Week of Christian Unity Ecumenical Prayer Service
2025-01-22 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Mission San Diego de Alcala, 10818 San Diego Mission Rd, San Diego, CA, 92108, United States
The Roman Catholic and Episcopal Churches of San Diego are jointly hosting an Ecumenical Prayer service to celebrate the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The prayer service, scheduled for Wednesday, January 22, at 7:00 in the evening, will be held at Mission San Diego de Alcala.
“Do you believe?” is the theme for this year’s celebration. This question reflects Jesus’ conversation with Martha in John 11:26 when she and her sister summoned Him regarding the death of their brother Lazarus, and it is a question Jesus asks of all of us.
The event also marks the 1,700 anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and the Nicene Creed, which is shared by Christians of Churches and denominations throughout the world.
Admission is free and open to members of all churches and communities.

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.

The Diocesan Service and Justice Coalition Zoom Meet Up - Jan 2025
2025-01-25 09:30 - 11:30 | Zoom
Join the Diocesan Service & Justice Coalition on Saturday, January 25 from 9:30-11:30 am on Zoom for a conversation with dedicated service/outreach and peace/social justice coordinators. DSJC gathers to network and share ideas and collaborate on projects to make a greater impact in our community.
Register Here

The Ordination of Georgina R. Miller
2025-01-25 11:00 - 13:00 | St. Andrew’s, Encinitas, 890 Balour Dr, Encinitas, CA, 92024, United States
God willing and the people consenting, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Susan Brown Snook will ordain Georgina (Gigi) R. Miller to the diaconate on Saturday, January 25, 2025, 11:00 a.m., at St. Andrew’s, Encinitas (890 Balour Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024). All are welcome. A reception will follow the service. Clergy, please wear red stoles.

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

Candlemas Service
2025-02-02 16:00 - 17:00 | St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, 16275 Pomerado Road, Poway, CA, 92064, United States
Join the Parish and Children’s Choirs of St. Bartholomew’s as we celebrate the ancient liturgy of Candlemas, with processions, lighting of candles, and Eucharist, remembering that Jesus is the Light of the World that penetrates any darkness.

Parochial Report Training - Feb 2025
2025-02-06 16:00 - 17:00 | Zoom
2024 Parochial Report – The parochial report filing season opens in early January, 2025. The 2024 parochial report has been simplified by the General Convention Office. Join diocesan treasurer Jeff Martinhauk and Finance Committee Member Terry Farrelly in this review of changes to the report, including changes in the way your congregational assessment (Common Life Share) is calculated. (The total amount of CLS owed should not change, but the new report requires a new formula.) Note that parochial reports must be submitted by March 1, 2025; the General Convention office tells us that the parochial report online portal will be frozen at that time, and any changes after 3/1/25 may only be submitted by diocesan administrators. Don’t be late! Join us on February 6, 2025 at 4:00 pm and stay ahead of the game.
Register Here

COM Day of Information - Feb 2025
2025-02-08 10:00 - 14:00 | St. Thomas of Canterbury, 44651 Avenida de Missiones, Temecula, CA, 92592, United States
Join members of the Commission on Ministry, Diocesan leadership, and other discerners for the Day of Information at St. Thomas, Temecula, on February 8 from 10am-2pm. This event is for all who are discerning a call to ordained ministry. It is essential that you have the approval of your clergyperson and that you are accompanied by your clergyperson. If your congregation does not have settled clergy, please contact the Rev. Canon Gwynn Lynch at glynch@edsd.org.
If you are interested in the ordination track, please contact your sponsoring clergy before registering for the COM day of information.
Register Here

BIPOC Leadership Link-Up
2025-02-08 14:00 - 16:00 | Cafe X, 1835 Imperial Ave., San Diego, CA, 92102, United States
The Bible is filled with stories of God bringing together leaders of unique backgrounds and common interests in order to bring about life-giving change. Ruth and Naomi, Mary and Elizabeth in the Gospel of Luke, or the gathering of the disciples in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles, are all examples of God nurturing connection for God’s own transformation.
Many of us know firsthand the importance of co-creating trusted, sacred spaces of mutual support for people of similar circumstances. Think of your congregation’s men’s group, women’s group or youth group, and how these ministries have nurtured the faith journeys of those involved. Leaders of color, or leaders from ethnic-minority backgrounds, may long for their own trusted, sacred space.
And so, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) leaders from EDSD’s various congregations are invited to link up on Saturday, Feb. 8 from 2-4 PM at Cafe X to make new friends and cultivate connections. There will be space for mingling and networking, as well as for large-group structured conversation. Light snacks will be provided, and beverages will be available for purchase at Cafe X’s coffee bar. We hope you’ll join us for this landmark event.
BIPOC Leadership Link-Up

When: Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, 2-4 PM
Where: Cafe X – 1835 Imperial Ave., San Diego, CA 92102
Co-hosted by: Alyson Terry – Resurrection, Ocean Beach; Karla Chavez – St. Matthew’s, National City; Stephen Arturo Greenlaw – St. Luke’s, North Park; Rachel Ambasing, EDSD

Questions? Contact Rachel Ambasing, EDSD’s Missioner for Community Vitality & Diversity: rambasing@edsd.org
Help us plan accordingly by registering at the button below.
Register Here

Reclaiming English
2025-02-09 14:00 - 17:00
This Sunday, February 9, we invite you to a special procession, service, and prayer as churches come together to show our unwavering support for our immigrant brothers and sisters.
Cardinal McElroy and the bishops of the Diocese of San Diego will be present as we begin with a prayer service inside the cathedral, followed by a procession to the Federal Building.
This procession will include testimonies, prayers, and songs, uniting our voices in faith and compassion. While flags will not be permitted, we encourage attendees to bring religious symbols. Clergy and altar servers are asked to wear liturgical vestments.
Let us stand together in faith, hope, and love. We look forward to seeing you there.
When: Sunday, February 9th at 2 PM
Where: St Joseph Cathedral (1535 Third Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101) and we will end at the Federal Building (880 Front St. San Diego, CA 92101)
If you have any questions, please reach out to your organizers.
WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

Youth Epiphany Retreat - Keep Watch
2025-02-15 13:00 - 2025-02-17 10:00 | Camp Stevens, 1108 Banner Rd., Julian, CA, 92036, United States
Who: Youth in grades 6-12
Where: Camp Stevens
When: 1 p.m. February 15, 2025 – 10 a.m. February 17, 2025
Cost: $175
Registration opens October 22nd at 9 am
Camp Steven’s is a favorite every program year – the outdoors, the food, the friends from around the diocese – it is a weekend filled with fun and faith.
This year’s theme will consider how we end our days. In a world that focuses on the practices that start your day, (Do you make your bed, have coffee, exercise?),this retreat provides the opportunity to consider the way we close each day with a deep exploration of one of the prayers from Compline.
Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or
weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who
sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless
the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the
joyous; and all for your love’s sake. Amen.
A few of the things you can look forward to: Two nights’ accommodations at Camp Stevens, five delicious Camp Stevens meals, campfires, games, activities, star gazing, worship, friends, laughter and more!
* Cell phones and other electronic devices are prohibited.
Payment is due at the time of registration. The full cost for each participant in this program is $225 per person. The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego has planned to cover $50 per student. We will realize that $175 per student may still be out of reach for some participants. Families are asked to prayerfully discern what they are able to contribute and indicate that amount in the payment field. If you would like to contribute above the $175 to assist other youth participants, you may do that also.
Please contact Charlette Preslar, cpreslar@edsd.org if you have questions.
Registration is closed for the Epiphany Retreat. We hope you will join us for NightWatch at All Souls on March 29th. Details and registration will be available soon.

World Premiere: John-Luke Addison, "Precious Stones" Suite for Piano
2025-02-16 16:00 - 17:00 | St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, 16275 Pomerado Road, Poway, CA, 92064, United States
Experience the world premiere of John-Luke Addison’s suite for piano, “Precious Stones”, with music based on the various precious gemstones, featuring talented local concert pianist, Bryan Verhoye. Tickets $20 ($10 students), available at stbartsmusic.org.

Gun Safety Work Group April Meeting
2024-04-16 08:00 - 17:00 | 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.

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.

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.
