Convention Corner: A heartfelt thank you for the success of the 150th Convention

Can you believe it has already been 74 days since the 150th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark? It feels like just yesterday we gathered in East Rutherford to celebrate this milestone event. After months of hard work and preparation, the Convention was over in the blink of an eye. However, such a large event does not happen without the dedication and contributions of countless individuals. It is time to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who played a part in making it a success.

Leadership and Vision: John King

Every army needs a leader, and for the Convention, that leader is John King. His guidance and leadership have been the key to its success year after year. This past year, the Arrangements Committee underwent a significant reorganization, and John’s wisdom and support were critical to navigating the process. As the one person who works with every group involved in the Convention, John’s role is indispensable. We are profoundly grateful for his dedication.

The Bishop’s Staff

The bishop’s staff deserves special recognition for the countless hours they dedicate to the Convention, both before and during the event. Their efforts touch every aspect of the gathering, from collaborating with volunteer teams to planning and executing programs. Their commitment to serving our diocese goes above and beyond, and their contributions ensure the Convention’s continued success.

Key Teams Behind the Scenes

The success of the 150th Convention relied on the challenging work of several dedicated teams:

• The Dais Team ensured the smooth running of the business session, keeping order and ensuring adherence to established rules. Their work behind the scenes is vital to the success of the meeting.
• The Liturgy and Worship Team created an extraordinary Saturday worship service that blessed us all. From selecting readings to arranging altar flowers, their attention to detail made this year’s service unforgettable.
• The Youth Convo Team brought exceptional energy and creativity to this year’s Youth Convo program. The Youth Commission and Convo staff spent months preparing an inspiring and memorable experience for the youth of our diocese.
• The Program Development Team worked tirelessly to create an engaging and impactful program for this year’s breakout sessions. Thanks to their efforts, the regional ministries networks gained valuable insights into how to grow and collaborate more effectively. Their hard work ensured the programming was both meaningful and transformative.
• The 150th Anniversary Committee provided an incredible program to celebrate our history, reflect on who we are today, and dream about who we will become in the future. Their thoughtful planning enriched the Convention, reminding us of our shared journey and inspiring us to look forward.

The Arrangements Committee: A New Era of Organization

The Arrangements Committee, essential to the success of Convention, underwent a complete restructuring over the past two years. Now composed of a Chairwoman, an Executive Team, and 12 subcommittees, the committee has become more efficient and effective in serving the diocese.
The Executive Team, made up of both volunteers and members of the bishop’s staff, used their experience and knowledge to guide the new structure. During the Convention, they worked tirelessly to oversee logistics, handle challenges, and support every aspect of the event.
This year, over 20 new members joined the Arrangements Committee, bringing diverse talents and fresh perspectives. These volunteers underwent training over six months to prepare for their roles and made a tremendous impact during the event. Their dedication and teamwork ensured the Convention ran smoothly and successfully.

Gratitude for a Shared Effort

The 150th Convention was a true team effort, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed their time, energy, and talents. From the leadership of John King to the dedication of the bishop’s staff, the creativity of the Youth Convo Team, the innovation of the Program Development Team, the inspiration of the 150th Anniversary Committee, and the demanding work of the Arrangements Committee, it took an entire community to make this event possible.
Thank you all for your commitment to our diocese and for helping us mark this historic milestone. Here is to the continued success of our shared mission! Let the count down to the next convention begin – 297 days to go!