The last chapter of preparations for this year’s Convention is underway. Episcopal House is all abuzz with work preparing the many aspects of this year’s Convention. Meanwhile the various committees who help create this event are hard at work with their final preparation meetings over the next few weeks. The excitement is filling the air, and you will not want to miss it all.
What is Convention anyway? Isn’t it just a meeting that we talk church members into attending? No, it is the foundation of who we are. Convention is the proof that clergy and laypeople can do amazing things when they work together. It is not just voting on the diocesan budget and finding out where the money goes. Convention is a once a year gathering of each congregation from across our diocese to celebrate our diversity, discuss issues that are affecting us, and lift laypeople and clergy to roles in various committees. To experience Convention as a voting member is special but to have the opportunity to attend as a guest gives you the privilege of gaining a better understanding of how our diocese works. And this year is not just any Convention – it is the 150th Anniversary of the Diocese of Newark. There will be unique programming that no one will want to miss.
Of course, we cannot forget the opportunity for you to volunteer at this year’s Convention. The Arrangements Committee is still looking for a few more members who are available to work Friday and Saturday in key roles. To help make this year a success we need 2-3 people who have knowledge of technology and can help our voting members sign into the electronic voting system. Another significant role we are looking for is people to work is with the Marketplace, a perfect setting for those who love the social aspect of Convention. Yet there is one final role that must be done that takes the least amount of time. We are looking for 4-5 people to volunteer on Saturday afternoon to help move all the diocese’s equipment back to Episcopal House. The ability to lift heavy objects is important and they will be the heroes of Convention. These roles are important to the success of Convention, and we hope that you will help us find talented individuals to sign up. For more information, please contact Donna Caputo.
In just over a month, we will gather to celebrate the 150th Convention. We hope that all the arduous work that the staff and volunteers have put in over the past 21 months will make your experience one to remember. We look forward to seeing you there!
