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Finance Committee & Treasurer of the Diocese Up Back to Our Leadership & Governance The Treasurer is responsible to the Convention and the Bishop for oversight of all financial dealings of the Diocese. As such, the Treasurer is a member of the Department of the Finance Committee. Audited Financial Statements for the Diocese Grants & Loans Finance Committee The Rt. Rev. José McLoughlin – Bishop The Rev. Sam Tallman, Chair – St. Mary of the Hills, Blowing Rock Diane Mance, EC Liaison – St. Matthias, Asheville Bruce Hunt – Transfiguration, Saluda Chad Hardy – Trinity, Asheville The Rev. Toby Summerour – Good Shepherd, Cashiers Cliff Hudgins - Christ Church, Sparta Diocesan Treasurer Jack Parsons

Bishop José A. McLoughlin leads the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina along with a handful of staff that operate from Asheville and locations across the diocese. Office of the Bishop and Bishop's Staff Not sure whom to contact? Use our general Contact Form located here . The Rt. Rev. José A. McLoughlin Bishop The Rt. Rev. José A. McLoughlin is the 7th Bishop of the Diocese of Western North Carolina. He is the chief pastor of the diocese and visits a different congregation almost every Sunday. Contact the Bishop The Rev. Canon Augusta Anderson Canon to the Ordinary and Chief of Staff Canon Augusta assists the bishop with general oversight of the diocese. Get in touch with her if you have questions about parish property transactions, church transitions, leadership development, or parenting four children and three pets with a sense of humor. Contact Augusta Carol Tannenbaum Chief Financial Officer Before joining the diocese, Carol served as the Corporate Director of Finance for BayCare Health System, a large mission-based not-for-profit healthcare organization in Florida. She earned her Master's in Business Administration and Bachelor of Business in Accounting from Kennesaw State University in Atlanta and she currently holds a CPA license in Tennessee. Carol is excited to serve the people and churches of the diocese. Contact Carol The Venerable Brenda Gilbert Archdeacon The Archdeacon is a deacon of the diocese who is appointed by, responsible to, and with access to the Bishop. The Archdeacon is the liaison between the Bishop and the deacons in the Diocese, which includes but is not limited to advocating for deacons, assisting the bishop in addressing the pastoral needs of deacons, and assisting the deacons and Bishop in arranging and maintaining parochial assignments. The Archdeacon is also involved in the discernment process for deacons as well as deacon formation. Contact Brenda Jessica Ives Executive Assistant to the Bishop Jess manages Bishop José’s calendar and visitation schedule and assists with diocesan committees such as Executive Council and Commission on Ministry. Contact Jess if you need to make an appointment with the bishop, have questions about the discernment process, clergy licensing, or canonical transfers. Contact Jess Eden Lewis Director of Lifelong Christian Formation Eden assists the Bishop with overseeing Christian faith formation for the diocese, by supporting all ministries with children, youth, young adults, and adults. She works to equip and empower our congregations, lay and clergy leaders, providing collaborative working groups, initiating new ideas, and bringing innovative programs, resources, and events to the diocese. Contact Eden Charlotte Garcia Coordinator for Children, Youth, and Family Ministries Charlotte oversees Christian formation for middle school youth, high school youth and young adults. She coordinates (with the help of youth and youth ministers) programs such as conferences, mission trips, and pilgrimages for middle school and high school youth. She also oversees the youth council and deanery events. Contact Charlotte Katie Knowles Missioner for Communications With a background working in music education, photography, and brand work, Katie brings a love for art, story-telling, and community-building to her role in communications. She grew up in Bradenton, Florida, but has called Black Mountain, NC her home for over a decade. She and her wife McKayla are parishioners of St James in Black Mountain. In her free time, you can find Katie playing music, planning her next travels, or hiking with her wife and their dog. Contact Katie The Rev. Oscar Rozo Diocesan Missioner for Latino Ministries The Rev. Oscar A. Rozo was born in Bogotá, Colombia. During his first years in the Episcopal Church he served as musician for the Latino ministry at Grace and camp counselor for the diocesan summer camp. He attended seminary and received his Master of Divinity degree from Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, VA. He is married to the Rev. Elizabeth Tester and together they have two children.He is passionate about social justice, multicultural ministry, and community development. He enjoys playing and listening to music, hiking and family time. Contact Oscar The Rev. Miguel Alvarez Regional Missioner for Latino Ministries Father Alvarez ministers to several growing Hispanic congregations in our diocese. Padre Alvarez is from Tabasco, Mexico and his last assignment was in Santo Tomas, Las Vegas NV. Contact Miguel The Rev. Anna Shine Campus Missioner, PECM App State and Missioner for Creation Care & Social Justice at St. Luke's, Boone Anna serves as the Campus Missioner to Appalachian State University, working with the undergraduate students through the Presbyterian Episcopal Campus Ministry (PECM) as well as serving as the coordinator for 3rd Place. In addition, she serves as the Missioner to Creation Care and Social Justice at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Boone. She aspires to walking alongside others in their faith journeys and delving into the deep questions of faith and life. She considers part of her job to be a collector, keeper, and purveyor of story, which started early on with her appreciation for the stories from Godly Play. Her passions include any and all things related to stewarding and caring for the planet and all that inhabit it. Contact Anna The Rev. Gaelyn Evangreene Campus Missioner to Western Carolina University The Rev. Gaelyn Evangreene is the rector of St. David’s, Cullowhee and Campus Missioner for Western Carolina University, a ministry focused on spreading God’s love and the inclusivity of that love which can be found in the Episcopal Church. Gaelyn is also on staff at the Wild Goose Festival, where she handles administration, finance, and worship. She loves running, watching her daughter play basketball, murder mysteries, and being outside in the mountains of WNC with her wife, Sarah. Contact Gaelyn The Rev. Kevin Todd Director of Blue Ridge Service Corps The Rev. Kevin Todd is the rector of St. Paul's Edneyville and interim director of Blue Ridge Service Corps. Kevin spent several years working as a palliative care chaplain after graduating from Duke Divinity School. Kevin began serving on the board of Blue Ridge Service Corps in the spring of 2021. He looks forward to continuing this phenomenal work and is excited to journey with corps members through their program year. He and his family have called Hendersonville home for ten years, and during that time, Kevin has worked at the intersection of food insecurity and community building. Contact Kevin Lewis Sorrells Office Assistant and Receptionist Lewis serves as the office assistant at the bishop's office, answering calls and keeping things organized. A genuine native of WNC, Lewis grew up in Haywood County. He graduated from Carson Newman College with some further study at Vanderbilt University. He had a 40-year career as a bookseller and bookstore owner in Asheville, operating Accent On Books for 30 years until retiring in 2014. An active member of the Cathedral of All Souls since 1977, he has served in many capacities as a vestry member, senior warden, usher, and committee chair. He currently chairs the Altar Guild. Lewis is married to Christine Longoria and has a daughter Rachel and a son Franklin, both longtime Camp Henry attendees and counselors. There are now four grandchildren. He can most often be found in the garden or out on a hike. Contact Lewis The Rev. Kelsey Davis Bishops Deputy for Disaster Response and Recovery The Rev. Kelsey Davis serves as the Bishop’s Deputy for Disaster Response and Recovery. Many of you know Kelsey from her years as the Director of Blue Ridge Service Corps and Campus Missioner at UNCA and Western Carolina University. Kelsey brings years of experience and training in community engagement and organization, which is essential to this role. Kelsey’s gifts in building and sustaining healthy relationships across the various sectors of our communities will be invaluable to all of us in our work. Contact Kelsey Laura Elliot Executive Director of Lake Logan Conference Center Fueled by her passion for community-building and transformative work, Laura brings nearly thirty years of experience in the fields of education, outdoor recreation, and nonprofit leadership. Laura was born and raised in the Episcopal Church in Eastern NC and has now called Western North Carolina home since 1999. She and her wife Jenny are members of St. Andrews on the Hill in Canton, NC and live at Lake Logan with pups Nola, dock diver extraordinaire and Layla, queen of the Gazebo trail. When not working you can find Laura in the woods or on the water, spending time with family and friends, playing music, traveling for learning and adventure, and “being ever curious about the world around us”. Laura brings with her the pursuit of life-long learning and the ability to show up as a transformational, vision- and mission-driven leader – cultivating love, joy, connections, and community. Contact Laura Margaret Love Executive Director of Valle Crucis Conference Center Margaret is a native of Columbia, South Carolina and holds a BA in History from Davidson College. She has worked in conference planning, education and training, and grants management for nearly 20 years, and has extensive experience in working with boards of directors, fiscal management, human resources, and professional education and training. She has been fortunate to have lived in Anchorage, Alaska; North Yorkshire, England; and most recently, a suburb of Detroit, Michigan. Margaret and her husband share a household with two young children and a rotating cast of dogs, cats, fish, and frogs. She can answer questions about new and existing reservations, marketing, programming, newsletters, social media, history, or general information. Contact Margaret Linda Knowlton Benefits Administrator Prior to this role, Linda served as Vice President of Client Services at Church Insurance Agency for 26 years. In her current role, Linda oversees pension, health and dental coverage, group life insurance, and disability benefits for the diocese. She also supports Institutional Administrators working within the Church Pension Group’s MAP system. Linda lives in Hickory with her husband, Dave. They have three grown daughters and five grandchildren. Outside of work, she enjoys beekeeping and gardening—spending much of her free time in the apiary and among her plants. Contact Linda

We are the Episcopal Church in the 28 counties of the westernmost portion of the state, with more than 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations, six summer chapels, and two conference centers. It's a vibrant and exciting place to live and work and experience the glory of God's creation. We are the Episcopal Church in the 28 most western counties of North Carolina, with more than 15,000 members contributing to 63 year-round congregations, five summer chapels, two conference centers, a summer camp, Deerfield Retirement Community, and Christ School. It's a vibrant and exciting place to live and work and experience the glory of God's creation. The Episcopal Church in Western North Carolina WALK IN THE WAY OF JESUS. CHANGE THE WORLD. Learn About Our Diocese Exploring Our Churches From the mountains to the foothills, in cities and towns throughout Western North Carolina, our churches offer something for everyone. Learn More Empowering Youth and Young Adults Youth are more than just our future—they are our present. We invite youth and young adults to participate fully in the life of the Church. Learn More Telling Our Stories Evangelism through storytelling. We believe that we can walk the Way of Love through sharing the stories of our unique and diverse diocese. Learn More Barrier Breakers: The Pilgrimage "Barrier Breakers: The Pilgrimage" is a pilgrimage celebrating and amplifying the stories of historically black parishes in the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina. Learn More Stay Up-To-Date Subscribe to our mailing list to stay up to date with the latest news from our diocese and parishes. Have news you want to share? Email our Missioner for Communication . Download the Diocesan Seal Click image to download.

Job Openings On this page you will find job openings at parishes around the Diocese of WNC. If you have a job opening to share, please contact our Missioner for Communications . If you have an update to your listing following Helene please contact Katie ASAP. Full-Time Jobs Business & Accounting Manager Lake Logan Conference Center LEARN MORE Associate Rector PARISH: St. John in the Wilderness, Flat Rock LEARN MORE Part-Time Jobs Pianist/Organist PARISH: St. Mary & St. Stephen's, Morganton LEARN MORE Organist/Church Musician PARISH: St. Luke's, Asheville LEARN MORE Organist/Pianist PARISH: Grace, Morganton LEARN MORE

Disaster Response & Relief Hub We are grateful for the support and partnership of Episcopal Relief and Development. On this page, you can find ways to help and get help as we recover from natural disaster in our region. 1/1 DONATE NOW STORIES & MEDIA CONTACT VOLUNTEER INFO Our Mission Leverage the gifts of our congregations, donors, and partners to support the recovery of impoverished and marginalized people affected by natural disasters in our region through building relationships and stewarding resources that center dignity and quality work at a sustainable pace for long-term recovery efforts. Our Values Dignity & Respect, Professional Quality Standards Relationships Sustainable Pace Stewardship Resources & Preparedness Resource Center Church Preparedness Local Parish Mental Health Support Feeling overwhelmed, distressed, anxious? You are not alone—help is a text or call away. The National Disaster Distress Helpline is a valuable resource for our VOAD network and accessible 24/7 for responders, support teams, volunteers—for you, however and wherever you may support in the disaster/humanitarian sector. Simply text or call 1-800-985-5990 Para ayuda en español, opríma el numero “2”. For more information, visit samhsa.gov/ddh Jada Bryson has offered free spiritual direction during this time. Contact her at Northernstar.direction@gmail.com Diocese of Western North Carolina Give directly to our relief fund to directly support our diocesan recovery efforts. DONATE Episcopal Relief & Development: ERD is a critical partner to us in our recovery. Funds collected will be used for long-term relief efforts as well as emergency grants, which are for churches in affected areas that are in a position to respond to needs in their local community. DONATE Donate Financially Disaster Response Team The Rev. Kelsey Davis Read More Bishop’s Deputy for Disaster Response and Recovery Archdeacon Brenda Gilbert Read More Assistant Coordinator for Donations and Volunteers Mr. Dan Gilbert Read More Assistant Coordinator for Logistics and Technology Oscar Rozo Read More Latino/Hispanic Community Support Lucas Heilig Read More Fellow for Disaster Response & Recovery Jennifer Gutierrez Read More Family Liaison Coordinator McKayla Knowles Read More Family Liaison Coordinator Tony Coggiola Read More Field Consultant & Advisor Volunteer Mark Corson Read More Staff Assistant to Bishop's Deputy Volunteer Read More Maggie Tilley Public Relations & Communications Advisor The Disaster Response Team shares an email address. Contact them Here

Clergy Resources Back In this section, you will find resources that are unique to the life and work of ordained leaders. Bishop Visitation Forms and Information Visitation Schedule (2025) Visitation Form (return before visit) Confirmation Certificate (return after visit) Bishop's Customary Canonical Residency – transferring in & transferring out Rectors and Priests-in-Charge of churches should apply for canonical residency as soon as they arrive and begin working in the Diocese of Western North Carolina. Clergy who are moving to serve a new church in another diocese should submit the Request for Letters Dimissory to the Bishop’s office as soon as possible. Requirements for Canonical Residence Application for Canonical Residence Request for Letters of Dimissory Clergy Leave-taking and Resigning When a priest (rector, interim rector, assistant, or associate) or a deacon leaves a parish, whether to accept another cure or to retire, it is important to establish a healthy “goodbye” so that all parties can move faithfully into their next chapter of ministry. Please see the link below to guidelines that will equip clergy and the congregation in this process. Guidelines for Clergy Leave-taking Helpful “to-do” List before leaving Policy on Clergy Leave-taking Clergy Licensing To be licensed or to receive a renewal, please review the Requirements for Licensing below and complete the Annual Application and Report Form. Sexual Misconduct Prevention Training (both the child and adult workshops) must be current within 5 years. If you’re uncertain when you last took the training, please contact Augusta Anderson . We will not relicense clergy without current training. Click he re for information on misconduct prevention training. Clergy who have previously received training are eligible to take online training. Contact Augusta Anderson for an online training guide and password. Requirements for Clergy Licensing Annual Application and Report Form (PDF) Annual Application and Report Form (online) Deacons Helpful information for Deacons in the Diocese. View the resources > Deans List Co ntact our office to receive a current list of the Deans in our diocese. Disciplinary Process Clergy have, by their ordination vows, accepted additional responsibilities and accountabilities for doctrine, discipline, worship, and obedience. This process of accountability, as set out in Title IV of the Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church ("Title IV"), seeks to promote justice, restitution, amendment of life, repentance, healing, forgiveness and reconciliation among all involved or affected by clergy misconduct. Should you have any questions or concerns, see the links below or contact the Canon to the Ordinary . Clergy Standards of Conduct Reporting Concerns Directory of Clergy The Bishop and Clergy of the Diocese of Western North Carolina value and celebrate their camaraderie and collegiality as partners in ministry. To continue to foster and nurture relationships and collaboration, clergy directories are provided. These directories are password protected to safeguard personal information. Please contact Augusta Anderson if you are a member of clergy who needs the password. View the Clergy Directory > Events View Upcoming Events > Funeral Planning Guide This guide is intended for clergy as they make decisions for their own end of life plans. This guide will equip the Bishop to provide pastoral care to the clergy’s family following the priest or deacon’s death. Should you have any questions, please contact the Bishop’s office . Here’s the link to the Funeral Planning Form > Lay Licensing Strong lay leadership is a vital, central and intentional hallmark of the Diocese of Western North Carolina. Lay people exercise a wide variety of ministries in the church and in the world. Some particular lay ministries require a license from the Bishop of Western North Carolina. View Lay Licensing Information > Marriage Forms Christian marriage is an extraordinary gift of God, in which a couple are called to live in the saving grace of Christ, enriched, guided and sustained by the Holy Spirit, in communion with the community of the Church (Canon I.18-19). The following forms are meant to be a pastoral support for those seeking Christian marriage. General Guidelines for the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony Declaration of Intention to Marry Application for Permission to Remarry Guidelines for Clergy from outside the Diocese Sabbatical Policy The Diocese of Western North Carolina encourages priests to take sabbaticals for the renewal and refreshment of the priest and the benefit of the parish. Download the policy here Spiritual Directors You may also want to include working with a Spiritual Director to nurture your spiritual life and journey. Here is a list of individuals who are available in Western North Carolina. Supply Clergy Clergy canonically resident or licensed in the Diocese of Western North Carolina are welcome to serve as supply clergy. If you are new to the diocese, and wish to supply, please contact the Canon to the Ordinary to schedule an appointment and complete the License to Serve Application and Report Form. (link to form provided above) Supply Clergy List Supply Clergy Honoraria Guidelines

WNC Disaster News & Stories On this page, you will find news and stories about the Disaster Response & Recovery Team's efforts and about the long-term relief work in the broader community. 1/1 External Media Publications Episcopal News Service - "Western North Carolina diocese's hard-hit areas still recovering nine months after Hurricane Helene. (June 30, 2025) LampLight - a publication produced by Episcopal Relief and Development. (March 2025) Episcopal News Service - an article highlighting the early triage stage in WNC, including quotes from Bishop José. (September 30, 2024) Mountain Xpress - "Historic Biltmore Village church to rebuild after first-time flooding." An article interviewing the Very Rev. Sarah Hurlbert about the flooding and rebuilding of The Cathedral of All Souls. (December 12, 2024) Videos Boone Chamber of Commerce "Messages of Hope" - Valle Crucis School Diocesan Communications Message from Bishop José: Update on Helene Recovery Work (April 22, 2025) - Video A Letter from Bishop José regarding the Wildfires (March 29, 2025) - Written Letter Message from Bishop José: Disaster Recovery Continues in WNC (November 25, 2024) - Video Message from Bishop José: Hurricane Helene (October 11, 2024) - Video

Nominations and Resolutions Convention Homepage Nominations Every year there are several opportunities for people to serve in leadership roles in the Diocese. You are invited to prayerfully discern for yourself or other individuals who may be called to offer their gifts and talents in service to the Church. The deadline for nominations is October 21, 2025 . Any late nominations will need to submit a PDF copy of the nomination form linked below, as well as a Motion to Suspend the Rule. At the appointed time, the Nominator needs to make a motion from the virtual floor of convention that the rules be suspended so that the nomination be considered and accepted. Offices to be Elected Memo Resolutions Every year members of the Diocese are welcome to submit resolutions for the business of the Diocese. It is essential for delegates to review resolutions prior to convention. Resolutions Memo SUBMIT RESOLUTION SUBMIT NOMINATION Quick Links Nominee Submission Form Resolution Submission Form List of Nominees 2024 (coming soon) View all 2024 Resolutions Elected Positions Nominations Memo 2024 Resolutions Memo 2024

Diocesan Convention The 103rd Annual Convention The Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina November 8, 2025 Christ School, Asheville We will be using the Whova App to facilitate voting, share documents, and stay connected during Convention. Please click the button to download the app, and email katie@diocesewnc.org with any questions prior to Convention. DOWNLOAD WHOVA Info and Registration for Convention LEARN MORE Whova Tutorials LEARN MORE Agenda LEARN MORE Nominations and Resolutions LEARN MORE Documents for the Business of Convention LEARN MORE Vestry Certificate of Election LEARN MORE Coming to Convention with Intentionality LEARN MORE Budget Road Tour LEARN MORE New Delegate Orientation LEARN MORE Meet our Convention Speakers LEARN MORE Hotel Accommodations LEARN MORE Summer Memo 2024 LEARN MORE

Christian Formation for Adults Spiritual formation breathes life and renewal into our relationship with God. As followers of Jesus, we seek ways to deepen our faith and to grow in love. While your parish offers classes and programs to inform and enrich the journey, below are other resources that offer opportunities for your spiritual growth. Spiritual Direction Work one-on-one with a spiritual director to nurture your spiritual life and journey. A spiritual director helps you explore your relationship with God and go deeper into the aspects of life that call to you. Here is a list of individuals who are available in Western North Carolina. Lake Logan Conference Center One of our diocesan Conference Centers, Lake Logan, offers year-round programs for formation and connection. Learn more and find upcoming programs at www.lakelogan.org Valle Crucis Conference Center One of our diocesan Conference Centers, Valle Crucis Conference Center, offers year-round opportunities for fellowship, lodging, and spiritual formation. Learn more at https://vcconferences.org/ Episcopal Cursillo Ministry Cursillo is a three day weekend spiritual renewal gathering, often described as a “short course on Christianity.” Through a series of conversations and meditation, a team of clergy and lay leaders facilitate reflections on discerning “what is fundamental for being a Christian” in our everyday lives. Another integral part of the weekend is community prayer and worship. Learn more at https://www.episcopalcursilloministry.org/ Episcopal Church Women ECW is a diocesan-wide organization with local parish chapters that support all women in their Mission and Ministry in the world. The vision of ECW is for all women of the Episcopal Church is that we become a vibrant blend of all ages, coming together as a peacemaking, healing part of the Church as the working hands of Christ. Learn more at https://www.ecwwnc.org/ Education For Ministry EFM is a program that provides theological education for lay people, nurturing their faith and equipping them to express that faith in day-to-day events. Learn more at https://efm.sewanee.edu/ The Living Compass Living Compass is a resource that equips individuals, families, congregations, and organizations with the tools and training for the journey toward wellness and wholeness. Learn more at https://www.livingcompass.org/ Way of Love Way of Love: Practices for a Jesus-Centered Life is more than a program or curriculum, it is an intentional commitment to a set of practices. It's a commitment to follow Jesus: Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, Rest. Learn more at https://www.episcopalchurch.org/way-of-love/ Find a Church in the Diocese of WNC Find a church that works for you in the Diocese of WNC! We serve over 60 parishes from Gastonia to Murphy NC. Learn more at www.diocesewnc.org/find-a-church eFormation Learning Community by Virginia Theological Seminary eFormation is a learning community for ministry in a digital world. They believe culturally savvy, digitally literate leadership skills are essential in every congregation and regional church body. eFormation is a ministry of Lifelong Learning at Virginia Theological Seminary, forming and equipping leaders for digital media for ministry since 2012. Learn more at https://eformationvts.org/

Clergy and leadership can check this list to see what is needed and happening in the diocese. Weekly Checklist for Church Leadership (Clergy, Wardens, Staff) Saturday & Sunday, August 2-3, 2025 Youth Council Leadership Training Retreat Monday, August 11, 2025 – 1:30 p.m. Clergy Zoom Check-in with Bishop José Saturday & Sunday, September 13-14, 2025 Middle School Conference Thursday, September 18, 2025 – 10 a.m. Clergy Zoom Check-in with Bishop José Thursday, September 25, 2025 Clergy One-on-Ones with Bishop José Friday, September 26 6:30-8:30 p.m. (Online) & Saturday, September 27 9:30-3:00 (In Person) Becoming Beloved Community/Dismantling Racism Workshop St. Mary's Episcopal Church, West Jefferson Breakfast snacks will be provided including coffee and tea. Please bring your own lunch, and let us know of any food allergies. REGISTER Oct. 4, 2025 Discernment Day For those considering ordination or lay ministry. October 13-15, 2025 Fall Clergy Conference More info coming soon. Saturday, October 18, 2025, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Anti-Bias Training Morning snacks will be available including coffee and tea. Lunch: bring your own or restaurants are nearby if people want to place a pickup order. Please let us know of any food allergies. REGISTER November 7-8, 2025 Diocesan Annual Convention More info coming soon. Tuesday, November 11, 2025 Clergy One-on-Ones with Bishop José November 14-16, 2025 High School Fall Conference February 22-24, 2026 Lenten Clergy Retreat

Deaneries of the Diocese Up Back to Our Leadership & Governance From the Piedmont to the Mountains, our diocese covers a diverse group of landscapes and communities. The Diocese is divided into six geographical regions designated as a deanery. One clergy leader is elected as Dean of each deanery and the Deans meet monthly with the Bishop to discuss and address diocesan affairs and local concerns. Learn more about our deaneries below: ASHEVILLE DEANERY The Rev. Robert Wetherington St. Mary's Episcopal Church, Asheville, NC rector@stmarysasheville.org Learn more about this deanery FOOTHILLS DEANERY The Rev. Karla Woggon Episcopal Church of the Ascension, Hickory, NC karla@ascensionhickory.org Learn more about this deanery HENDERSONVILLE DEANERY The Rev. J. Clarkson Calvary Episcopal Church, Fletcher jclarkson@calvaryfletcher.org Learn more about this deanery MOUNTAIN DEANERY The Rev. Andrew Hege St. Mary of the Hills, Blowing Rock, NC rector@stmaryofthehills.org Learn more about this deanery PIEDMONT DEANERY The Rev. Tara Bartal St. Peter by-the-Lake, Denver mthr.tara@spbtl.com Learn more about this deanery WESTERN DEANERY The Rev. Rob Wood Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, Cashiers, NC rwood.gs@gmail.com Learn more about this deanery

Formation Resources No matter what formation looks like, being together in community is a vital part of our lives as Christians. These resources are intended assist in formulating Formation opportunities even in the midst of these challenging times. Resources for Formation Godly Play Foundation Keeping Faith at Home with Children Lesson Plans that Work FORMA Vibrant Faith Forward Movement Recursos en español Looking for more resources? Youth Advent Lent & Easter Community-Building Resources Grow Christians Building Online Community The Art of Providing Spiritual Council Online Faith Formation Learning Exchange Building Beloved Community LGBTQIA Social Justice Recursos en español Episcopal Resources Church Publishing The Episcopal Church Foundation The Episcopal Church Foundation - Spanish Traveling the Way of Love Beloved Community

Meet Bishop José The Rt. Rev. Bishop José A. McLoughlin José Antonio McLoughlin was consecrated as the seventh bishop, and first Hispanic, of the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina on October 1, 2016. Prior to his election as bishop of the diocese of Western North Carolina, José served as the Canon to the Ordinary and Chief-of-Staff for the Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma since 2008. Previously, José served congregations in the dioceses of Southeast Florida and Virginia. Ordained in 2005, José earned his Master of Divinity from Virginia Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Central Florida. Prior to his call to the priesthood, José worked in the criminal justice field serving in the state of Florida as a police officer and in the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C. in various capacities, most recently as the special assistant/senior advisor to the assistant attorney general. Photo by Jim Dohms Since becoming the Bishop of the Diocese of Western North Carolina, Bishop José has declared, in many and various ways, that he hopes to be a different kind of bishop, and he particularly does not want to be remembered as a distantly-removed dignitary. While not disregarding the great traditions of the Church, Bishop José believes that changes are necessary in the ways the church ministers in our day, and many of those changes must originate from the ministry of the bishop. He believes in being an engaged bishop who is close to the people of the diocese and the clergy who serve them. He has committed to being fully involved in the church’s ministry with youth, minorities, and underserved populations. He is passionate about raising up a new kind of leadership for the church in our day. José and his wife Laurel have two children: Alexander and Alyson. Alex graduated from Oklahoma State University with a degree in sports media and a minor in Spanish. Alex and his wife, Rachel, live in Oklahoma City where Alex works for the Oklahoma City Baseball Club, the triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Alyson graduated from UNC Charlotte with a degree in criminal justice and a minor in religious studies and sociology. Alyson works and lives in Charlotte. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Bishop José is bilingual, and he enjoys listening to music, playing the drums, and studying 18th-century American history. A life-long aviation enthusiast, Bishop José is working on earning his private pilot’s license. View a welcome from Bishop José here. Visitation Forms and Information 2025 Visitation Schedule Visitation Form (online form — return before visit) Confirmation Certificate (online form — return after visit) Bishop's Customary

Documents for the Business of Convention Convention Homepage Documents will be posted as they are received. Please check back regularly. Reports Reports will be available after convention. Resolutions 2025 Resolutions for Diocesan Convention - coming soon Procedural Resolutions for the 2025 Diocesan Convention - coming soon Elected Leadership 2025 Nominees - coming soon Budget 2026 Proposed Budget - coming soon Additional Documents

Diocesan Partnership with Cuba For many years, multiple parishes in the Diocese of Western North Carolina have supported and built relationships with the Diocese of Cuba and its churches. Watch the video or read some of the reflections below to learn more! Want to donate to this ministry? Please select "Partners in Mission" and add "Cuba" as a memo. Thank you for your support of this ministry! Donate Now! If your church is interested in developing relationships with congregations in Cuba, there are several clergy and lay leaders who could assist you in identifying next steps. Contact the Canon to the Ordinary to learn more. Below are reflections and helpful words of wisdom from local parish leaders on their experiences in Cuba: A word from Jack Watson – St. James Episcopal Church, Hendersonville A word from Brent Norris – St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Asheville A word from David Henson – Trinity Episcopal Church, Asheville Clergy members of the Diocese of Cuba. Members of Trinity, Asheville helping paint the church of San Franciso de Asis, Cardenes The Right Rev. Griselda Delgado Del Carpio, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Cuba speaks at our Centennial Convention.

Financial Resources The Diocese of Western North Carolina is dedicated to helping provide financial resources as we look forward to the future of ministry. To find more information about diocesan Grants and Loans, please visit our Grants and Loans page or contact our Chief Financial Officer at cfocarol@diocesewnc.org Diocesan Financial Resources First Webinar on the CARES Act and Family First Act with CFO Carol Tannenbaum Powerpoint Presentation for First Webinar on CARES & Family First Acts Online Payment Resources Give+ - Use your mobile devise to make secure donations to any church VANCO - Everything you need to take electronic donations and stay connected Network for Good - Reach your fundraising goals with all-in-one donor management software Paypal - An easy online payment service to help keep all payments in one place Tithe.ly - Increase giving and engagement with tools built for churches and ministries Stripe - Build powerful and flexible tools for internet commerce Additional Options Regarding ACS - Read more about online giving options epending on a parish's use of ACS software Support Local Agencies Pisgah Legal Services - Pisgah Legal Services seeks to pursue justice by providing legal assistance and advocacy to help low-income people in Western North Carolina meet their basic needs and improve their lives. Red Door Ministry - This worship center offers basic resources, a safe haven and an accepting community to the homeless and under housed. Second Harvest Food Barn - Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina strives through education, advocacy, and partnerships to eliminate hunger by the solicitation and distribution of food. Samaritan Kitchen of Wilkes - Food pantry feeding the hungry in Wilkes Country, NC.

Discern God's Call for Ministry In the Episcopal Church, we believe that all people are called to ministry by virtue of baptism. The process of identifying, celebrating, and using our talents and gifts in the church and in the world is understood as “discernment.” The Diocese of Western North Carolina encourages leaders at the parish level to be companions on the journey of discernment with every lay member as they discover how they are called to participate in God’s redeeming work in the world. Sometimes individuals, alongside their congregation, discern gifts that may suggest a call to ordained ministry of a deacon or a priest in the church. The diocese desires ordained leaders who will equip our congregations to adapt to new realities and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in ways that speak to the varied contexts and cultures of our communities. Below, you will find documents you will need should you begin down the path of discernment. Commission on Ministry Manual Parish Lay Discernment Committee Manual Financial Costs of Pursuing Ordination Constitution & Canons, Title III Suggested reading for further discernment: For more information, contact the diocesan office at 828-225-6656. The Diocese of Western North Carolina is proud to be home to Iona WNC, a part of the Iona Collaborative , a consortium of dozens of Episcopal dioceses seeking to expand availability to a rigorous but accessible theological education. Click here to visit the Iona WNC page and learn more.

Volunteer Resource page providing a Virtual Guide for those who wish to come to Western North Carolina and support Helene Recovery efforts. Volunteer Resources 1/1 Virtual Volunteer Resource Guide After thoughtful and prayerful consideration, our diocese has decided to not facilitate volunteer groups. Learn more about that decision in this video from Bishop José. Instead, our team has created a Virtual Volunteer Guide, which you can access through the button below. In it you will find trusted recommendations for where you can volunteer, worship, eat, shop, and stay in your time in Western North Carolina. This PDF is complete with links to all of these resources. Please use it and share it with all who want to contribute to our recovery efforts. 1/1 Virtual Volunteer Resource Guide Towel Ministry For those interested in our Diocesan Towel Ministry, please visit our Towel Ministry Page.

Find a Church With breathtaking natural beauty and devoted communities, the Diocese of Western North Carolina is one of the fastest growing Dioceses in the country. Comprised of six deaneries, representing 15,000 Episcopalians, the Diocese of Western North Carolina supports regional and global mission efforts. Click on one of the areas below to learn more and see a list of churches. You may also use this standard map or the traditional list below, with churches listed in alphabetical order by deanery. Click here to download a PDF map of the diocese of WNC. Asheville Deanery Western Deanery Mountain Deanery Foothills Deanery Piedmont Deanery Hendersonville Deanery Use the search box to find a church, or scroll through the list, which is organized in alphabetical order by deanery.