Called Together: Our Bishop Search

This summer, we listened.

Teams from the Bishop Search, Transition, and Standing Committees traveled across Western New York, visiting 49 of our 51 worshiping communities — more than 96% of the diocese.

We heard hopes, frustrations, and creative ideas. We heard a desire to be more deeply connected to one another and to the work God is doing among us.

And we heard dreams for our next bishop: not someone who will come “fix” everything but a bishop who will walk alongside us. We shared the entire report last week, but we wanted to provide a few highlights here:

– We have a strong desire for connection. We want stronger relationships among our faith communities and across geographic and generational lines.

– We want a relational bishop, a boots-on-the-ground leader who listens and participates in the life of the diocese.

– We have challenges—but they’re not insurmountable, and we’re not alone. Like Episcopal dioceses and Christian denominations across the country, we face aging congregations, changing patterns of participation, and clergy shortages. But we’re open to experimentation and new models of ministry.

– We are proud of our heritage. Western New York is a pretty awesome place. We’re resilient, welcoming, and practical—with great food to boot!

– We want to rebuild trust and improve communication. These weekly reports — and stepped-up social media posts—are a start. Watch our social media (Facebook and Instagram) and the weekly newsletters for stories of WNY folks being the hands and feet of Christ out in the world. Have an idea? Share it with us at communications@episcopalwny.org

The sessions may be over, but we’re still listening. To you. To each other. And to the Holy Spirit.