEO

Congregations Coming Together for a Common Cause

Upon reading Bishop Steve's April 15th Newsletter message, Kathy Barton, chairperson for the Honduran Luncheon, is happy to say that the fundraiser for Our Little Roses, that was held on March 14 at Calvary, Williamsville brought 11 churches together from our Diocese. The luncheon was very successful because of this joint effort to care about our ministry in Honduras. It also connected us as Episcopalians and friends. It is hoped that this networking continues and spreads.

These are the congregations that supported the event:

St. Andrew's, Burt

St. Paul's, Angola

St. Peter's, Eggertsville

Calvary, Williamsville

St. Mark's, North Tonawanda

Church of the Advent, Kenmore

St. Patrick's, Cheektowaga

Good Shepherd, Buffalo

St. John's, Youngstown

St. Mark's and All Saints, Buffalo

St. Peter's, Westfield

Congregational Events

Spring Tea & Basket Raffle

Christ Church, Lockport - Join us for our Spring Tea and Basket Raffle on May 2 at 1pm.

Tickets: $35 Pre-Sale ONLY

To purchase tickets, download the registration form below & return by April 25.

Spring Rummage Sale

Trinity, Fredonia - Stop in April 24, 9-3 pm and April 25, 9-12pm at Garland Hall (behind the church) to find sooo many items to choose from!

Everything is clean and priced to sell.

All monies collected are used for support of Rural Ministry Friendly Kitchen and other local outreach efforts.

Sunday Afternoon Recital Series

St. Paul's Cathedral - Join us for the first in a free recital series on April 26 at 3pm.

Songs from the Old World and the New World with Alessia Paolini & Ivan Docenko.

A free-will offering will be taken at the door.

World Labyrinth Day

St. Aidan’s, Alden - You are invited to join us at 1pm on May 2, as St. Aidan’s participates in World Labyrinth Day.

Around the globe that day, people will gather at local labyrinths sharing walking meditations for world peace.

Meat Raffle

St. Philip's, Buffalo - Join us on May 2 at the Knights of Columbus for a meat raffle.

Doors open at 5pm, First Spin 6pm

$15 admission and group table reservations available.

Call Church office 716-833-0442 or email specbuffalo@gmail.com for more information and reserve tickets.

The event info and tickets are also on zeffy

Chicken BBQ & Basket Raffle

St. Paul's, Harris Hill - As one of our favorite community traditions, come and enjoy delicious BBQ chicken, great company, and take a chance on some amazing raffle baskets on May 2 from 11am-2pm!

Skip the line and buy your tickets online: Pre-Sale Tickets. They will be waiting for you at the will-call May 2.