Coming to Convention with Intentionality Convention Homepage This year we will come together to celebrate our 104th Annual Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina. As we anticipate gathering together in community, we encourage you to take time in prayer and in study to prepare your hearts and minds intentionally for our Annual Convention. As we are in a time of transition, we recommend the following resources that are centered around the theme of discernment. Brené Brown: The Gifts of Imperfection Henri Nouwen: Discernment Dewitt Jones: "Celebrate What's Right with the World" On Being by Krista Tippett with John O'Donohue: "The Inner Landscape of Beauty" Parker Palmer: "Let Your Life Speak"

The Unlearning Library As a diocese, we are committed to the act of dismantling racism and to the work of building beloved community. This is done through education, discussion, and through trying to understand those who are our brothers and sisters in Christ, regardless of racial background, language, or culture. In this library, we have compiled a variety of resources from in and around Western North Carolina — from readings to organizations — that help further the work of building this beloved community. You may search by category below. The name of this resource, the "Unlearning Library," derives from the idea of unlearning many of the preconceived ideas we have about people who are different from us. We hope this library acts as a resource to help us as we all strive to unlearn some of the ideas we may have been taught by society and to continue the work of building beloved community. Please note: This resource library primarily includes information from in and around WNC. We highly recommend the Virtual Library at the Absalom Jones Center for Racial Healing for additional reading. General Resources African American Latino/Hispanic Indigenous AAPI LGBTQ+ General Resources What is Beloved Community? Building Beloved Community - The Episcopal Church Dr. King's "Beloved Community" - via The King Center Organizations in WNC Working to Build Beloved Community Habitat for Humanity Beloved Asheville Pisgah Legal Services NC Council of Churches

Camp Henry Camp Henry continues a camping tradition that dates back to 1958 when it was established by the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina to provide an affordable and memorable experience for the youth of the diocese. While preserving this initial mission, Camp Henry has continued to grow and diversify its offerings over the years so that all people and all ages have the opportunity to come to camp! Campers participate in creative, engaging, and diverse programs based on scripture, liturgy, environmental education, and conservation designed by clergy and staff. Our counselors provide opportunities for the campers to have fun and learn through traditional and nontraditional sports and games, boating, fishing, sailing, hiking, arts/crafts, singing, storytelling, worship, and much more. Families are invited to enjoy the fun in the mountains and on the lake by joining us for Family Camp, where all ages play, pray, laugh, and love together! In 2023, the first Bilingual Camp was offered for our Spanish-speaking youth and their families. Visit the Camp Henry website or contact the Camp Henry Director at director@camphenry.org CAMP HENRY PHOTO GALLERY

Sustainable Development Grant Funds from the Global Mission Committee support international and domestic projects. Preference will be given to applications with stated purpose related to the Sustainable Development Goals. Applications for these grants are due no later than May 1. Sustainable Development/Global Mission Grant Instructions Apply for this Grant Past Grant Recipients 2023 Global Mission/Sustainable Development Grant Awards By The Rev. Deacon Clare Barry and the Global Mission Committee With deep appreciation to the parishes in the Diocese of Western North... Diocese of WNC

Congregational Vitality Resources Helpful Books There are many books available on the subject of Congregational Development or individual aspects of it. Some of the best are below. Please click on a book to find more information. Helpful Website The Alban Institute New research-based information and new ways to learn and minister more effectively within and outside faith communities.

Clean-Up Day at La Capilla

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

The Episcopal Foundation of WNC Up Back to Our Leadership & Governance Who We Are The Episcopal Foundation of Western North Carolina is a grant giving organization that strengthens the programs and parishes of the Diocese of Western North Carolina. The Episcopal Foundation is a non-profit corporation independent of the Diocese of Western North Carolina, The Foundation is composed of ten directors from different deaneries. They are approved at the annual diocesan convention. The directors are not compensated for their service. The Bishop is the Chair. What We Do The Foundation provides money, through grants, to parishes and/or programs within the diocese. Since its founding in 1963, the Foundation has made hundreds of grants totaling millions of dollars. From playgrounds to kitchens, roofs to air conditioners, parking lots, programs and more; these are just some of the ways the Foundation gives back to our diocese. How We Do It Parishes and/or programs make their request by using the Unified Loan/Grant application linked at the button below. Applications are submitted to the CFO of the diocese and then forwarded to the Foundation president. The Foundation meets four times each year where it reviews the merits of each request and awards grants accordingly. Grant requests are presented in person at the Foundation meeting. For questions or more information on the process, email episcopalfoundationprez@gmail.com Loan/Grant Information Loan/Grant Application Our History The Episcopal Foundation of Western North Carolina is a non-profit corporation founded in 1963 by Bishop Henry with an initial gift from Mr. Charles Timson who was also a major benefactor for Deerfield Retirement Community. The Foundation operates under its own independent charter. The Foundation uses the income from its investments primarily to make grants up to $20,000 to small parishes and institutions within the diocese who otherwise cannot afford renovations, capital improvements, and major repairs. Your Gift A contribution to the Foundation is a gift that will keep on giving. Mr Timson’s original gift continues to generate new grants today. Today’s contributions will do the same. From a modest $250,000 in 1963, today, the Foundation administers a fund balance exceeding $4,000,000. You may make a gift by emailing the president at episcopalfoundationprez@gmail.com or contacting the CFO Cliff Hudgins . 2026 Board of Directors The Rt. Rev. Jose McLoughlin, Chair Dillon Manly, President | Asheville | Trinity, Asheville Judy Hopkins, Vice President | Piedmont | Redeemer, Shelby Matt Henry, Treasurer | Hendersonville | St. James, Hendersonville Jann Mellman, Secretary | Hendersonville | St. Philips, Brevard John Russell | Western | All Saints, Franklin Jane Erickson | Mountain | Holy Communion, West Jefferson Carl Tolbert | Foothills | St. James, Lenoir Steve Campbell | Piedmont | St. Mark's, Gastonia Sunny Denton | Foothills | St. Marys & St. Stephens

Guidelines on Parish Investments and Gifts The Trustees of the Diocese of Western North Carolina has established a policy to direct and guide their oversight of Investment Funds either owned by the diocese or entrusted to them by parishes and other entities. The Diocesan Investment Policy is provided, not only to inform the wider diocese of the policy, but also to serve as a template for parishes considering their own investment policies. Likewise, a Gift Acceptance Guideline has been established to guide the Diocese on accepting gift (of cash, real estate, or other investments). These guidelines are provided below to serve as a template for parish leaders as they consider their own gift acceptance guidelines. Diocesan Investment Policy Gift Acceptance Guidelines

Recovery Ministries The Diocese of Western North Carolina is committed to the wellbeing and wholeness of every child of God and support efforts that equip and empower individuals to acknowledge their addictions and take the necessary steps toward health and sobriety. You can learn more by visiting the diocesan Recovery Ministry website here . For more information, contact the Rev. Deacon Priscilla Wodehouse , Director of Recovery for the WNC Episcopal Diocese. Deacon Wodehouse is available to arrange for Traveling Recovery Eucharist at your church or receive copies of the Recovery Eucharist liturgy. Additional contact information for getting help for you or someone you love: Alcoholics Anonymous: 800-524-0465 24 Hour Hotline: 800-431-5080; 800-299-6317; 800-713-7516 Be inspired by Beau’s Story .

Supporting Humanitarian Response to the Crisis in Ukraine Almighty God our heavenly Father, guide the nations of the world into the way of justice and truth, and establish among them that peace which is the fruit of righteousness, that they may become the kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. - A Collect for Peace Among the Nations, BCP On Thursday, February 24, 2022, Russian troops invaded Ukraine. As a result, many Ukrainians have lost their livelihoods, homes, and family members. As a diocese and as a part of the greater Episcopal Church, we support refugees and are called as servants of God to support those who have been displaced. Below, please find resources and information on how we can continue to assist humanitarian response in Ukraine, and please continue to join us in prayer for all effected. Episcopal Relief and Development Episcopal Relief & Development is an international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church. Episcopal Relief & Development works in collaboration with church partners and other local organizations to facilitate healthier, more fulfilling lives in communities that are struggling with hunger, poverty, disaster and disease. Click here to read the latest press releases regarding the crisis in Ukraine from Episcopal Relief and Development Click here to donate to the Ukraine Crisis Response Fund Episcopal Migration Ministries Episcopal Migration Ministries is a ministry of The Episcopal Church and is one of nine national agencies responsible for resettling refugees in the United States in partnership with the government. Episcopal Migration Ministries welcomes refugees, educates communities, and mobilizes congregations to advocate for the protection and rights of all migrants. Click here to read a response to the crisis in Ukraine from Episcopal Migration Ministries Click here to donate to the work of Episcopal Migration Ministries Click here to request a "Refugee Sunday" toolkit from Episcopal Migration Ministries to help facilitate conversations around refugee crises at your parish ACT Alliance ACT Alliance is a global alliance of more than 145 churches and related organizations from over 120 countries to provide humanitarian aid for poor and marginalized people. Click here to read recent press releases regarding the crisis in Ukraine READ: "Ukraine: Emergency response for communities affected by Ukraine conflict UKR221" The Episcopal Church The Episcopal Church, based in the United States with additional dioceses elsewhere, is a member church of the worldwide Anglican Communion. EPISCOPAL NEWS SERVICE: At spring meeting, House of Bishops speaks on Ukraine, anti-trans bills Read all press releases from The Episcopal Church on Ukraine

2027 Budget Presentation Convention Homepage The process for developing and discerning the diocesan budget is an intentional process that involves multiple opportunities for participation from many people throughout the diocese. In the early part of every summer, a memo is sent out to the whole diocese inviting people to submit proposals for budget expenditures, including new mission initiatives or ministry programs. All submissions are reviewed by the executive team of the diocese, including the Treasurer, and then incorporated into a draft budget which is reviewed for any amendments by the Executive Committee of the Diocese at their August meeting. The dates for the Virtual Budget Presentation are October 14 at 6:00 p.m. and October 15 at 1:00 p.m. Oct. 15 | 1:00 p.m. | ZOOM Password: budget This proposed draft budget is then shared with the wider diocese every September through the annual Budget Presentation. The Budget Presentation will by Zoom. Copies of the draft budget are provided to those who participate in the September presentations. On these Budget Presentation Zoom meetings, the executive team (Treasurer and CFO) presents the proposed budget, answers questions and welcomes participant suggestions. If any suggestions are offered, people are invited to provide creative ideas to maintain a balanced budget. The Executive Council reviews the draft budget at their October meeting and then presents a final draft to the annual Convention of the Diocese, no less than two weeks prior to Convention. Convention is the canonical body that adopts the annual diocesan budget for the proceeding year. 2027 Proposed Budget

Youth Engagement Programs High School Retreats Spring and Fall Youth Retreats are weekend events for youth held at Valle Crucis Conference Center. Spring Conference is for youth in grades 8–12 and Fall Conference is for youth in grades 9–12. The weekend is led by the Youth Council; they choose a theme for each event and then design a program of learning, reflection, and fellowship to be offered at each conference. The retreat program consists of talks, small group discussion related to the theme, singing, dancing, worship, service projects, and games. Middle School Retreat Beginning in the Middle is our retreat for youth in grades 6–8 and traditionally takes place in late September. This retreat is designed to address and respond to spiritual issues, concerns, and needs of middle school aged youth by focusing on topics such as who is Jesus, peer pressure, friendship, parents, and prayer. The weekend is led by high school youth and consists of talks, skits, small group discussion, singing, worship, crafts, and games. Fellowship Events Throughout the course of the year we have several youth events just for fellowship and fun. These events change yearly but, in the past, have included an afternoon at Lake Logan, visits to trampoline parks, skating rinks, and other fellowship opportunities. More Information Go to the Upcoming Events page or click the button below for information on upcoming retreats and events. Or contact our Coordinator for Families, Children and Youth.

Human Resources Health Insurance - This page contains important information about our 2023 Health Benefits and Open Enrollment. Employee or Contractor? Download this document to learn the difference. Imputed Income – What is imputed income and how should it be reported for clergy? Learn more here . IRS Business Mileage reimbursement rate for the current year can be found here . Lay Pension Guidelines Guide to the Episcopal Church Lay Retirement Savings Plan (RSVP) and the Episcopal Church Lay Employee’s Defined Contribution Retirement Plan Guide to the Episcopal Church Lay Employee’s Defined Benefit Plan Clergy Pension Guidelines: This Guide to Clergy Benefits is designed to help you understand the provisions of The Church Pension Fund Clergy Pension Plan and other benefit plans available Safeguarding Our Churches: Please visit the Safe Church, Safe Communities page for m ore i nformation on Safeguarding and conducting a background check. New Hire Forms: W-4 NC-4 NC New Hire I-9 Church Pension Group Medical and Dental Enrollment Form Form to enroll in Church Pension Lay Employees’ Defined Benefits Plan Form to enroll in the Church Pension Defined Contribution (RSVP and Lay DC) Plan Form to enroll in Church Pension Group Term Life Insurance Long-Term and Short-Term Disability Coverage Church Pension Employment Change Form – New Assignment Notice and Change in Compensation

Grants & Loans The Diocese of Western North Carolina is blessed with resources to support parishes and diocesan-affiliated organizations with additional financial support in the form of grants and loans. There are several grants available that offer funds for different purposes. Likewise, the Executive Council of the diocese approves, with the recommendation of the diocesan Finance committee, loans for the purpose of church property restoration and improvement. Below you will find more information on each grant and loan available in the diocese, including helpful general information and the particular application for each funding source. Grant applications and questions may be directed to Canon Augusta. Restoration Loans & Foundation Grants The Episcopal Foundation The Episcopal Foundation of Western North Carolina is a non-profit corporation founded in 1963 by Bishop Henry with an initial gift from Mr. Charles Timson. The Foundation operates under its own independent charter, and the members of the Board of Directors are elected at the annual convention of the Diocese. The Foundation uses the income from its investments to make grants up to $20,000 exclusively for charitable, educational, religious, and scientific purposes. Parishes and institutions applying for these funds must present their initial request to a joint meeting the board of The Episcopal Foundation of Western North Carolina and the diocesan Finance Committee. Info for Foundation Loan/Grant Application for Foundation Loan/Grant About The Episcopal Foundation of WNC General Grants Please specify which grant you are applying for on the application (see details below). General Grant Application General Grant Budget Form Patricia Minkler Howell Children's Outreach Grants The Patricia Minkler Howell Children's Outreach Grants support the development of outreach programs for and with children in need. Special consideration will be given to applications that envision children serving children. Applications for these grants are due no later than July 31. PMH Instructions & Parameters Prior Year Progress Report St. Hilda's Press Grant The St. Hilda's Press Grant is intended to support congregations in printing projects, such as church history or other publishing projects related to the parish. Sustainable Development/Global Mission Grants Funds from the Global Mission Committee support international and domestic projects. Preference will be given to applications with stated purpose related to the Sustainable Development Goals. Applications for these grants are due no later than May 1. PMH Instructions & Parameters Justice and Outreach Grants The Justice and Outreach Committee will consider grant proposals for diocesan initiatives that meet the following funding criteria: Engages people in ministry that is focused on a justice and outreach issue, builds capacity in the local community and/or across the diocese to improve the quality of life for the poor, lonely, and/or disenfranchised through collaboration, has an end result that transforms the community and/or the diocese. Congregational Vitality Grants The Diocese of Western North Carolina offers annual Congregational Vitality grants to support churches in their redevelopment work. Congregational Vitality Grants are open to any initiative that supports and sustains the vitality and mission of the local parish, including technology. Please note, preference is given to congregations who did not receive a Congregational Vitality grant in the previous year.

Patricia Minkler Howell Children's Outreach Grant The Patricia Minkler Howell Children's Outreach Grants support the development of outreach programs for and with children in need. Special consideration will be given to applications that envision children serving children. Applications for these grants are due no later than April 30. Questions regarding Children's Outreach Grants can be directed to Canon Augusta. Apply for this Grant Grant Reporting form Past Grant Recipients 2023 Patricia Minkler Howell Grant Awards by The Rev. Kevin Todd Chair, PMH Grant Committee On behalf of the newly formed Patricia Minkler Howell Grant Committee, I am pleased to... Diocese of WNC New Grant Offers Boost for Children’s Outreach By Rachel Carr, Diocesan Missioner for Communications George Howell loves helping young people. From serving as a youth pastor to raising... Diocese of WNC

Trustees Up Back to Our Leadership & Governance Trustees hold title to and administer all real properties and all entrusted funds not owned by congregations; the Trustees are responsible for the administration of a significant portion of Diocesan trust funds. They meet approximately six times a year. Elected members having served a full term shall be ineligible for reelection for a period of one year. The Trustees of the diocese shall consist of the Bishop, the Chancellor, the Treasurer and five additional lay persons as members at large. Terms are five years. Current members: The Rt. Rev. José A. Mcloughlin, Bishop Ed Bleynat, Chair – through 2024 Greg Hildebran, Chancellor – ex officio Jack Parsons, Treasurer – ex officio Jillian Ballard – through 2024 James Bowden – through 2026 Unelected slot for the 2022–2026 term Unelected slot for the 2022–2025 term

Emergency resources for preparing, responding, and recovering for and from disasters. Preparedness & Resources Up 1/1 Preparedness Asset Map Disaster Prep 101 Webinar Preparedness Modules Preparedness Checklists Get Connected This is a 45 minute webinar on the basics of Disaster Preparedness facilitated by our Deputy for Disaster Response, the Rev. Kelsey Davis, in partnership with Episcopal Relief and Development. Disaster Prep 101 Slides Preparación Para Desastres 101 These modules have been developed by the Disaster Response and Recovery Team as a resource for communities to prepare for different types of emergencies. Parish Safety Review Use this quick review to identify strengths, gaps, and immediate priorities. It is intended as a practical planning aid, not a compliance inspection or professional security assessment. in english en español Parish Safety Plan A simple working template for turning parish decisions into a practical local plan. It is a starting point, not a comprehensive safety plan. in english en español Severe Weather & Natural Disaster Readiness Practical guidance for recognizing local hazards, making timely decisions, and using parish emergency procedures in english en español Medical Emergency Practical guidance for getting help, providing appropriate care, and clearing access for responders in english en español Handling a Disruption at Church Practical guidance for clergy, staff, ushers, greeters, and volunteers with the goal to protect people and space, reduce escalation, and obtain help when necessary. in english en español The Episcopal Asset Map is a shared effort of The Episcopal Church and Episcopal Relief & Development (ERD). It was first created to help locate resources during disasters, but it has become a broader resource that shares the daily ministry of Episcopal communities everywhere. Every congregation and mission has a place on the map, and each one decides what details and story to tell. Take a few minutes to review and update your church’s entry so neighbors can find you, whether in an ordinary week or a time of crisis. Update the Episcopal Asset Map Update Episcopal Asset Map Being connected to sources of information that help you stay up-to-date both before and during an emergency can be invaluable. The Rev. Kelsey Davis Bishop's Deputy for Disaster Response kdavis@diocesewnc.org Weather Bug Website Weather Bug App-Apple Weather Bug App-Android Episcopal Diocese of WNC Facebook Instagram Episcopal Asset Map Diocese of North Carolina Update your listing NC Emergency Management Facebook Twitter North Carolina resources County Emergency Management Agencies ReadyNC.gov The Rev. Kelsey Davis explains the essentials for a Go/Stay Prep Kit. Go/Stay Prep Checklist Church Prep Checklist Resources Community Resources Mental Health Resources 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 All Souls Counseling - is a local counseling center offering affordable individual, couples, and group therapy on a sliding scale to adults who are uninsured or underinsured. Jada Bryson offers spiritual direction. Contact her at Northernstar.direction@gmail.com Food Connection works to fight food scarcity by partnering with local restaurants and packaging and distributing chef-prepared meals to anyone who needs it. They have served over 1,000,000 meals in the greater Asheville area. Bounty & Soul offers weekly free produce markets around Asheville. They partner with local grocery stores and farms to reduce food waste and to provide quality fresh ingredients to local households. Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry runs several programs, made possible in partnership with over 300 churches. They have a Crisis Ministry that helps provide food an clothing; free clinics for uninsured adults; transitional housing; and more. Pisgah Legal provides free civil legal aid to the most vulnerable people in WNC: disadvantaged children, seniors, at-risk families, and domestic violence victims. Homeward Bound is an organization that works toward preventing and ending houselesness. They are an exceptionally effective program with a retention rate of 96.5% in their permanent supportive housing.

Contact The Diocesan Office We are so excited to hear from you! If you wish to contact a member of our staff directly, please find their specific information here . Contact Us Submit Thanks for submitting!

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/