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Spiritual Reflection READ: Always A Guest: Speaking of Faith Far From Home Barbara Brown Taylor offers a new collection of stories and sermons of faith, grace, and hope. REFLECT: Keep Watch With Me: An Advent Reader for Peacemakers This advent reader is a collaborative daily devotional from a diverse group of contributors. PRAY: Mandalas, Candles, and Prayer: A Simply Centered Advent Slow down, simplify, and add a burst of color to your Advent. The spiritual practice of coloring mandalas (circular designs), lighting candles, and praying regularly can help us stay centered on God during this busy time of year. LISTEN: Prophetic Voices: Preaching and Teaching Beloved Community Across our church and our society, we are having profound dialogues about race, truth, justice, and healing. Coming this Advent, Prophetic Voices: Preaching and Teaching Beloved Community explores where that dialogue intersects with our faith. Join us and our invited guests as we share prophetic voices and explore the readings for each week of Advent and Christmas Day through the lens of social justice. Formation Resources Journeying the Way of Love Advent Calendar Find daily reflections and activities to guide you through the Advent season in this calendar from the Episcopal Church Journey the Way of Love Advent Curriculum from the Episcopal Church For the season of Advent, Journeying the Way of Love offers four sessions to be explored as we await the coming of Christ by moving through the first two chapters of the Gospel of Luke. Advent Word Join an international community of prayer this Advent season in this global advent calendar. Vibrant Church Communication Vibrant Church Communication has resources to help you with Advent & Epiphany. Each season has multiple offerings that have been developed through the years to help guide you through these seasons. A Mason Jar Advent by Salt Project A Mason Jar Advent,” is a customizable Short Film all about keeping things simple and helping preserve what’s truly important: hope, peace, joy, and love. What’s more, this lovely film has an equally lovely companion, an illustrated and printable Advent calendar for congregations, families, and individuals, featuring the same artwork seen in the film. Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany Books & Curriculum Book recommendations from the Episcopal Shoppe Book recommendations from Church Publishing Advent Resources

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. The Rev. Canon Augusta Anderson Canon to the Ordinary and Chief of Staff canonaugusta@diocesewnc.org 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 . 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. archdeacon@diocesewnc.org Cliff Hudgins Chief Financial Officer Cliff earned his CPA license in 1994 and spent 25 years in the software industry at what became the Ultimate Kronos Group, Inc., following earlier work as a controller for Budd Services in Winston-Salem. A North Carolina native, Cliff and his wife, Kathy, have been married for 37 years and have two adult children. Formerly a longtime Lutheran, Cliff joined Christ Episcopal Church in Sparta after moving to Alleghany County in 2020. He is active in the local community through Alleghany JAM, Alleghany Rotary, the Alleghany Educational Foundation, and MerleFest. In his spare time, Cliff enjoys vintage sports cars, audio equipment, and playing pickleball with Kathy. cfocliff@diocesewnc.org 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. linda@diocesewnc.org 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. jess@diocesewnc.org Eden Lewis Director of Formation & Discipleship 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. elewis@diocesewnc.org 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. youth@diocesewnc.org Katie Knowles Missioner for Communications With a background 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. katie@diocesewnc.org 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. orozo@diocesewnc.org The Rev. Miguel Alvarez Regional Missioner for Latino Ministries The Rev. Miguel Alvarez was born in Jalupa, Tabasco (Mexico). He grew up in a Catholic family. He entered seminary of the "Religious Order" of Missionaries of Guadalupe to become a priest. He earned two bachelor's degrees - one in philosophy and one in theology - at the Continental University in Mexico City. He spent nearly five years as a missioner in South Korea studying Korean at the Sogang University and serving at Guadalupe Missionaries' Missions. He was ordained as a priest under the Rite of the Roman Catholic church in 1995, and was received as an Episcopalian Priest as the Diocese of Nevada in 2013. In 2015, he transitioned to the Diocese of WNC. Currently, he leads La Capilla de Santa Maria in Hendersonville and St. Mary's and St. Stephen's in Morganton. He likes reading, playing guitar and piano, and sharing time with his wife and son. He loves his ministry. miguel@diocesewnc.org The Rev. Anna Shine Campus Missioner, PECM App State and Missioner for Creation Care & Social Justice at St. Luke's, Boone ashine@diocesewnc.org 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. Mary-Margaret Curely Campus Missioner to Western Carolina University Raised in Canton, North Carolina, in the Diocese of Western North Carolina, Mary-Margaret "Moe" Curely found her spiritual home through diocesan youth programs that shaped her early faith. She graduated from Berea College in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Studies and Religion and earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Kentucky in 2023. Moe has remained actively connected to the diocese through youth ministry, serving as a mentor and chaperone for youth conferences and as a program assistant for Towel Ministry in 2025. She is honored to return to the Diocese of Western North Carolina and looks forward to accompanying students at WCU as they explore faith and grow in community. mcurley@diocesewnc.org The Rev. Kevin Todd Diocesan Associate Transition Officer & Director of Blue Ridge Service Corps The Rev. Kevin Todd serves as Associate Transition Officer and Director of Blue Ridge Service Corps. As Associate Transition Officer, Kevin offers guidance and support for congregations in transition. In this role, Kevin is the primary contact for questions, support, and training regarding search processes and also assists clergy discerning the call to suitable ministry positions. Kevin also directs Blue Ridge Service Corps, a diocesan program for young adults. BRSC is a transformative, residential experience for young adults looking for intentional community, service with non-profit organizations, while finding sacred time for spiritual formation and exploration, personal growth, and leadership development. ktodd@diocesewnc.org 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. kdavis@diocesewnc.org 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. admin@diocesewnc.org 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. laura@lakelogan.org Madison Alexander Director of Camp Henry & the Outdoor School Raised in Tryon, NC attending Holy Cross Episcopal Church, Madison grew up an active part of the Diocese of WNC. Madison is a proud Camp Henry alum having spent ten summers at Camp Henry as camper and two summers as a counselor. He brings to Lake Logan over eight years of experience in nonprofit management and social impact. Madison and his wife Catherine (who were married at Lake Logan in 2017) have moved to Lake Logan and are settling with their dogs Juniper and Laurel and their cat Thistle. He has a passion for working with kids and families, he is an avid outdoor adventurer, and he spends his free time walking and hiking with his wife Catherine and their dogs Juniper and Laurel. madison@lakelogan.org 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. director@vcconferences.org

Find a Church - Interactive Map 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. Asheville Deanery Western Deanery Mountain Deanery Foothills Deanery Piedmont Deanery Hendersonville Deanery

Diocesan Calendar View our calendar below or visit our Upcoming Events page for more detailed information about select events.

A Reflection on Formation for Children By the Rev. Joslyn Schaefer, Grace in the Mountains, Waynesville Less than three years ago, there were no youth programs at Grace. When I was hired as rector, the church decided to make one of its top missional priorities to develop a vibrant ministry to children, youth, and young adults. Now, we approach Christian formation of our young people in three different Sunday School classes. In the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for ages 3-6, Christ is the only teacher. The adult in the room is simply the catechist, the one who guides. We use the term “Catechesis” deliberately, to differentiate the child’s spiritual formation from their academic formation where terms like teacher and classroom are used. In the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, we invite children to recognize and celebrate their innate connection with God through the image of the Good Shepherd. Cultivating and exploring this connection is the child’s “work.” Godly Play is for ages 7 - 11, a great time in a child’s life for discovering more about God and our relationship with our creator. Godly Play is based on a Montessori approach and allows the child to explore their faith through a story and play. Teachers guide the children through the stories, follow each with a time of wondering: What part did you like best? What is the most important part? Which part is about you? Rite 13 is for middle and high schoolers. The teachers of Rite 13 work tirelessly to schedule outings for the group in order to strengthen their bonds with shared activities and learn how they can apply Jesus’ teachings to the real world. This year, they started a compost bin for the church Giving Garden, assisted exuberantly with the Easter Egg Hunt, and led one of the lessons at the Lenten program with insight and laughter. Rite 13 serves as a bridge to help youth transfer into leaders in the church, the community, and beyond. This summer, in lieu of Sunday School and with the help of our Service Intern Madison Owen, we are test-driving Children’s Chapel, an interactive church experience for kids who are too old for the nursery but too young to fully absorb the lessons and Gospel as taught during the service. Children will spend the first half of the service learning the same teachings on a level closer to their mental capacities and will be encouraged to think more deeply about the Scripture through a song, game, or craft. Children’s Chapel is a safe space for the kids to ask questions, strengthen faith, and have fun.

Global Partnerships Mission is the hallmark of our vocation as followers of Jesus. Jesus invited his friends to share with all people everywhere, by word and action, the Good News of God’s love for the whole world. In The Episcopal Church, we understand this movement out into our neighborhoods across the street and communities on the other side of the world must be grounded in relationships of mutual respect, care and trust. Mission is no longer simply an act of benevolent charity; it truly is engaging in relationship building. Haiti LEARN MORE Haiti LEARN MORE LEARN MORE Cuba LEARN MORE Cuba Global Mission Grants Global Mission Grants further support efforts to exemplify Jesus’ promise to bring an abundant life to all, particularly those who due to prejudice, injustice, and poverty, live in scarcity. To learn more about these grants, please click here .

MAIN HEADINGS EPISCOPAL DIOCESE of WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA Episcopal arial black Episcopal proxima nova Episcopal palatino linotype Episcopal barlow medium Episcopal roboto bold Episcopal raleway semibold Episcopal poppins semibold Episcopal cinzel Episcopal oswaldo medium SECONDARY HEADINGS Impact Open Sans Overlock Kepler Questrial Roboto Bold Museo Suez One Spinnaker PARAGRAPH TEXT Libre Baskerville We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village. DIN Next light We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village. Clarendon LT We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village. Noticia Text We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village. Palatino Linotype We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village. Playfair Display We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village. Times New Roman We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village. Georgia We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village. Adobe Caslon We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village. Tahoma We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village. Verdana We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village. Proxima Nova We are comprised of over 15,000 members worshiping in 63 year-round congregations; six summer chapels; two conference centers - Lake Logan Conference Center and Valle Crucis; Deerfield Retirement Community; and Christ School. In addition, we are blessed with the presence of Kanuga Conference Center, serving many local, regional and national bodies within the Episcopal Church. Our cathedral, the Cathedral of All Souls, is located in Asheville at Biltmore Village.

Recursos en español Back Recursos, programmas y servicios en Español para las feligresias y la communidad Latina/Hispanica. Ministerio en Español Recursos en español para ECF Vital Practices (Prácticas Vitales de la Fundación de la Iglesia Episcopal), y seleccione “ECFVP en Español” Si desea recibir correos electrónicos regularmente sobre lo último en español de ECF Vital Practices o para más información, por favor póngase en contacto con Sandra Montes al smontes@episcopalfoundation.org . El Movimiento de Jesús en la Iglesia Episcopal : El obispo presidente Michael B. Curry nos invita a responder al llamado Bienvenidos a la Iglesia Episcopal /Welcome to the Episcopal Church: Scott Gunn; Eduardo Rivera, Ema Rosero-Nordalm A few questions about the Episcopal Church : Manual de Metodo Administrativos Epsanol Facebook: Ministerio Latino WNC latinosepiscopales Instagram: @latinoministrywnc Twitter: @latinoepiscopal Ayuda en español The Rev. Oscar Rozo, Misioner Latino: orozo@diocesewnc.org The Rev. Miguel Alvarez: fr.alvarezmissioner@yahoo.com The Rev. Erin Maxfield-Steele: erinsaintgeorge@gmail.com The Rev. Joslyn Ogden Shaefer: rector@gracewaynesville.com The Rev. Brent Norris: r ector@stmarysasheville.org Pisgah Legal Services -- Asheville Address: 62 Charlotte St, Asheville, NC 28801; Phone: (828) 253-0406; Hendersonville Office -- 440 S. Church Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792: Phone: (828)-692-7622; Rutherfordton Office -- 169 N. Main Street, Rutherfordton, NC 28139; phone: (828)-247-0297.

Local Action Church of the Advocate Church of the Advocate is both a ministry and a worshiping community of the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina. Church of the Advocate welcomes persons from all walks of life and its mission is to be present and attend to the physical and spiritual needs of the homeless in Asheville. The community meets in the Undercroft of Trinity Episcopal Church and each Sunday holds a Eucharist service and serves a meal. You can learn more here . Towel Ministry Towel Ministry is a distinguished ministry in the Diocese of Western North Carolina and a recognized Jubilee Site in The Episcopal Church. Initiated in the 80s, Towel Ministry provides housing improvements, repairs and maintenance for elderly, disabled, and marginalized people. Starting out as a summer teen camp, Towel Ministry is a way for people of all ages to put the gospel into a hands-on ministry. Typical work projects might include handicap access, roofing repair, painting, yard clean-up and other simple projects that can be managed by a small group. You can learn more here . Habitat for Humanity For over 25 years, parishes all across the Diocese of Western North Carolina have collaborated in ministry to sponsor and build houses with Habitat for Humanity. Together, they continue to provide safe and decent housing for families and build stable and secure communities. Jericho Road Soup Kitchen The Jericho Road Soup Kitchen is a ministry born out of St. Gabriel's Episcopal Church in Rutherfordton, NC. This weekly Wednesday soup kitchen was the dream of two parishioners and now serves upwards of 100 families weekly in the New Hope Community. To learn more about this ministry, please visit www.stgabrielsepiscopal.com/jericho-road-soup-kitchen Hope Vibes Laundry Ministry Hope Vibes is a traveling laundry ministry serving the Charlotte area. Every third Thursday, St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Gastonia, NC becomes a hub of resources for the local community--from haircuts to homemade meals, laundry services to a traveling shower. To learn more about this unique ministry, visit their website at https://www.hopevibes.org/

Empowering Youth and Young Adults Our young people are a significant part of our vision in the diocese to “walk in the way of Jesus, change the world." Our youth, young adult, and college campus programs are structured to supplement the youth and young adult ministry programs of local parishes. Youth LEARN MORE Youth LEARN MORE LEARN MORE College Campuses LEARN MORE College Campuses LEARN MORE Young Adults LEARN MORE Young Adults

Western Deanery Confirmation Day On Sunday, September 12, Bishop José gathered with parishioners from four parishes in our Western Deanery--St. Andrews, Canton, St. John's, Sylva, St. David's, Cullowhee, and Grace, Waynesville--at Lake Logan to celebrate confirmations, receptions, and reaffirmations. Many thanks to all of the wonderful people who made this day possible! Photos by Cameron Adams Photography. Click here to visit Cameron's website and Instagram .

Health Insurance This page contains important information about our 2026 Health Benefits and Open Enrollment. You can find general information on Open Enrollment here . View the Open Enrollment Guide from CPG here . Church Pension Group Medical and Dental Enrollment Form . Find information on 2024 Vision Coverage here . View the Network Access Instructions here . See the Diocesan Health Policy as adopted by the Executive Council Diocese of Western North Carolina.

Beau's Story My mother was an alcoholic and my father died of alcoholism when I was 16. All I remember were the fights between my parents and then my mother's embarrassing behavior when she was falling down drunk. At sports, PTA, and when my friends visited. I swore I would never be like either one of them. Then one day it happened. I found myself looking into the mirror at the same face I remembered seeing every morning. Swollen eyes, puffy face, black and blues everywhere and I couldn't remember where I'd left my car, or, who this person was in my bed. After fighting getting help, I thought I would ask a friend that went to AA if he thought I was an alcoholic. He put his arm around me and said, "I don't know. Only you know. But if you'd like to join me at a meeting, I'd love to take you." I couldn't believe how kind everyone was. I felt so broken and thought these people are willing to catch me in my brokenness and teach me how to live without drinking. I can't say I made it the first time, but now I have 2 years and my life has totally changed. I love my job, my family loves me and I have hope for the future. No amount of drinking ever made me feel this good. Beau P. Don't quit before the miracle!

Safe Church Background Checks Active Screening Faith has been consolidated to Protect My Ministry. To set up an account please call the support number at 1-800-319-5581. Once you are approved, you will be sent a username and password to logon to the Protect my Ministry website. Then you can begin processing background checks using the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina (WNC) Screening package options. Background Check Packages: Staff Package: Base price of $37.50 Each educational institution and state have additional mandated processing fees. These fees are not covered in the base price; therefore, the total cost will increase by the cost of the fees. For example, the National Student Clearinghouse charges $8.76 per name searched as part of the education verification, and the state of North Carolina charges an additional $12.75 for the Motor Vehicle Record processed through the state. The Initial Staff package includes the following information: National Sex Offender Registry Search National Criminal Database Search Education Verification (one record only; additional records cost extra) Federal by District Criminal Search MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) Volunteer Package: Base price of $12.50 The base price does not include any state processing fees, which may be required to process the reports. Therefore, the total cost will increase by the cost of the fees. *Credit checks and DMV records can be added for an additional cost. The Volunteer package includes the following information: National Sex Offender Registry Search National Criminal Database Search For instructions on the steps to conduct a background check click here. Note for Clergy Protect My Ministry can be used for clergy seeking licensing only. For clergy new to the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina, or for any clergy who will have cure at a parish in our diocese, background checks will be done using Oxford Documents, and the cost for the background check will be incurred by the clergy or the parish they are serving. The initial cost for an Oxford Document background screening is $155 and can cost more depending on how many jurisdictions the clergy has lived. Please contact Jess Ives regarding Oxford Documents background checks. Contact Info Protect My Ministry: 1-800-319-5581 or cs@activescreeningfaith.com Diocese: Eden Lewis , Director of Formation & Discipleship

Join the Bishop's Cup golf tournament to support the Lake Logan Conference Center and Camp Henry summer camp. The Bishop's Cup Golf Tournament Supporting Lake Logan Episcopal Conference Center and Camp Henry Friday, April 26 Reems Creek Golf Club, Asheville Check-in - 8:30 a.m. Shotgun Start - 9:30 a.m. Four-Person Team/ Captain's choice $125 per person / $500 per team Includes green fee, cart fee, box lunch & snacks Player registration opens on Monday, March 11 REGISTER Prizes include stays at Lake Logan, golf swag, Camp Henry and Lake Logan merchandise, tickets to the Cold Mountain Music Festival, and more! Help spread the word! Download Flyer Press Release Don't golf but still want to support? Sen d a kid to camp Q uestions ? Contact the Rev. Will Bryant will.bryant@allsoulscathedral.org Thank you to our sponsors! Sponsorships Become a Sponsor Saints - $5,000: Sponsors two teams Two tee box signs Eight tickets to Cold Mountain Music Festival 20% discount on Lake Logan Rental* One free Session for a child at Camp Henry Special promotion at opening ceremony of the Cup Angels - $3,000: Sponsors two teams Two tee box signs Four tickets to Cold Mountain Music Festival 15% off Lake Logan Rental* Shepherds - $1,500: Sponsors one team One tee box sign Two tickets to Cold Mountain Music Festival 10% off Lake Logan Rental* Heavenly Host - $750: Sponsors one team One tee box sign One ticket to Cold Mountain Music Festival 5% off Lake Logan Rental* *Lake Logan Rentals subject to blackout dates. Become a Sponsor

Photo Gallery Centennial Weekend Hendersonville Deanery Dinner Piedmont Deanery Dinner Latino Community Gathering Resources for Resilience Retreat Camp Henry Day Camp 2020 Presiding Bishop Visit Asheville Deanery Dinner Mountain Deanery Dinner Indigenous Ministries Conference Middle School Conference 2021 Dismantling Racism Workshop Youth Conference 2020 Convention 2018 Western Deanery Dinner Foothills Deanery Dinner La Virgen de Guadalupe Western Deanery Confirmation Day La Capilla Clean-Up Day Convention 2019

New Delegate Orientation Convention Homepage The New Delegate Orientation meeting will be held virtually on Wednesday, October 28 at 6 p.m. New delegates will need to register for this orientation event and we will then email all new delegates the Zoom link Register for New Delegate Orientation

Celebrating our Centennial We honor and remember our stories of things done and left undone as we envision and build for our next 100 years through our mission to proclaim the life-giving and liberating love of Jesus and serve all God's people. In 2022 the Diocese of Western North Carolina celebrated 100 years as an established diocese. As part of this celebration, we shared the stories of the diocese and discerned new opportunities to grow as a diocesan community. Centennial Resources and Reflections Scenes from Convention 2022 and Revival View photos and videos from our Centennial Celebration Weekend and Centennial Convention with special guest Presiding Bishop Michael Curry. Introducing our New Diocesan Seal In honor of our Centennial Year, we are updating our Diocesan Seal to better reflect our continued journey towards Becoming Beloved Community and who we are as a diocese. Who We Are, Where We've Been, Where We're Going Watch this short documentary about the past, present, and future of The Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina as we celebrate 100 years and anticipate the next 100. Learn more about our Core Values, Identity, and Mission As we celebrate our Centennial, we also reflect on what we hope to achieve moving forward as a diocese. Learn more about our Core Values, Diocesan Identity, and Mission for the Centennial year and beyond. Explore our "Unlearning Library" Find resources intended to help "unlearn" inherent biases. With a focus on voices of color, this library is intended to help us reflect on the ways we can continue to build beloved community as we approach the next 100 years. See Pictures from our Deanery Dinners Members of each deanery were invited to a dinner celebration with Bishop José to discuss the past and future of this diocese and join in community together throughout May and June 2022.

Hendersonville Deanery Dinner On Tuesday, June 7th, the Hendersonville Deanery of the diocese gathered at the The Point Lookout Vineyards in Hendersonville, NC for a celebration of their deanery and community. To learn more about this event, please visit our Centennial Deanery Dinners Page .

Our Stories “We’re not a collection of dioceses and institutions, a collection of ways of doing things. We are one church, one church in Jesus Christ. God has given us the ability to share our resources and talents and invest in ministry happening on the ground—ministry in which everyday faithful people, Christians all around the world, are building communities, advocating for justice, and saving lives." - Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe The Diocese of WNC has a rich history, from the mountains to the foothills. We want to share what makes the parishes in our diocese truly unique, from their histories to their events to their Sunday-afternoon yoga classes. We are excited to share a unique set of stories from our communities. Have something cool about your parish you want to share? Contact our Missioner for Communications. Find more stories on our diocesan YouTube Channel and visit our blog. Featured Stories: Barrier Breakers: Amplifying Voices of Color in the Diocese of WNC Nuestras Historias: Get to Know Our Latinx Leaders Disaster Response & Recovery Keep up with our Blue Ridge Service Corps Convention Videos 2025