Diocesan Convention: Nominations 2025

The Episcopal Church is a body shaped by worship, prayer, and the active participation of its people. Our Church participates in a system that values shared governance, entrusting both clergy and lay members with the responsibility of guiding its mission and stewarding its resources. Through elected positions in diocesan and parish leadership, we are all encouraged to shape the direction of the Church, to ensure that the Body of Christ remains vibrant, faithful, and responsive to the needs of the world.

Jesus modeled servant leadership when he washed his disciples’ feet and taught them that true greatness lies in humility and love. Those who are elected to leadership—whether on Standing Committees, Diocesan Councils, Disciplinary Boards, or to the General Convention Deputation—are invited to embody that same spirit of service. They are called to listen deeply, discern wisely, and act courageously for the good of the whole Church.

The responsibilities of elected leaders vary depending on the body in which they serve, but all share the common task of helping the church live into its mission: to restore all people to unity with God and one another in Christ. Some roles involve oversight of finances and property, others focus on vision and mission–helping to discern where God is calling the church to grow, to serve, and to witness in the world. And some are charged with matters of discipline and accountability. Each of these tasks is essential, and none can be accomplished by one person alone. Elected leaders collaborate with the bishop, clergy, and the laity, creating a circle of accountability that reflects the church’s belief in mutual ministry.

By serving, you become part of a living tradition of leaders who have helped the Episcopal Church navigate times of growth, challenge, and transformation.

To run for an elected position at Diocesan Convention, please fill out the nominations form linked below. 

Nomination Form

General Convention Deputation

Elect 4 clergy and 4 lay to serve as deputies at General Convention in 2027

The Rev. Kate Flexer

The Rev. Brian Peterson

The Rev. Lilia Mendoza

Mae Chao

Cynde Durnford-Branecki

The 82nd General Convention of The Episcopal Church will be held in July 2027 in Phoenix, Arizona. The General Convention is the governing body of The Episcopal Church. Every three years, it meets as a bicameral legislature that includes the House of Deputies and the House of Bishops, composed of deputies and bishops from each diocese. The legislative process of General Convention is an expression of The Episcopal Church’s belief that, under God, the Church is ordered and governed by its people: laity, deacons, priests, and bishops.

Secretary of Convention

Elect 1 clergy or lay to serve until 2027

The Secretary shall take minutes of the proceedings of the Convention, certify Deputies to General Convention, cause to be prepared and posted Journals of Convention, and other duties as listed in the Canons of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego. The Records, books, and Journals of the Secretary shall be open at all times to the inspection of the Ecclesiastical Authority, of the Standing Committee, of the Convention, and any Committee or Commission thereof. The Secretary is elected for a one-year term and may be re-elected.

In addition, the Secretary of Convention records the minutes and resolutions of the monthly Diocesan Executive Council meetings

Disciplinary Board

Elect 2 clergy and 1 lay to serve until 2028

The Disciplinary Board hears cases regarding the discipline of clergy as specified in accordance with Title IV of the Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church. Members of the Court are elected for staggered three year terms and may be re-elected for multiple terms. The Disciplinary Board will meet as needed.

Executive Council

Elect 1 clergy to serve until 2029

Elect 2 lay to serve until 2029

Elect 1 lay to serve until 2028

The Rev. Brian Peterson

Joe Lopez

The Diocesan Executive Council serves as the Board of Directors of the Corporation of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego. It is the legally constituted governing body of the diocese.

In accordance with California State Law and Diocesan Canons, DEC has fiduciary responsibility for the assets of the diocese. Responsible for implementing, maintaining, and revising the Strategic Plan as necessary or appropriate.  Develops and recommends to convention the annual budget.

Diocesan Executive Council normally meets virtually the first Saturday of the month from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. Meeting dates are subject to change because of calendar conflicts.

Standing Committee

Elect 1 clergy to serve until 2029

Elect 1 lay to serve until 2029

The Rev. Douglas Worthington

The Standing Committee of the Diocese shall consist of four clergy who are voting members of Convention and four Lay members who are communicants of the Church and who are at least 18 years of age. Members are elected by Diocesan Convention for staggered terms of four years. The Standing Committee acts as the ecclesiastical authority when the bishop is absent or incapacitated. The powers, functions, and duties of the Standing Committee shall be those prescribed by the Constitution and· Canons of The Episcopal Church, and by the Constitution and Canons of this Diocese. Upon expiration of the member’s term, no person shall be eligible to serve as a member of the Standing Committee for a period of one year.

Standing Committee currently meets virtually on the third Tuesday of each month, at 12:00pm.

To find out more about Diocesan Convention, please visit ConventionEDSD.org and watch for updates in the weekly EDSD News.