View as Webpage .................................................................October 2026 | | |
From the Office of the Assisting Bishop
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Standing Committee
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Messages from the Standing Committee
The Episcopal Church Welcomes You
I am a Traditionalist. I first became truly aware of the term—and learned to wear the label with pride—while having coffee in Chestertown last summer with a dear friend who serves on our Discernment Committee. Our conversation centered around our diocesan future, a topic that is not unusual among us Episcopalians on the Eastern Shore these days. When my friend mentioned a mutual acquaintance and noted, “You know, he is a Traditionalist,” I immediately exclaimed, “Well, so am I!”
We seem to live in an era of labels. Too often, these tags do not give us a sense of unity; instead, they are used to put people into boxes. Yet, from cradle Episcopalians to the newest members Bishop Bud confirmed within the last year, we all belong to the Episcopal Church. That "big tent"—the idea that for centuries we have survived as Anglicans and later Episcopalians by holding space for differing viewpoints—is our best attribute. It has occasionally been a rocky road, but the formula works.
So why have labels suddenly become so important in our discussions? Because we are talking about our future.
On one side are people like me. I find myself firmly in the camp of traditionalism as outlined by the British statesman and founder of modern traditionalism Edmund Burke. I believe my responsibility at St. Clement’s is to acknowledge the contributions of the dead, sustain the living, and look out for the unborn. This is a sacred partnership and a stewardship function we take seriously. We must ask ourselves: are we practicing good stewardship—not just financially, but spiritually—to provide for the future of our local parishes and the Episcopal faith?
Progressives, on the other hand, generally view traditionalists with suspicion, worrying that "tradition" is used to perpetuate past injustices, such as patriarchal language in our liturgy. Broadly speaking, progressives believe we should take a hard look at traditional dogmas while prioritizing secular political action. (Though I value my coffee partner's perspective, I would never presume to stamp these exact beliefs onto him specifically!)
Despite these differences, my friend and I believe we can make it work. We can make it work over the next couple of years as we move forward in our search for our future and for our next Bishop of Easton. Traditionalists do not abhor change; we simply tend to take it slowly, preferring steady stewardship over total, abrupt transformation. We don’t need lectures from the wider Episcopal Church telling us how we should worship in 2026. Instead, we need to discern together who the Diocese of Easton wishes to be as we worship in 2026. Guided by the Provisional Bishop whom I believe we will have to help lead us; our diocese will find its way.
As the final member of the Standing Committee to share a commentary in this E-news series, I want to thank you for the honor and privilege you bestowed upon me by electing me to this role. Every member of your Standing Committee is deeply committed to serving this diocese. We are, in many ways, a microcosm of the Big Tent that defines the Diocese of Easton.
Faithfully,
Deb Dragone
Standing Committee Member
St. Clement’s, Massey
October Notes from the Standing Committee President
by Rev. Dr. Darcy Williams
The last four weeks have been busy ones for the Standing Committee. Perhaps the item of business that is of most interest to the vast majority of people in the diocese is that we interviewed candidates whose names were provided to us by the Office of the Presiding Bishop to serve as Bishop Provisional of the Diocese of Easton. The election of a bishop provisional is a little different than that of a diocesan bishop: there will be only one nominee presented by the Standing Committee to stand for election at the 159th Annual Convention, February 2027. Please watch for an announcement and more information to be made on Wednesday, October 21. In addition, we also:
- Met with Archdeacon Laura Harbaugh to learn more about SPEC (St. Paul’s Episcopal Center) in Hebron, and to appoint a newly revitalized Bishop’s Committee. SPEC was established by Bishop Santosh Marray in 2019 when St. Paul’s, Spring Hill Parish, Hebron, and the property and all assets were transferred to the Diocese of Easton. A committee appointed by Bishop Marray in 2020 proposed to Diocesan Council that SPEC “be a center for three diocesan ministries namely, (I) Worship and Creative Ministry, (2) Bishop’s Institute, and (3) Community Partnership. The facility shall maintain its exclusive identity as a worship center.” It has continued to function as a site for a food pantry and a meeting place, as well as the home of a Korean Praise Church of God, but part of the aging building has structural issues which must be addressed.
- Approved an Episcopal Church Building Fund Loan application from St. Andrew’s, Princess Anne, to allow them to borrow money to fund the repairs and renovations needed to be able to use their parish hall again. The application was subsequently approved by Council.
- Met with TEC CFO, Chris Lacovara, to learn more about a tool TEC has developed to help dioceses look at their long-term financial picture, with respect to current trends and local demographics. It was decided to work with Chris giving us an additional model to use.
- Appointed two new members to the Camp Wright Committee.
- Reviewed and recommended to Council the approval of the engineering design drawings for bathroom renovations in Miller Hall at Trinity Cathedral/Bray House.
- Consented to the ordination of the Rev. J. Randolph (Randy) Alexander, Jr. as Bishop of FL.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact SC President, the Rev. Dr. Darcy Williams, at drdarcy.williams@gmail.com or call the diocesan office at 410-822-1919 and leave a message with Lynn Anstatt.
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Diocesan Discernment Update
Great Turnout for Discernment Info Days: Thanks!
Over 90% of the parishes in the Dioceses held a Diocesan Discernment Information Day this past summer through early fall. The purpose of these events is to provide a level of education throughout the diocese about the role of dioceses in the Episcopal Church and the current state of the Diocese of Easton.
“The Discernment Committee expresses its profound appreciation to the clergy and lay leadership of the parishes of the Diocese of Easton in scheduling and conducting an Information Day with your congregation,” said committee co-chair Father David Michaud. “And we thank all those who participated in this important work.” Thirty-six (36) parishes took part in this education phase as the diocese discerns its future as the Episcopal Church on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
The Information Day events at the parish level were attended by a substantial number of people, providing Episcopalians throughout the diocese with a greater understanding of who and where we are as a diocese. People in the pews watched the Discernment Video and then engaged in conversations and answered discussion questions which provided feedback to the Discernment Committee. The committee estimates these events involved 1,000 or more people.
What’s Next?
The Discernment Committee is in the process of compiling and analyzing the feedback received from the parishes and hopes to provide a summary of its findings to the Standing Committee and the Diocese by early November. “There are many thoughtful comments, concerns and hopes expressed by lay and clergy in the questionnaires that will be very important as we move into our next phase of discernment, identifying values and ways forward,” said committee co-chair Diana Kunkel, Ph.D.
In the meantime, the Discernment Committee is encouraging parishes to consider reproducing as fall bulletin inserts some of the information provided on its education page on the Diocese of Easton website. Those who could not attend an Information Day are encouraged to visit the education page, read the information provided and view the information video. Click here to visit the Discernment Information Page.
Click here for a list of Discernment Committee members.
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The Children's Home Foundation Annual Thanksgiving Appeal
The Children’s Home Foundation will begin its annual Thanksgiving Appeal in November, raising money for career scholarships, camperships, driver’s education grants, and youth mission trips.
The Children’s Home Foundation was one of the very first ministries of the Diocese of Easton intended to care for some of the many children orphaned during the Civil War. For over 80 years, the orphanage functioned until in 1959 it was sold. The proceeds from the sale were invested for the benefit of needy young people on the Eastern Shore, with the Children’s Home Foundation established to oversee the funds. This initial investment combined with your contributions provides thousands of dollars in career scholarships for students in the nine counties of the Eastern Shore of Maryland attending two-year colleges. Students taking non-credit courses to earn certifications necessary for jobs are not always eligible for most state or federal funding, so these CHF scholarships make a real difference.
CHF also provides funding for young people who would otherwise never attend a summer camp to attend Camp Wright and other local camps. Because a student can’t get to a job or to community college classes without transportation, CHF helps pay for driver’s education classes, since the class is no longer offered in the schools but is still required before getting a driver’s license. CHF has also helped fund mission trips for the youth of our diocese.
Thanksgiving Appeal letters with return envelopes will be mailed in the next month, but contributions can also be mailed directly to CHF to Ann Allen, PO Box 990, Salisbury, MD 21803 or can be made through the website: childrenshomefoundation.org. Truly, this ministry to God’s children is in keeping with Jesus’ instruction, “Inasmuch as you have done it unto the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto me.”
Thank you for your support! (Above photo from inside the Children's Home in 1924)
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Election Engagement ~ Vote Faithfully We recognize election engagement as an act of Christian stewardship. Our mandate to care for God’s world and people compels us to vote—and to help ensure voting access for others. Election engagement also means we seek to stay informed; critically evaluate information before we share or act on it; and engage in respectful political dialogue even when we disagree. Learn more here about ways you and your congregtion can get involved in the election process.
A Prayer for Everyone Supporting Free, Fair, and Safe Elections
Faithful God, who raises up leaders, prophets, and people of goodwill to guide us on our earthly pilgrimage, we give you thanks for the many people who have volunteered to help others participate in our elections. Protect the poll workers, civic organizations, librarians, and all who help people understand deadlines, requirements, and other important election-related information. As voter registration deadlines approach in many states, we pray that our neighbors across the country may have the opportunity and encouragement to participate in our elections. Be with us as we seek to build communities marked by justice, safety, and respect. Grant this through the steadfast love of Jesus Christ, who works in us through your Spirit. Amen.
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Presiding bishop outlines coming realignment of churchwide staff, prioritizing service to dioceses Executive Council has talked of a “strategic adaptive realignment” of The Episcopal Church’s operations at least as far back as June 2023. This week, the council got its first substantive look at how those changes will be implemented under the new leadership of Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe.
Continue Reading Here. Chart of Staff Relationships.
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A pastoral word to The Episcopal Church from the September 2026 gathering of the House of Bishops The Episcopal Church Office of Public Affairs
Dear People of God: Grace and peace to you in Jesus Christ our Lord. The bishops of The Episcopal Church gathered from Sept. 22-28, 2026, at Camp Allen Conference Center in Navasota, Texas. Our gathering included 118 bishops and bishops-elect, representing 93 dioceses and special ministries across 17 countries and territories. Mindful of the pressures and challenges facing our world and our church, we are grateful for this time set apart for spiritual renewal and focused work. We leave this meeting with deepened relationships and renewed commitments to the ministry we share in Jesus Christ.
Archbishop of Canterbury addresses House of Bishops during US visit
Episcopal News Service
Archbishop of Canterbury Sarah Mullally visited the House of Bishops Sept. 25 . . . at Camp Allen during its fall meeting. Texas was the first stop on her Sept. 25-28 visit to the United States, her first as archbishop of Canterbury. Anglican provinces, including The Episcopal Church, “face very similar challenges and very similar joys” even though they’re geographically, culturally and linguistically different, Mullally told the bishops . . . “It’s amazing to have the archbishop of Canterbury with us. She’s shown her genuine leadership and care for the [Anglican] Communion and love for this church,” [Presiding Bishop Sean] Rowe said. “It’s exciting to have her represent the unity of the church.”
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The 159th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Easton will take place at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort in Cambridge on February 26 & 27, 2027.
Pre-Convention & Convocation Meetings via Zoom:
Pre-Convention Meeting December 8th @ 7:00pm
Convocation Meeting February 9th @ 7:00pm
Upcoming Important Dates:
- Call to Convention ~ by October 29th
- Deadline to submit Constitution & Canons Resolutions to Committee ~ October 29th
2026 Amended Canons
The Canons of the Diocese of Easton have been amended. The updated version is now available for review. Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with the changes and keep a copy for future reference. Canons as amended 2026
The 2026 Journal from the 158th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Easton is now available here.
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Celebration of New Ministry for The Rev. Michael Hadaway
Please join the Rt. Rev. James Shand, Assisting Bishop, on Sunday, October 18th, at 4 pm, as he installs the Rev. Michael Hadaway as Rector, of St. Paul’s Kent, Chestertown. The Rev. Elizabeth Hadaway (Michael’s wife) will be preaching. Clergy please wear white stoles. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall. All are welcome.
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All Faith Parish Welcomes the Reverend Mary Friel
All Faith Parish in Tunis Mills is pleased to announce the appointment of the Reverend Mary Friel as Priest-in-Charge, effective January 1, 2027. Rev. Mary will serve the parish on a part-time basis.
Rev. Mary brings a wealth of ministry experience to this new role. Her previous positions from around our diocese include Rector and Priest-in-Charge of St. Paul’s Church in Centreville; Chaplain at Heron Point Continuing Care Retirement Community in Chestertown; and Associate Rector at Christ Church in St. Michaels.
Please join us in welcoming Rev. Mary to All Faith Parish and wishing her and the congregation every blessing as they begin this new chapter in ministry together!
| | Wye Parish, Queenstown is a historic, two-campus Episcopal community on Maryland's Eastern Shore. We seek a priest to lead us. We desire a warm, engaging, and relational leader with an adaptive and collaborative leadership style who can honor our cherished traditions while guiding us toward faithful renewal. The ideal candidate will be a gifted preacher who values and empowers the laity and builds on the congregation's desire to be active in all aspects of parish life. This person's leadership skills will include strategic planning, community relationship building, mission guidance, and stewardship enhancement. To learn more, please visit the Episcopal Church Vocational Hub or visit our website at Rector Search - Wye Parish. | |
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, a historic small parish in Quantico on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, seeks a part-time Priest-in-Charge for up to four days per week, including Sunday. We are a close, active congregation rooted in Episcopal worship, pastoral care, strong lay leadership, music, outreach, and service. We seek above all a pastor who enjoys people, preaches thoughtfully, teaches and learns with us, honors tradition while helping us discern faithful change, collaborates with lay leaders, and helps us pursue healthy spiritual and community growth. Our growing multigenerational choir, Church Mouse thrift ministry, children’s outreach, ECW, Guest Lecture Series, Men’s Discussion Group, and Creation Care ministry provide strong foundations for shared ministry. A rectory is currently leased but could be made available. The initial Priest-in-Charge
agreement is one year. Please send your resume, OTM profile, and a letter of introduction and interest to The Rev. Canon Brad Hinton, Interim Transition Minister, at transitions@dioceseofeaston.org.
| November Clericus - Tuesday, November 10th, 9:30 am Trinity Cathedral. | | Messages From our Finance Department | | |
2027 Health Insurance Annual Enrollment
Annual Enrollment will be 100% electronic for 2027. Parish leadership should alert employees to watch their email account for upcoming communications from The Medical Trust. Annual Enrollment for employees is October 14th – November 6th.
Don’t hesitate to contact the Diocesan office with questions or requests for support.
Annual Parish Audits - Due September 1st
For those parishes still finishing up, audits may be submitted in hard copy (314 North Street Easton, MD 21601) or electronically to Megan Timms. Please reach out if the diocesan finance team can be of assistance in meeting this canonical requirement. A link to the Parish Audits page on our website is here.
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Safe Church, Safe Communities (SCSC) Is a Way of Life!
As we head into the holiday season and prepare for the many activities that bring our congregations together, now is a great time to review your parish’s Safe Church, Safe Communities (SCSC) training and ensure that everyone is up to date.
Established by The Episcopal Church, the SCSC program provides guidelines and training for clergy and lay leaders to help create and maintain safe, welcoming spaces in our churches and ministries. Appropriate clergy, staff, and volunteers working with children and vulnerable adults are required to complete the training, which is available online and can be completed at your convenience.
For more information, visit the Safe Church, Safe Communities pages on the Diocesan website, or contact Beth Devenny at Beth@dioceseofeaston.org.
Safe Church, Safe Communities isn’t just a requirement—it’s a way of life!
Empower Me! Basic Safety Rules for Children. Teach children to find a trusted adult if someone asks them to break a safety rule!
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Diocesan November Holiday Office Hours
In observance of Veteran's Day, Bray House will be closed on Friday, November 13th.
In celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday, Bray House will close at noon on Wednesday, November 25th and be closed on Thursday & Friday, November 26th & 27th.
| | "ROCK FOR AGES" Camp Wright Shoreline Stablilization It is not too late to donate! Please use the QR code for an online contribution or mail a check written to the Diocese of Easton notated for Camp Wright to the the diocesan offices - 314 North Street, Easton, MD 21601. Please contact Myron Richardson or Megan Timms with any questions. | | | |
October is Diocesan Heritage Month!
Since 2015 the Diocese has been celebrating ‘Diocesan Heritage Month’ during October. Parishes are encouraged to designate a Sunday in October to be Diocesan Heritage Sunday to celebrate and give thanks for the many blessings received over the years; to highlight and discuss what it means to be part of a diocesan family; and to reflect on ways we may, as a diocesan family, draw closer and live even more deliberately and intentionally into the mission and vision of God for the Church on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
The 159th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Easton will take place at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort in Cambridge on February 26 & 27, 2027. Stay tuned for more information coming soon!!
Diocese of Easton Events Calendar, click here.
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Holiday Happenings Around the Diocese
The holiday season is quickly approaching, and we are excited to see our parishes celebrating with fun, festive activities! From special services and gatherings, seasonal traditions and bazaars, there are so many wonderful ways to celebrate together. Be sure to check out what’s happening around the Diocese and join in the holiday spirit! If you have a holiday event you would like to share with the Diocese, please send a brief article to Beth Devenny for inclusion in our December Enews.
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Christ Church, Cambridge Hosts Howl-O-Ween Fun Dog Show October 17th
Get Ready to Unleash Some Halloween Fun!
Grab your four-legged friend, your best Halloween costume, and your sense of humor! Christ Episcopal Church is once again unleashing its annual Howl-O-Ween Fun Dog Show on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the American Legion in Cambridge. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine, the American Legion will become the place to be for dogs who think they are stars—and owners who know they really are! This year’s show promises a howling good time with costumes, contests, food, raffles, prizes, gift baskets, and enough wagging tails to keep the Halloween spirit flying high. Learn more here.
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Christ Church, Easton - Hope in Challenging Times: A Women's Retreat
Facilitated by Gerri Leder and Linda Mastro ~ Welcome and Invocation by Rev. Anne Wright. Hope may be elusive in seasons of uncertainty and challenge. In this retreat we will explore how our prayers and presence can bring consolation and hope to our hearts and to people around us. Women of all Christian traditions are welcome!
Come for encouragement, connection, spiritual renewal, and the opportunity to discover how God may be calling each of us to put hope into action.
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
Time: 9:30am to 3:00pm
Location: Christ Church Easton, Parish Hall, 111. S. Harrison Street, Easton, MD, 21601
Cost: $50 (includes light breakfast and lunch, net proceeds will be donated to the Neighborhood Service Center) Advanced registration required.
To register for the Women's Retreat, please click this link.
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." --Romans 12:12
| | St. Mary Anne's, North East Faith & Recovery 12-Step Eucharist Service November 8th & December 13th. Join us on the second Sunday of the month at 6:00 PM! All those in recovery, members of support groups, and their family and friends are warmly invited to attend our Faith & Recovery 12-Step Eucharist Service at St. Mary Anne's Episcopal Church, 315 S Main Street, North East, MD 21901. This meaningful service of Holy Eucharist will include a powerful personal testimony, uplifting praise music, and the 12 Steps of recovery. Whether you are in recovery yourself or walking alongside someone you love, you are welcome to join us for an evening of faith, fellowship, hope, and healing. A light supper will follow the service in the Parish Center. We look forward to welcoming you! | |
St. Mary Annes, North East
National Wreaths Across America Day
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Date: Saturday, December 19, 2026
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Theme: REMEMBER the Fallen. . . HONOR those who Serve. . . TEACH our children the value of Freedom.
- Location: St. Mary Anne's Churchyard
Click HERE to Sponsor a Wreath
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Christ Church Parish, Kent Island - The Maryland State Boychoir
Join us at Christ Church on Thursday, November 12th at 7:30 p.m. for a special performance by the celebrated Tour Choir of the Maryland State Boychoir. As the most advanced of the organization's five ensembles, this talented group has toured globally and graced renowned stages like the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, the National Cathedral, and the Kennedy Center.
While the choir has previously been at Christ Church for Sunday morning worship, this marks their first full-length concert here, featuring a vibrant selection of sacred, secular, spiritual, and pop music. If you have never experienced the incredible sound this diverse group of young voices can create, prepare to be inspired. The concert is free and open to the public, so consider inviting a friend on neighbor! A free-will offering will be received to support the choir. Contact Gary Van Essen at music@ccpki.org for more information.
| | St. Peter’s, Salisbury annual Holiday Bazaar is scheduled for Friday, November 20 from 5pm to 8pm and Saturday, November 21 from 9am to 1pm. Mark your calendars! Once again, we will have Pete's Café serving King Boys' oyster fritter sandwiches along with soups, chicken salad and more; Pete's Pantry and Bake Shop where you can buy baked goods and various pantry items; Pete’s Attic Treasurers and a silent auction of gift baskets; and more | | On September 29, St. Paul’s, Worcester Parish, under the leadership of The Rev. Suz Southern, hosted a trip to the Washington National Cathedral. The day consisted of a guided tour of the Cathedral, free time to explore on one’s own, and worship at the Choral Evensong Service. Congregants joining on the trip from the Diocese of Easton included folks from St. Alban’s (Salisbury) and St. Peter’s (Salisbury), and Diocesan Clergy Archdeacon Laura Harbaugh, Rev. Canon Charlie Osberger and Rev. Dr. Frieda Malcolm. Also joining were members of Community Church (Ocean Pines), Son Rise Church (Berlin), Hi Tide Church (Dagsboro), Ayers United Methodist Church (Pittville), Our Lady of Guadalupe (Frankford) and St. James Episcopal Church (Baton Rouge, LA). | | Thanks to Lynn Anstatt, each participant proudly wore a Diocese of Easton identification badge his/her name and home church displayed. The date of the trip coincided with two major events in the life of the Cathedral - the placement of the founding stone (September 29, 1907 - President Theodore Roosevelt) and the placement of the final stone (September 29, 1990 – President George H.W. Bush). | | | |
Christ Episcopal Church in Denton, MD recently presented Lifetime Wells International with a check for $1415. Christ Church raised the money during their annual Summerfest FUNdraiser, which raffles off a bushel of steamed crabs and steamed shrimp generously supported by Blough’s Seafood.
Senior Warden Tracy Berrigan states “Each year Christ Church chooses a different non-profit organization in our community to support. We believe strongly in outreach. Even though we run a deficit budget each year, we follow the teachings of Jesus Christ to reach out to those in need. We are so happy to have Lifetime Wells International as our fundraiser recipient this year. The work they do in Africa to bring clean water to communities and, more recently ophthalmology care, is so very important and it aligns with our mission statement.”
(Christ Church Denton members Joy Murtha, Tracy Berrigan, Lynn Fuchs and Mark Fuchs present Lifetime Wells Internation representative Marie Freeman with a check for $1415 on September 24, 2026)
| | St. Paul’s, Marion Station, held discernment gathering filled with fruitful discussion and enthusiastic participation. Everyone was engaged, and it was a meaningful time of sharing and reflection. God bless St. Paul’s as they continue their journey of discernment! | | | |
Somerset County Department of Social Services has partnered with St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Princess Anne to ensure all of Somerset's foster children and youth have new luggage and personal containers for transporting their personal belongings. This partnership enabled the church to apply for and obtain grant funding through its diocese. The funding is dedicated exclusively to purchasing age-appropriate luggage, personal containers, and hygiene products or storage pouches for Somerset's youth when they enter foster care, change placements, or exit care.
Pictured are Ms. Rebecca McElhone of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church and Lori Engle, SCDSS Director
| | Wye Parish, Queenstown seeks a skilled and passionate Church Organist to join our vibrant community. In this role, you will be responsible for leading musical worship, enhancing congregational participation, and creating an uplifting spiritual atmosphere through the art of organ performance. Your expertise will not only enrich our services but also foster a deeper connection to our Episcopal faith and traditions. Those interested in learning more are invited to contact Rev. Charlotte Meyer at rector@wyeparish.org. | | St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Quantico presents the 2026 St. Philip’s Guest Lecture Series. The Guest Lecture Series at the parish hall at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church (6457 Quantico Road, Quantico, MD 21856) is a community outreach program, free to the public. Meetings take place in the parish hall on the second Monday of the month at 1 PM except for December which will include two days. Light afternoon refreshments are included. Learn more here, | | |
St. Andrew's Parish, Princess Anne Parish House Restoration Project
For generations, Somerset Parish MD - Saint Andrew's Episcopal Church has been committed to serving our community beyond our walls. We partner with local schools, youth organizations, senior residents, community groups, and local and state government agencies because we believe caring for our neighbors is one of the greatest ways we live our faith. Since 1935, our historic Parish Hall has provided an affordable gathering place for nonprofits, civic organizations, families, and community activities. You can make a difference! Read more here.
Click here to make a donation.
| | Green Hill Church Restoration Project You can make a difference by contributing to the Green Hill Church Restoration Project. To donate, click here to make a pledge or tax-deductible gift. Help us ensure that this sacred and historic place continues to inspire for centuries to come. | | |
The Retreat House logo is a link to the latest issue of their e-news. To receive the Retreat House newsletter and other email offerings, sign up here or contact The Retreat House at info@retreathousehillsboro.org.
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ENEWS Events & Article Submission Deadlines
If you have something to submit for our upcoming Enews please send them to Beth Devenny before the 10th of each month.
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Pastoral Concerns
We pray for the repose of the soul of Mr. Darrell Schuman, father of Michele Miller, Parish Administrator for St. Paul's, Kent, who died on October 7th. He was 85. Please keep the Miller and Schuman families in your prayers as they grieve the death of their loved one.
We pray for the repose of the soul of The Rev. Joseph Michael Rushton who died on Saturday, October 3, 2026. Joe died surrounded by his beloved husband, Nick Codd, family and friends. He was 71.
Joe served in the Diocese of Maryland: Trinity Church, Towson.
Church of the Holy Comforter, Lutherville, Church of the Good Shepherd, Towson and as Rector of Church of the Holy Spirit, Ocean City, in the Diocese of Easton.
We ask your prayers be with Joe's husband, Nick Codd, and his family.
Service information will be announced at a later date.
We pray for continued healing and comfort for the following people and their families: for Nancy Dick. J.R. Faulkner. Merlin John Fisher. Gordon Fronk. The Rev. Dr. Doug Girardeau. Babs Glancey. The Rev. Jim Kamihachi. The Rev. Ron Knapp. Pat Layton. The Rev. Jack Mason. The Rev. Claire Nevin-Field. Pamela Quarstein. Sally Rifenburg. Dee Rinehart. The Rev. John Schaeffer. The Rev. Allen Spicer. The Rev. Joan Testin. The Right Reverend Martin Townsend. Goldey Vansant. Ray Wasdyke. Louis Wright.
We continue to pray for those affected by the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine. Click here for printable prayers.
Submit prayer requests to: beth@dioceseofeaston.org.
Names are listed only with permission and will remain on our list for four weeks unless otherwise requested.
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Diocesan Prayer Calendar
Today we pray for you
Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost
October 18th
We give thanks for the witness of God’s people at Shrewsbury, Kennedyville, and for their Rector, the Very Rev. Henry Sabetti, and his spouse, Lisa, their Assoc. Priest, the Rev. Steve Klingelhofer, and his spouse, Diane, and their Deacon, the Rev. Peggy Samuels. We give thanks for the ministry of the Rev. Michael Hadaway, as St. Paul’s, Kent celebrates his New Ministry this day.
Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost
October 25th
We give thanks for the witness of God’s people at St. Luke’s, Church Hill and St. Andrew’s, Sudlersville, and for their Deacon, Lynda Habel, and her spouse, Joe.
All Saint's Day
November 1st
We give thanks for the witness of God’s people at Christ Church, Denton, and for their Rector, the Rev. Matthew D’Amario and his spouse, Craig.
Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost
November 8th
We give thanks for the witness of God’s people at Trinity, Elkton and St. Stephen’s, Earleville, and for their Rector, the Rev. Dr. Nichols Sichangi, and his spouse, Jane, as they come together for a joint service this day.
Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost
November 15th
We give thanks for the witness of God’s people at St. Andrew’s, Hurlock, and for their Deacon, the Rev. Barbara Coleman, and her spouse, John. We give thanks for their ministry of feeding those in need.
Last Sunday after Pentecost: Christ the King
November 22nd
We give thanks for the witness of God’s people at Christ Church, Cambridge, and for their Rector, the Very Rev. Susan Leight, and her spouse, A.K.
On this Children’s Home Foundation Sunday; we give thanks for the Ministry of the Children’s Home Foundation, and their leadership in providing funds for those seeking higher education.
First Sunday of Advent
November 29th
We give thanks for the Rt. Rev. James J. Shand, Tenth Bishop of the Diocese of Easton, and his spouse, Lynne; for his continued ministry to our diocese in serving as our Assisting Bishop during our time of transition.
For additional weeks, please visit our website or contact Lynn Anstatt.
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82nd General Convention
July 3-8, 2027
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Applications open for General Convention Official Youth Presence 2027 The Episcopal Church Office of Public Affairs
Episcopal teens ages 16 to 19 are invited to apply to become part of the 82nd General Convention’s Official Youth Presence, a group whose members have seat and voice in the House of Deputies and can testify at hearings before and during the summer 2027 convention. The deadline to apply is Nov. 20—members will be announced in February. Read More.
Newsletter: The Road to General Convention
Find information about the following in the Oct. 8 issue of the GC82 newsletter, a collaboration between the Office of Public Affairs, General Convention Office, and House of Deputies: Official Youth Presence applications; exhibit hall applications; and Forming Faithful Leaders, a new cross-functional team effort that will offer free programming for children, youth, and young adults. Read more.
Applications open for exhibits at General Convention
All organizations and vendors interested in exhibit space at the 82nd General Convention of The Episcopal Church are invited to apply. Fern is the exhibition services company managing the exhibit hall, which opens July 1 for move-in and will serve as a marketplace and educational center for convention attendees July 3-8. Visit this site and create a login to learn more and submit an application. Email gc82exhibitors@invnt.com with questions.
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Episcopal Church 2025 Parochial Report shows attendance stabilizing and new data on congregational life
The Episcopal Church’s newly released 2025 Parochial Report—which builds on changes introduced to the data collecting process in 2024—shows continued post-pandemic stabilization in terms of attendance and finances, though overall membership continues to slowly decline.
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Congregational vitality initiatives launch with unified focus, additional staffing, and upcoming networking and training opportunities
The Episcopal Church’s Congregational Vitality Department is initiating a renewed focus on church planting, revitalization, and redevelopment in concert with dioceses and local leaders. The work will be supported by three new staff positions and a yearlong series of webinars and in-person gatherings for professional development, leadership training, and networking opportunities for all Episcopalians interested in congregational vitality. Read more.
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Congregational Vitality All-Calls Second Thursdays from 12-1 pm ET
Connect monthly with other revitalization, church planters, and redevelopment practitioners for updates, shared learning, and focused conversations. Learn more
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Congregations invited to experiment with sixth baptismal promise emphasizing care of creation Episcopal News Service
A central component of the liturgy for baptisms in The Episcopal Church is the Book of Common Prayer’s Baptismal Covenant, in which congregations make five theological promises to act in Christian ways “with God’s help.” Some congregations are adding a sixth promise to the Baptismal Covenant, acknowledging their responsibility to care for God’s earthly creation.
| | 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. Read more. | |
Registration open for Magnify: A women’s justice retreat
Nov. 16-19 | Camp McDowell, Nauvoo, Alabama
Registration is open for Magnify, a women’s justice retreat designed for all lay and ordained Episcopal women involved in ministries of justice and inclusion. Offered by the church’s Office of Gender Justice in partnership with lay and ordained women from several dioceses, Magnify will offer times for worship, prayer, Bible study, and teaching on women’s leadership. Learn who is presenting and planning here. Register online here.
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Forward Movement releases daily prompt words for AdventWord 2026
Forward Movement has announced the 2026 reflection words for AdventWord, an inspirational online Advent calendar featuring a daily prompt word selected from the Sunday Lectionary readings. Continue reading here.
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Public Witness Weekly Prayers and Zoom service
Join us in and share these weekly prayers—available in English, French, and Spanish—for vulnerable communities as we seek God's guidance to ground us and to discern how each of us can respond. Join by Zoom each Monday at 11:45 a.m. ET to hear the prayers aloud, in the context of a simple liturgy, prayed by members of the Community of Francis and Clare. Find all prayers and search by topic here.
| | Episcopal Public Policy Network (EPPN) Action Alerts: Join Episcopalians across the church in the ministry of public policy advocacy through EPPN Action Alerts. Click on an alert; provide your basic contact information; and a pre-written email will be sent to your U.S. senators and representatives urging them to take action on critical legislative and policy issues. Sign up to receive alerts. | | |
Register for monthly ‘Vote Faithfully’ networking calls
1:30–2 p.m. ET | Nov. 5
On the first Thursday of each month through November, The Episcopal Church's Public Policy and Witness team will host a series of “Vote Faithfully” calls to support voter engagement in ways consistent with Episcopal values. Hosts will share resources and ideas to help congregations promote voting and civic participation while remaining nonpartisan (avoiding support for specific political parties, candidates, or platforms). The June 4 call will feature Kent Anker, the church’s chief legal officer, speaking about compliance with IRS rules regarding election engagement by religious organizations. Register here.
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‘Good News and Gratitude’ podcast:
In its inaugural season, this podcast from the United Thank Offering—hosted by the Rev. Erin Jean Warde—explores the messages of gratitude and good news found in Scripture and the world around us, as well as through the wisdom of guests and personal spiritual practices. Listen Here.
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RESOURCES
The Episcopal Church - Facebook Page
Episcopal News Service - Subscribe to receive the ENS newsletter.
View latest news here.
Episcopal Church Office of Public Affairs - Subscribe to the Public Affairs Office’s e-mail lists to receive the latest information about The Episcopal Church. Read the latest news and subscribe here
The Episcopal Church Press Release Digest and Episcopal Evangelism Newsletter a roundup of press releases, announcements, and other updates from the Office of Public Affairs. Keep up with the Episcopal Church Latest News
Province III - The goal of Province III is to encourage a forum for the sharing of programs, resources and ministries by the people of the 1187 provincial parishes and the thirteen dioceses in such a way as to develop effective strategies for coordinating and enhancing the use of regional and national resources.
The latest news from the office of the Archbishop of Canterbury - News & Statements
Global Partnerships - The ministry of the Office of Global Partnerships is to help “build bridges beyond ourselves”
Difference Blog - Read here.
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Thank you for your continued support
of the mission and ministries of our Diocese.
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