Shape the Future of Our Diocese

For a bishop, as God’s steward, must be blameless…   ~St. Paul in his Letter to Titus

Dear Cathedral,

Our Diocese of Florida is preparing to elect a new bishop, and you have a vital role to play. A series of Envisioning Forums is being held across the diocese, and your participation will help shape the future of our church. A Bishop Search Committee, including our own Martha Cox and Paul Arrington, will take what they hear in these sessions and craft a profile describing who we are and what we hope for in a new bishop. The forum at St. John’s Cathedral is on Thursday, October 9, at 7 p.m.

The word “Episcopal” originates from the Greek word “episcopus,” meaning bishop. Our ancient Christian tradition, like that of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches, is composed of bishops, priests, and deacons. We also believe in the wisdom and integrity of the laity, which is why we govern ourselves through both prayer and a democratic process.

Churches are united under an umbrella called a diocese, and each diocese has at least one bishop as its chief shepherd, pastor to the pastors, and overseer. For twenty years, John Howard was the Bishop of the Diocese of Florida, which spans from St. Augustine to the Georgia border, and then extends to Gainesville and Tallahassee. There are roughly 60 churches and missions in our diocese. Howard retired in October 2023, and after an interim period, the Diocese of Florida is now preparing to elect a new bishop.

This is a moment of great possibility for Episcopalians in Florida. Together, we have the chance to imagine the kind of shepherd who will serve alongside us for years to come, and who will help share the story of what God is already doing among us. Your presence and your voice can play a key role in shaping the future of our diocese. The dates for these forums are listed here; please join us in this important work.

 
In Christ’s love,

Kate+