DIOCESAN

Regional Gathering – Open to All in the Diocese of Ohio

Registration is now open for the 2026 Regional Gathering in the Akron/Canton region, May 28-30. The event is being held at three parishes: Thursday at St. Paul's, Akron; Friday at St. Paul's, Canton; and Saturday at Christ Church, Hudson. This three-day experience is designed to strengthen the life of our faith communities through worship, shared meals, practical workshops, and connection across the Diocese of Ohio. With a regional confirmation at its heart, the gathering will bring together learning, community, and joy for people of all ages.

All are welcome to attend—from across the Diocese of Ohio. Participants may join the full gathering or attend one or two sessions. Workshops, the full schedule, and recommended hotel accommodations are available on the diocesan website. Childcare options will be offered Thursday evening and all day Saturday, with additional options available upon request during registration. Learn more and register here. Registrations are due by April 30. For those who wish to be candidates for the rites of initiation (confirmation, reception, or reaffirmation of faith) in the Regional Confirmation, see the blurb below.

Regional Confirmation at the Akron/Canton Regional Gathering

All faith communities and clergy are invited to enroll candidates for the diocesan Regional Confirmation service on May 30 at 3:00 p.m. at Christ Church, Hudson. There will be a required rehearsal beginning at 1:45 p.m. on the same day. Candidates and their guests must register by April 30. Participants are welcome to sign up for additional elements of the Regional Gathering during the registration process, but are not required.

Clergy and administrators should also submit candidates for the rites of initiation (confirmation, reception, or reaffirmation of faith) using the diocesan reporting form by April 30.

Summer Camp Volunteer Day at Bellwether Farm

Bellwether Farm is seeking volunteers for a Summer Camp Volunteer Day on May 3 from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Projects will include setting and cleaning up cabins, fixing and installing screens, making camp spaces cozy by decorating, putting together welcome bags for staff and campers, cutting and splitting firewood for campfires, and more. While many of our themed volunteer events may involve some more strenuous tasks, we always have activities available for individuals of all ages and abilities. We encourage you to bring your friends and other members of your faith communities to join, too! RSVP for this event here. For more information about our volunteer opportunities, visit the website.

Solemn Eucharist & Sermon

On the first Sunday of the month, Trinity Cathedral offers a Solemn Eucharist to the people of the Diocese. These services are conducted with celebrants and preachers from among the diocesan clergy, accompanied by the Cathedral choir, servers of the Cathedral and from the Diocese. This upcoming Solemn Eucharist & Sermon will take place on May 3 at 4:00 p.m.

Celebrant: The Rev. Rosalind Hughes, Diocese of Ohio

Preacher: The Rev. Andrew McQuery, Rector, Christ Church, Oberlin

Deacon: The Rev. Lisa O'Rear, St. Andrew's, Mentor

Choir: Trinity Cathedral, Directed by Shiloh Roby

Full Choir singing The Missa Brevis in F by Joseph Rheinberger

Join ECW's National Day of Prayer Online Gathering

The Prayer Life Team of the Episcopal Church Women (ECW) of the Diocese of Ohio is offering an online event for this year's National Day of Prayer on May 7. The session starts at 7:00 p.m. and will last about 40 minutes. Registration for the ECW's National Day of Prayer gathering is available here. If you would like to view the recording of the Introduction to the National Day of Prayer that the team presented on April 21, visit this link. Questions about this event? Please reach out to the ECW Prayer Life team.

Live Music Night

Join Bellwether Farm for live music from local musicians at the Bellwether Amphitheater. The event will take place on May 9 from 7:00–9:00 p.m. If you or your band are interested in performing, contact Renzi Ricketts for more information. This event is free and open to the public; donations will be accepted. Donations will go towards Summer Camper Scholarships.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a Special Brunch at Bellwether Farm

Join us at 11:00 a.m. on May 10 at Bellwether Farm for a special Mother’s Day brunch and enjoy a relaxing morning together on the farm. Guests will be treated to a farm-to-table brunch featuring fresh, seasonal selections. The day will begin with complimentary family photos, available for download after the event. Activities will also include creating handmade sugar scrubs and arranging a 10-stem bouquet using fresh-cut flowers grown at Bellwether Farm. Registration is open.

Warden Connection: Through-Put, Discernment & Faithful Leadership

Join Canon Russ Tripi for our next Warden Connection on May 12 at 12:00 p.m. as we continue exploring the Open Systems approach to leadership. This session will focus on through-put—the space between receiving information and taking action—where healthy vestries prayerfully reflect, discern, and seek wise next steps together. We’ll consider how wardens, clergy, and vestries can move beyond reactionary decision-making toward thoughtful, Spirit-led leadership that is grounded in mission and attentive to the life of the faith community.

The Warden Connection is a monthly virtual space where Senior and Junior Wardens connect, share wisdom, and encourage one another in leadership across the Diocese of Ohio. Please join as you are able.

Every One Beloved - Anti-Racism Workshop

Every One Beloved, a one-day anti-racism workshop from the Diocese of Ohio, will be offered from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on May 16 at St. Michael’s in the Hills, Toledo. This training session is full, but a waitlist is available. To be placed on the waitlist, contact the Rev. Rosalind Hughes. Anti-racism training is required every five years for all clergy and individuals in elected and appointed Diocesan positions, as well as for certain licenses. Training is also open to any interested member of the Diocese. The cost of training materials and lunch (provided) is covered by the Diocese of Ohio. In order to make the training a one-day event, the completion of pre-workshop reading and a post-workshop reflection will be required to receive a certificate of completion. All 2026 anti-racism training dates are now available via the Diocesan calendar.

Staycation & Workcation

Feeling like you need a break? Craving a peaceful retreat to focus on school, work, or personal projects? Bellwether offers cozy spots to read a book, explore trails, or get creative. The small and large meeting spaces are perfect for tackling projects with your team. Let Bellwether care for you and your spirit. The retreat will take place May 25-29, beginning at 3:00 p.m. on May 25 and ending at 10:00 a.m. on May 29.

BBQs and Canoes Lake Day for Father’s Day at Bellwether Farm

Dive into a day packed with action: paddle around the lake, reel in some fish, take a refreshing swim, or explore our scenic trails. It's all about creating lasting memories together. With the smoker and grill fired up, you can look forward to a mouthwatering feast featuring a variety of meats and fresh, farm-to-table ingredients. Mark your calendars for June 20 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., perfectly timed for Father’s Day. Let us enrich your traditions with a day of fun and relaxation. We can't wait to celebrate with you! Registration is now open.

Bellwether Farm Summer Camp Registration Open

Looking for a screen-free, adventure-filled summer experience where your child can explore, learn, and build lifelong friendships? At Bellwether Farm, we combine outdoor fun with hands-on learning in a welcoming and supportive environment. Dates, rates, and registration links are now available.

For Kids:

Discover new skills and outdoor adventures
Make real friends and lasting memories
Feel free to be exactly who you are

For Parents:

A values-aligned camp grounded in care and safety
Trusted counselors and nourishing meals
Space for your child to grow in spirit, independence, and joy

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made is a one-night retreat at Bellwether Farm for LGBTQIA+ people of faith sponsored by Trinity, Toledo and Trinity Cathedral, Cleveland. Save the date for the evening of August 28 through late afternoon on August 29. The retreat will be led by the Very Rev. Christine Fentress-Gannon, Rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church, Plymouth, MI. Registration is forthcoming. For more information, contact Dan McGuire or Rebecca Miller.

Standing Committee Meeting Summaries

Each month the Standing Committee of the Diocese of Ohio will submit a summary of its meeting to help familiarize the diocese with the work of this body. Find the summaries here.

FunDay Visitations

You’ve heard of Sunday Visitations but have you heard of FunDay Visitations? As a Diocese we will eat and drink, play, pray, and serve together. The Bishop and her staff feel it is important to attend parish events as a way to be in relationship with each other. While we cannot guarantee a member of the staff will be able to attend, it is a priority to do our best to join as schedules allow. The sooner we can get the events on our calendars the better. Submit your favorite parish Fun Days using the form on the diocesan website. Please note, this is a separate submission from the weekly enews.

PARISH

Interfaith Discussion on Israel-Palestine Conflict

The Social Justice Prayer & Advocacy Group of St. Barnabas, Bay Village will host an educational evening about Palestine/Israel on April 29 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. Two speakers will present: a member of Cleveland Jewish Voice for Peace, and a member of the Cleveland Palestinian Advocacy Community.

Breaking Bread Together: Making Sense of the Holy Eucharist in the Episcopal Tradition

Grace Church, Mansfield invites parishioners and guests to a five-week Christian Formation series in May. These sessions will take place Sundays from 9:00–9:45 a.m. on May 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31.

This interactive program will help participants explore the meaning, history, and life-shaping power of the Holy Eucharist in the Anglican/Episcopal tradition. Using Scripture, Tradition, and Reason (the Anglican “three-legged stool”), participants will learn why we gather at the Lord’s table, how the Book of Common Prayer shapes worship, different theological ways Christians understand the presence of Christ, and what communion and hospitality look like in practice. The series closes by connecting the table to service, including pantry ministry. Each 45-minute session follows the same structure: a short opening prayer, a simple icebreaker, focused teaching, small-group reflection, and a closing prayer. Weekly themes are as follows:

May 3 — Why We Gather: Biblical Roots of the Eucharist

May 10 — Tradition: How the Church Remembers (BCP & liturgy)

May 17 — Reason & Theology: What Happens at Communion?

May 24 — Communion & Hospitality: Who Is Welcome?

May 31 — Living the Eucharist: Liturgy, Prayer, and Service

Prayer for the Healing of the Nations Service

In times of trouble and uncertainty all around the world, many of us are feeling hopeless in the face of despair. Our Saviour, Akron is offering a Prayer for the Healing of the Nations Service at 4:00 p.m. on May 3, including a musical litany for the healing of the nations and an opportunity to place candles and paper cranes upon a world map to offer prayers. It will be a somber, yet uplifting service, including musical offerings such as There is a Balm in Gilead and Come Ye Disconsolate. This event is free and open to the public.

Celebration of Hymns

Join St. Barnabas, Bay Village for an ecumenical Celebration of Hymns on May 6 at 6:30 p.m. Churches from across Bay Village will gather for an evening of prayer, scripture, and song. Together, we’ll sing beloved hymns from our various faith traditions—celebrating the rich ways we offer praise to God. A combined community choir will lead us in this powerful reminder of our common faith. This event is free and open to all.

Vocalist Minkyeong Kim

Join All Saints, Parma on May 15 at 7:00 p.m. for Vocalist Minkyeong Kim with a reception to follow in the Parish Hall. This concert is free and open to the public. Invite your family, friends, neighbors and coworkers. A free-will donation will be taken to support the All Saints Music Program.

2026 Spring Assembly of the Daughters of the King

All Daughters of the King (DOK) chapters in the Diocese of Ohio are joyfully invited to the 2026 Spring Assembly on May 16, hosted by the St. Catherine of Siena Chapter at Grace Church, Sandusky. The day begins with registration at 9:30 a.m., followed by a 10:00 a.m. Eucharist presided over by the Rev. Seth Wymer and an engaging presentation by the Rev. Dr. Brian Wilbert. Attendees will enjoy fellowship, music, a catered lunch, and a guided tour of the newly renovated sanctuary and historic stained glass windows. This year’s outreach project supports Safe Harbour Domestic Violence Shelter, and attendees are encouraged to bring donations of basic bath or kitchen items. The cost is $22.00. For reservations, required by May 11, contact Becky Montague, or text 419.271.1085.

Pop-Up Art Exhibit

Join St. Andrew, Mentor and local artist Christine Siarka for a pop-up art exhibit and workshop space. The Spark Room will be open on May 16 from 1:00-4:00 p.m., with an artist talk at 2:30 p.m. Refreshments will be available.

All are welcome to attend this free event. Experience a space for recharging and revitalizing of Spirit through creativity, connection, and inspiration.

For more info, contact St. Andrew.

Organ Recital by Dr. David Saunders

Join Grace, Sandusky on May 24 at 4:00 p.m. for a special organ recital by Dr. David Saunders. A highly accomplished musician, Dr. Saunders has performed across the Midwest and internationally, including appearances in France and holds advance degrees in organ and church music from institutions such as the University of Michigan. With decades of experience as an organist, choir director, and educator, he brings both technical mastery and deep musical expression to his performance. Admission is free, with a freewill offering gratefully accepted. All are welcome to come and enjoy an afternoon of inspiring music.

Annual Motorcycle Blessing

Good Shepherd, Lyndhurst invites all riders and community members to its Annual Motorcycle Blessing on June 7. The event will take place from 12:00-1:00 p.m., with the blessing beginning at 12:30 p.m. This relaxed and welcoming gathering offers an opportunity to pray for a safe and enjoyable riding season. Whether you ride every day, on weekends, or simply wish to participate in a community event, all are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring their motorcycles, invite friends, or simply come as they are. A free lunch of hot dogs, chips, and drinks will be provided. For more information, visit Good Shepherd's website or reach out through email.

Brave Hearts Camp: A Faith-Based Creative Arts Experience for Children

Christ Church, Warren is pleased to announce Brave Hearts Camp, a faith-based creative arts camp designed to inspire children to explore creativity, courage, and kindness through a variety of artistic experiences. Taking place June 15-19 from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Brave Hearts Camp welcomes children entering Kindergarten through 5th grade (just completed) for a fun and meaningful week of music, dance, visual art, theater, and creative movement.

Rooted in beloved Bible stories, the camp will help children discover how courage, faith, perseverance, and compassion can shape their lives and the world around them. Each day will feature hands-on arts activities, collaborative projects, and creative play, all designed to build confidence, spark imagination, and foster friendships. Local educators and teaching artists will lead engaging sessions in rotation, giving campers the opportunity to explore multiple artistic disciplines in a supportive and joyful environment. The cost is $35 for the week, and full scholarships are available to ensure every child has the opportunity to participate. Lunch will be provided daily. Families interested in registering can begin the process by completing the online registration form. For additional information, please contact the church office at 330.372.4998, or visit www.christchurchwarren.org.

OTHER

Women Clergy Retreat

Registration is now open for this year's Regional Women Clergy Retreat, taking place May 31-June 3 at St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt, Michigan. Open to participants in Provinces V and VI. This retreat centers on the experiences of women clergy. We explicitly invite everyone (trans, cis, nonbinary, genderfluid, agender, and more) who feels this is for them to attend. Registration closes on May 8. For more information or to register, check out the event website, or contact Heather Barta or Ellen Bruckner.

Province V to Host “Big Provincial Gathering” and Youth Event in Kalamazoo This Summer

Episcopalians from across the Midwest will gather in Kalamazoo, Michigan, this summer for the Big Provincial Gathering (BPG), a dynamic, collaborative event designed to inspire, equip, and connect lay and clergy leaders in ministry. The gathering will take place July 30–August 1 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and nearby partner sites. BPG offers participants the opportunity to share ideas, showcase successful programs, and learn practical strategies for strengthening congregational life. Workshops and conversations will focus on real-world ministry challenges and innovations, with an emphasis on collaboration and resource-sharing across dioceses. The event’s plenary leader will be the Rev. Canon Dr. Lorenzo Lebrija, who will guide participants in exploring faithful, creative approaches to ministry in today’s church.

Running concurrently with the Big Provincial Gathering is the Provincial Youth Event (PYE), a parallel program for students who have completed grades 6–12. Centered on the theme “We Will, With God’s Help,” the youth event invites participants into a shared exploration of the Baptismal Covenant and what it means to live faithfully in community. Youth participants will engage in worship, reflection, and community-building activities, while also joining portions of the larger gathering. For more information, contact the Rev. Heather Barta.