The Bishop’s staff is hard at work preparing for the 151st Annual Convention, and excitement is spreading throughout the diocese. As the date approaches, several important deadlines are coming up for deputies, clergy, and congregations.
The official announcement has been made that the Registration/Certification of Deputies form has been mailed to all churches. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to see every congregation represented and actively taking part in the voting process? Randy Johnson has sent a detailed email to all congregations explaining the form and the importance of completing it fully and accurately. If your congregation has any questions, please contact him at rjohnson@dioceseofnewark.org. Please remember that all completed forms must be received no later than 12 noon on October 1, 2025. Your congregation’s prompt response ensures that you have both a presence and a voice at the Convention.
Did you know that both lay and clergy members can serve at the diocesan level in a wide variety of ways? Nominations are now open for elected offices to be filled at Convention. To be included on the official roster of candidates published on the Convention website, nominations must be submitted through the online webform by 12 noon on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Late nominations will still be accepted until 12 noon on Saturday, November 8, 2025, and will be distributed in the Convention packets at Registration. If you are interested in learning more about the different opportunities to serve, click here.
Looking ahead, the Diocese of Newark is also preparing for its participation in the 81st General Convention of The Episcopal Church, which will be held in Phoenix, Arizona, July 1–8, 2027. General Convention, the governing body of The Episcopal Church, is a bicameral legislature made up of the House of Deputies and the House of Bishops. While worship and fellowship are integral parts of the experience, the primary work of General Convention is legislative – debating and voting on resolutions that shape the policy and direction of the Church. Deputies and alternates from Newark will spend 2026 and 2027 preparing for the event through monthly diocesan deputation meetings, as well as participating in legislative committee work via Zoom. The diocese covers expenses for four lay and four clergy deputies, along with the first alternates. Deputies will also be expected to share their experiences at the following Diocesan Convention in 2027. If you are interested in hearing more about this important opportunity, click here to learn more.
As we move toward Convention, we invite every congregation and individual to prayerfully consider how they might participate – whether through serving, nominating, or simply being present and engaged. Together, our shared voices and leadership strengthen the life of our diocese and reflect the unity we have in Christ.
