Episcopal Diocese of San Diego

Gun Safety Work Group April Meeting
2024-04-16 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Zoom
Monthly meeting of the EDSD Gun Safety Working Group. The group will discuss ongoing advocacy and outreach activities, and progress with development of gun safety plans in the Diocese. New members are welcome to attend. Please contact Paul Conry for more information, paul.j.conry@gmail.com.

Evangelism 101
2024-06-06 18:00 - 19:00 | Zoom
EDSD’s Evangelism 101 course explores a non-anxious form of evangelism rooted in the Episcopal tradition. Students will discuss the theological roots of the gospel and how to lead a congregation toward evangelistic practice by example. Those who finish the course may be nominated for lay evangelist licensing. For more information and to register, click here.
Register
Registration closes 5/27 at 5 p.m.

John Philip Newell Weekend
2025-02-21 - 2025-02-23 | Camp Stevens, 1108 Banner Rd., Julian, CA, 92036, United States
Spend a weekend at Camp Stevens with John Philip Newell! February 21-23

In 2016 John Philip Newell began a teaching initiative of annual retreats to help reawaken awareness of the sacred in all things through the recovery of Celtic wisdom for today and to help translate this awareness into compassionate action in our lives and world.
Celtic Wisdom 1 is the first of a three-part series of annual retreats led by the Celtic teacher John Philip Newell and his colleague Cami Twilling. In it, we explore the sacredness of every human being, the sacredness of the feminine, and the sacredness of Earth.
The teachings of this retreat are based on John Philip’s award-winning book Sacred Earth Sacred Soul: Celtic Wisdom for Reawakening to What Our Souls Know and Healing the World (especially Chapters 1, 2, and 7 drawing on the wisdom of Pelagius, Brigid, and Teilhard de Chardin).
John Philip Newell’s Sacred Earth Sacred Soul is the essential text for the three-year Celtic Wisdom program. The shared prayer book for this program is Sounds of the Eternal: A Celtic Psalter.
Celtic Wisdom 1 can be taken as a stand-alone retreat or in conjunction with Celtic Wisdom 2 and Celtic Wisdom 3 which can be attended in any order and at any of our retreat centers nationwide or online.
We are partnering with our neighbors at Sacred Mountain Ranch (https://www.sacredmountainjulian.com/julian) to provide additional upscale accommodations. Choose the commuter rate and stay close by! Contact Sacred Mountain Ranch directly. Discounted options are available with code: b082132

Celebration of Life for Rev. Bill Lieber
2025-02-21 13:30 - 15:00 | Grace Episcopal Church, 1020 Rose Ranch Rd, San Marcos, 92069, United States
There will be a celebration of life for the late Rev. Bill Lieber at Grace Episcopal Church, 1020 Rose Ranch Rd, San Marcos on Sunday, February 21 at 1:30 p.m. followed by a graveside internment at the San Marcos Cemetery. Fr. Bill passed away on March 6, 2024, a few months after the death of his beloved wife Joy.

Lay Catechist Training Registration
2024-08-27 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom
A Catechist is a lay person authorized to prepare persons for Baptism, Confirmation, Reception, and the Reaffirmation of Baptismal Vows. They function under the direction of the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation or other community of faith. Their work is deeply important in expanding discipleship within a congregation.
The course is designed to not just cover faith formation for children, youth, and adults, but also invites participants to consider, “What does it look like to offer congregational formation?” Throughout the course we will evaluate and adapt curriculum that is already available to meet their contexts. By course end, each participant will have designed a program that they will offer to the congregation in the year ahead.
Applicants for a catechist license must attend a six-session training course. Each meeting will be held at 6:00 PM on the 4th Tuesday of the month on Zoom. Below are the dates and subjects for each class. Applicants must attend all six sessions and complete a project to be licensed. Applications will close in July. The six sessions include:

August 27, 2024, 6:00 PM – Faith Formation for Children & Youth
September 24, 2024, 6:00 PM – Faith Formation with Adults
October 22, 2024, 6:00 PM – Formation in Congregational Life
November 26, 2024, 6:00 PM – Curriculum Review and Development
January 28, 2024, 6:00 PM – Baptism and Confirmation
February 25, 2024, 6:00 PM – Project Review and Presentation

Applicants may register for the course once they have submitted their Lay License Application and the Lay License Nomination form have been submitted by the priest in charge at their congregation. Please complete the registration below.
Registrants will receive an email with more details on the training in July. Questions regarding the lay license process/requirements, please contact our Director of Formation, Charlette Preslar cpreslar@edsd.org.
Register Here

Leadership Academy 2025
2025-03-01 08:30 - 16:30 | St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, 6556 Park Ridge Blvd., San Diego, CA, 92120, United States
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!

Going Deeper in Prayer: St. Teresa of Avila’s The Interior Castle
2025-03-12 19:30 - 2025-04-23 20:45 | Zoom
To read The Interior Castle is to put yourself in the hands of an extraordinarily qualified faith mentor – Teresa of Avila – who well understands both our desire and our struggle to connect with God. Teresa’s primary metaphor throughout this book (her most famous work), is that the human soul is an “interior castle” or a series of “dwelling places” of great grandeur, beauty, and value … and it is here that we both find life with God and find nourishment for the work we are meant to do in the world. This study will reflect on the seven “dwelling places” outlined by Teresa, one each week, and will be led by Laurel Mathewson, who recently published an updated edition of the text. Books available online, at many bookshops, or at St. Luke’s (any edition is fine!).To join, email Mtr. Laurel to sign up and receive the zoom links: laurel@stlukesnorthpark.org.

PATH Vacation Bible School Rollout
2025-03-18 09:00 - 11:00 | St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 3725 30th Street, San Diego, CA, 92104, United States
You are invited to join the PATH Vacation Bible School curriculum interest sessions being held on March 18 and April 1. The sessions will include the presentation and review of the curriculum, resources for planning and execution, real conversation about how to collaborate with others for success, sample art work, and more. There are in-person and online sessions to provide access to as many congregations as possible. Registration is required for planning purposes.
Sessions:
– March 18th- 9-11 am – St. Luke’s North Park
– April 1st – 6-7pm – Zoom
Register Here

La Misa in English/ El Día de San José
2025-03-19 18:00 - 19:30 | St. John’s Episcopal Church, Chula Vista, 760 First St, Chula Vista, CA, 91910, United States
Celebrate the Feast Day of St. Joseph at our La Misa in English. With mass, music, time to socialize, and a potluck dinner. Featuring a St. Joseph’s table: Please bring nonperishable food items to feed those in need. Donations will go to the St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Food Pantry.

Walking the Labyrinth
2025-03-22 10:00 - 12:00 | St. John’s Episcopal Church, Chula Vista, 760 First St, Chula Vista, CA, 91910, United States
Walking the Labyrinth:
A special presentation by Rev. Susanna DesMarais
As part of our Lent devotions, we will offer a chance to walk the labyrinth. There will be a special time of prayer and presentation at 10:00 am. For those who just want to walk the labyrinth, you are welcome to come anytime between 10:00 am and noon.

St. Bart's Outreach Gala
2025-03-25 08:00 - 17:00 | Country Club of Rancho Bernardo, 12280 Greens East Rd, San Diego, 92128, United States
The annual St. Bart’s Outreach Gala is a fundraiser which supports the outreach ministries of St. Bartholomew’s, Poway, with 100% of net proceeds funding important Partners and Programs in San Diego County, Mexico, and Haiti. The 2025 theme will be Kentucky Derby: a One Night Run for the Outreach Roses! Tickets are available at stbartschurch.org/gala .

Easter Invitation: An Evangelism Refresher Class
2025-03-26 17:30 - 19:00 | Zoom
Easter provides your congregation with a unique possibility to invite neighbors, friends, and family to celebrate Christ’s resurrection. According to a Gallup poll, over 30% of Americans attend church regularly, but over 80% celebrate Easter. More than twice the usual number of Americans will consider attending church on April 20. Are you ready to invite them to yours? If you have not attended EDSD evangelism classes before, this is an opportunity to learn about the tools and practices available. If you have, this class is your chance to brush up on your evangelism skills. Join your EDSD host Jason Evans, Canon for Mission, along with Lay Evangelists from around our diocese, for this 1.5-hour online class on Tuesday, March 26, at 5:30 pm.
Space is limited, and registration closes on March 23rd. Reserve your spot soon!
Register below.
Register Here

The Easter Invitation: Lay Evangelist Training on March 26
2025-03-26 17:30 - 19:00 | Zoom
Easter offers your congregation with a unique possibility to invite neighbors, friends, and family to celebrate Christ’s resurrection. According to a Gallup poll, over 30% of Americans attend church regularly, but over 80% celebrate Easter. More than twice the usual number of Americans will consider attending church on April 20. Are you ready to invite them to yours? If you are seeking a lay evangelist license or just hoping to help your church spread God’s good news, this class is for you! Join your EDSD host Jason Evans, Canon for Mission, and others for this 1.5-hour online class on Wednesday, March 26, at 5:30 pm.
Register Here

NightWatch 2025
2025-03-29 17:00 - 2025-03-30 09:00 | All Souls’ Episcopal Church, 1475 Catalina Blvd, San Diego, CA, 92107, United States
NightWatch 2025 “Peace Be With You”– March 29 at 5:00 PM – March 30 at 9:00 AM
All Souls, San Diego
Youth grades 6-12
Cost $25
The annual EDSD Lent youth retreat is back and at All Souls! This overnight event is a time for youth from all over the diocese to connect in worship, play, and fellowship. This year we will explore The Peace and consider ways to share this peace in the world.
The event includes games, food, small group work, worship, laughter, tie-dye, love, friendship, and more! Please get in touch with Leighton Jones, Children and Youth Missioner, ljones@edsd.org, with any questions.
Register Here

Student Music Scholarship Concert
2025-03-30 16:00 - 17:30 | Trinity Episcopal Church, 845 Chestnut St, Escondido, CA, 92025, United States
For over a dozen years, Trinity Church has hosted a benefit concert to support the American Guild of Organists Student Scholarship Fund. The concert donations help students, young and old, learn to play the “King of Instruments” and encourage them to consider becoming involved in church music. Auditions are held each May with the winners receiving receiving funds to help with music lessons. This is more important now than ever before as there are very few organists available to supply music for worship.
This year’s program will be “An Organ and Choir Exposition”…meaning that it will be both entertaining and educational. The organists will be performing works from Bach to the Beatles and from Durufle to Danny Boy, with brief comments on how the composers actually use the organ. We hope to inspire interest in both the music and the King of Instruments. Organists performing include Michael Munson, Howard McCullough, Carol Graham, Henry Doktorski, Ronel Wishnuff and David Lewis. The 50 voice San Luis Rey Chorale will perform a section of the concert showcasing the many, varied ways that the organ has been used as accompaniment. Choral works by Mendelssohn, Durufle and Handel will be presented. Students will be invited to sit beside the organ console to have an “up close and personal” experience. The entire audience will be invited to sing along for the Hallelujah Chorus for a grand finale. Coffee and cookies will follow.
The suggested donation is just $10.00 at the door. No advance tickets needed. For more information call our organist, David Lewis, at 619-537-9040. Trinity Episcopal Church is located at 845 Chestnut Street in Escondido.

PATH Vacation Bible School Rollout
2025-04-01 18:00 - 19:00 | Zoom

Jembe Yako: An Evening of Music in Support of the Umoja Refugee Choir
2025-04-12 18:00 - 20:00 | St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 3725 30th Street, San Diego, CA, 92104, United States
Join us for a special evening of song in preparation for Holy Week, featuring the Golden Voice of St. Luke’s, Matrida Boazi. This live music and multimedia event supports the Umoja Choir, a powerful musical project that connects the Nyaragusu Refugee Camp in Tanzania with members of the diaspora across the U.S., Canada, and beyond. Tickets are available at the door with a suggested donation of $15, and all proceeds will benefit this transnational initiative, fostering unity and community through music for refugees and their families. Don’t miss an unforgettable night of inspiration and support for a meaningful cause!

Gardening at Project New Village
2025-04-19 09:00 - 11:00 | Project New Village community gardens
April 19 from 9 – 11 am, Gardening at Project New Village, Chollas View. EDSD Creation Care Community collaboration with Interfaith Coalition for Earth Justice

Join volunteers from EDSD congregations and the Interfaith Coalition for Earth Justice at Project New Village community gardens. “Project New Village envisions Southeastern San Diego as a community of active neighborhoods supporting and contributing to the health, wealth and well-being of community members.” https://projectnewvillage.org.
To register: dianelopezhughes@gmail.com

Interfaith Coalition for Earth Justice Tijuana Estuary Walk Co-sponsor with Sweetwater Zen & St Paul’s Cathedral
2025-04-26 09:00 - 11:00
April 26 from 9 (optional 2-mile walk) 10 – 11 short walk and ceremony, Interfaith Coalition for Earth Justice Tijuana Estuary Walk Co-sponsor with Sweetwater Zen & St Paul’s Cathedral
Optional walk from 9 – 10; Ceremony and walk from 11 – noon
