The 227th Convention of the Diocese of New York

Bishop Roskam’s Address
Bishop Catherine Roskam recognized the work that has gone on in the Diocese to support and redevelop congregations, which first started with the Congregational Support Plan. In addition to CSP, there is now Congregational Development, provided by three Canons: Hannah Anderson, Williamson Taylor and Sylvia Vásquez. Bishop Roskam introduced each. Of Canon Anderson, she commented, “Hannah focuses on the Resurrection as the hope and promise that carries congregations through the difficult work of growth and change.” Of Canon Taylor, “Williamson’s work is characterized by the gift of patient encouragement for parishes as they move toward growth.” And of Canon Vásquez, Bishop Roskam said, “Her passion is working with congregations as a catalyst for transformation.” Bishop Roskam added, “Because church growth is not about preserving the institution, it is about participating in God’s mission.”

Bishop Roskam also spoke in response to the defeat at General Convention of a resolution considering restitution to African-Americans. She said, “Restitution and repentance is not only for African-Americans, but also to Africa. The continent we in the Western world have pillaged for centuries.... As this world gets smaller, we are called to deeper repentance, and I suggest we begin to explore ways of doing that.” She added, “It is not simply about money but about the connection we have there and elsewhere on the globe.”

Bishop Taylor’s Address
Bishop E. Don Taylor, Vicar Bishop for the Diocese, gave a heart-warming address to end the Convention. He spoke of “a sense of great optimism in the Diocese” that is founded in more than just congregations’ growth in population and pledges. He sees such optimism arising from a “deepening spiritual life,” which is evidenced by a greater number of retreats and spiritual conferences. This is a spiritual life “so many in the pews are seeking to achieve,” he explained.
“There is an indication of something more happening,” beyond the measurable growth in the Diocese, Bishop Taylor said. “The impact we make on the community as a whole is not so easily measured,” but it still must be noted.

Bishop Taylor also noted that at many of the congregations he has visited, “people speak eloquently of the Diocese.” And as someone pointed out to him, “It is obvious that you the bishops love each other.” Bishop Taylor added, “We try to serve each other as best we can, and this causes a ripple effect across the Diocese.”

Very important to the Diocese and contributing to this “sense of upward swing,” Bishop Taylor said were the clergy and lay leaders, whose work is often overlooked. “They are deeply committed to the work of Jesus Christ,” Bishop Taylor said. Together, the leadership and people in Diocese “can take us through great difficulties,” as they have in the past. “The Diocese has quietly and consistently given” a great amount to the community, he concluded.

227th Diocesan Convention

Bishop Sisk’s Address

Bishop Roskam’s Address & Bishop Taylor’s Address

Elections & Budget

Resolutions & Canons

Important Business of Convention

Photos

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