Being Bold about Our Faith: A Lay Retreat with Bishop Hughes

Bishop Hughes invites all lay leaders to this transformative retreat. In this time of profound change within the church, this gathering is an opportunity to reflect on who you have been as a leader and discern what God is calling you to become. Alongside guest facilitator and fellow lay leader Haley Bankey of Gathering of Leaders, we will explore how our gifts as lay leaders can meet the challenges and opportunities of our time, asking God the big questions, listening to the Holy Spirit, and finding hope as we embrace the new paths unfolding before us. Grounded in the truth that all life begins in darkness, we’ll consider what is being birthed in our leadership and communities as we embrace the mission of following Jesus Christ with bold acts of justice, peace, and love.

This retreat will bring elements of the four priorities central to our diocesan mission: formation for the first third of life, congregational collaboration, effective communication, and justice for people and planet. It’s a time to roll up our sleeves and step forward with courage, faithfully working toward our shared vision of a world transformed by God’s life-changing love. Drawing inspiration from scripture, prayer, and shared stories, we’ll affirm our role as strong, faithful lay leaders shaping the future of the church. Join us to connect with other lay leaders, find renewed strength, and embrace the call to make a difference.

This retreat is limited to 24 attendees. All rooms are single occupancy, and meals are included in the registration fee.
Register and pay by Feb. 14. No refunds after Jan. 31.

RETREAT LEADER
Haley Bankey, Executive Director of Gathering of Leaders (GOL)

Haley Bankey serves as has been an integral leader of GOL since 2017. With responsibility for GOL’s daily operations and long-term strategy, she actively guides the organization’s mission of fostering innovative leadership in the Episcopal Church. Previously, Haley served as the Director for Partnerships and Program Innovation at the Episcopal Church Foundation, directed operations and management for St. George Church and School in San Antonio, TX, and ran a successful faith-based operations consulting firm. A graduate of the College for Congregational Development, she also contributed to the digital transition of The FaithX Project’s Congregational Vitality Assessment tool.

Raised in the Episcopal Church in the Middle East, Haley brings a valuable international perspective to her ministry. Her passion lies in empowering both lay and clergy leaders through training and community-building initiatives that support church growth. As the Episcopal Church and wider society continue to evolve, Haley remains dedicated to helping congregations adapt for the future while upholding essential traditions and values.