Convention 2026: Recap

The 53rd Annual Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego brought clergy, lay delegates, and visitors together at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church in Poway on November 6–7 for two days of worship, fellowship, and shared purpose. Inspired by Jesus’ Parable of the Mustard Seed, Convention was filled with energy, hope, and excitement for the many ways ministry is spreading like weeds throughout our diocese. From reconnecting with friends and colleagues to celebrating new ministries and imagining what lies ahead, the gathering reminded us of the relationships that unite us and the work God is calling us to do together. With three new church plants commissioned, inspiring stories of service and discipleship, the start of a new strategic plan, and a shared commitment to our Church’s future, Convention reflected a diocese alive and eager to continue sharing the love of Jesus with our neighbors.

Convention Presentations

Bishop’s Address

Bishop’s Sermon

ECS Presentation

Church Plant Commissioning

Formation Report

Youth Pilgrimage Presentation

Communications Report

Compass Rose Presentation

Workshops

Christian Nationalism Panel

Resolutions Adopted by Convention

At the 53rd Diocesan Convention, delegates adopted Resolution 26-01, amending diocesan canons to simplify the incorporation of missions and clarify the process for congregations transitioning from parish to mission status. Delegates also adopted Resolution 26-02, directing the diocese to establish a committee to develop a policy guiding the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence in church life, with particular attention to theology, pastoral care, privacy, and transparency. Review the adopted resolutions here

Written Reports to Convention

Throughout the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, ministries and partner organizations are sharing the love of Christ in meaningful and inspiring ways. Each year, diocesan partners and ministries submit written reports to Convention, highlighting their work, accomplishments, and hopes for the future. These reports offer a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the many ways our diocese is growing in faith, strengthening communities, and serving our neighbors. We invite you to explore the 2026 Diocesan Convention Ministry Reports and discover the good work happening throughout EDSD.

Awards

The Rev. Canon Jeff Martinhauk

The Rev. Canon Jeff Martinhauk serves as our diocese’s CFO and Canon for Finance. Jeff is a priest and also a CPA with long experience in the finance and nonprofit worlds. In his work with our diocese, he has overseen a very well-run finance and accounting system and has also overseen our property, human resources, legal, and mission real estate initiatives. His wisdom, humor, kindness, and dedication to our church’s mission shine through everything he does. He has been an invaluable member of our executive team, and I have relied on his counsel and advice more than I can describe. He is a valued partner and adviser to our governing bodies, including Convention, Standing Committee, and Executive Council. He also works closely on issues affecting our congregations. Everyone who has worked with Jeff knows that they can rely on him to walk with them through whatever issues they are experiencing, and that he will give them the best, well-reasoned advice. His experience as a priest is an invaluable asset to this ministry, because he has a deep understanding of how congregations operate and how all of us in a diocese come together to follow Jesus’s call to mission. Jeff came into our diocese in a difficult time, just post-pandemic, and found a way to create smooth-running, reliable systems. I have been very grateful for his work, because I have always known I could be confident about whatever he produces.

As Jeff nears retirement, it is hard to describe how much we will miss him. Jeff is not just a valued Canon; he is a beloved friend to many in our diocese. Jeff, you are in our prayers for healing and comfort as you move toward retirement. In recognition of how much we appreciate all you have done, we are glad to present you with this Bishop’s Cross Award.

Valerie Goodpaster

Through her tireless advocacy for young Marine recruits at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Valerie Goodpaster has demonstrated what faithful ministry looks like when compassion meets persistence. Recognizing the needs of recruits far from home, Valerie initiated Parade Rest hospitality support, creating a ministry of welcome, encouragement, and care. Her dedication not only made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless young Marines but also established a relationship of trust with military leadership. That trust has now opened the door for the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego to begin offering weekly Holy Eucharist on base, extending the Church’s sacramental presence to those serving our country. We celebrate Valerie’s extraordinary commitment and the way her faithful service has opened new possibilities for sharing the Good News. 

The Rev. George Calvert and Dr. Jill Mora

In the face of the challenges confronting an aging congregation, the Rev. George Calvert and Senior Warden Dr. Jill Mora of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Bonita demonstrated extraordinary courage, faith, and vision. Rather than simply preserving what had been, they led their congregation in embracing what could be: the planting of a new worshiping community on their campus to reach neighbors their congregation had not previously been able to engage. Their willingness to make room for something new, to share their resources, and to imagine a future beyond themselves offers a powerful example of faithful leadership and the generosity of spirit that makes the Church’s mission possible. We celebrate their courage and their commitment to helping the Episcopal Church grow in new and unexpected ways. 

Elections

Executive Council

Elected 2 clergy to serve until 2030

The Rev. Dan Kline

The Rev. Colin Mathewson

Elected 2 lay to serve until 2030

George Lynch

Vincent Walton

Elected 2 lay to serve until 2029

Allen Mutchler

Meredith Riffel

Standing Committee

Elected 1 clergy to serve until 2030

The Rev. Willy Crespo

Elected 1 lay to serve until 2030

Rockette Ewell

Disciplinary Board

Elected 2 clergy and 1 lay to serve until 2029

David Bagley

The Rev. Michael Kilpatrick

The Rev. Karen Knieff

Secretary of Convention

Elected to serve until 2027

The Rev. Dr. Brian Johnson

Cathedral Chapter

Elected 1 clergy to serve until 2030

The Rev. Paul Carmona