Discerning Your Congregation's Needs Every living organism goes through a life cycle that transitions from birth through growth, stability, decline, and finally, death. As a community of faith centered in the promise of resurrection, we hope any parish that may be in some form of decline encounter something that brings about new birth so the cycle can continue. However, parishes that wait to react until decline is well underway tend to get “stuck,” and moving to a place of resurrection can be more challenging. Every congregation can find itself at any stage of the life cycle. Some congregations are growing because they are new, or because the community around them is expanding, or because the parish is going through some type of Spiritual Renewal. Other congregations are seeing a decline in attendance, membership, and giving because the community around them is declining, or there is not a full-time clergy person, or for reasons unknown. One of the keys to becoming a healthy, thriving parish, even for those who are experiencing growth, is to intentionally find ways of experiencing new birth before the decline is a part of the culture. The Diocese of Western North Carolina believes every congregation has the potential to become vibrant and vital communities, even those who are experiencing an increase in attendance can become healthier, stronger communities with an intentional focus on God’s purpose for your parish in the world. Congregational Vitality Ministry offers two different tracks to help parishes thrive. The first track is for congregations that see themselves as mostly healthy and strong overall, but there may be areas, such as Christian Formation, Youth Ministry, or Stewardship that need some assistance. We invite you to survey this site and use whatever tools or standalone programs that best fit your needs. You can also join our Forums to discuss issues and connect with other parishes that are able to share their experience. For more information and the opportunities of this track, contact The Rev. Canon Augusta Anderson . The second track is for all congregations, healthy as well as those struggling, which want to grow spiritually and find a renewed energy around being Church. This track consists more of a process than implementing a few programs. For many congregations, the process may take over a year to complete. Currently, several individuals (coaches) are willing to guide a congregation through a journey that begins with the question, “What Is God’s purpose for us in this place and at this time?” The journey will continue through exploring the gifts of your people, looking at your ministries in terms of your new purpose and your people’s gifts, and finding new ways of turning ministries into mission. For more information and the opportunities of this track, contact The Rev. Canon Augusta Anderson .

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

Exploring Our Churches Asheville Area Up Back to Find a Church Centered in the Blue Ridge Mountains, home to the Diocesan offices and The Cathedral of All Souls, the Asheville Deanery covers two counties and holds twelve parishes. St. Matthias Episcopal Church, one of the oldest parishes in the diocese, was founded in 1865 for freed slaves. While Asheville is the most populous city in the Diocese, the deanery extends into the rural mountains. Major cities: Asheville Arden Black Mountain Mars Hill The Cathedral of All Souls 9 Swan Street Asheville, NC 28803 www.allsoulscathedral.org/ (828) 274-2681 The Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit 433 Bone Camp Road Marshall, NC 28753 www.holyspiritwnc.org/ (828) 689-2517 St. James Episcopal Church 424 W. State Street Black Mountain, NC 28711 https://stjameswnc.org/ (828) 669-2754 St. Mary's Episcopal Church 337 Charlotte Street Asheville, NC 28801 http://www.stmarysasheville.org/ (828) 254-5836 Church of the Advocate 60 Church St Asheville, NC 28801 http://www.reddooravl.org/ (828) 253-9361 Episcopal Church of the Redeemer 1201 Riverside Dr Asheville, North Carolina 28804 www.episcopalredeemerasheville.com (828) 253-3588 St. John's Episcopal Church 290 Old Haw Creek Rd. Asheville NC 28805 https://stjohnsasheville.org/ (828) 298-3553 St. Matthias Episcopal Church 1 Dundee St Asheville, NC 28801 https://stmatthiasepiscopal.org (828) 285-0033 Grace Episcopal Church 871 Merrimon Avenue Asheville, NC 28804 https://www.graceavl.com/ (828) 254-1086 St. Giles Chapel at Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community 1617 Hendersonville Road Asheville, North Carolina 28803 https://deerfieldwnc.org St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 219 Chunns Cove Road Asheville, NC 28805 http://stlukesavl.org/ (828) 254-2133 Trinity Episcopal Church 60 Church Street Asheville, North Carolina 28801 http://www.trinityasheville.org/ (828) 253-9361

Restoration and Improvement Loans Grant description Application link Supporting documents link Past Grant Recipients Title of supported project Short description about the project

Constitutions and Canons Meetings Convention Homepage Please mark your calendars for the following dates if you plan to attend the Zoom meetings to discuss the Constitutions and Canons. Anyone in the diocese is welcome to attend. Find the Zoom link below for these upcoming meetings. Saturday, August 28, 9:00-10:30 am Tuesday, August 31, 6:00-7:30 pm Thursday, September 2, 6:00-7:30 pm Please note: The Zoom link is the same for all three meetings. Topic: Constitution and Canons Time: Aug 28, 2021 09:00 AM Aug 31, 2021 06:00 PM Sep 2, 2021 06:00 PM Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system. Daily: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/tZwvc-Cgqz4oHtHL_UC0GY8NdDjaCEomlb_F/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGgrD8jEtGQsh2CRpw-AI-gXfzwmCVBgrd1sCDQIHB0W1vYMsZIM5FaH9Xc Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88249855245?pwd=c1krYzJBdG94R1pRYTVPQlZLSEZFdz09 Meeting ID: 882 4985 5245 Passcode: 204171 One tap mobile +13017158592,,88249855245# US (Washington DC) +13126266799,,88249855245# US (Chicago)

The Jesus Movement What is the Jesus Movement? We're following Jesus into a loving, liberating, and life-giving relationship with God, with each other, and with earth. How do we participate? First, we follow Jesus. We are simply the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement , seeking every day to love God with our whole heart, mind and soul, and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:36-40). Just like Jesus. What's the work of the movement? The Jesus Movement takes you places. For the Episcopal Church, it calls us to focus on three specific priorities. EVANGELISM Listen for Jesus' movement in our lives and in the world. Give thanks. Proclaim and celebrate it! Invite the Spirit to do the rest. Inspire Episcopalians to embrace evangelism. Gather Episcopal evangelists. Equip all to be evangelists. Send all as evangelists. RECONCILIATION Embody the loving, liberating, life-giving way of Jesus with each other. Tell the truth about church and race Rewrite the narrative Form Episcopalians as reconcilers Repair and Restore institutions & society CREATION CARE Encounter and honor the face of God in creation Develop creation care resources Grow local eco-ministries Purse eco-justice at church-wide and local level Convene conversations around climate and faith For more information about the Episcopal Church Jesus Movement click here .

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:

Chancellor of the Diocese The Chancellor is the attorney for the diocese. He or she has seat and voice on the Executive Council, is a member of the Trustees, and advises the Bishop, the Standing Committee, the Executive Council and the Trustees concerning all questions of law.

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.

Young Adult Community We invite young adults to join us as we live out our calling to the Jesus Movement of the Episcopal Church. The Jesus Movement calls us to literally act as the hands and feet of Jesus in the world. We express this call through our commitment to global mission, social engagement, and local action in our young adult communities. If you would to chat about engagement, email Kelsey Davis . Connect with Local Communities: Blue Ridge Service Corps Blue Ridge Service Corps is the Episcopal Diocese of WNC's program of the Episcopal Service Corps. This program invites young adults to complete a year of service by walking their path and seeing where God is at work in their lives. The young adults will be nurtured through the work they do at local non-profits, living in intentional community, and deepening their spiritual awareness through connection with local Episcopal churches. For more information about this community please visit Blue Ridge Service Corps . 3rd Place, Boone 3rd Place is a collaboration between the Episcopal and Presbyterian (U.S.A) Churches that provides opportunities for people to experience a sense of connection, community, and belonging. We partner with a variety of faith communities, non-profits, student groups, and artists to create spaces where people can be known by their community, pursue justice, explore spirituality, and express themselves creatively. Learn more about 3rd place on their website. Be Part of the Jesus Movement: Creation Care LEARN MORE Creation Care LEARN MORE LEARN MORE Global Mission LEARN MORE Global Mission LEARN MORE Social Engagement LEARN MORE Social Engagement LEARN MORE Local Action LEARN MORE Local Action

Prison Ministries The Diocese of Western North Carolina has a longstanding commitment to serving and ministering among our brothers and sisters incarcerated in local prisons. St. James Episcopal Church, Black Mountain and St. John’s Episcopal Church, Asheville are active in ministry at Swannanoa Correctional Center for Women. Local Episcopal clergy and lay leaders from Asheville, Brevard and Hendersonville are active at Chapel of Christ the King, a ministry to men at Craggy Correctional Center. Likewise, local clergy and lay leaders from Trinity Episcopal Church in Spruce Pine are active in ministry at Avery Mitchell Correctional Center. Below are resources that provide information on the state of prisons and the challenges faced by those within them. Local and National Ministries Kairos Prison Ministry of NC Ministry of Hope at SCCW Books and Movies Prison Nation: The Warehousing of America's Poor , edited by Tara Herivel and Paul Wright The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness , by Michelle Alexander Prison Culture: Understanding Prison Inside and Out , by Lennie Spitale Dead Man Walking The Green Mile 13th

WNC Disaster News & Stories Up On this page, you will find news and stories about the Disaster Response & Recovery Team's efforts and about the long-term relief work in the broader community. 1/1 External Media Publications Episcopal Relief & Development - Two years after Hurricane Helene, Episcopal Relief & Development shares how our diocese continues to heal. (September 22, 2026) Episcopal News Service - "One year after Helene, Western North Carolina diocese remembers its destruction, celebrates recovery." (September 30, 2025) Faith & Leadership - "One year after Hurricane Helene, two churches (Church of the Holy Cross & Valle Crucis United Methodist Church) share space and a renewed sense of mission." (September 30, 2025) AVL Watchdog - "Cathedral of All Souls, Biltmore Village's 'heart & soul,' faces an enormous renovation project." (September 29, 2025) Episcopal Relief & Development - Carried by Hope after Hurricane Helene Devastation in North Carolina. (August 27, 2025) Episcopal News Service - "Western North Carolina diocese's hard-hit areas still recovering nine months after Hurricane Helene. (June 30, 2025) LampLight - a publication produced by Episcopal Relief and Development. (March 2025) Episcopal News Service - an article highlighting the early triage stage in WNC, including quotes from Bishop José. (September 30, 2024) Mountain Xpress - "Historic Biltmore Village church to rebuild after first-time flooding." An article interviewing the Very Rev. Sarah Hurlbert about the flooding and rebuilding of The Cathedral of All Souls. (December 12, 2024) Videos Boone Chamber of Commerce "Messages of Hope" - Valle Crucis School Diocesan Communications Bearing Witness: A Partnership Between DRRT & All Souls Counseling Center - (July 8, 2026) - Video Team from Diocese of Western North Carolina Receives Certifications in Disaster Chaplaincy - (April 9, 2026) - Diocesan Blog Post Message from Bishop José: Update on Helene Recovery Work - Q3 (January 7, 2026) - Video Helene Remembrance Eucharist with Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe (September 30, 2025) - Diocesan Blog Post Bearing Witness: The Story of Church of the Transfiguration in Bat Cave (September 19, 2025) - Video Message from Bishop José: Update on Helene Recovery Work - Q2 (September 4, 2025) - Video Message from Bishop José: Update on Helene Recovery Work (April 22, 2025) - Video A Letter from Bishop José regarding the Wildfires (March 29, 2025) - Written Letter Message from Bishop José: Disaster Recovery Continues in WNC (November 25, 2024) - Video Message from Bishop José: Hurricane Helene (October 11, 2024) - Video Bearing Witness: A Story & Photo Series from Helene For our Helene Remembrance Eucharist, held on September 27, 2025, we collected stories and photos from around our diocese. These stories and photos were curated into 14 stations, echoing the 14 Stations of the Cross, and were displayed at the Eucharist. These stories and photos highlight the experiences and impact of Helene on our churches at large and on individual households throughout Western North Carolina. We believe story-telling is a sacred art in which we find healing and beauty, often in the midst of suffering, and as a means to pass on wisdom to those that come after us. To view these stories, or to share your own, follow the button below. Bearing Witness Series

Stewarding God's Gifts Each of you should use whatever gifts you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. (1 Peter 4:10) Give us all a reverence for the earth as your own creation, that we may use its resources rightly in the service of others and to your honor and glory. (BCP 388) The Diocese of Western North Carolina is pleased to provide resources for leading annual pledge campaigns, capital campaigns, and planned giving efforts. We will also point you toward some wonderful spiritual resources that discuss money, gratitude, and giving to use as Christian Formation guides. Below are some categories with links, and we are happy to add to this list as we 'crowd source' resources from parishes that have had successes they would like to share. Annual Stewardship Capital Campaigns Planned Giving If you have questions or requests, please reach out to the Rev. Rob Wood. Top Annual Stewardship Back to top The Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS) Visit their website The Diocese of Western North Carolina is a member of the Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS), which is an association of church leaders who understand, practice, and proclaim God's call to generosity. This membership covers all parishes in the diocese, so please take advantage of these great resources as your parish embarks on an annual stewardship campaign. Email Jess for the password. Webinars Resource Library Annual Pledge Campaigns Tools and Best Practices Also available: Previous years campaigns (themes and materials) You can also sign up for the TENS e-newsletter Annual Stewardship Annual Stewardship The Episcopal Church Foundation (ECF) Visit their website The Episcopal Church Foundation's Vital Practices' mission is to offer a comprehensive and holistic resource that helps vitalize Episcopal faith communities. Vital Practices offers vestry members and other people of faith, resources and tools to respond to the changing needs of the Church. Building upon the spiritually grounded, practical Vestry Papers articles that have inspired and informed vestry members since 1995, Vital Practices uses the Internet to both expand its offering and its audience. Vestry Papers Stewardship (English and Spanish) Annual Campaign Timeline Annual Giving Campaign Tools Scripture to Encourage Giving The Partnership for ReNEWal (PfR) Visit their website PfR acts as a midwife for new ways of being church, enabling churches to be agile, resilient, and intentional about living into their divine purpose in today’s shifting religious-cultural environment. Focusing on servant-leadership development and a transformed approach to year-long stewardship, PfR provides concrete goals, tools, and continuing support for the journey. United Thank Offering (UTO) Visit their website The United Thank Offering (UTO) is a ministry of The Episcopal Church for the mission of the whole church. Through UTO, individuals are invited to embrace and deepen a personal daily spiritual discipline of gratitude. UTO encourages people to notice the good things that happen each day, give thanks to God for those blessings and make an offering for each blessing using a UTO Blue Box. Stewardship Resources Gratitude Pages for November Spiritual Practice of Gratitude Other Annual Stewardship resources for your exploration: Forward Movement The Episcopal Church - Stewardship ELCA Stewardship Resources Alban Institute Everence Mennonite Resources for Stewardship Education Capital Campaigns Capital Campaigns Back to top Are you planning to raise resources for a specific project, like a building remodel or construction, debt reduction, your music or youth ministry, or more? Capital Campaigns fund ministry outside the normal budgeting and stewardship process. Discover some resources below and contact the Rev. Rob Wood if you have questions or need some help getting started (rwood.gs@gmail.com ). How to Prepare f or a Capital Campaign Recorded Webinars Basics of a Capital Campaign Integrating Annual Capital Planned Giving Planned Giving Back to top Planned Giving is another term to describe Estate Plans that would include gift monies to the church. People might make a provision 1) in their wills, 2) in a life insurance policy, or 4) through their IRA, 403B, or 401K. Encouraging people to remember their church in their estate planning is another way people can express their faith through giving. See the information in the links below to learn more. Promoting Planned Gifts Creating a Legacy Society Starting Planned Giving from Scratch Planned Giving

2019 Spring Youth Conference at Lake Logan

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

Diocesan Response to COVID-19 As we navigate the impacts of COVID-19 (Coronavirus), we have put together a variety of resources for our communities. Please do not hesitate to contact our Diocesan office if you have any concerns or questions. Please note: Here you will see listed only our most recent COVID-19 Updates. If you wish to find past statements and letters from the Bishop, please visit our Coronavirus Archives . LATEST: COVID-19 Update, April 7, 2022 Seasonal Resources Financial Resources Virtual Worship in WNC Public Health Resources Worship Resources Technology Resources Formation Resources Care for Neighbor Resources Fellowship Resources Staying Centered

Whova Tutorials Convention Homepage We will be using an event and conferencing app called Whova to facilitate voting, share documents, and help stay connected for Convention. Find guides and video tutorials from Whova at these links: • Whova How-to Guide for Attendees • Whova User Guide If you have any trouble with the app, please reach out to our Missioner for Communications, Katie Knowles , or call the diocesan office. We will be happy to help you. Download Whova

The Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina provides resources such as lay licensing information, audit guidelines, the vestry handbook, and more. Back Parish Administration & Leadership Resources Administrative Resources This page lists policies and information relevant to lay leaders, parish administrators, vestry members, and many aspects of church operation. Here you can find forms, guidelines, and links to support managing parish finances, insurance, licensing, parochial reports, and more. Jump to Leadership Resources Alcohol Policy View our diocesan policy for the responsible use of alcohol. Audits Audit Guidelines The Canons of the Episcopal Church require annual audits for all parishes, missions, and other institutions. The canons permit the auditing of congregational accounts by "an independent Certified Public Accountant," by "an independent licensed public accountant," or by such a committee as shall be authorized by the Finance Committee, or by the appropriate diocesan authority. While audits by CPAs are preferred, committee audits can be performed using alternative audit procedures to accommodate parishes with limited income. Church Property & Real Estate Transactions Intake Form for Proposed Real Estate Property Transaction When a church in the Diocese of Western North Carolina wants to sell (alienate), purchase (encumber), alter existing property, or secure bank financing for property-related transactions (encumber), parish leaders must submit a Property Transaction Form to the bishop's office to receive the required approval from the bishop, Standing Committee, Executive Council and Diocesan Trustees. Parish leaders are strongly encouraged to notify the Canon to the Ordinary with any questions and the intention to submit the necessary form. Church Personnel Management Human Resources information Communications Communications as Evangelism Workshop series Diocesan Financials 2026 Budget Most recent diocesan audit Diocesan Grants & Loans Find information on applying for our grants and loans . Diocesan Pledges 2026 Pledge Letter from Bishop José Submit a pledge for 2026 Insurance Health Benefits & Open Enrollment Letter 2026 2027 Plans Comparison Chart 2027 Network Access Instructions Property & Casualty Insurance 2027 CPG Annual Enrollment Guide 2027 Diocesan Denominational Health Plan (DHP) Plan Investments and Gifts Guidelines on parish investment management and gift acceptance Lay Leadership Lay Leader Licensing Lay Leadership Resources Lay leadership keeps our churches and our diocese moving forward. From vestry members and staff to lectors and acolytes, our communities thrive when lay people get involved. Some lay ministries require licensing from the bishop and extra training, while others require only dedication and drive. Explore the Lay Leader Licensing page for details on who needs a license, and check out the Lay Leadership Resources page for helpful information on how to grow and thrive in lay leadership. Manual of Business Methods in Church Affairs Read or download the manual A comprehensive, user-friendly manual from The Episcopal Church. The manual supports the increasingly complex work of all treasurers and parish administrators, and it includes forms, such as the parochial report form, with instructions. Parochial Report - Due March 1st Help with parochial reports The Parochial Report, established by the Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church, is a tool for collecting data intended to assist The Episcopal Church in planning for its mission. Every church in the Diocese of Western North Carolina must file a parochial report. Technology Visit our Technology Resources page Parish Leadership Resources Leadership Resouce In this section, you will find resources that support the work and formation of lay leaders in the church. General Leadership ECF Vital Practices offers parish leaders, including vestry members, the resources and tools to respond to the changing needs of the Church. Key Characteristics of Growing Congregations - A summary of the dynamics of growth and decline in Episcopal congregations based on the 2014 Survey of Episcopal Congregations. ChurchNext has numerous paid and free online courses on various topics for parish leaders. The Alban Institute at Duke Divinity School provides educational materials, books, publications, and consulting services for clergy and congregations. Membership gets you a weekly e-mail and a book discount. Child and Youth Resources for formation within the youth and young adults in your parish or the diocese. Vestry Leadership Stewardship Steward God's Gifts Webpage Treasurer Tools Generic Treasurer Checklist Sample Parish Treasurer Job Description Sample Finance Committee Job Description Sample Parish Financial Policy Vestry Leadership 2023 Vestry Leadership Day slides Vestry Handbook 2024 Vestry Resource Guide The Vestry Resource Guide offers an approach for leaders of congregations and faith communities to work together to become an effective, even transformational leadership team. The full guide is available for $15 from Forward Movement here . A free preview is also available at that link. Evangelism Evangelism Toolkit Every Episcopalian is commissioned in baptism to proclaim by word and example the loving, liberating, and life-giving good news of Jesus Christ. Through the spiritual practice of evangelism, we name and celebrate Jesus’ loving presence in the stories of all people - then invite everyone to join us in the journey of faith. The Episcopal Church has prepared this Evangelism Toolkit to help us live into that call. Evangelism Toolkit in English or Spanish Evangelism Resources from TEC Transforming Evangelism, by David Gortner

Haiti For many years, multiple parishes in the Diocese of Western North Carolina have supported and built relationships with congregations in the Diocese of Haiti. If your church is interested in developing relationships with congregations in Haiti, there are several clergy and lay leaders who could assist you in identifying next steps. Contact the Canon to the Ordinary to learn more. Below are reflections and helpful words of wisdom from a local parish leader on his experiences in Haiti: A word from Alister Brady – Episcopal Church of the Incarnation, Highlands Photographs by Tom Plaut of St. Matthias Episcopal Church Asheville . St. Matthias is the parish sponsor for Consider Haiti, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Haitian communities by supporting grassroots efforts to create sustainable nutrition and medical support. Learn more about how you can get involved with Consider Haiti on their website .

Justice and Outreach Grant 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. Apply for this grant Grant budget form Past Grant Recipients Winter Safe Shelter Welcomes Dozens During First Year An ecumenical effort to provide shelter for the underserved among the unhoused has welcomed more than 30 people in off the streets since... Diocese of WNC