The sun shined its golden face over St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in City Heights on August 12 as the church grounds buzzed with anticipation for this year’s Back to School Bash, where backpacks blessed by congregations are given away to students. Families, many struggling under the weight of economic challenges, arrived and were greeted by joyful Episcopalians from throughout EDSD.

School supplies, already a significant expense for families, have witnessed an alarming surge in prices. A study by World Remit shows that the price of back-to-school supplies has risen a whopping 28% in the U.S. this year. 

Celebrating its 11th year, the program (started by the EDSD Service and Justice Coalition) has steadily expanded its reach and impact since the pandemic. At its height, pre-pandemic, the Back to School Bash handed out 435 backpacks to the community. This year, 12 congregations in the diocese participated. The collective effort witnessed a commendable feat: filling 256 backpacks, which is 100 more than the previous year. These weren’t just ordinary backpacks. Volunteers, whose ages spanned from a tender 2 years to a commendable 81, painstakingly filled each backpack with age-appropriate books and educational supplies.

While stuffing packs, Howard Smith, Senior Warden at St. Mark’s, signed in volunteers. “It would be great to do 350 or 400 backpacks, but we can’t do that on our own. That’s why all these churches come together—to do more for people than we can do alone,” he said, eyes gleaming. 

A little over a week later, on August 12, children lined up for face painting and other fun activities. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church transformed into a hub of activity, ensuring there was something for every family member to enjoy. Beyond the distribution of backpacks and supplies, families were treated to a day of fun and community bonding. Events ranged from a book faire, crafts, face painting, and storytime to raffles, prayer flags, and even a photo booth. Of course, snacks were on hand to replenish the energy of attendees. Such a wholesome approach ensured that families left not just with supplies but also with cherished memories.

Amidst the laughter and activities, a deeper purpose connected everyone. Thérèse Carmona, a parishioner with a warm smile, said, “Schools often provide supplies while students are on campus, but when students go to afterschool tutoring programs or home to do their homework, they need their own supplies.”

The “Back to School” period is typically the second-largest spending event for many families, coming only after the holiday season. In light of the soaring costs, the burden on financially struggling households has become increasingly heavy. The initiative by St. Mark’s and other churches within the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego is more than a charitable act; it’s a lifeline.

The Rev. Dr. Richard Lee, priest-in-charge at St. Mark’s, said, “The Back to School Bash is so important to St. Mark’s congregation.  It is a very real way of putting our faith into action, serving families who live in our community and beyond, reminding us that God’s love radiates out into the world.” St. Mark’s didn’t just offer school supplies that day; they offered hope, community, and a shared understanding of the challenges many faced. The church’s grounds transformed into a sanctuary where families could momentarily forget their worries, snapping photos in the booth, participating in raffles, and sharing snacks.

The day’s success was a testament to the courageous love the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego shares with the world–a beacon of hope in challenging times. Thank you to St. Mary’s in-the-Valley, St. Mark’s City Heights, St. Albans in El Cajon, Christ Church in Coronado, St. Dunstan’s in San Carlos, St. James in La Jolla, St. Bartholomew’s in Poway, St. Luke’s in North Park, St. Peter’s in Del Mar, All Soul’s in Point Loma, St. Phillips in Lemon Grove, St. Paul’s Cathedral in San Diego, and everyone who gives of their time, talent, and treasure. You echo the Episcopal ethos of serving and uplifting our neighbors.

While the rising costs of study materials present a daunting challenge, the concerted efforts of congregations throughout the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego remind us that unity, empathy, and actionable support can make all the difference. The Back to School Bash is an example for other communities across the church to come together and ensure every child begins their academic journey with the tools they need to succeed.

To learn more about participating in next year’s Blessing of the Backpacks and the Back to School Bash, please contact Amy Maxim Ennenga (amym@stmarks-cityheights.org), St. Mark’s Outreach Coordinator and organizer of the event.

I have always loved August. The preparations for Back to School have carried me from my childhood, well into my adult life. It is a time not only for purchasing pencils and notebooks but for investing in dreams. It is a season where anything feels possible.

One of my favorite things to purchase for Back to School is a calendar, a real, paper calendar. All of my appointments and commitments are in the calendar app on my phone and computer too, but there is something glorious about a paper calendar. Electronic calendars are for meetings and requirements. Paper calendars are for choosing and committing to the things that we want for the year ahead.

Those feelings and associations have carried over into my ministry world. Designing children, youth, and intergenerational offerings requires paper and pencils… and possibly highlighters and sticky notes. It is good, joyful, and Holy work, and I love it!

Below are the planned offerings for Children and Youth this program year. I invite you to pour over them, share them with your families and your congregations, and add them to your calendar, paper or otherwise.

EDSD Youth Ministry Program Calendar ‘23-24

The theme for this year’s EDSD Youth Ministry Program comes from Micah 6:8, He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? We will explore each section of this reading at one of the primary events this year. Diocesan youth programing is for students in grades 6-12.

9/17 KICK-OFF EVENT – Fun and games with youth from around the diocese. Location announcement coming soon!

11/11 CONVENTION – Do Justice – Youth will support a service project for Veteran’s at this year’s diocesan convention being held at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

2/9 – 2/11 EPIPHANY RETREAT – Love Kindness – A weekend retreat at Camp Stevens where we will explore what it means to show kindness to ourselves and to others. 

2/18 – 3/24 WE BELIEVE… CONFIRMATION PROGRAM – We Believe is a diocesan-wide, hybrid confirmation program for youth in grades 9-12 utilizing the My Faith, My Life curriculum. This program will last 6 weeks, and participants will be eligible to be confirmed at their home congregation during the next visit from Bishop Susan or during The Great Vigil at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral. All of the sessions that are scheduled to be in person will also be offered on Zoom.

3/16 – 3/17 NIGHTWATCH – Walk Humbly – This annual overnight Lenten journey is taking a weekend pilgrimage to the desert this year! 

6/1 PENTECOST PLAY DAY – Our program year wrap up complete with sailing, games, hot dogs and s’mores!

EDSD Children’s Ministry Program Calendar

1/13-1/14 EPIPHANY CAMP @ CAMP STEVENS (grades 3-6) – Together we will bring together Summer Camp, Vacation Bible School, and children from all over our diocese for this brand new offering. Registration will open in September for this program. 

4/27 INTERGENERATIONAL CREATION CARE PLAY DAY – In collaboration with the Creation Care Community, this offering will take place in several areas of our diocese. Participants will engage with activities, crafts, and educational elements as we consider how all people are called to care for God’s creation.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM 2024 – The theme for next year’s curriculum is Shout for Joy! This entirely free curriculum will explore the psalms through art, drama, and music. More information and registration for the curriculum role out will be available in Advent.

The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego is excited to announce plans for a new Episcopal community have taken root in the city of Oceanside, California. Under the leadership of the Rev. Brian Petersen, St. Brigid’s Episcopal Church will be a beacon of hope and transformation for the community of Oceanside.

One of the core principles at St. Brigid’s is the idea of shared common life. The founding members envision a community where faith is not a Sunday obligation but a daily rhythm that permeates every aspect of life. Through shared meals, fellowship, and engaging activities, St. Brigid’s encourages members to live life together, supporting and uplifting one another through thick and thin.

Just like your favorite food truck that moves around town, you’ll need to be following St. Brigid’s to know when and where worship happens. “At first, we’ll hold services in parks, in living rooms, and maybe in small chapels around town–maybe even a while walking down the beach,” said the Rev. Brian Petersen, “But our ministries will be born out of our common life together. We want to create a community that embraces the paradigm shift in the church. We want to be an example and serve the people around us.” 

Understanding that actions often communicate more than words, St. Brigid’s wants to make a tangible difference in the lives of Oceanside residents by focusing on service. The goal is for St. Brigid’s to be known as a church that truly embodies its values by making positive impacts in the community.

Oceanside’s 172,000+ residents are a melting pot of Southern California, with a range of cultural, military, economic, and spiritual demographics all mixing together. St. Brigid’s will be a haven of love and acceptance for all people–a place where families find solace in its nurturing environment, a place where children can laugh and play while learning about Jesus, and where individuals from different backgrounds find a place where their unique heritage is affirmed and celebrated.

“Our ambition is to become a sanctuary of shared experiences, where joy and sorrow are celebrated and mourned collectively,” said Rev. Petersen, “St. Brigid’s is a place where we live into the rhythm of life together. A rhythm of prayer, work, ministry, and worship fueling our daily lives and igniting our spirits.”

With each phase of its development, St. Brigid’s Episcopal Church is designed to leave an indelible mark on the community; envision Oceanside transformed from a city of strangers to a community thriving on love, compassion, and unity!

The story of St. Brigid’s Episcopal Church in Oceanside is just beginning, but even now, it stands as a testament to the power of faith, community, and service. Last month, in recognition of St. Brigid’s potential, the congregation was awarded a New Episcopal Community grant from the church-wide office of The Episcopal Church.

We invite all members of our diocese to pray for this emerging congregation. To learn more about St. Brigid’s Oceanside, their worship times, and locations, contact the Rev. Brian Petersen at stbrigidsoside@gmail.com and visit their website at osidechurch.org. Follow St. Brigid’s socials on Facebook and Instagram. You join their newsletter here. 

The Olympic peninsula just outside of Seattle is home to deer, otters, and bald eagles. The shore is decorated with driftwood structures, and the mountains loom impossibly close to the horizon. It also serves as home to The College for Congregational Development.

This past June, a delegation from St. Mary’s in the Valley, St. Thomas of Canterbury, and diocesan staff attended the college for the very first time. The program was incredible. Our delegation learned and explored models for change that could be applied in our ministries. We visited neighboring congregations, celebrated their ministries, and considered how they welcome and engage with newcomers. We learned facilitation and feedback techniques and practiced them in our small groups.

And for all of those things listed above, it barely covers the surface of this experience!

Mother Carole Horton-Howe of St. Thomas of Canterbury, Temecula, said, “So often the concept of growing a congregation takes us to places of anxiety and despair. We’ve all heard about the shrinking church. The College isn’t buying it. Their programs invite us to partner with them, with our congregations and the Holy Spirit in work that transforms anxiety into hopefulness and builds our churches in real and tangible ways.

“I found the CCD experience to be an energy-saturated and joyful experience that encourages action through informed processes. Information was shared in plenary sessions and in small groups in realistic scenarios. The curricula were thoughtful and well-presented. During our time with leaders and students at the CCD, we shared ideas and tried on the college’s processes. Leaders are generous with sharing their time and expertise – readily available for one-on-one brainstorming sessions. We returned to St. Thomas of Canterbury, ready to implement what we have learned. We can’t wait to see these processes at work and feel confident that we’ll also see God’s love move through us and into the lives of our neighbors.”  

The College for Congregational Development is a two-year program. Before returning to the college next Summer, our delegation will have reading to do at home. Each participating congregation also has a project to design and implement in their local contexts. Next year we will return to the college for another deep dive into the material before completing our assessments.

An additional blessing of our time at The College for Congregational Development is the close ties it formed in our delegation. The delegation has plans to meet throughout 2023/24 to check in and update each other on their progress.

If you or your church would like more information about the College for Congregational Development, please contact Diocesan Director of Formation Charlette Preslar at cpreslar@edsd.org for more information.

Before we begin, please listen to our student leaders share God Sightings at The Episcopal Youth Event on this and next week’s episodes of the Faith to Go Podcast available right here: Apple, Google Play, or Spotify. Then visit @diosandiego on Instagram for accompanying photos and videos from the EYE adventure.

It was 4:30 am on the Fourth of July. Tamika, my Lyft driver, sped down the 94-West toward Lindberg Field, and I start to wonder when this adventure really began for me.  

It was before the last delegation meeting at St Luke’s, last month’s chaperone meeting at Broken Yolk, and way before last year’s delegation announcement at Diocesan Convention…

Episcopal Youth Event (EYE) is a massive conference of teenagers from across the globe that gather every three years to celebrate each other, worship together, and grow as the cutting edge of the Episcopal community. 

In July 2023, 14 students and chaperones from The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego landed at Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., to begin their EYE adventure. 

A week of energy, music, worship, befriending, learning, teaching, and sleep (never in that order twice). I was excited about what our youth delegation was stepping into. An intense experience with other youth that are primed for a future of action and formation as their generation’s passion shapes the next century.  

I found myself standing with the Rt. Rev. Brian Prior, Assisting Bishop in the Diocese of Alabama in a ballroom planning a thousand-person game of rock-paper-scissors. We’ve known each other for over 30 years and mused on the history of the church, youth ministry, and our future. “This generation IS the CHURCH!” is the message that Bishop Prior continues to drill home. The immediacy and passion with which they (the students) believe is necessary now more than ever.

After a morning of Noah’s Ark-level rainfall, Bishop Prior and I stood smiling at each other, giving high fives and energetic words of encouragement as Hawaiians, Guamanians, students from Munich, Taipei, and the Caribbean, Arctic, and everywhere in between careen into the ballroom. This level of enthusiasm is par for the course at EYE–the largest gathering of Episcopalians outside of General Convention.

We heard from a pantheon of leaders in the Church–a message of love from Presiding Bishop Michael Curry to a message of belonging from Julia Ayala Harris, President of the House of Deputies. 

But speaking wasn’t only what struck the youth; music upon music helped support a myriad of emotions. 

Josh, a youth from the Diocese of Kansas, said, “I saw God yesterday during worship. We sang a song called ‘Ten Thousand Reasons,’ and I remember swaying back and forth with the people next to me, looking around and seeing everyone doing the same thing–head up to God. It was an amazing moment for me.” 

After attending this week with not only our youth from San Diego, but youth from all over the world, the best advice that I can offer to my fellow church leaders is, “Get out of the way. This generation is here!”

Almost as soon as it started, it was time to depart.  With hugs and promises to visit far-flung locations, students’ Instagrams flooded with hearts as friendships solidified in real-time. 

Our youth delegation was bound for Old Town Alexandria, VA, to experience the power of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and countless monuments.

On our final boarding of the Metro to the airport for our flight home, some students left their Metro cards for other riders and some kept them as souvenirs. 

Sometime between the ID check and the metal detectors in security, a parent called asking if I was aware of the potential delay of our connecting flight through Chicago. Not at all. She explained that the time between connections was shrinking due to the weather and asked if I’d like help looking for hotels in Chicago in case we needed a layover.

…Uhhhh… Hold Please.

This began the greatest use of patience and gratitude that my parents ever taught me.  Right now.

Our chaperone team agreed that we’d inform the students and their parents with a plan rather than updates.  Later we’d learn that these wonderful travelers were well aware of the delay because they’d been following the app since the metro station. Such good travelers.

I made my way to the airline agent at the gate with a flury of other disgruntled travelers.

“Tami (the gate agent), we see the growing delay for our layover and wonder if we may, please, fly on the next flight to San Diego?”

“Absolutely… That’ll be Tuesday,” she said.

It was Sunday evening. I had 14 students and chaperones with me. Tuesday might as well have been next year. “Jesus, I could use some help here.” 

I asked, “Can we, please, fly into LA?  Orange County, Ontario, even Phoenix, then drive home?” 

“I’m so sorry, those flights are full”

“When are the next flights?”

“For 14 travelers… Tuesday.”

I called the hotel that we just left and explained our situation. They offered to book rooms for the night. –THANK YOU, BETTY!

Our chaperones found a nearby Target where we could purchase everything that we were watching slide up the ramp into the plane bound for Chicago. The plane that we weren’t on. I was still at the gate waiting for an update. 

“Ok, Greg,” we were on first names by this point, “how about this?”

Tami and Sade, our gate agents, worked out three flights across 16 hours to carry our 14 students and chaperones through six separate airports to get us home. 

“We’ll take it! Thank you, Tami!”

Three hours after checking in, we connected with parents, explained the plan to the students, moved through all kinds of emotions together, and made it back on The Metro headed for Target.  Arriving within moments of closing, we loaded up on essentials for the next day’s travel and hopped back on the Metro.

Everyone was famished, we had not had a moment to eat dinner. Chaperones googled restaurants that were still open at 10:45. We discovered Bud and Edith’s 24-Hour Diner. They welcomed us with thumping dance music as all 14 of us entered. By 12:30 am, Chicken Fried Steak never tasted so good. We ate together and walked the remaining blocks to our hotel, where we were greeted with keys and a late checkout, compliments of the house. Betty’s great!

The next day began with two of us leaving at dawn for the first flight for home. The rest of us went back to Bud and Edith’s for lunch, then back to the airport. Take Two.

While riding north on the Metro, each of us shared that it took us a while to spin down enough for sleep then, right before we boarded, received a photo of our first group who’d left that morning beneath California palm trees. After the iconic approach into San Diego, with Coronado on the left and Balboa Park on the right, we were greeted by an enthusiastic Charlette Preslar, our Diocesan Director of Formation, holding a sign welcoming us home. 

Charlette planned, coordinated, and supported us along the way; and now welcomed the weary travelers home. What a treat. 

We prayed often, gave thanks often, and supported each other across a very long, very rewarding, very formative week together.

Thank you for your prayers and support. Trust God as the future unfolds before you.  Be patient with our student leaders. Let them try. Let them fail. Let them shine. Hold on tightly, the Church has a wonderful future, so join me by embracing the Holy Spirit within them; then let them lead.

So when did all this start for me? 

“…you are sealed by the Holy Spirit in Baptism and marked

as Christ’s own forever. Amen.”

EDSD’s Executive Council made a momentous decision by authorizing the allocation of funds to the Mission Real Estate Task Force, enabling the engagement of a consultant who will serve as the Portfolio Manager for upcoming projects. This step signifies the diocese’s commitment to advancing its real estate endeavors and bolstering its mission in our communities. 

Bishop Susan Brown Snook called together the Mission Real Estate Task Force over two years ago to look at how congregations could use their under-utilized property to address the housing crisis across our region. The task force’s purpose is to support congregations throughout the diocese using church real estate to bring God’s good news into the world through mercy, justice, and evangelism. 

The Mission Real Estate Task Force has been diligently working towards this milestone, having successfully generated a Request for Proposals (RFP) document, which has been extended to multiple firms for their consideration and submission of proposals. This extensive process aims to identify the most qualified partner to collaborate on the diocese’s vision for its real estate program. When selected, the consultant will be responsible for setting up a program to facilitate timelines, budget management, and ongoing communications with the Diocese and the participating congregations.  

The RFP outlines an overview of the Mission Real Estate program, delineating the task force’s objectives to augment congregational income and provide valuable services to the surrounding community. 

All four of the counties served by our diocese, like many other regions across the United States, have experienced a severe shortage of affordable housing. The escalating costs of housing and limited availability of affordable units have led to a crisis affecting individuals and families across various socioeconomic backgrounds. At the same time, the age of the average Episcopalian is from the high 50s to low 60s, and the decline in membership and giving is raising new questions for the Church about how to be in relationship with the broader community. The task force hopes the real estate project will provide a new way to financially support the mission and ministry of congregations and serve the neighborhoods around them.  

In another noteworthy development, Trinity Church Wall Street Philanthropies has acknowledged the diocese’s letter of inquiry and extended an invitation to progress further in the grant application process. While this invitation does not constitute a definitive commitment to awarding the diocese a grant, it is an encouraging response that reflects the potential alignment between the organizations’ shared goals.  

As the Mission Real Estate Task Force proceeds, it eagerly submitted the grant application to Trinity Church Wall Street Philanthropies in early July. Updates regarding the Portfolio Manager’s selection and the Trinity grant’s outcome will be shared with the diocese. Together, the diocese and its partners are poised to profoundly impact the communities they serve through the transformative development of church land. 

Learn more about this endeavor and access resources for mission real estate at edsd.org/missionrealestate.

When we are called to visit someone in their home to provide Eucharist, it is often a time of transition in their lives. Whether it be a temporary or chronic health issue, becoming less mobile from the natural process of aging, or some other reason, we are being invited into their home at a sensitive time for them and their families.

I recall visiting an elderly woman near the end of her life. The family requested the visit. Her two adult sons and four grandchildren surrounded her and sang Ukrainian lullabies. She could clearly hear the music and soft voices as she smiled gently and squeezed my hand. 

It has been a huge gift for me to bring the precious gift of the Holy Eucharist to people in that intimate setting. I get to watch the comfort and relief it can bring someone at a difficult time in their life. The vulnerability and closeness between us as we share the holy mystery of one bread and one cup have radically transformed my relationship with Christ. At Eucharistic Visitations, I witness His love and healing in people’s lives.

I love our EV service. It is a condensed version of the church service from which we are sent forth. At my Sunday morning service, I take notes during the enlivening sermon to give a brief synopsis later. As a result, my listening skills and understanding of scripture have sharpened. 

Something that surprises me is that no matter what state a person is in, they can almost always recite The Lord’s Prayer! It is inspiring to see people’s eyes light up when we bring flowers and the news from the congregation, connecting them to the goings-on of our church. It is an awesome privilege and a joy to serve on the team–to be the bearer of these holy gifts to our fellow parishioners.

Being an EV is an incredible opportunity to serve God and our community, get to know our fellows deeper, make wonderful new friends and become a more integral part of the widely diverse church community.

If you are yearning for a way to serve your church that is sacramental and pastoral, if you are looking for ways to enrich your own spiritual and faith journey, becoming a Eucharistic Visitor is for you!

Have you thought about serving as a bridge between the church and those unable to attend Sunday worship or participate in other church activities? Eucharistic Visitors bring their presence, the congregation’s goodwill, and the sacraments to share with the sick, disabled, or lonely. \

Whether you are a novice, interested in being a trainer, or a seasoned Eucharistic Visitor, opportunities abound to learn more, develop or improve skills and become more deeply connected in how we serve God and our church. 

How we become involved in the church’s ministry as Eucharistic Visitors varies. For some, an inner sense tells us, “This is what I ought to do.” For some, our clergy asks us about becoming involved in this ministry. Others may be requested by their priest, deacon, or warden to fill a need in the congregation. Beyond how we begin our involvement in lay ministry, God’s reality calls us to do so. Jesus’ words to his first disciples also apply to us: “You did not choose Me, but I chose you.” [John 15:16]  

The workshop includes conversations around What Does It Mean to Care, Small Group Role Play/Case Studies, Eucharistic Visitor Preparation, and Reporting and Tracking Eucharistic Visitations. 

The workshops, convened and led by The Rev. Canon Nancy R. Holland, Deacon, will be via ZOOM from 9 am – 2 pm, with two short breaks and a 30-minute midday break. 

There is no cost to attend. The diocese has Lay Licensing requirements to be met before workshop participation. You can register by clicking on your preferred training date below: 

Class Dates

August 23

November 15

As Eucharistic Visitors, we share our “Eucharistic Life” with those we visit, bonding them with the congregation. What is a Eucharistic Life? Theologian Henri Nouwen says it is a life “in which everything becomes a way of saying “Thank you” ….” Service as a Lay Eucharistic Visitor enables us to live a life of gratitude with greater inner attentiveness. Are you ready to take this journey? 

Please connect with Deacon Nancy if you have questions at 619.823.8998, or hollandnc46@gmail.com

In the heart of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, leaders from across the country gathered at St. Paul’s Cathedral for the transformative Young Adults and Campus Ministry Leadership Conference. Over three inspiring days, attendees embarked on a journey of learning, prayer, and connection, equipping themselves with new skills, fostering relationships, and igniting a renewed energy to serve young adults in camps, college campuses, and churches.

The first evening ended with a keynote address by Becca Stevens, the visionary Founder of Thistle Farms. Stevens acknowledged the vital role each of the attendees played, stating, “I know I’m not just preaching to the choir; I’m preaching to the choir directors!” These talented leaders guide young people on a profound journey of self-discovery and purpose, serving as the roots of a great tree. Just like roots dig deep into the ground, providing structure and support, these campus ministers rarely get to witness the leafy beauty they help cultivate.

Bishop Susan Brown Snook said, “Campus ministry is one of the most important ministries in the Church. We are called to serve these young people and guide them toward a full, healthy life in Christ. Bringing these talented leaders together to learn from one another, pray with each other, and rest is vital to the care of their ministries. Gatherings like the Young Adult Ministers Conference are perfect times to make new connections and develop new ways to share the Good News of Christ with the world. EDSD was happy to host this year’s conference.”

Greg Tuttle, a dedicated SDSU Agape San Diego leader, said, “It was a pleasure serving on the Design Team for this one,” as he prepared for a candlelit evening worship around the labyrinth at our Cathedral. “Conferences like this are times to worship together, share bold ideas, affirm one another for the work ahead, and shape lifelong friendships, said  Tuttle. It is a privilege to welcome those who are questioning, not only about God but also about life itself. “At SDSU (Agape San Diego), we create a safe space where young adults can freely explore and discover themselves,” said Tuttle. 

Young adulthood and college years are a time when questions take center stage. It is a period of exploration, as individuals grapple with their values, perspectives, faith, and identity. The Rev. Heather Lawrence, EDSD Campus Minister, said, “Intentionally listening and supporting our young people–in the ways they ask to be supported–must be the church’s top priority if we are going to continue to minister to our rapidly changing world.” It is a ministry of presence–of showing up and sharing your spirit. By enveloping them in the love and acceptance of Jesus Christ, campus ministers empower young adults to embrace their unique calling and positively impact the world.

Charlotte Preslar, the EDSD Director of Formation, said, “Having a safe space to feel seen and loved exactly as you are is transformative. I feel blessed to have met so many leaders at this conference who create safe environments for students and young adults to ask questions, express doubts, and grow in relationship with God and each other.” Cultivating an environment where young adults can freely ask questions, express doubts, and embark on a journey of self-discovery is vital to their development as people of God.

The conference was not just about learning; it was a melting pot of connections and shared experiences. Bishop Susan Brown Snook preached at the opening Eucharist, welcoming the campus ministers to San Diego.

During breaks, participants gathered in cozy corners, engaging in lively conversations. They shared stories of triumphs and challenges, offering support and guidance to one another. In this nurturing environment, friendships were forged, and a new network of empowered young adult leaders took root.

The Young Adults Campus Ministers Conference offered a space for these dedicated leaders to connect and share their experiences. It was a gathering of minds and hearts committed to walking alongside young adults during this transformative phase of their lives. 

As the conference drew to a close, participants gathered on the shore of the Pacific Ocean, reflecting on the profound impact they have on the lives of young adults. By embracing questions, creating safe spaces, and cultivating a ministry of presence, these leaders are shaping the future of young adult engagement in the Church. The Young Adults Campus Ministers Conference served as a catalyst, empowering them to be the branches that reach out and bear the fruits of love, acceptance, and transformation for young adults seeking their place in the world.

This year holds special significance as we celebrate 50 years as a diocese. We’ve journeyed together through half a century, carrying forward our faith and mission. As we reflect on the challenges overcome and victories achieved, the story of a resilient community that thrives on mutual support, shared values, and a commitment to service comes to light.  

This November 10-11, St. Paul’s Cathedral will serve as the gathering point for clergy, delegates, and visitors to Diocesan Convention. We will join together to learn, vote, and engage in the annual meeting of the diocese.

On Friday, November 10, after the Business of Convention, you’re invited to join in marking this momentous occasion at the 50th Anniversary Dinner. This is not just about honoring our past, but also about looking forward to our courageous future. This dinner symbolizes our unity, resilience, and shared commitment to the mission of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego.

Each one of us has a role to play in this journey. In light of this significant milestone, perhaps now is the time for you to consider an even more active role in shaping our Church’s future. Convention is a launchpad for our next steps together. It’s a reminder of our shared commitment and an opportunity to invigorate our mission with new voices and fresh perspectives.

Consider the impact you could make, not just for today, but for the generations that will follow. Stand up for the opportunity to lead, and you will be continuing the legacy that our Diocese has been building for the past 50 years. You’ll be contributing to a future that, one day, we’ll look back on with the same spirit of celebration and gratitude that we share today. This is your chance to be a part of our next 50 years and beyond. Let’s shape the future of our Diocese together.

You don’t have to wait for someone else to nominate you; take charge of your calling and nominate yourself here.

We need a team of leaders representing a range of experiences and backgrounds united by a passion for our mission. Together, we can create a lasting impact on our communities. Your voice and viewpoint matter – seize the opportunity and run for one of these elected positions.

If you are interested in running for an elected office, click here.

Executive Council! Executive Council is responsible for implementing the Strategic Plan of the diocese. Currently, Executive Council is working on forming new worshiping communities, crafting affordable housing initiatives, working on peace and justice efforts, advocating for change, and implementing creation care objectives throughout the diocese. There are also Executive Council Committees that use their significant financial knowledge to support congregations in financial planning and stewardship. The Executive Council also takes care of diocesan properties. You can see that council makes use of a wide variety of people and their gifts. It’s a four-year term and meets virtually at the first Saturday of the month. With virtual meeting space, no matter where you reside, you can participate in Executive Council. 

Standing Committee! The Standing Committee is the Bishop’s council of advice. It comprises four clergy, who are voting members of Convention, and four Lay members, who are communicants of the Church. 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.

Disciplinary Board! 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 are elected for staggered three-year terms and may be re-elected for multiple terms.

Secretary of Convention! The Secretary takes the minutes for Diocesan Convention, certifies Deputies to General Convention, and performs other duties as listed in the Canons of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego. The Secretary of Convention records the minutes and resolutions of the monthly Diocesan Executive Council meetings. The Secretary is elected for a one-year term and may be re-elected.

For up-to-date information, resolutions facing convention, important deadlines, the nominees for elected offices, and more, please visit www.conventionedsd.org

In response to the call to serve our neighbors, the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego (EDSD) dedicated June as a month of service, focusing specifically on our ministries with migrants and refugees. EDSD galvanized the spirit of compassion and service within various congregations, serving as a beacon of hope and aid to migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.

The Epistle to the Hebrews reminds us, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2). In embracing this call, participating communities put into action their commitment to love and serve our neighbors, regardless of where they come from.

Participation was extensive, reaching across numerous congregations in the diocese. Good Samaritan in UTC, St. Dunstan’s in Del Cerro, Christ the King in Alpine, St. Paul’s Cathedral, St. John’s in Fallbrook, St. Mathew’s in National City, and Sts. Peter & Paul in El Centro were among the congregations that played instrumental roles. Donations came in various forms, from non-perishable canned goods, water, snacks, hygiene items, clothing, blankets, tarps, and even solar cell phone chargers. These items made a significant difference to many, including farm workers in Fallbrook, migrants in Mexicali, and farm workers in El Centro.

Beyond material support, congregations also offered education and guidance about the asylum process, exemplified by Robert Vivar, EDSD’s Migration Missioner, who conducted talks at places like St. John’s in Chula Vista, Christ Church in Coronado, Good Samaritan UTC, and St. Pauls Cathedral. Robert knows that education is crucial for congregations that are newly engaging with migrant issues.

While donations of goods, resources, and time are vital, a number of congregations have gone steps further, embedding the spirit of service within their very foundation. They have served as cultural and community centers for migrants, providing more than just necessities – but a space for renewal, strength, fellowship, and solidarity.

The June Month of Service showed the continued engagement of congregations that consistently live in solidarity with immigrants and refugees, such as St. Luke’s in North Park with Refugee Net and St. Alban’s in El Cajon through the Welcome Ministry of East County.  St. David’s in Clairemont routinely supports St. Luke’s Food Pantry, serving many immigrants in their area. St. Margaret’s in Palm Desert also continued their robust support for a shelter in Mexicali, St. James in La Jolla, supports several immigration-related projects, and St. John’s in Fallbrook has a long-lasting relationship of service to local farmworks. These examples show that this ministry goes well beyond a single month of service, highlighting an ongoing commitment to serving our neighbors.

The June Month of Service is an example of how the Christian call of hospitality can be put into action. The collective efforts to volunteer, give, donate necessary materials, and join in educational opportunities have made a lasting impact on the lives of those in distress, proving that through serving, some have entertained angels without knowing it.

You can continue to serve your neighbor by visiting www.edsd.org/migration-ministry to find out more ways you can give, participate, or learn about the plight of migrants.