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Lay Leader Licensing Please note: All of these ministries except for Eucharistic Ministers who do not take the sacraments out of the church are required to take some form of misconduct prevention training. For a guide on what types of training are acceptable for each ministry, please click here . Lay Leader Guidelines Catechist - Information & Application Eucharistic Minister - Information & Application Eucharistic Visitor - Information & Application Pastoral Leader - Information Preacher - Information Worship Leader - Information & Application

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.

Clean-Up Day at La Capilla

Agenda Convention Homepage Details for agenda items will be added as they become available. Remember to download the Whova app for voting and to make the most of the convention.

Camp Henry Day Camp at Grace Church in the Mountains

A Discussion on "Living Into God's Dream: Dismantling Racism in America" Use this guide to lead a group study on, "Living Into God's Dream, Dismantling Racism in America." Each week offers a new set of reflection questions and discussion opportunities. There are nine chapters in the book, so this is a 9-week study. When we did this study as a diocese, we had a series of discussions with Dr. Catherine Meeks of the Absalom Jones Center for Racial Healing to discuss how we can continue to Build Beloved Community together. Need a copy of the book? Click here to purchase. Click here to anonymously share your responses. Top of Page Find reflection questions for Chapter 1 Find reflection questions for Chapter 2 Find reflection questions for Chapter 3 Find reflection questions for Chapter 4 Find reflection questions for Chapter 5 Find reflection questions for Chapter 6 Find reflection questions for Chapter 7 Find reflection questions for Chapter 8 Find reflection questions for Chapter 9 WEEK ONE Chapter 1: Living Into God's Dream of Community by Luther E. Smith Jr. Discussion Questions: 1. "Racism persists because a large segment of the population benefits from it." Reflect upon this statement and list several ways you can see how segments of the population benefit from racism. How much thought have you given to this idea in the past? A few reflections: "Segments of the population benefit from racism through job hiring and promotions; education specifically public education; and ability to maintain a standard of life which includes access to healthcare, food and safety." "Indians and their lands, the Irish/Chinese/Blacks jailed to get free Labor, the cost of not caring for all in taxes and change." 2. If the transformation of hearts alone will not undo racism, what will? What other elements are needed to succeed in this challenging world? A few reflections: "Regardless of some being invested in racism, OUR jobs NOW are to come out of inaction. 'Be the change you wish to see in the world" - M. Gandhi'" "Systems that offer equal access to all. Interactions with others of different races outside of the workplace like church, clubs, teams. Get past relationships based on power dynamics. When is the last time a person of a different race visited you at home - to share a meal, coffee, etc? Being open and encouraging of our children to have relationships with people of different races. Be open to this ourselves. Speak out about anything in our systems that discourage the ability for diverse races to interact together." SHARE YOUR REFLECTIONS Chapter 1 WEEK TWO Chapter 2: Dissecting Racism: Healing Minds, Cultivating Spirits Discussion Questions: 1. What were you told about members of different racial or ethnic groups? What kinds of comments were made about members of different racial or ethnic groups in your household? Were there any racial or ethnic slurs or compliments or was yours a household where race wasn’t discussed, but only hinted at or acted out in innuendo? A few reflections: "Race was very rarely discussed in my household. My family and extended family are all white and grew up in middle class households. While they would discuss racism with me if I directly asked, the actual systemic elements of it were never fully discussed. Furthermore, I often noticed that race was unnecessarily included in stories--if I was being told a story of an interaction my family had with a white person, race was never mentioned, but if with a person of color, it was absolutely mentioned. Oftentimes, the interaction had the POC as the butt of the joke." 2. Where did you learn about race in school--was it from textbooks or teachers and what exactly did you learn? How did this information form your attitudes or feelings about your own ethnic or racial group and those from other racial or ethnic groups? A few reflections: "Ironically, though I attended a historically black high school, I found my education to be incredibly white-washed. The school had been transformed into a magnet school in the 90s, and had a majority white population despite being a historically black high school in a diverse neighborhood. We learned many overly glorified versions of American history, oftentimes neglecting to discuss slavery, taking land from the natives, and much more." SHARE YOUR REFLECTIONS Chapter 2 WEEK THREE Chapter 3: Why Is This Black Woman Still Talking About Race? Discussion Questions: 1. Do you have a story about a moment in your life that changes your viewpoint? If so, how did it change you? A few reflections: "I grew up in a very racially and ethnically diverse community in a northern city. It wasn’t until I started to travel south, that I realized how much emphasize is placed on race. It opened my eyes to how others have had different experiences than me and that I should do my best to be open and listen and acknowledge their experiences. And do what I can to share mine and the possibilities of being in communities where inclusion is the norm." "If I'm being entirely honest, it took having to travel outside of the country for me to truly recognize the privilege of my white skin. I was a student abroad (already an inherent privilege in itself) when I found myself the only white person in the room for the first time. That feeling of being "out of place" really got me thinking--why isn't this something I have experienced in my own country? I have never been the only white person in a room, I have never felt out of place for the color of my skin, I have never been treated differently because of it. My privilege was so ingrained in my day-to-day life I failed to truly recognize it until I was faced with even a small part of the opposite experience." 2. Why is the idea of race as an illusion a difficult one for Black people to embrace? A few reflections: To me, the idea of race being an "illusion" seems similar to the ill-conceived idea of "colorblindness." I hear so many people using this phrase, "I don't see color!" as a way to prove they are not racist, when in fact, the phrase discredits the experiences people inherently face because of the color of their skin. Rather, I think white people need to practice acknowledging the experiences of our brothers and sisters of color, "I see your color and it's beautiful, and I want to listen." SHARE YOUR REFLECTIONS Chapter 3 WEEK FOUR Chapter 4: Mama, It Is So Hard to Be Black in America Discussion Questions: 1. Why is it dangerous to the human psyche to allow small racist acts, so called microaggressions, go unchecked? A few reflections: "It is dangerous to allow microaggressions to go unchecked because if they are not brought to light, the assumption is that they are acceptable." 2. Is it difficult for you to engage in conversation about race with those outside of your race? Reflect upon the reasons for your experiences or discomfort. A few reflections: "It is not difficult for me to have discussions with people outside my race. However, it has only been in the past few years that race can be a topic of discussion across races. I think because it is very obvious that issues we thought were resolved or on the right track after the 60’s, only went under the radar. The diversity of ethnicities and races should be acknowledged, discussed and celebrated." SHARE YOUR REFLECTIONS Chapter 4 WEEK FIVE Chapter 5: Diary of a Spoiled White Guy Discussion Questions: 1. What do you think affected the author of this chapter the most as he learned about the reality of race? Think about the moments in your life that helped you to embrace the reality of race. A few reflections: When the author spoke about his time in Malaysia, that truly resonated with me. I too actually had a very similar experience--I went to visit friends in a small town in Malaysia, and found myself for the first time, not only the only white person in the room, but in the TOWN. It was suddenly extremely clear to me how much I took for granted in being a white person in my primarily white community back home and how I had never truly felt out of place for the color of my skin before. 2. What are some of the conflicts that you have had around issues of social justice and equality? SHARE YOUR REFLECTIONS Chapter 5 WEEK SIX Chapter 6: A White Lens on Dismantling Racism Discussion Questions: 1. With whom do you talk about racism or White privilege? If you are White, how and when do you talk about these issues when you are with just White friends? Is the conversation different when you are with people of color? If so, why and how does noticing that difference make you feel? A few reflections: I am a person of color. Within the past few years, I have had conversations about racism and White privilege. Usually as a result of a training or something in the news. I have some friends with which I have very natural, open conversations. These conversations are two-way and respectful of what is being shared and the feelings that sometimes surface. 2. If racism is an exploitative system set up by White people, maintained by White people, and benefiting White people, who has the primary responsibility for dismantling it? If White people have a primary responsibility for dismantling structural racism, what is a primary responsibility for people of color? SHARE YOUR REFLECTIONS Chapter 6 WEEK SEVEN Chapter 7: Architects of Safe Space for Beloved Community Discussion Questions: 1. What interesting coincidences have happened in your life that might have led you to greater congruence between soul and the role that you play in life? 2. When have you been confronted with your own unconscious prejudice? How did you deal with it? SHARE YOUR REFLECTIONS Chapter 7 WEEK EIGHT Chapter 8: The American South is Our Holy Land Discussion Questions: 1. What thoughts and feelings are provoked within you when thinking about the American South as the Holy Land? 2. "Facts don't fly high enough or reach deep enough. Poetry riding on melody is necessary," proclaims the author of this chapter as he describes the Holy Land for the United States which is the American South. Why does music help make sense of the comparisons that are being made between the American South and the biblical Holy Land? SHARE YOUR REFLECTIONS Chapter 8 Chater 9 WEEK NINE Chapter 9: Getting Dismantling Racism Right in America Discussion Questions: 1. This chapter tells the story of the Dismantling Racism Commission in Atlanta. What do you know about the work of dismantling racism which is occurring in your community? Who is charged with doing this work? Have you been involved in doing such work? 2. What do you believe could be the hardest part of having conversations about race such as the ones that you would expect to have in a dismantling racism workshop? SHARE YOUR REFLECTIONS Share your response... What chapter are you reflecting on? Thanks for submitting! Submit Share Your Response

Our Leadership & Governance The Diocese of Western North Carolina is governed by the Constit ution and Canons of The Episcopal Church and the Constitution and Canons of the Diocese . Authority of the Church in this diocese is vested in the bishop, the annual Convention of elected delegates and clergy, an elected executive council, an elected standing committee, and other canonically required committees. The business of the Diocese is conducted at an annual convention held in November. All canonically resident clergy are required to attend and each parish elects two delegates who attend. Both lay and ordained participate in deliberations and vote on a variety of resolutions, including the budget . Finally, the Diocese is divided into six geographical regions designated as deaneries. One clergy leader is elected as Dean of each deanery and meets monthly with the Bishop to discuss and address diocesan affairs and local concerns. Our Canons Our Constitution TEC Constitution and Canons LEARN MORE Annual Convention LEARN MORE Annual Convention LEARN MORE Committee on Constitutions and Canons LEARN MORE Executive Council LEARN MORE Executive Council Finance Committee LEARN MORE LEARN MORE Standing Committee LEARN MORE Standing Committee LEARN MORE Deaneries LEARN MORE Deaneries The Episcopal Foundation of WNC LEARN MORE LEARN MORE The Disciplinary Board

Origins The Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina acknowledges the past and present members of the Indigenous communities that once occupied this land and were harmed and expelled by settlers: The Catawba (Issa, Essa, Iswa) and Cherokee (Tsalagi) nations. We stand in solidarity with all marginalized communities and condemn the acts of racism and ignorance towards any of our brothers and sisters in Christ. We are dedicated to the work of dismantling racism and building Beloved Community. Visit our Unlearning Library. Any history of The Episcopal Church in Western North Carolina must begin with an acknowledgement that prior to the arrival of Christian settlers, the Catawba and Cherokee Nations called the southern Appalachian region home for centuries. The Catawba lived in the Piedmont and Foothills region of North Carolina and the Cherokee were just west throughout the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains. With the arrival of European newcomers in the late 16th – 17th centuries, conciliatory trading relationships and military alliances were forged. The expansion of Europeans into what would eventually become our diocese progressed slowly through the 18th century. English settlers, mostly German, Scottish and Irish immigrants moved westward through the Piedmont, overtaking the native populations. The Cherokee and Catawba continued to control their territories through most of the first half of the 18th Century, much of which would become the Diocese of Western North Carolina. Undesirable farming land in the Western Piedmont and the ever-increasing European population resulted in encroachment on Cherokee and Catawba territory. The conflicts increased with the French and Indian War, with England respecting the Cherokee claim to the Great Smoky Mountains. The treaty was largely ignored by the European settlers who built homesteads in Cherokee land. In 1776, North Carolina militia joined with militia armies from South Carolina and Virginia and together they invaded the Cherokee Nation in the campaign known as Rutherford’s Trace. The militias destroyed more than 40 native towns including food storage and sacred places, and some natives were taken as slaves. The Cherokee never recovered their control of their tribal lands, and the European migration increased. In 1830, with the federal Indian Removal Act, most of the remaining Cherokee in Western North Carolina were forcibly moved west to Oklahoma during the Trail of Tears. A small remnant of the Cherokee, who were able to avoid being removed, came to be known as the Eastern Band of the Cherokee and, over time, were able to purchase the land now known as the Qualla Boundary, in and around Cherokee, NC. The Catawba, largely decimated by small-pox and tribal warfare by the beginning of the 19th century, ceded their homeland to the state of South Carolina in 1840. <<< Previous Page Next Page >>> Origins LEARN MORE Origins LEARN MORE LEARN MORE Settlement Period LEARN MORE Settlement Period LEARN MORE Mountain Missionary Spirit LEARN MORE Mountain Missionary Spirit LEARN MORE Becoming a Diocese LEARN MORE Becoming a Diocese LEARN MORE Repairing a Breach LEARN MORE Repairing a Breach LEARN MORE Expanding the Circle LEARN MORE Expanding the Circle

Liturgy & Worship Resources Back The following are external links to online liturgy and worship resources. Prayer Resources The Book of Common Prayer The Revised Common Lectionary – text of upcoming Sunday Bible readings. The Daily Office -Morning and Evening Prayer for the current week, complete with lectionary readings and canticles. http://www.missionstclare.com http://dailyoffice.org/ Anglican Cycle of Prayer Cycle of Prayer Diocesan Cycle of Prayer (2025–2026) Forward Day by Day Lectionary Page - A Liturgical calendar with links to the lessons for Sundays and major Holy Days. Music Resources Anglican Online Hymnal Material in the public domain from four Anglican hymnals, including Hymnal 1979, organized both according to the Christian year and theological topics. Includes additional information about the texts. Oremus Hymnal - Over 950 Christian hymns and Gospel songs from a variety of denominations. Includes lyrics, sound, background information, photos, links, and downloadable MIDI files. Bible Resources Bible Gateway - Offers many versions in languages including Greek and Hebrew, with excellent search capabilities, both for chapter and verse searches and for keyword and phrase searches. Available at no cost. Oremus Bible Resource includes comparisons of versions including the NRSV.

Up Bearing Witness We invite you to encounter 14 Stations of Witness — a pilgrimage of photos and stories collected from across our diocese. These 14 stations echo the sacred tradition of the Stations of the Cross, reminding us that bearing witness is a holy and courageous act. Please note that, while most photos directly tie to the story they are shown with, some are taken by someone else and curated to match that story. The Rev. Canon Augusta Anderson Canon to the Ordinary That first night it was so dark. The electric grid had been destroyed. We scrambled to find flashlights and candles to bring some light into the devastation and fear. At some point I realized that it was the small points of light that were going to help us recover. For some, it was a single candle that brought first responders and saved their lives. For others, it was a small campfire in someone’s driveway that brought neighbors together to share food, comfort, and encouragement. For me, it was the stars in the night sky. For a week, before electricity was restored, I could see the holy gift of light twinkling against the dark reminding me that even when things feel bleak, God is ever-present, ever-loving, ever-merciful. Photography: Katie Knowles Craig Setzer Black Mountain The early days of Helene were bizarre. I remember leaving my house for the first time after about a day. When I drove around to check on friends at their houses, it took me four or five times longer than usual because trees were down on most streets in my neighborhood—trees blocking the road, trees that had fallen on houses, trees blocking access to and from homes. I would try a back way to get to someone, and more trees would be down. It was really challenging. At that point, the only resource we had was ourselves and our neighbors, so we grabbed our chainsaws and got to work. I helped friends, neighbors, and strangers alike cut up trees and move them out of the way. It made me realize that even the most basic necessities like road access were a huge blessing. Photography: Katie Knowles The Rt. Rev. Bishop José A. McLoughlin VII Bishop After Helene hit, I remember searching for any cell signal to contact family, clergy, and diocesan staff. Within the first week, I went on the air with 570 WWNC radio to give updates on our parishes, to share resource information, and to offer messages of hope and shared humanity. When our usual means of communication—cell phones, social media, and the internet—were stripped away, we witnessed something both humbling and holy. Radios crackled to life, handwritten notes were passed from hand to hand, and neighbors knocked on doors just to check in. At the heart of it all was a deep, God-given impulse to connect, to care, to be present with one another. The creativity and determination people showed reminded me that even in silence, God's Spirit moves among us, drawing us together. In the absence of digital noise, we rediscovered the sacredness of human connection. Photography: Heather Davis The Rev. Toni Belhu Rector at St. Francis & St. Gabriel's, Rutherfordton Early Sunday morning (September 29), the power came on at St. Francis. I was able to send a … message to St. Francis... and St. Gabriel’s letting everyone know there would be Sunday service as usual at St. Francis and that the Parish House at St. Francis would be open that day for anyone who needed to charge phones, use the WiFi, or just needed a hot cup of coffee from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm. We were fortunate that our Music Director, Steven Noll, was able to drive over from Hendersonville, and that Richard and Stephanie Williams, parishioners at St. Francis, were able to come across the street. Richard was the preacher that day. We had ingredients to make quesadillas at the Parish House so anyone who came by was able to be fed, and we gathered all the snacks we had around to give out, too. Beginning Monday morning, we again opened the Parish House at St. Francis for anyone who needed power to charge or needed WiFi... We made sandwiches to give out along with the snacks and drinks. On Wednesday, we gave out hotdog meals at St. Gabriel’s so those who normally would pick up on Wednesday at the Soup Kitchen were still able to receive a meal. On Thursday and Friday, we fried fish all day long and were able to feed anyone who came by along with those at the local hotel. We were also able to share some of the fish we had with St. Paul’s in Edneyville... We continued to receive deliveries over the next few weeks of supplies and clothes, and we continued to give out anything we had here at St. Francis... We are thankful for our lay leadership and the support of the parishes. We thank God who sustains us in our time of need and in our time of plenty. Photography: Katie Knowles The Rev. Kelsey Davis Bishop's Deputy for Disaster Response When our power went out, I remember opening and closing the refrigerator as quickly as possible to preserve the cool air. After a few days, our refrigerator was no longer cool. Our two year-old is Type 1 Diabetic. As her insulin warmed, a clock began to count down on how long the insulin would last. With no pharmacy, closed roads, and little cell service, we turned to a neighbor, who mapped us a route to Georgia. With half a tank of gas, prayers, and determination, we made it to family, resources, and a pharmacy. Unable to transfer our prescription, I pleaded with a local pharmacist. An hour later, she slid three vials of insulin across the counter. No cost. No questions asked. When I asked our two-year-old what she wanted to offer to kids back in North Carolina, she told us she wanted them to have diapers and wipes. So, we purchased diapers and wipes from the same Walmart that gifted us insulin. She helped us pack up the supplies, and I drove them back home a few days later. Living through this disaster has solidified for me: God is present in the cycles of giving and receiving. We all have something we need to receive, and we all have something to give. Ultimately, there's enough to go around when we share what we can with each other. Photography: Kelsey Davis Zebbi Sampler Hendersonville We lost our home due to downed trees. We were able to salvage most of our items, but our youngest son lost 90% of his belongings... My husband and I are still dealing with the trauma, grief, and pain of losing our home of 12 years... It’s easy to go through the motions and deal with everyone else’s trauma. Being accountable for our own was a little harder to do. We have never felt more connected as a family and more loved by our community than we do now. We have always been the caretakers and support system for others, but we never had to have that support for ourselves. We now have a first-hand experience of what it’s like to share grief and call upon our community for action and support. Photography: Katie Knowles The Rev. David Hensen Rector at St. James, Hendersonville Before cell service got too spotty ... I sent a message to a fellow priest and friend, Fr. Brad Landry, of All Saints Birmingham, and asked for help - supplies and assistance. Their response was nothing short of amazing. “Just tell us what you need and absolutely we will,” he replied. A member of the parish was a pilot, and within less than a week they had shopped for thousands of dollars’ worth of relief goods, water, and even heavy-duty chainsaws. They filed a flight plan, set to arrive the Tuesday after the storm, which would be the first of two flights and one large land-based delivery. Brad was the first person I had seen from outside the disaster area. I remember hugging him in gratitude—not just for the supplies, but for his companionship. In the midst of what felt like hell, we caught a glimpse of a world made right: the kingdom of God, where everyone had enough, no one wanted too much, and every stranger became a neighbor to love. More than anything else, I witnessed God’s abundance through the overflowing generosity of friends, neighbors, and parishes from around the region who showed up and said, “Let me help. Here am I. Send me!” Small gifts and simple gifts were often the most meaningful—a fresh bunch of bananas, a grocery run, a hot homemade meal, a quick check or visit. Every offering mattered, and every gift matters. Photography: David Hensen Raymond Nordfors Spruce Pine On the 28th we checked the house, and we had no damage and neither did our neighbors. However, when we went exploring... we couldn’t believe what we saw. A few hundred feet below our lot there was a major landslide that was 100 feet across and took out everything for at least one hundred feet down the mountain... (Another) landslide at the largest waterfall obliterated the road, which was the only way in and out. There was no way we could get off the mountain. The neighbors joined together and met to strategize and make plans for finding a way off the mountain... Over the course of the next six days the six people that lived on the mountain cut down dozens of trees, took gravel from one of the neighbor’s yards to fill in the huge ruts in the driveway... so we could get to the logging road. Despite the destruction, or maybe because of it, we had a great deal of fun during our evening meals - the direness of the situation cemented our friendly acquaintances into true friendships. Once the driveway and road were semi-passable, the other two men set out in a four-wheel drive “gator” to see what was on the other side of the pasture. The other four people continued to try to fix the driveway and logging road... They followed the road for a while to find that there were multiple trees down on the dirt road and neighbors from the other side of the mountain trying to clear it away... Once that was done, not only did we finally have a way out, but we also had a few more friends. We thank God for putting us on the mountain with the other two couples. Photography: Katie Knowles The Very Rev. Sarah Hurlbert Dean, Cathedral of all Souls in Asheville I remember the smell of the mud, I remember the feeling of unsteadiness as I walked through our office. My body was unsteady, my heart and mind were unsteady. Making my way down the cluttered hallway to my office I saw the water had reached the ceiling. Everything was destroyed and yet one item of memorabilia remained - a six pack of canned water I got when doing Katrina relief work with my campus ministry students 20 years ago. Can this be real? That water connected me back to colleagues who had been where I was standing and that connection point became the stabilizer I needed to step forward with hope. Photography: Casey Clark McKayla Knowles Black Mountain Our wedding was scheduled for October 19th in Black Mountain. Then the storm came, and we wondered if we could still pull it off. We asked our friends, and they all said yes. I remember excitement that fizzled into exhaustion from long days collecting water and searching for cell signal to contact family. Hours and days and weeks were spent focusing on the most basic necessities for ourselves and our community. And then, a sacred 48 hours began. Our chosen family from near and far stepped in to help us carry excitement and joy again. Local farms donated flowers. Strangers offered tables and chairs. Friends rationed their leftover energy to hang string lights, build bouquets, bake cookies, and set tables. I remember the tension felt trying to create beauty while surrounded by destruction. And I remember things falling perfectly into place. We made commitments to love and support one another no matter what, inspired by the example of our community. Most importantly, we promised to do so with God’s help. Photography: Marissa Irene Photography The Rev. Dr. Robert Wetherington Rector at St. Mary's, Asheville With no water, power, or communications, the neighbors around the church began to gather in the back yard of one of our neighboring homes. In fact, it was at Bishop Henry’s previous residence that we all gathered. There we listened to radio transmissions and tried to make communication with friends and family. We shared food, water, and ready hands to help each other through the first couple of days... Connections through the various members of our community started with a few U-Haul vans with water, food, and cleaning supplies... Over the next two weeks, we received seven tractor trailers carrying 63,000 pounds each... In total, including the U-Haul trucks, we had nearly 500,000 pounds of food, water, personal hygiene, and household cleaning items desperately needed by the people in our area. At one point, we received so much bottled water that we had to store it in the lower level of the church, and the line of volunteers looked like sailors loading a battleship for deployment. As the last cases of water were set down, we were informed that the Asheville School System was working to reopen but needed drinking water for at least two weeks. We had that water. We began to shuttle water to the schools and delivered two weeks of water, based on the number of students, to all of the elementary schools and some of what was needed at the middle school. It was astounding the effort and creativity that took place during these efforts. On numerous occasions, volunteers commented to me how refreshing it was to see the church doing what we say we do. Photography: Robert Wetherington Heather Davis Asheville "Autumn, you glorious season, you" ( Oct 25, 2024) did i miss it... the raucous fanfare the effortless release the flocks of pilgrims donning cameras tipsy with altitude the geese flee the crowds honking goodbyes in the traffic overhead i must have missed it all of us twisting our hands dirty nail beds waiting on water to boil Photography: Katie Knowles Fr. John Roberts Rector at Church of the Transfiguration, Bat Cave After the storm, I noticed the pastoral care questions we often ask to check in on each other were anything but “normal.” Instead I found myself asking and answering questions that focused on simple human need - “do you have water, a place to sleep, access to medical care, enough food, are you safe, have you heard from…?” For me, the questions behind these questions were harder still - “why me, why us, what is dignity, what is the role of the church in the face of so much loss, death, and need, where are you God?” In answer, our little church tried to become home for those who had lost theirs, and the simple answer required was, “yes.” For months there was hardly room to grieve, the need to grieve was very real. Yet, I think I now understand the story of the people of God more than I ever have before: God is present and faithful to humanity when we are at our worst and our best. I’ve seen both in the year since Helene, and God is still here among us. Thanks be to God. Photography: Katie Knowles The Venerable Brenda Gilbert Archdeacon In the wake of Helene’s devastation, a simple truth began to anchor us: we could find something beautiful to look at, breathe deeply, and remember that God is with us. A quiet strength emerged with our community as we held onto that truth, reminding us that even in chaos, God’s presence provided an unwavering foundation. Photography: Katie Knowles Bearing Witness Card Set for Purchase We have created a limited amount of this exact set of stories and photos in a high quality card set. Each set contains the 14 stories - the photo on the front, and the story on the back. You may order for $10 through the link below. Cost offsets manufacturing and shipping costs, and additional proceeds will benefit the Disaster Response Fund. Order Bearing Witness Card Set Do you have a story to share? We would love to hear from you. We believe story-telling is a sacred art in which we find healing and beauty, often in the midst of suffering, and pass on wisdom to those that come after us. Please share your story through the button below. Share Your Story

Valle Crucis Conference Center Located on over 450 acres of mountain woodland and verdant farming valley, the Valle Crucis Conference Center is truly one of Earth's most beautiful places. With its beauty comes a sense of timeless spiritual grace that transcends denomination or faith tradition. The Valle Crucis Conference Center is located in the historic Mission School, featuring buildings dating from the late 19th Century and early 20th Century, nearly all of which are on the National Register of Historic Places. The Mission of the Valle Crucis Conference Center is to inspire by loving example and service those who break bread with us and share in the quest for spiritual renewal, Christian community and stewardship of this sacred place. Visit the Valle Crucis website. VALLE CRUCIS PHOTO GALLERY

Technology Resources Over the past few years, we have had to learn how to make many of our ministries as the church available virtually in order to reach a wider audience. As we recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and learn to navigate a more interconnected world than ever, we are glad to offer technology resources to assist parishes with live streaming, website upkeep, sound systems, and more. Check out the resources below, or email our Missioner for Communications at communications@diocesewnc.org to request a consultation. Click here to download our Technology Assistance Resource list. Please note: This list is constantly updated as we connect with new technology resources in the diocese. If you know a resource you believe should be on the list, please email communications@diocesewnc.org Helpful Articles: How to use Facebook Live: The Ultimate Guide - via HubSpot How to Broadcast a Facebook Live Event in 7 Easy Steps - via Tech Soup Offering Online Worship (A Simple Guide) - via Diocese of Chicago Technology Setup Help WATCH: Tech Talks from the Episcopal Diocese of WNC - 4 Parishes share their tech setups WATCH: Technology Walkthroughs from St. Mark's, Gastonia Live Streaming Software Connecting the Audio and Video Camera Setup Live Streaming with Facebook Live Setting up a Facebook Livestream Watch Out for Scams: WATCH: Safeguarding Our Parishes in the Technology Age - via Diocese of WNC Reporting Scams to Police - via NC Council on Aging Identifying Gift Card Scams - via Federal Trade Commission Tech-Help Videos Play Video Play Video 01:32:23 Safeguarding Our Parishes in the Technology Age Join our Missioner for Communications Virginia Taylor for a webinar all about keeping our parishes safe in the technology age. In this webinar, we explore common scams, dealing with trolling on the internet, setting safety parameters on Facebook and Instagram, and the basics of copyright. Find time stamps and a link to the Safeguarding Powerpoint below. ACCESS THE "SAFEGUARDING: POWERPOINT: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Cl8J8MH-Y3anA6SpK59PcrL0tfFDec3iDB0qhDUdC8A/edit?usp=sharing Time Stamps: Play Video Play Video 05:04 TECH TALK - Trinity, Asheville Associate Rector David Henson shares the technology that helps keep his parish running during the pandemic. From live streaming software to camera equipment, check out this breakdown to learn how Trinity Episcopal Church brings their services to their parishioners. Learn more about Trinity at https://www.trinityasheville.org/ EQUIPMENT MENTIONED IN THIS VIDEO: Livestream Studio: https://livestream.com/studio/ Panasonic Panasonic AW-HE40HK PTZ Camera: https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-AW-HE40HK-Camera-Output-Black/dp/B01CQUAQE6 PTZ Optics 20x SDI : https://www.amazon.com/PTZOptics-20X-SDI-Streaming-Camera-Simultaneous-Outputs/dp/B01BI79TM8 PTZ Optics 30x NDI: https://www.amazon.com/PTZOptics-30X-NDI-Broadcast-Conference-PT30X-NDI-GY/dp/B07D4PTFGD Asheville Technology Services: https://ashevilletechnologyservices.com/ WNC Audio Video: info@wncav.com, 828-222-0260 PanTiltZoom App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/pantiltzoom/id1223221763 Music via the Youtube Audio Library. Play Video Play Video 06:15 TECH TALK - St. Paul's, Wilkesboro Rector Stephanie Parker and parishioner Bill Hurd discuss their technology setup at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Wilkesboro, NC and how they connect with their parishioners both in-person and digitally. Learn more about St. Paul's at https://stpaulwilkesboro.org/ EQUIPMENT MENTIONED IN THIS VIDEO: Sony Handycam: https://www.amazon.com/Sony-HDRCX405-Recording-Handycam-Camcorder/dp/B00R5LH9HO/ref=asc_df_B00R5LH9HO/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=309836137809&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=13328542422409410496&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1020991&hvtargid=pla-318315137946&psc=1 PTZOptics 20x-SDI Gen2 Livestream Camera: https://www.adorama.com/pt20xsdigy.html?gclid=Cj0KCQjw7pKFBhDUARIsAFUoMDYEDQcDAJIWQOEiD8irW1aMqRI3iYDtWiAfPWEnLMJuEMaAybdle0waAuqEEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds&utm_source=nmpi-google-dsa Elgato Cam Link: https://www.cdw.com/product/Elgato-Cam-Link-video-capture-adapter-USB-3.0/5538461?cm_cat=google&cm_ite=5538461&cm_pla=NA-NA-Corsair_MY&cm_ven=acquirgy&ef_id=CjwKCAjwy42FBhB2EiwAJY0yQvoXzkCBz3yPDuLGuPBN-aLCusoRy_RRlVFVotOflQQbt4nHmn8prBoC4U8QAvD_BwE:G:s&gclid=CjwKCAjwy42FBhB2EiwAJY0yQvoXzkCBz3yPDuLGuPBN-aLCusoRy_RRlVFVotOflQQbt4nHmn8prBoC4U8QAvD_BwE&s_kwcid=AL!4223!3!359169857231!!!g!316290835560!!2050541224!79362327544 Vmix Livestream Software: https://www.vmix.com/ Yamaha TF1 16-Channel Mixer: https://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/yamaha-tf1-16-channel-digital-mixer/j20925000000000?cntry=US&cur=USD&utm_content=J20925000000000--Yamaha+TF1+16+Channel+Digital+Mixer&source=3WWRWXGS&gclid=CjwKCAjwy42FBhB2EiwAJY0yQkgiRnRDNlfZifk49W4-r7cQkZU1H30CtDX2WHX7y6wszKHFqPIBeRoCxf4QAvD_BwE Double Over Ear Microphone Headset: https://www.amazon.com/Pyle-Pro-PMHMS20-Headset-Omni-Directional-Microphone/dp/B003D2VT2K/ref=sr_1_17?dchild=1&keywords=headset+microphone&qid=1621440785&s=musical-instruments&sr=1-17 Play Video Play Video 04:19 TECH TALK - Grace, Morganton Grace, Morganton Rector Marshall Jolly and Director of Children and Youth Ministries Brittnay Deal discuss the technology used to help share Grace's services with the community during the pandemic and what they've learned along the way. Learn more about Grace, Morganton at http://www.gracechurchmorganton.org/ TECHNOLOGY MENTIONED IN THIS VIDEO Mevo Start Camera: https://mevo.com/products/mevo-start Mevo Camera App: https://mevo.com/pages/mevo-camera-app Allen and Heath PA 12 Input Mixer: https://www.allen-heath.com/ahproducts/pa12/ Earise T35 PA System with Wireless Mic: https://www.amazon.com/EARISE-T35-System-Wireless-Microphone/dp/B07VS7J4MM Play Video Play Video 03:36 TECH TALK - Transfiguration, Saluda Rector Chip Broadfoot took on a new task in 2020--tech whiz! Listen as he talks about Saluda's simple setup and what pieces of technology he uses to keep his parish connected even with a limited budget. EQUIPMENT MENTIONED IN THIS VIDEO: UBeesize 51" Extendable Tripod Stand with Bluetooth Remote for iPhone & Android Phone: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NWC3L95/ref=olp_aod_redir_impl1?_encoding=UTF8&aod=1 Cubilux Type C Lavalier Mic: https://www.amazon.com/Cubilux-Lavalier-Microphone-Recording-Interviewing/dp/B07ZQB2VF3 Google Pixel 4: https://www.amazon.com/Google-GA01187-US-Pixel-Black-Unlocked/dp/B07YMNLXL3 Yorkville M810-2 Mixer + Amp: https://www.amazon.com/Yorkville-M810-2-Mixer-2x400W-inputs/dp/B0069V40RI Tech Help Videos:

Public Health Resources These Public Health Resources can help you stay updated on the latest COVID-19 News. Check back regularly for any important updates. Mental Health Resources North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Article: Managing Your Overall Health National Alliance on Mental Health The National Child Trauma Stress Network Hope4NC Helpline (1-855-587-3463) National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-8255) Center for Disease Control Follow CDC on social media Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , Youtube Download/Print - "What You Need to Know" English , Spanish Download/Print - "What to do if you are sick" English , Spanish Download/Print - "Stop the Spread of Germs" English , Spanish World Health Organization Follow WHO on social media Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube NC Public Health Department Follow NCPH on social media Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube Episcopal Relief and Development Faith-based response to epidemics Remote Ministry WHAT YOU CAN DO Prepare Accordingly: Read CDC's Faith-Based and Community Organizations Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Checklist Read the full Red Cross, "Coronavirus: Safety and Readiness Tips for You" Coronavirus and Kids: CDC Update

Civil Discourse In an increasingly polarized and divided society, the capacity to productively talk about things that matter with family, friends and neighbors is not only a Gospel value but it is also essential for vital communities. The Diocese of Western North Carolina and many churches actively promote practices that promote civil discourse and teach the tools necessary for healthy conversations, proactive listening and compassion. Below are several resources to assist you and your congregation to integrate habits and attitudes that promote mutual understanding. The Civil Discourse Curriculum - created by the Presiding Bishop’s Office and the Office of Government Relations, this curriculum is designed “to help folks understand and practice civil discourse…and why it is so important to living out our Gospel call and solving the problems facing our communities, country and the world.” Talking About Things That Matter - created by the parish of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Boone, NC, this model comes out of "an awareness that our society is deeply divided, and it seems harder than ever to talk across those divides. We have seen this wider societal dynamic impact our congregational life, and our awareness of this division has awakened in us a deep desire to grow our capacity to have conversations about things that matter." Talking About Things that Matter -- An Introduction Baptismal Vows & Practices for Talking About Things That Matter Group Leader Instructions Conversation Prompts Practices for Talking About Things That Matter

Keeping our Churches Safe from Disaster and Violence The Diocese of Western North Carolina is committed to providing our parishes and institutions with the resources necessary in order to prepare for, respond to, and recover from any disaster that is a result of nature, industry, technology, or intention. In the event of a disaster, affected congregations and regions are encouraged to contact the Canon to the Ordinary who will be available to assist with any immediate diocesan support and coordinate with Episcopal Relief and Development. These resources are here to help you bring emergency readiness to your congregation and are adaptable to the size of your congregation. Getting Started The Diocese of Western North Carolina suggests seven key areas to focus on when addressing violence preparedness. Parish Planning Template A useful template for completing your church’s emergency preparedness plan. Active Shooter Response A guide to help your parish prepare an active shooter response . Disaster Relief Help for communities facing disaster.

Up Back to Our Leadership & Governance The Disciplinary Board The Disciplinary Board consists of five clergy and four laypersons (pursuant to Title IV of the Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church) nominated by the Ecclesiastical Authority and elected by the Convention of the Diocese. The Disciplinary Board serves as the court which guides the Ecclesiastical process of accountability and discipline for members of the clergy. For more information on the Disciplinary process & reporting, please find more information here . Members The Rev. Jonathan Stepp, President Mr. Allan Fullwood The Rev. David Henson The Rev. Judith Whelchel The Rev. Patty Mouer Ms. Jillian Fisher Ms. Jacque Dunbar The Rev. John Simpson Ms. Candace Mance, Church Attorney