|
Creation and Sabbath
You may remember that Bishop Hughes talked about sabbath a few weeks ago in The VOICE Online. She encouraged us to find the activities and patterns that help us to take care of ourselves, to be good stewards of our own self. I’m bringing this message to you on behalf of Bishop Hughes this month because she is doing exactly that – after a full and extraordinary program year and a very busy June, including General Convention, Bishop Hughes is practicing what she preaches and taking some time this month for sabbath. She’s taking time to take care of herself so that she can continue to do the work she’s been giving to do here in the Diocese of Newark.
When I was reflecting on the Bishop’s words on sabbath, I was reminded that sabbath is part of the order of creation; it’s built in from the very beginning. Read more.
| |
|
Hear from the GC81 Deputies
Near the end of the 81st General Convention in Louisville, KY, five deputies representing the Diocese of Newark shared their experiences and reflections. (Time: 4:56 | Read the transcript.)
| |
|
Justice Ministry Spotlight:
Commission for Justice and Peace
By the Ven. Diane Riley
Bishop Hughes created the Commission for Justice and Peace in 2021, as part of developing a broad approach to justice ministry for the diocese. Its mission “is to grow the Beloved Community, a community in which everyone is cared for absent of poverty, hunger and hate.” The Commission develops diocesan advocacy and resources that support the beloved community and address issues that challenge it. In short, they teach about the prevalent issues and share how to act. Read more.
| |
|
Civil Discourse Online Training
TUE, AUG 6, 13 & 20 | 6:30-8:30 PM
Registration deadline: MON, AUG 5 | 5 PM
Have you been increasingly concerned about the polarization of our country? Have you often felt ill equipped to speak with people who don't share the same ideas or views on the world? This course is for you.
This online training is being offered at no cost to members of the diocese by the Commission on Justice and Peace and will be led by Alan Yarborough, Church Relations Officer in The Episcopal Church's Office of Government Relations. Find out more and register online.
| |
School for Ministry: Lay Preacher Training
Starting SAT, AUG 24 | 9 AM | Zoom
Registration deadline: MON, AUG 19 | 5 PM
The Episcopal Church allows the Bishop to license Confirmed lay ministers as preachers, for those who are invited by their clergy person to preach in public worship on an occasional or regular basis. In congregations without clergy, that supervision comes from the Wardens and Vestry. Training as a preacher includes studying Scripture as well as how to compose and deliver a sermon. Training for this license is provided by the School for Ministry and will meet monthly from August 2024 through February 2025. Find out more and register online.
| |
Happening at Our Congregations | |
Resources for Congregations | |
|
Prepare now to weather next fall’s media storm!
By Cynthia Mcchesney, Missioner for Stewardship and Legacy Giving
| |
|
It’s 2024, a presidential election year. If your church typically sends out annual pledge materials in that traditional "window " of October/early November, please consider moving those communications up this year.
Stay ahead of the election frenzy by starting to think about your annual pledge materials now, while you still have plenty of time to prepare. Read more.
| |
Diocesan Announcements
Bishop' staff vacation week
All members of the Bishop's staff are using their vacation time to take off the week of July 29-Aug. 2, and Episcopal House will be closed.
Diocesan Youth Commission Survey
All parish clergy, wardens and administrators should have received an email asking you to complete a survey from the Diocesan Youth Commission. If you did not, please contact Randy Johnson at rjohnson@dioceseofnewark.org.
Bishop Hughes' podcast guest appearance
Bishop Hughes joined the Rev. Dr. Kelly Brown Douglas of Episcopal Divinity School for an episode of EDS's new podcast mini-series: Leading Voices: EDS at General Convention. Together, they discuss legacies of racial injustice in the church, the need to create diverse and affirming spaces, and what churches have to offer to a polarized world. Listen to the episode on Spotify (time: 36:03).
| | |
|
Youth Convo at the 150th Convention
THU, NOV 7 - SAT, NOV 9
Youth in grades 9-12 are invited to join us for a unique experience at the 150th Convention, where they will enjoy food, fun and fellowship, and attend youth-only info sessions along with workshops and hearings.
Registration is open! Find out more.
| |
Don't miss out on the 150th Convention Banner Parade! | |
|
Is your church's banner ready for the 150th Convention Banner Parade? Watch the video invitation, right.
(Time: 1:58 | Read the transcript.)
If you need assistance preparing your church's banner (or acquiring a new one), contact Jane Jubilee at 973-430-9902 or jjubilee@dioceseofnewark.org.
| |
| |
|
|
Dates & deadlines:
- 107 days until the 150th Convention!
- Nominations deadlines: SEP 13 (late Nominees NOV 1)
- Registration dates for Deputations and all canonically resident Clergy: SEP 16, 12 NOON
- Hotel reservations deadline at group rate: OCT 8
- Registration for Guests & Youth Convo: OCT 18
| |
Happening at Our Camp
Cross Roads is the ecumenical camp and retreat center of our diocese and the NJ Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
| |
|
Register for Camp
July & August
It's not too late to register for an unforgettable summer at Cross Roads! Give your child the adventure of a lifetime with outdoor activities, new friendships, and personal growth. Secure your spot today and ensure a summer full of memories and fun.
Family Camp
AUG 11-16
Bring your whole family to enjoy the awesome perks of summer camp: fun activities, learning, nature, worship, and time for reflection. Go at your own pace; relax and be renewed in the Spirit – and let Cross Roads take care of the cooking and clean-up! Family Camp includes Discovery Time (Bible Study) for adults and kids, activities at the pool, arts and crafts, nature walks, archery, and more, and all-group fellowship and games.
Save the date: 10th Annual Rally for Cross Roads
SAT, OCT 5
The Rally for Cross Roads: a powerful event dedicated to community support, unity, and positive change. Whether you're a passionate runner, a leisurely walker, or simply someone who wants to support a worthy cause, your presence and participation will make a world of difference. Rally your friends, family, and colleagues, and let's come together to champion the future of young campers at Cross Roads.
| | |
|
| If you could pick only one vacation destination, it would be... | | | |
|
The VOICE Online will be published monthly (second Wednesdays) in June, July & August
Next issue: WED, AUG 14
Submission deadline: FRI, AUG 9, 10 AM
| |
Follow the Episcopal Diocese of Newark at: | | | | |
