CLERGY LAY. Candidates for Cathedral Chapter. James Berger. Steve Barber. Catherine (Kitty) Hillquist

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1 Candidates for Cathedral Chapter LAY James Berger Parishioner, Trinity Church, De Soto, Jefferson County Over the last six years, Jim has been involved in a variety of diocesan activities: Metro III Convocation, including serving as secretary; and for one year (2007) served on the Cathedral Chapter. Jim is a member of Trinity s Bishop s Committee and was instrumental in organizing a highly successful 140 th anniversary celebration of the church s founding. This will be his third convention as a delegate. Jim has expressed to me that a vibrant, high profile cathedral is essential for the enhancement of this historic diocese and should be rightly recognized as a spiritual jewel in one of the country s greatest cities. Jim is a Vietnam veteran and a Captain in the inactive Army Reserve. He has worked as a professional counselor for the Missouri State Department of Education and at St. Louis University; and was in the securities industry for 17 years. He has been a professional broadcaster for most of his life, including work at radio stations in St. Louis. He is now retired. (Electing one lay member and one clergy person, not cathedral parishioners, from congregations outside St. Louis city or St. Louis county) CLERGY Steve Barber Vicar, Trinity Church, St. James I have been the Vicar of Trinity Episcopal Church in St James since my ordination in July I am a graduate of the Episcopal School for Ministry and am a member of the Commission on Ministry of the Diocese of Missouri. At times, those of us in the rural areas of the diocese tend to feel estranged from the things that are going in the city or at the cathedral. Most of the time this stems from our own perceptions as much as anything. As a person who lives and serves on the edge of the diocese I feel that it is important for us to become involved with the larger church. I would love to serve on Cathedral Chapter for just that reason to bring the cathedral to my particular area of the diocese and to bring my area to the cathedral. Catherine (Kitty) Hillquist Vicar, St. Paul s Church, Ironton Kitty has served as clergy representative on Cathedral Chapter; Diocesan Council for two terms; and on Standing Committee. Before ordination in the church, she worked in business management, accounting, and auditing. She believes that clergy outside the city need to be a voice in diocesan affairs for the small, rural congregations and for congregations standing alone in religiously conservative communities. Too often these congregations are forgotten or their efforts are minimized because they are small. It is her hope to be that voice within Cathedral Chapter. Jane Klieve Biographical information is supplied by nominees and/or nominators. Making Disciples Building Congregations For the Life of the World 1

2 Candidates for Diocesan Council Michael Calvin Parishioner, All Saints Church, St. Louis I have been a member of All Saints Episcopal Church for more than fifty years. I attended All Saints with my parents my father served on the vestry and my mother was active with the guilds. I recognized early in my life the importance of All Saints in our neighborhood. The parish partnered with the St. Louis Public Schools and offered space for the eighth grade classes it s where I attended eighth grade. My boy scout troop met there on Thursday evenings, and I later became the scoutmaster at All Saints. My involvement in the church ranged from being a member of the children s choir to teaching the high school aged children in Sunday school. I am presently serving my second stint on the vestry and am the senior warden. I had not attended church regularly for years, but returned when asked to be the guest speaker for Homecoming celebration. That was close to three years ago. I realized that I had made a mistake by not attending church, and shortly thereafter that I was elected to the vestry and I have been attending on a regular basis. I believe that I have something to offer my church and also see a duty to serve. This duty is similar to missionary work for me. Now that I will be leaving the vestry, I will continue to devote time to All Saints for special projects. Working with the diocese is an extension of my devotion to All Saints as well as to the diocese. I wish to remain involved with people and projects that have meaning. I believe that the work of the diocese is vital, and I would like to participate. Submitted by the Nominations Ctte. William R. Gilbert II, Ph.D. Parishioner, St. Peter s Church, Ladue As a nearly life-long member of Saint Peter s Episcopal Church, Bill serves in the parish as Acolyte Master, Eucharistic minister, Vestry Secretary, member of Diversity Task Force, and Convener of the Faith in Action Commission. For the past eleven years, he has been an active member of the Diocesan Commission on Dismantling Racism. As a community volunteer, he serves as board member of several community non-profits including Beyond Housing, the National Conference for Community and Justice of Metropolitan St. Louis, co-chair of the Bridges Across Racial Polarization Steering Committee and a member of the Sigel School Community Council. (Electing 2 at-large members) It is important to Bill, especially in these difficult economic times and as Church membership is declining and growing older, that the Church seek to engage a younger and more diverse membership. This must be accomplished while maintaining fiscal responsibility. He would consider it a privilege to serve on the Diocesan Council to strive to fulfill our tasks with joy and purpose. Jeffrey R. Klieve Parishioner, St. Martin s Church, Ellisville Jeff is an active member of St. Martin s Episcopal Church in Ellisville. Currently he leads the Stewardship Committee and sings in the choir. In the past he has served on the Vestry, served as Jr. Warden, led the Strategic Planning Committee, and served as a Youth Group leader. Prior to St. Martin s, Jeff was a member of the Church of the Good Shepherd, Town and County, where he served in similar roles. Jeff served for 6 years on the Board of Directors of the Episcopal City Mission and was ECM Board Chairman in 2008 and He is the Director of Environmental Affairs for Monsanto, and enjoys fishing, golfing, biking, SCUBA diving, and singing in choral groups. He and his wife Jane are proud parents of two twenty-something children who reside in the Washington, DC and Denver areas. Jeff has served in leadership positions at the parish level in two parishes of the Diocese of Missouri and at one of its ministry partners, the Episcopal City Mission. Jeff is well qualified to serve on the Diocesan Council and would be honored to do so. Submitted by Betty L. Bowersox, Nominations Ctte. Herschel Myers, Jr. Parishioner, Church of the Ascension, Northwoods I submit my name for consideration for Diocesan Council. I will bring strength, energy, and a positive element to the council to assist with the matters with which they deal. I have grown considerably since joining Ascension parish and the Episcopal Diocese, and I am looking forward to doing all that I can to help others grow, and to be a positive force in their lives. As it was submitted after canonical deadline, this nomination must be approved by convention for consideration. 2 The 172 nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis, Missouri, November 18-19, 2011

3 Disciplinary Board LAY (Electing 1 lay member and 1 clergyperson) CLERGY Jane Klieve Parishioner, St. Martin s Church, Ellisville Jane has served the diocese in many different capacities: Diocesan Council, Standing Committee (including being its President), as an active participant on the Board of Episcopal City Mission, and for the last year as a member of the new Disciplinary Board where she was elected its first President. She would like to continue on the board, serving a full term this time. She is very active in her parish, St. Martin s Ellisville, and is currently serving as its Senior Warden. Previously, she served in this capacity at Good Shepherd, Town & Country. Jay Kloecker Parishioner, St. Peter s Church, Ladue I first came to the Episcopal Church twenty years ago for the music. I remained for the open, welcoming atmosphere, and the radical idea that the laity is a distinct order of ministry with real input into the running of the Church. I view this as both an opportunity and a responsibility. I served as a Deputy to General Convention 2009, I have been a convention delegate since 2007, and I currently serve on the Diocesan Investment Trust Board and the Diocesan Committee on Constitution and Canons. As a Deputy to General Convention 2009 in Anaheim, I had direct input into the drafting and adoption of the new disciplinary canons in Title IV. I participated actively in conversations with other deputies, both clerical and lay, as well as bishops. These conversations gave me valuable insight into the goals of the new disciplinary process, as well as a working knowledge of the procedures involved. My training as a lawyer (Duke University, 1991), clarifies the legalistic aspects of the process, giving me both the knowledge and experience to contribute meaningfully to the Disciplinary Board. Submitted by Nominations Ctte. Brooke Myers Rector, Holy Communion Church, University City I have served as Rector of the Church of the Holy Communion in University City since October, Over the years I have served on the Standing Committee and the Episcopal City Mission board. I have also been a facilitator for Fresh Start, a program for clergy who are new to their positions. It is mainly my work with Fresh Start which qualifies me to serve on the Disciplinary Board. Much of the program concerns itself with the need clergy have for clear boundaries, and the tools with which to identify and honor those boundaries. My familiarity with this material would help inform me in my work with the board. I ask your support for the opportunity to serve the Diocese of Missouri in this way. Submitted by Chester Hines, Jr., Nominations Ctte. Susan Skinner Interim Rector, Church of the Good Shepherd, Town & Country I have served as a priest in our diocese since 1981, primarily at Emmanuel, Webster Groves and since retirement as an interim pastor in several congregations. I have also served as Executive Director of Episcopal City Mission. My work in the diocese has included General Convention Deputy, Standing Committee (President), Diocesan Council, Commission on Ministry (Chair), Committee on Constitution and Canons and the former Ecclesiastical Court. I know the clergy of our diocese, and would strive to bring wisdom and compassion to the Disciplinary Board. Continued on next page Making Disciples Building Congregations For the Life of the World 3

4 Disciplinary Board continued LAY (Electing 1 lay member and 1 clergyperson) CLERGY Patricia Redington Parishioner, Holy Communion Church, University City I m a former Vestry member and Senior Warden, and as a lawyer I believe I understand how to apply the law and also how to evaluate extenuating circumstances. As it was submitted after canonical deadline, this nomination must be approved by convention for consideration. Karen Winn Parishioner, Grace Church, Jefferson City I am a lifelong Episcopalian and have been very active at Grace Church, Jefferson City, for twenty years. Prior to that, I was briefly a member of Trinity Church, St. Louis. At Grace, I have served on the vestry three times. I have chaired the Parish Life and Adult Education committees. I have also been a faithful member of the choir. I have never, however, served in a diocesan-level position. A fellow parishioner urged me to nominate myself as a candidate for the Disciplinary Board. This ministry is closely related to my skills and my profession. I am an administrative law judge, and I have been a member of the state s Administrative Hearing Commission since May I was also a commissioner from 2000 to Professional licensing and discipline is a core area of our jurisdiction and I have decided hundreds of professional licensing cases. Deciding these cases calls for discretion and good judgment as well as the ability to apply the law to the facts. Many are complicated and sensitive, and the reputations and livelihoods of the licensees are at stake. I continually pray for wisdom to decide these cases soundly and justly. I know I would be well prepared to act as a member of the Disciplinary Board, and that I would fulfill the duties with tact, sensitivity, and compassion. I would be honored to serve. I hope the convention delegates will consider my candidacy favorably. As it was submitted after canonical deadline, this nomination must be approved by convention for consideration. Peter Van Horne Interim Rector, St. Mark s Church, St. Louis Peter is a senior priest who has had experience in four dioceses (Idaho, San Joaquin, Hawaii, & Missouri). While in Hawaii he served as Canon to the Ordinary, where he gained experience dealing with matters of clergy discipline. In our diocese he has served as Vicar of All Saints Church in Farmington, and Interim Pastor of Trinity, Kirksville; and now St. Mark s Church in St. Louis. He has also served as Secretary of Convention and President of the Standing Committee in this diocese, and served on the Diocesan Council and Commission on Ministry in Hawaii. These positions have given him a broad view of our diocese. His experience and wisdom would serve him well on the Disciplinary Board. 4 The 172 nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis, Missouri, November 18-19, 2011

5 Standing Committee LAY (Electing 1 lay member and 2 clergy) CLERGY Mary Ann Cook Parishioner, Church of St. Michael and St. George, Clayton Mary Ann Cook will bring to the standing committee a wide array of experience in the diocese and the broader community. She has been a member of the Church of Saint Michael and Saint George for over 20 years, where she visits parishioners as a member of the Community of Hope. She is on the Board of the Episcopal School for Ministry and served on the planning committee for the recent Making Disciples Conference. She is completing a term on Diocesan Council where she participated in the design and implementation of Diocesan Council Listening Sessions. She holds a doctorate in health services research. She chaired the Board of La Clinica Community Health Center. She served on the Clayton Board of Aldermen for two terms. She currently volunteers at Sumner High School. Her husband is Joseph Cusumano, a radiologist, and her son is Michael Cusumano, a graduate student in Seattle. Harry Goff Parishioner, St. Barnabas Church, Florissant Harry has been a faithful member of St. Barnabas Church more than twenty years. Baptized and confirmed at Calvary Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, Harry graduated from Tennessee State University earning a BS in Psychology with a minor in Biology. Now retired, he served eight years active duty in the United States Air Force and 15 years in the Missouri Air National Guard. Harry has two sons, Christopher and Carlton, who grew up as active participants in the youth group at St Barnabas. continued next page Amy Chambers Cortright Vicar, Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis It is my great pleasure to recommend Amy as a candidate for Standing Committee. I sought out Amy to be a part of our Cathedral leadership team because she has both a pastor s heart and a creative and insightful mind. During our year-plus together, she has been invaluable to us because she is a deep listener and prayer as well as a sharp questioner. She s not afraid to name difficult thoughts but also to test them out with others, not assuming that her truth is The Truth. She is the ultimate team player and brings great joy and humor to her work. Amy is incredibly dependable. When I give her a task I never worry about it...i know it will get done and get done well. At the same time, she has never shied away from stopping midway through a project if it becomes obvious that something is wrong with the energy or things need to be re-evaluated. In all things I have never seen her do anything but put the needs of the community first. Amy truly prays. There are some things you just can t fake, and being a person of prayer is one of them. It is perhaps my greatest joy in working with her. Standing Committee is a critical leadership ministry in our diocese. I can think of no better person to be a part of that team than Amy. Submitted by Michael Kinman, Dean, Christ Church Cathedral Renee Fenner Rector, St. Barnabas Church, Florissant Renee is honored to accept the nomination to serve on the Standing Committee of the Diocese of Missouri. The Standing Committee serves as the bishop s council of advice. The Committee is an important one as it may be called on to serve as the ecclesiastical authority should a bishop become incapacitated or leave his or her post. The Standing Committee is one of many bodies that offer its collective heart, mind, and spirit toward the fulfillment of God s purpose for the Church and its mission. continued next page Making Disciples Building Congregations For the Life of the World 5

6 Standing Committee continued LAY (Electing 1 lay member and 2 clergy) CLERGY Harry Goff continued At St. Barnabas, Harry has served on the vestry as a member and most recently as Senior Warden for two terms. In addition to his role of scheduling Liturgists and Lectors for Sunday services, during the search period he has accepted the responsibility of planning services. This included identifying and recruiting guest clergy several Sundays a month for both services. He currently coordinates the parish ministry with the Episcopal City Mission, and assists with the scrip program. He formerly served a three-year term on the Diocesan Council of the Diocese of Missouri. He is currently enrolled in the Episcopal School For Ministry. Michael Reiser Parishioner, Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis Michael has attended Christ Church Cathedral since 1989 and has been actively involved, including serving on Cathedral Chapter, as an Oasis Missouri Board member and as a Convention Delegate. It was at his first diocesan convention that Michael began to appreciate the larger church, and recognize the potential that exists. This growing affection for the larger church has led him to involvement at the diocesan level where he has served as convention coordinator since He is currently fulfilling an unexpired term on Standing Committee and feels his experience would be a great asset to the committee as it continues redefining itself to better serve the diocese and affect positive change. Michael is a realtor with Coldwell Banker Gundaker and feels his experience in that field will be a benefit to Standing Committee when matters regarding purchase or sale of property come before it. Michael has worked on Standing Committee to change the mission statement Making Disciples, Building Congregations, For the Life of the World to less of a vision and more of a living reality and would like to continue that work. Continued on next page Renee Fenner continued Renee has served on the Resolutions Committee and several months ago she was appointed to fill in a spot on the Diocesan Council. She also serves on the diocesan Commission on Ministry. Renee remarked: What tremendous experiences these have been to be a part of the inner workings of our Diocese. As the former Canon Pastor and Liturgist of Christ Church Cathedral and current rector of St. Barnabas in Florissant, she has experienced being with and serving a broad and rich diversity of congregations and people who make up this small corner of the kingdom of God. These experiences will, if she is elected, help her to assist all of us in the hearing, visioning, and being God s Spirit at work in our diocese and within the communities we live. She is a native St. Louisan and holds a B.A. in Theatre Arts from Webster University (formerly Webster College). Renee matriculated from the General Theological Seminary in New York City in While there she served as junior co-chair and senior co-chair of the Black Seminarians Association. She was ordained as priest on June 24, Anne Kelsey Rector, Trinity Church, Central West End, St. Louis At the ordination of a priest the bishop states that the ordained person is to take your share in the councils of the Church. Standing Committee is such a council, its members listening and assisting the Bishop in discerning God s wisdom for the diocese. My experience both in parish ministry and the wider church has helped prepare me for this position. I currently serve on the Companion Diocese Committee and have traveled to Sudan twice, most recently to conduct art workshops with children. I have served on Diocesan Council, one year as Vice-Chair, and taught homiletics at the Episcopal School for Ministry. With my husband, the Rev. Brooke Myers, I am a facilitator for Fresh Start, the two-year program required for clergy newly ordained or new to a position in the diocese. As the rector of Trinity I helped guide a capital campaign for a new organ, and I am familiar with the financial challenges of the church. continued next page 6 The 172 nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis, Missouri, November 18-19, 2011

7 Standing Committee continued LAY (Electing 1 lay member and 2 clergy) CLERGY Stephen Robin Parishioner, St. Stephen s Church, Ferguson Stephen currently serves as an Episcopal Hospital Chaplain in the SSM Health Care Network, primarily at De Paul Health Center in Bridgeton, and St. Joseph s Hospital West in Lake St. Louis. He graduated with a Masters in Divinity from Eden Seminary in May 2010 and served pastorally at St. Stephen s while attending seminary. Stephen also serve on the Cathedral Chapter, completing his term in December Currently Stephen serves on the Vestry, Executive committee, Strategic Planning and Discernment Committee, Building and Grounds committee, and Worship committee at St. Stephen s. With a BS Honors undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies, Stephen is leading the greening program at St. Stephen s, exploring ways to approach a zero carbon footprint by 2015 to enable the church to give a legacy of zero utility cost of upkeep to the next generation at St. Stephen s Stephen also leads a monthly movie night discussion and two Bible study classes on a new program introduced this year: BIBLE-365, a daily study of the entire Bible in 365 days. As well as teaching this in two small groups, Stephen leads these online through Facebook, Twitter, and blog and LinkedIn. Stephen also leads the BACK TO CHURCH SUNDAY team at his parish, developing ways to encourage people to come back to church, particularly those who want an Episcopal style of worship and liturgy. Stephen has two children, Charles, a sophomore at Tufts in Boston, and Elizabeth, a sophomore in High School at MICDS. Submitted by Kathy Johnston, Senior Warden, St. Stephen s Church, Ferguson. Anne Kelsey continued My parish church is diverse in many respects and when reflecting on the numerous issues facing the church today I bring a sensitivity to the concerns of minority Episcopalians as well understanding the challenges of the wider church. I would hope to offer a thoughtful response to whatever may be asked of the Standing Committee. It would be an honor to serve the church in this capacity. Submitted by Lisa Fox, Nominations Ctte. Susan Naylor Deacon, St. Martin s Church, Ellisville Susan has been active in the Diocese of Missouri for many years. A graduate of the first class of the Episcopal School for ministry in 2002, Susan was ordained Deacon in She has served at Emmanuel in Webster Groves and St. Martin s Ellisville, her current assignment. Susan has served on a variety of committees and boards, including the board of the St. Andrew s Episcopal Presbyterian Foundation, the Committee for the Celebration of Aging, the Caring Ministries Committee, the Faith, Health and Justice Committee and the Companion Diocese Relationship Committee, which she chaired for two years. She has traveled to Lui, Sudan twice, with a focus on health and wellness for both the people of Lui Diocese and the travelers themselves. Susan is a Registered Nurse with over 20 years of experience, and currently works for Lutheran Senior Services Home Health, providing direct nursing care to homebound older adults. Susan has worked with the diocesan staff on several projects, including the gathering of the American Friends of the Episcopal Church in Sudan held at Christ Church Cathedral in She served a term as Archdeacon for the Community of Deacons and now serves as Chaplain to the Community of Deacons. Deacon Naylor says: It is the charge of a deacon to bring the needs and concerns of the world to the church, and to connect the church with the world. I believe it is important to include that perspective as part of the standing committee. Submitted by Susan Naylor Making Disciples Building Congregations For the Life of the World 7

8 Convention Agenda November 18 & 19, 2011 Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis Friday, November AM - 5 PM Registration open (1 st Floor-BTM) 11 AM - 8 PM Childcare available Noon Convention 101 (4 th Floor-BTM) 1 PM Plenary One (4 th Floor-BTM) Welcome Appointments Introductions Clergy Transitions Budget Introduced Nominations 2:30 PM Break 3 4:30 Hearings 4:45 5:45 Plenary Two (4 th Floor-BTM) Housekeeping Announcements Bishop s Address Saturday, November 19 8 AM - Noon Registration open 8 AM - 1 PM Childcare available 8 AM Cathedral doors open-eucharist 9 AM Convention Eucharist (Cathedral) Clergy vesting, white Reserved seating/delegates Overflow general seating 4th flr BTM 10:45 AM Plenary Three (4 th Floor-BTM) Balloting Resolutions Budget Election results Housekeeping Announcements 12:30 Convention Adjourns Box lunches (4 th Flr-Guernsey) 1 PM Childcare closes 6 PM Reception (Cathedral Nave) 8 PM Childcare closes All convention sessions will take place in the cathedral and Bishop Tuttle Memorial building (BTM). The plenary sessions will be in Schuyler Hall, the 4 th floor of BTM. Space will be limited. In order to assure delegates access to the business of convention, registered participants will need to wear their badges for admittance to the hall. Registration will be on the first floor of the BTM, in the elevator hallway. You may enter through any door of the cathedral or Bishop Tuttle building Friday (before the reception). 8 Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori makes her official visit to the diocese and will be with us at convention. She will not be speaking on the floor during convention. Friday night, after the business of convention, we ll share fellowship at a reception in the nave of the cathedral. There are a few general admission tickets available for purchase. To reserve one you need to use the convention registration form at diocesemo.org. Reception tickets must be purchased by Friday, Nov. 4 (the day convention registration is also due). Diocesan members who are not registered for The 172 nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis, Missouri, November 18-19, 2011

9 Convention Highlights and Logistics The convention will vote on renewing our companion diocese relationship with the Diocese of Lui, South Sudan. At this moment it is uncertain if passports will be ready, but, God willing, Lui s new bishop the Rt. Rev. Stephen and Lillian Dokolo are planning to attend convention. Also planning to attend are mission partners from Blackmore Vale deanery, Diocese of Salisbury, Church of England. Our youth have inspired us this year. We ll hear about their year in the diocese, and on the many mission trips to Joplin and Pine Ridge, SD. convention but will be attending the reception are asked to enter the cathedral through the main front doors (13 th Street) at 6 PM. The presiding bishop will attend the reception, but will not speak at this event. Presiding Bishop Katharine will preach at Saturday morning Eucharist. The service is open to the public. Seats will be reserved for convention delegates and registered guests of convention. Clergy are invited to vest (color is white). Some unreserved seating will be available in the cathedral nave, and it is hoped to have overflow public seating on the fourth floor of the BTM with a video link and communion stations. Registered convention participants are asked to wear their badges. The general public is asked to enter through the main front cathedral doors, which will open at 8 AM. Childcare is available from 11 AM to 8 PM on Friday, and from 8 AM to 1 PM on Saturday, for those who register in advance. Childcare reservation information is due by Friday, Nov. 4. You will find it with the convention registration form. We ll hear about the New Ventures in Community Mission grant awardees, and a report on our contributions to the United Thank Offering and the Campaign to Rebuild our Church in Haiti. We also look forward to hearing about the year in review from the perspectives of our Diocesan Council and the Standing Committee. Bishop Wayne will share his vision for this diocese in this coming year. Christ Church Cathedral is hosting a major art exhibit, Icons in Transformation. Much of the space on the first floor and in the cathedral and chapel will be filled with breathtaking artwork. Parking will be available in the new garage at Olive and Tucker, entrance on Olive St., just south of the cathedral. Take a parking ticket upon entering, and you will need to validate that ticket in the lobby of the ParkPacific building, 1226 Olive (next to the garage). Their lobby and the garage are available 24 hours a day. This gift of parking for registered guests of convention is from The Lawrence Group. Do hold on to your parking ticket and remember to validate it, otherwise you will need to pay for the time you are parked in their lot. Still have questions? Feel free to contact Michael Reiser, diocesan convention coordinator, by at convention@diocesemo.org, or by phone Making Disciples Building Congregations For the Life of the World 9

10 A-172 Implementation of Health Plan Submitted by Diocesan Council 1. BE IT RESOLVED that this 172nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri require Congregations within the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri and the Offices of the Bishop to pay 100% of the cost of individual health insurance coverage (selected from the offerings included in the Denominational Health Plan and administered by the Episcopal Church Medical Trust) for all lay and ordained employees working 1,500 or more hours annually, in accordance with Title I, Canon 8 of the Episcopal Church and to be implemented no later than January 1, 2013; 2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Lay and ordained employees of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri and the Offices of the Bishop eligible for required individual health insurance coverage under Section 1 of this resolution may elect not to participate in the Denominational Health Plan if they have access to coverage through other approved sources, e.g. Medicare, Tricare, a former employer, or a spouse s or domestic partner s health insurance plan; 3. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Congregations within the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri and the Offices of the Bishop shall not reduce existing coverage or increase the cost of existing coverage to employees to comply with A177 or this resolution; 4. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that benefit design and premium support parity is required within each congregation of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri and the Offices of the Bishop in the provision of health insurance coverage for lay and ordained employees; 5. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED each congregation and the Offices of the Bishop may impose a monthly premium surcharge or incentive to lay and ordained employees who elect coverage for a spouse, domestic partner, or dependent who is eligible for comparable employer-sponsored health insurance (other than the Denominational Health Plan) through an alternate source; 6. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Congregations within the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri and the Offices of the Bishop are encouraged, if financially possible, to exceed the minimum standard of health insurance coverage for their lay and ordained employees; and 7. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that schools, day care facilities and other congregational and diocesan institutions, regardless of the independence of their incorporation or tax status, are encouraged to adopt the principles articulated in this resolution. RATIONALE In its consideration of the theology imbedded in A177 (GC2009), the social and economic justice it envisions (A125, GC2006) and the financial challenges of its implementation, the Diocesan Council thoughtfully and prayerfully discerned the following foundational principle which shapes this resolution offered to Diocesan Convention. We believe that access to high-quality, affordable health care is essential to our lives individually and communally and is not an optional benefit dependent on either employment status or vocation. In addition, we acknowledge that commercial insurance is the primary instrument through which such 10 The 172 nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis, Missouri, November 18-19, 2011

11 access is achieved by those employed in the United States. Thus, the parity between lay and ordained employees required by A177 can only be achieved through the equal treatment of both in plan design and pricing. Three operational issues were especially important in the Diocesan Council s deliberations: a. First, we recognize that financial resources vary significantly among parishes within our diocese and have no intent to impose a financially burdensome mandate on any community of faith. b. Second, we want to ensure that every parish in the diocese that currently provides employee health insurance coverage maintains or enhances this coverage. Under no circumstances, would we support a reduction in existing benefits or an increase in the individual s current financial responsibility for the cost of health insurance solely to comply with A177 or this resolution (see resolve #3). c. Finally, we believe that a reasonable surcharge or incentive may be applied to coverage elected by a lay or ordained employee for a spouse, domestic partner or dependent who is eligible for comparable employer-sponsored health insurance (other than the Denominational Health Plan) through an alternate source (see resolve #5); in order to encourage individuals to elect to remain covered by the alternate source. In offering this resolution to Diocesan Convention, we pray with you: Almighty God, you have so linked our lives one with another that all we do affects, for good or ill, all other lives: So guide us in the work we do, that we may do it not for self alone, but for the common good; and, as we seek a proper return for our own labor, make us mindful of the rightful aspirations of other workers, and arouse our concern for those who are out of work; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (Collect for Labor Day, BCP, p. 261) Title I, Canon 8 of the Episcopal Church: The Church Pension Fund is also authorized to establish and administer the lay employee pension system and denominational health plan of the Church, substantially in accordance with the principles adopted by the General Convention of 2009 in Resolution A177, with the view to providing pensions, health care and related benefits for the eligible Clergy and eligible lay employees of this Church, as well as their eligible beneficiaries and dependents. B-172 Companion Diocese Submitted by the Companion Diocese Committee 1. BE IT RESOLVED that this 172nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri renews the commitment of the Diocese to the ongoing companion relationship with the Diocese of Lui in the Episcopal Church of Sudan for a second five-year period; 2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this convention encourages the bishops of Lui and Missouri to review the existing companion relationship agreement and make any needed adjustments or revisions in consultation with the Companion Diocese Relationship Committee and other stakeholders in each diocese; and 3. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Diocese of Missouri will continue to partner with Blackmore Vale Deanery in Salisbury Diocese of the Church of England and the Diocese of Lund in the Lutheran Church of Sweden in their mutual relationship with the people of Lui Diocese through transparency, accountability, and communications, and whenever possible, through joint travels to South Sudan. RATIONALE When the Dioceses of Missouri and Lui established a companion relationship, they set a term of five Making Disciples Building Congregations For the Life of the World 11

12 B-172 RATIONALE continued years for the relationship, with an option to renew if mutually desirable. Year 2011 marks the end of the five-year covenant. The Diocese of Lui has strongly expressed its desire for the relationship to continue, and Missouri s Companion Diocese Relationship Committee agrees. After more than five years of visits and communication as well as careful commitment of funds to mutually agreed projects, there is a hard-won level of maturity and trust in the relationship, and both dioceses continue to benefit from the relationship in rich and complex ways. Because 2011 has witnessed both South Sudanese independence and the consecration of Bishop Stephen Dokolo (who is well known to many Missouri Episcopalians from his two years at Eden Seminary), the coming five years particularly represent a time of great need and great opportunity. Further, in the past two years Missouri and Lui have expanded their relationship to include the Blackmore Vale Deanery in the Diocese of Salisbury in the Church of England, and Missouri has also been able to connect with the Diocese of Lund in the Church of Sweden (Lutheran), which has a longer-standing relationship with the Moru people than we do. To be linked with three other international church groups committed to a single purpose enriches our understanding of the Anglican Communion and the Body of Christ and offers possibilities that the companion diocese committee continues to explore. C-172 HIV/AIDS Awareness Sunday Submitted by Metro IV Convocation 1. BE IT RESOLVED by this 172nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri that each congregation be encouraged to annually designate a Sunday for HIV/AIDS Awareness; 2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that each congregation be encouraged to have this HIV/AIDS Awareness Sunday on the Sunday closest to World AIDS Day, observed on December 1 each year; and 3. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that congregations may elect to recognize HIV/ AIDS Awareness Sunday in one or more of the following ways: By asking a speaker from an agency that serves people infected with HIV/ AIDS to address the congregation. Examples of such agencies include, but are not limited to: Doorways, which provides housing; Food Outreach, which provides meals; and St. Louis Effort for AIDS. By thoughtfully and intentionally preaching the good news of Jesus Christ in the shadow of the theological, ethical, and pastoral dilemmas raised by the HIV/AIDS crisis. By providing an educational program to parents/grandparents on how to discuss the risks of transmission of HIV/ AIDS with their children. By directly referencing those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS in the liturgy; for example, in the Prayers of the People or with a Litany, such as the one created by the ELCA for World AIDS Day. 12 The 172 nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis, Missouri, November 18-19, 2011

13 RATIONALE HIV/AIDS remains a terrible problem. In the U.S. the rate of infection has stabilized at approximately 56,000 new infections per year, which is a 40% increase in the original estimates from the Centers for Disease Control. Despite calls for increased training, robust education about HIV/AIDS is lacking both domestically and overseas. In the U.S. women, youth, and African-Americans are disproportionately affected. HIV is the leading cause of death in black women years of age and the second leading cause of death of black men in the same age bracket. The U.S. has no comprehensive plan for addressing the HIV/AIDS pandemic, although we require it of other countries to which the U.S. gives aid. HIV/AIDS remains a global pandemic. About 40 million people globally are living with HIV/AIDS, two-thirds of them in Sub-Saharan Africa. For every two person who receive treatment, an additional five persons become infected. The tragedy of HIV/AIDS extends beyond illness and death into the stigma that confronts people who are infected or affected by the disease. Those infected and affected are still bereft of pastoral care and compassion, as we tend to focus our attention internationally and ignore the people suffering in our own neighborhoods. World AIDS Day Litany Created by the ELCA for World AIDS Day We gather in your name, We center ourselves in you, We wait for your coming again, We give thanks for your promises, We struggle with our sins, We desire faithfulness in our relationships, We long for compassion for the lost, forgotten, and forsaken, We want compassion for the sick and the needy, We mourn with the orphaned and widowed, We remember our neighbors around the world, We ask for your unconditional love for those we do not tolerate, We cry out for peace in war-torn lands, We yearn for wholeness for our bodies, hearts, and minds, We grieve for those who have died, We seek your healing from all disease, We beg for wisdom for doctors, generosity from corporations, inspiration from scientists, and endurance for care-givers, We place out lives in your hands; shape us with your purpose, We put all our hope in you, O God. We trust in your mercy and find comfort in your grace. As we commemorate World AIDS Day we pray for your light to enter into the world and shine brighter than any darkness. Let it be a pathway illuminated by your love. Amen. Making Disciples Building Congregations For the Life of the World 13

14 D-172 Letters of Agreement Submitted by the Venerable Mark D. Sluss Archdeacon, Christ Church Cathedral (St. Louis) 1. BE IT RESOLVED that this 172nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri encourages congregations to create or review letters of agreement with active, non-stipendiary clergy (presbyters and deacons) and part-time presbyters; 2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this convention encourages such letters of agreement to include provisions addressing: Clear guidelines about time commitment, including time off Necessary expenses for engagement with the diocese (e.g. diocesan convention and clergy days), Membership expenses (e.g. MOCA, Association of Episcopal Deacons) Budget for required continuing education Mileage reimbursement; 3. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this convention requests the bishop to create an ad hoc committee to study the work conditions and expense allowances for non-stipendiary deacons and presbyters and for presbyters in part-time cures and to develop a diocesan standard and model letters of agreement for adoption at the 2012 convention. RATIONALE This resolution encourages letters of agreement for both active, non-stipendiary clergy, as well as parttime presbyters, in order to provide clarity in the relationship and expectations with the congregation. Clear guidelines about time commitment could provide clarity about issues such as whether attendance at clergy events counts as a work day or time off. Non-stipendiary and part-time clergy have for many years performed their ministries, attended convention, and taken care of their continuing education at their own expense. Continuing formation is essential for all clergy, whether full time or part time, whether deacons or presbyters, and so it is essential for congregations to assure a fair and reasonable Continuing Education allowance. As many part-time and non-stipendiary clergy are now performing ministries within the diocese in support of congregations, it is reasonable that their expenses be considered when creating letters of agreement with a congregation. E-172 The Rev. Whiting Griswold Submitted by St. John s Church-Tower Grove (St. Louis) and Metro II Convocation BE IT RESOLVED that this 172nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri recognize and uphold the Reverend Whiting Griswold as an example of Christian sainthood, and encourage his recognition within the wider church, passing along this Resolution and Rationale to the Standing Liturgical Commission of the Episcopal Church, to consider adding the Rev. Whiting Griswold to the commemorations in Holy Women, Holy Men. RATIONALE The Reverend Whiting Griswold became first rector of St. John s (St. Louis) in Along with members of his parish, the Rev. Griswold established Orphans Home in 1843 and worked diligently to build and strengthen both institutions. He mediated dissension in the newly formed Diocese of Missouri in 1844, following the demise of Kemper College and he represented the Diocese of Missouri at every General Convention. While many others fled the City of St. Louis during the cholera epidemic of 1849, the Rev. Griswold stayed and ministered to victims of the epidemic in Saint Louis. On July 24, 1849, the Rev. Griswold suc- 14 The 172 nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis, Missouri, November 18-19, 2011

15 cumbed to cholera himself and died at the age of 34. The Rev. Griswold s short, yet exemplary, life and untimely death inspired numerous memorials, including a large marble memorial tablet near entrance to St. John s, a stained glass memorial near the altar at St. John s, a memorial bench in Orphan s Home (since destroyed), and a memorial poem A Christian Hero composed by Episcopal priest in Philadelphia. On July 24, 2011, St. John s Episcopal Church (St. Louis) began an annual recognition of the Rev. Whiting Griswold on the anniversary of his death. F-172 Restructuring the Episcopal Church Submitted by Ms. Lynette Ballard, St. Matthew s-warson Woods; the Very Rev. Ronald Clingenpeel, Trinity-CWE, St. Louis; Ms. Kathryn Dyer, St. Timothy s-creve Coeur; Mr. Donald W. Fisher, Christ Church Cathedral; Ms. Lisa Fox, Grace-Jefferson City; the Rev. Jason Samuel, Transfiguration-Lake St. Louis, the Rev. Doris Westfall, St. Matthew s-warson Woods; the Rev. Tamsen Whistler, Trinity-St. Charles BE IT RESOLVED that this 172nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri affirms the following resolution and hereby submits it for consideration by the 77th General Convention of The Episcopal Church: Resolved, the House of concurring, there shall be a Special Commission on Missional Structure and Strategy, the composition of which shall be at the discretion of the Presiding Bishop and the President of the House of Deputies and the members of which shall be appointed jointly thereby not later than thirty days following the adjournment of this 77th General Convention. The Special Commission shall be charged with presenting a plan to the Church for reforming its structures, governance, administration, and staff to facilitate this Church s faithful engagement in Christ s mission to proclaim Good News to the poor, release to the captives, recovery of sight to the blind, freedom to the oppressed, and the acceptable year of the Lord (Luke 4:18) in a way that maximizes the resources available for that mission at all levels of this Church. Resolved, the Special Commission shall endeavor to issue its report and recommendations along with resolutions necessary to implement them, including proposed amendments to the Constitution and Canons of this Church, so that they might be considered by a special General Convention prior to the convening of the 78th General Convention in 2015, in any event, not later than February 1, Resolved, The General Convention requests the Joint Standing Committee on Program, Budget, and Finance to consider a budget allocation of $100,000 for the implementation of this resolution. RATIONALE The financial model of the Episcopal Church is not sustainable at the current rate. Our church-wide administration is heavily out of balance, cumbersome, and unwieldy. Bishop Sauls PowerPoint presentation & presentation notes: Becoming_A_DFMS_9.23.ppt Episcopal News Service article: Restructuring discussions continue after House of Bishops meeting Chief operating officer calls for testing to see if there s grassroots support org/79425_129916_eng_htm.htm Making Disciples Building Congregations For the Life of the World 15

16 F-172 RATIONALE continued Episcopal Cafe article G-172 Minimum Clergy Compensation Submitted on behalf of the Diocesan Council 1. BE IT RESOLVED that this 172nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri set the annual standard base compensation for full-time clergy in 2012 as follows: CASH SALARY $40,700 HOUSING ALLOWANCE $14,670 [The actual compensation should be determined by Resolution of the Vestry/Bishop s Committee, in consultation with the clergy.] 2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Church Pension Fund assessment will be paid by the congregation; 3. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that $50,000 group life will be paid by the congregation; 4. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that medical coverage for clergy and eligible dependents, will be paid by the congregation; 5. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a standard of ten days per calendar year and $500 will be provided for continuing education; 6. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the standard auto allowance will be $2,000 per year; and RATIONALE cash salary was $39,510 and housing allowance was $14,240 for a package total of $53,750. The recommendation for 2012 reflects a 3% increase in both Cash Salary and Housing. This increase is based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Consumer Price Index - Midwest Urban Consumers first half of 2010 comparison to the first half of The Canons of the Episcopal Church mandate that pension assessments be paid by congregations (assessment = 18 percent of cash salary plus housing and utilities allowance). 3. Provides for $50,000 of term life insurance for active clergy. (In addition, all active clergy are eligible to receive an additional term life insurance benefit from the Church Pension Fund equal to four times total compensation to a maximum of $100,000). 4. A list of medical plans can be obtained from the Office of the Bishop. 5. Congregations are encouraged to provide both time and financial resources to assist clergy with continuing education opportunities. 6. Standard allowance for auto expense. 7. Congregations are urged to encourage their clergy to take two days of personal time in the manner stated above. This resolution establishes a standard base compensation for clergy. Congregations are urged and invited to compensate clergy beyond the standard. It is understood that under individual circumstances and conditions internal adjustments in the compensation package may be negotiated. 7. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all parishes and missions encourage their fulltime clergy to set aside the equivalent of two days each week for personal time, 24 hours of which must be consecutive. 16 The 172 nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis, Missouri, November 18-19, 2011