Leadership Academy 2025

Join us on March 1 for Leadership Academy, a day dedicated to learning, growth, and connection within our diocesan community. This is an opportunity for clergy and lay leaders—both new and experienced—to come together, explore new ideas, and develop skills for impactful ministry. One of the most remarkable blessings of our diocese is the depth of wisdom and talent within its leaders, and Leadership Academy celebrates and builds upon that shared strength.

Beginning the day with Holy Eucharist in the sanctuary of St Dunstan’s Episcopal Church in San Diego, we will ground ourselves in worship and prepare for a day of learning. Throughout the day, there will be opportunities to connect with friends and colleagues from across the diocese, deepening the relationships that support our shared ministry. We will close with a time of reflection, centering God in all that we do and marking our commitment to serve with courage and love.

Leadership Academy offers the chance to choose, à la carte, from three tracks, each designed to inspire and equip you for leadership in diverse contexts.

STORYTELLING

Crafting Compelling Narratives for Ministry

Explore how storytelling captures attention and keeps readers engaged. This session will demonstrate the power of weaving a consistent narrative layer into your long-form content to attract and retain a loyal readership. Learn practical techniques for making your writing more compelling and memorable.

Stories in Motion: Lessons from A Case for Love

Join Grace Based Films Director Brian Ide, whose recent nationwide release A Case For Love has captivated audiences, for an engaging session on video storytelling. Using excerpts from the film, we’ll explore how to share impactful stories through video, focusing on techniques that resonate and inspire. Whether you’re new to video or looking to enhance your skills, this workshop will provide valuable insights into crafting authentic and compelling visual narratives.

The Art of Visual Storytelling

Discover the art of storytelling through photography. This session will explore how each photo tells a unique story, covering photography basics and why photos look the way they do. Learn how to use images effectively to share the mission and vision of your church with authenticity and impact.

WELCOME

Accessibility in Action

Join the Accessibility Group from St. Dunstan’s as they share their journey toward creating an inclusive and welcoming campus. This session will explore their innovative efforts, including a creative video, assistance for people with hearing loss, ramps and wheelchair-accessible seating, large-print materials, gluten-free communion options, and a quiet room for sensory-sensitive individuals. Learn practical strategies and gain inspiration for making your church more accessible to all.

Rhythms of Grace – Worship that engages across the spectrum of neurodiversity

Join members from St. Brigid’s Oceanside will tell stories of their work embracing neurodiversity and promoting inclusion in their worship spaces. 

“The Episcopal Church Welcomes You”: Becoming the Church We Say We Are

“The Episcopal Church Welcomes You” is a slogan emblazoned on many of our congregational signs, promotional materials, and websites. This workshop features leaders from Uptown Community Services, EDSD’s LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Taskforce, and EDSD’s multicultural congregations. You are invited to this honest, reflective and generative conversation on how we can better live into our declaration of Christ-like welcome.

FOUNDATIONS

Safe Church, Safe Communities 

This session focuses on the Church’s responsibility to ensure safety, integrity, and trust within its community. Participants will receive training on ethical and theological expectations placed on church workers/volunteers, the impact of misconduct, and the Church’s commitment to creating spaces where individuals and families are secure and valued. Safe Church, Safe Communities training is required for all volunteer and employment positions throughout the diocese. This training will take place over two workshop times. In order to complete all the necessary aspects of the training and receive a certificate, you must attend both sessions.

Youth Faith Formation – Beyond Grub and Games

Members of the EDSD Youth Leadership Council will hold this informative session addressing many of the questions we hear most often. What makes them feel included in church? What makes them feel left out? What do they value most in youth group? How do they serve at church? How would they like to? Come and hear directly from the council!