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

A Reflection on Cuba By Jack Watson, St. James Episcopal Church, Hendersonville A group from St. James, Hendersonville has made two trips to Cuba in the past three years and has found the Episcopal Church there to be vibrant and very much alive. As a result of these visits, St. James has established a relationship of prayer and support with nine congregations in the eastern end of the Island -- all Faith Communities which otherwise have very little companionship support from parishes outside Cuba. One of these nine churches is mentioned each Sunday in the Prayers of Intercession of the Eucharist. While the Episcopal Church in Cuba is rich in faith, it is severely lacking in financial resources and over the past three years St. James has funded the renovation of a badly deteriorated house into a House of Worship for San Joaquin, Bayamo; assisted with the replacement of a roof for Transfiguration, Tabor; funded the replacement of a roof of the rectory of San Lucas, Santiago (which was badly damaged by Hurricane Matthew); and, through a generous anonymous gift, purchased a house to be used for a House of Worship for San Pedro, Jiqui -- a mission congregation whose building was destroyed by a hurricane 33 years ago. The Cuban Church is indeed poor in material things; however, it is a faith-filled community which is manifested by the vibrancy of its worship, its outreach, and its growth. St. James is the richer for participating in this fellowship.

Settlement Period The earliest known Episcopal communities to gather for regular worship west of the Catawba River, in the early 1800s, were at St. Andrew’s Chapel, about five miles outside present-day Lenoir, NC, and St. John’s Chapel, just outside present-day Morganton, as well as at White Haven Chapel, about one mile outside present-day Lincolnton, NC. All three churches were shepherded by the Rev. Robert Johnson Miller, affectionately known as “Parson Miller”. Miller arrived in the Lenoir area in 1786, and, although raised in the Episcopal Church, he was a lay missionary for several years in the Methodist Church. In 1794, Miller was ordained in the Lutheran Church with the stipulation that he would seek Episcopal Orders when a diocese was formed in North Carolina. It was during this time the three worshiping communities of St. Andrew’s, St. John’s, and White Haven were formed, comprising both Episcopalians and Lutherans. Eventually, Miller was ordained in the Episcopal Church by Bishop Moore of Virginia in 1821. In the early 1840s, St. Andrew’s Chapel was officially moved to downtown Lenoir and became the foundation of St. James Episcopal Church. Families from both St. St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Lincolnton , Upstateherd, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Andrew’s and St. John’s chapels came together and founded Grace Episcopal Church in Morganton. Similarly, White Haven Chapel moved to Lincolnton and the cornerstone of St. Luke’s was laid in 1842. St. Luke’s was the first church in the region admitted to the Diocese of North Carolina. Meanwhile, 80 miles southwest of Lincolnton, wealthy families from Charleston, South Carolina had begun establishing summer residences during the early part of the 19th century in Flat Rock, NC. A few residents built small chapels to sustain their regular worship, notably the Baring family who erected a second structure (the first destroyed by fire) on the present site of St. John in the Wilderness in 1832. This was the first church structure consecrated in our diocese. <<< Previous Page Next Page >>> Origins LEARN MORE Origins LEARN MORE LEARN MORE Settlement Period LEARN MORE Settlement Period LEARN MORE Mountain Missionary Spirit LEARN MORE Mountain Missionary Spirit LEARN MORE Becoming a Diocese LEARN MORE Becoming a Diocese LEARN MORE Repairing a Breach LEARN MORE Repairing a Breach LEARN MORE Expanding the Circle LEARN MORE Expanding the Circle Mountain Missionary Spirit Introductory text Learn more > Mountain Missionary Spirit Expanding the Circle Introduction to Youth section. Learn more > Expanding the Circle

La Virgen de Guadalupe The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (La Virgen de Guadalupe) is a tradition originating in Mexico, celebrated on December 12th each year. Learn more about the tradition in this short video and look at these photos below to see how it is celebrated at our very own Capilla de Santa Maria in Hendersonville, NC.

Our Camp & Conference Centers We are proud to be a part of one summer camp and two conference centers. Click on a center to learn more, or come visit one for yourself and spend some time reflecting in nature! Camp Henry LEARN MORE Camp Henry LEARN MORE Lake Logan LEARN MORE Lake Logan LEARN MORE Valle Crucis LEARN MORE Valle Crucis LEARN MORE

Exploring Our Churches: Western Area Up Back to Find a Church The Western deanery is blessed with the natural beauty and culture of two national forests within the Appalachian Mountains, the grandeur of the Great Smoky National Park, the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and numerous waterfalls in the Southern Highlands. It is home to Lake Logan Episcopal Center, John Campbell Folk School and a sovereign nation recognized by the federal government. The Eastern Band of Cherokee resides in their traditional homelands with a history that spans the millennia. Major cities: Canton Cashiers Cullowhee Franklin Hayesville Highlands Murphy Robbinsville Sylva Waynesville All Saints Episcopal Church St. Agnes Chapel: 66 Church St. St. Cyprian's Chapel: 216 Roller Mill Rd. Franklin, NC 28734 www.allsaintsfranklin.org 828-524-4910 Grace Mountainside Church 129 S. Main Street Robbinsville, NC 28771 www.luther95.com/GMLEF-RNC/ (828) 479-1184 Good Shepherd Episcopal Church 495 Herbert Hills Drive Hayesville, NC 28904 goodshepherdhayesville.org (828) 389-3397 St. David's Episcopal Church 385 Forest Hills Road Cullowhee, NC 28723 www.stdavidscullowhee.org/ (828) 331-1427 Church of the Good Shepherd 1448 Highway 107 South Cashiers, North Carolina 28717 www.goodshepherdofcashiers.com (828) 743-2359 St. John's Episcopal Church 18 Jackson Street Sylva, NC 28779 https://www.saintjohnssylva.org/ (828) 586-8358 Episcopal Church of the Messiah 76 Peachtree Street Murphy, NC 28906 www.messiahmurphy.com (828) 837-2021 St John's Episcopal Church 542 St Johns Church Road Franklin, NC 28734 https://www.stjohnscartoogechaye.com/ (828) 524-6370 Grace Church in the Mountains 394 N. Haywood Street Waynesville, NC 28786 www.gracewaynesville.com (828) 456-6029 Church of the Incarnation 520 Main Street @ 5th Street Highlands, NC 28741 www.incarnationwnc.org (828) 526-2968 St. Andrew's Episcopal Church 99 Academy Street Canton, NC 28716 http://www.standrewscanton.org/ (828) 648-7550 Whiteside Summer Chapel Cashiers, NC 28717 www.thesummerchapel.org/ (828) 553-8912

Committee on Constitution and Canons Up Back to Our Leadership & Governance The Committee on Constitution and Canons consists of members of the Diocese nominated by the Ecclesiastical Authority and elected by the Convention of the Diocese. The committee is called to serve only when any proposed amendments, edits and changes to the Constitution and Canons of the Diocese is before Convention. The committee works between conventions of the diocese and brings recommendations to the Convention based on its work in the preceding year. At this time, there is no business before the Committee.

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.

Spanish-Language Selections As part of our Latino Ministries, we aim to build bridges between the Anglo and Latino communities in the Diocese of Western North Carolina. Part of building that community is to share and understand one another's languages. Here, we have compiled a variety of Spanish-language videos from the Book of Common Prayer that can be implemented in your services and serve as a learning tool for the Anglo community to learn a bit of Spanish. Please feel free to download and include these videos in both your virtual and in-person services, or on your parish website. Below, you will find Spanish-selections from the Book of Common Prayer, or full Spanish-language services if desired. DOWNLOAD: The Book of Common Prayer (English) DOWNLOAD: El Libro De Oración Común (Español) Spanish-Language Selections from the BCP All Categories Play Video Play Video 03:53 Holy Eucharist Form B Permission to use music licensed under CCLI License No. 11502747 Size C Celebrante: El Señor sea con ustedes. Pueblo: Y con tu espíritu. Celebrante: Elevemos los corazones. Pueblo: Los elevamos al Señor. Celebrante: Demos gracias a Dios nuestro Señor. Pueblo: Es justo darle gracias y alabanza. En verdad es digno, justo y saludable, darte gracias, en todo tiempo y lugar, Padre omnipotente, Creador de cielo y tierra. Por tanto te alabamos, uniendo nuestras voces con los Angeles y Arcángeles, y con todos los coros celestiales que, proclamando la gloria de tu Nombre, por siempre cantan este himno: Santo, santo, santo es el Señor, Dios del universo. Llenos están el cielo y la tierra de tu gloria. Hosanna en el cielo. Bendito el que viene en nombre del Señor. Hosanna en el cielo. Te damos gracias, oh Dios, por la bondad y el amor que tú nos has manifestado en la creación; en el llamado a Israel para ser tu pueblo; en tu Verbo revelado a través de los profetas; y, sobre todo, en el Verbo hecho carne, Jesús, tu Hijo. Pues en la plenitud de los tiempos le has enviado para que se encarnara de María la Virgen a fin de ser el Salvador y Redentor del mundo. En él, nos has librado del mal, y nos has hecho dignos de estar en tu presencia. En él, nos has sacado del error a la verdad, del pecado a la rectitud, y de la muerte a la vida. En la víspera de su muerte por nosotros, nuestro Señor Jesucristo tomó pan; y dándote gracias, lo partió y lo dio a sus discípulos, y dijo: "Tomen y coman. Este es mi Cuerpo, entregado por ustedes. Hagan esto como memorial mío". Después de la cena tomó el cáliz; y dándote gracias, se lo entregó, y dijo: "Beban todos de él. Esta es mi Sangre del nuevo Pacto, sangre derramada por ustedes y por muchos para el perdón de los pecados. Siempre que lo beban, háganlo como memorial mío". Por tanto, oh Padre, según su mandato, Recordamos su muerte, Proclamamos su resurrección, Esperamos su venida en gloria; Y te ofrecemos nuestro sacrificio de alabanza y acción de gracias, Señor de todos; ofreciéndote, de tu creación, este pan y este vino. Te suplicamos, Dios bondadoso, que envíes tu Espíritu Santo sobre estos dones, para que sean el Sacramento del Cuerpo de Cristo y su Sangre del nuevo Pacto. Unenos a tu Hijo en su sacrificio, a fin de que, por medio de él, seamos aceptables, siendo santificados por el Espíritu Santo. En la plenitud de los tiempos, sujeta todas las cosas a tu Cristo y llévanos a la patria celestial donde, con todos tus santos, entremos en la herencia eterna de tus hijos; por Jesucristo nuestro Señor, el primogénito de toda la creación, la cabeza de la Iglesia, y el autor de nuestra salvación. Por él, y con él y en él, en la unidad del Espíritu Santo, tuyos son el honor y la gloria, Padre omnipotente, ahora y por siempre. Amen. Play Video Play Video 00:46 The Lord's Prayer Padre nuestro que estás en el cielo, santificado sea tu Nombre, venga tu reino, hágase tu voluntad, en la tierra como en el cielo. Danos hoy nuestro pan de cada día. Perdona nuestras ofensas, como también nosotros perdonamos a los que nos ofenden. No nos dejes caer en tentación y líbranos del mal. Porque tuyo es el reino, tuyo es el poder, y tuya es la gloria, ahora y por siempre. Amén. Play Video Play Video 00:35 A Collect for Purity Dios omnipotente, para quien todos los corazones están manifiestos, todos los deseos conocidos y ningún secreto encubierto: Purifica los pensamientos de nuestros corazones con la inspiración de tu Santo Espíritu, para que perfectamente te amemos y dignamente celebremos tu Santo Nombre; por Cristo nuestro Señor. Amén. Play Video Play Video 01:42 The Nicene Creed Creemos en un solo Dios, Padre todopoderoso, creador de cielo y tierra, de todo lo visible e invisible. Creemos en un solo Señor, Jesucristo, Hijo único de Dios, nacido del Padre antes de todos los siglos: Dios de Dios, Luz de Luz, Dios verdadero de Dios verdadero, engendrado, no creado, de la misma naturaleza que el Padre, por quien todo fue hecho; que por nosotros y por nuestra salvación bajó del cielo: por obra del Espíritu Santo se encarnó de María, la Virgen, y se hizo hombre. Por nuestra causa fue crucificado en tiempos de Poncio Pilato: padeció y fue sepultado. Resucitó al tercer día, según las Escrituras, subió al cielo y está sentado a la derecha del Padre. De nuevo vendrá con gloria para juzgar a vivos y muertos, y su reino no tendrá fin. Creemos en el Espíritu Santo, Señor y dado de vida, que procede del Padre y del Hijo. Que con el Padre y el Hijo recibe una misma adoración y gloria. y que habló por los profetas. Creemos en la Iglesia, que es una, santa, católica y apostólica. Reconocemos un solo Bautismo para el perdón de los pecados. Esperamos la resurrección de los muertos y la vida del mundo futuro. Amén. Play Video Play Video 03:33 Prayers of the People Formula I Con todo el corazón y con toda la mente, oremos al Señor, diciendo: "Señor, ten piedad". Por la paz de lo alto, por la misericordia de Dios y por la salvación de nuestras almas, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por la paz del mundo, por el bienestar de la santa Iglesia de Dios y por la unidad de todos los pueblos, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por nuestro Obispo, y por todos los clérigos y laicos, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por nuestro Presidente, por los gobernantes de las naciones y por todas las autoridades, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por esta ciudad, por todas las ciudades y comunidades, y por los que viven en ellas, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por un clima apacible y por la abundancia de los frutos de la tierra, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por la buena tierra que Dios nos ha dado, y por la sabiduría y el deseo de conservarla, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por todos los que viajan por tierra, mar o aire o el espacio, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por los ancianos e inválidos, los viudos y huérfanos, por los enfermos y los que yacen en el lecho del dolor, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por los pobres y oprimidos, por los desempleados e indigentes, por los encarcelados y cautivos, y por todos los que se acuerdan y cuidan de ellos, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por todos los que han muerto en la esperanza de la resurrección y por todos los difuntos, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por la liberación de todo peligro, violencia, opresión y degradación, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Por la absolución y remisión de nuestros pecados y ofensas, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Para que terminemos nuestra vida en fe y esperanza, sin sufrimiento ni reproche, oremos al Señor. Señor, ten piedad. Defiéndenos, líbranos, y en tu compasión protégenos, oh Señor, por medio de tu gracia. Señor, ten piedad. En la comunión de los santos, encomendémonos los unos a los otros, y toda nuestra vida a Cristo nuestro Dios. A ti, Señor nuestro Dios. Play Video Play Video 07:39 Holy Eucharist Form A Permission to use music licensed under CCLI License No. 11502747 Size C Celebrante: El Señor sea con ustedes. Pueblo: Y con tu espíritu. Celebrante: Elevemos los corazones. Pueblo: Los elevamos al Señor. Celebrante: Demos gracias a Dios nuestro Señor. Pueblo: Es justo darle gracias y alabanza. En verdad es digno, justo y saludable, darte gracias, en todo tiempo y lugar, Padre omnipotente, Creador de cielo y tierra. Aquí, todos los domingos y en las ocasiones que se indique, se canta o dice el Prefacio Propio. Por tanto te alabamos, uniendo nuestras voces con los Angeles y Arcángeles, y con todos los coros celestiales que, proclamando la gloria de tu Nombre, por siempre cantan este himno: Santo, santo, santo es el Señor, Dios del universo. Llenos están el cielo y la tierra de tu gloria. Hosanna en el cielo. Bendito el que viene en nombre del Señor. Hosanna en el cielo. Padre Santo y bondadoso: En tu amor infinito nos hiciste para ti, y cuando caímos en pecado y quedamos esclavos del mal y de la muerte, tú, en tu misericordia, enviaste a Jesucristo, tu Hijo único y eterno, para compartir nuestra naturaleza humana, para vivir y morir como uno de nosotros, y así reconciliarnos contigo, el Dios y Padre de todos. Extendió sus brazos sobre la cruz y se ofreció en obediencia a tu voluntad, un sacrificio perfecto por todo el mundo. En la noche en que fue entregado al sufrimiento y a la muerte, nuestro Señor Jesucristo tomó pan; y dándote gracias, lo partió y lo dio a sus discípulos, y dijo: "Tomen y coman. Este es mi Cuerpo, entregado por ustedes. Hagan esto como memorial mío". Después de la cena tomó el cáliz; y dándote gracias, se lo entregó, y dijo: "Beban todos de él. Esta es mi Sangre del nuevo Pacto, sangre derramada por ustedes y por muchos para el perdón de los pecados. Siempre que lo beban, háganlo como memorial mío". Por tanto, proclamamos el misterio de fe: Cristo ha muerto. Cristo ha resucitado. Cristo volverá. Padre, en este sacrificio de alabanza y acción de gracias, celebramos el memorial de nuestra redención. Recordando su muerte, resurrección y ascención, te ofrecemos estos dones. Santifícalos con tu Espíritu Santo, y así serán para tu pueblo el Cuerpo y la Sangre de tu Hijo, la santa comida y la santa bebida de la vida nueva en él que no tiene fin. Santifícanos también, para que recibamos fielmente este Santo Sacramento y seamos perseverantes en tu servicio en paz y unidad. Y en el día postrero, llévanos con todos tus santos al gozo de tu reino eterno. Todo esto te pedimos por tu Hijo Jesucristo. Por él, y con él y en él, en la unidad del Espíritu Santo, tuyos son el honor y la gloria, Padre omnipotente, ahora y por siempre. AMEN. Oremos como nuestro Salvador Cristo nos enseñó. Padre nuestro que estás en el cielo, santificado sea tu Nombre, venga tu reino, hágase tu voluntad, en la tierra como en el cielo. Danos hoy nuestro pan de cada día. Perdona nuestras ofensas, como también nosotros perdonamos a los que nos ofenden. No nos dejes caer en tentación y líbranos del mal. Porque tuyo es el reino, tuyo es el poder, y tuya es la gloria, ahora y por siempre. Amén Cristo, nuestra Pascua, se ha sacrificado por nosotros. Los Dones de Dios para el Pueblo de Dios. Tómenlos en memoria de que Cristo murió por ustedes, y aliméntense de él en sus corazones, por fe y con agradecimiento. Eterno Dios, Padre celestial, en tu bondad nos has aceptado como miembros vivos de tu Hijo, nuestro Salvador Jesucristo; nos has nutrido con alimento espiritual en el Sacramento de su Cuerpo y de su Sangre. Envíanos ahora en paz al mundo; revístenos de fuerza y de valor para amarte y servirte con alegría y sencillez de corazón; por Cristo nuestro Señor. Amén. Play Video Play Video 00:32 Prefaces for the Seasons - Advent Porque enviaste a tu amado Hijo para redimirnos del pecado y de la muerte, y para hacernos en él herederos de la vida eterna; para que, cuando vuelva en poder y gran triunfo a juzgar al mundo, nos gocemos contemplando su manifestación, sin temor ni vergüenza. Play Video Play Video 00:32 Prefaces for the Seasons - Incarnation Porque nos diste a Jesucristo, tu único Hijo, que se encarnó por nosotros; quien, por el gran poder del Espíritu Santo, fue hecho Hombre perfecto, nacido de la carne de la Virgen María su madre; para que, librados del yugo del pecado, recibamos la potestad de llegar a ser hijos tuyos. Play Video Play Video 00:25 Prefaces for the Seasons-Epiphany Porque en el misterio del Verbo hecho carne, tú has hecho que una luz nueva brille en nuestros corazones, para darnos el conocimiento de tu gloria en la faz de tu Hijo, nuestro Señor Jesucristo. Load More

Immigration The Episcopal Church has a long-standing history of extending radical hospitality and care to refugees and immigrants. Indeed, our church “has served immigrants new to the U.S. since the late 1800s, when the Church opened port chaplaincies to minister to sojourners on both coasts. In the 1930’s, local parishes collected donations to provide steamship passage for those fleeing Nazi Europe.”[1] The Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina and many of our parishes have actively participated in welcoming refugees into our congregations and our homes. Likewise, many of our parishes are actively involved in offering care and support to immigrants in their communities. [1] Episcopal Migration Ministries Below are resources on how you and your parish can participate in this important, Gospel centered, work. El Centro Hispano LEARN MORE El Centro Hispano LEARN MORE LEARN MORE Episcopal Migration Ministries LEARN MORE Episcopal Migration Ministries LEARN MORE Pisgah Legal Services LEARN MORE Pisgah Legal Services

Executive Council Up Back to Our Leadership & Governance The Executive Council implements the work of the Diocese between Conventions. The Executive Council includes: Bishop José (chair); 18 elected members serving 3-year terms (1 clergy and 1 lay person from every Deanery, and 6 at-large lay members); the Dean of the Cathedral of All Souls (ex-officio); the Chancellor of the Diocese; and the Treasurer of the Diocese. Up to six meetings are held annually, plus an overnight retreat in January. Elected members having served a full term shall be ineligible for reelection for a period of two years. Likewise, Deans of Deaneries are ineligible. President of the Executive Council – The Rt. Rev. José A. McLoughlin, Bishop Vice President of the Executive Council – Jann Mellman At-Large Members: Sandra Smith (2024–2026), Jann Mellmann (2024–2026), Doug Orville (2025-2027), Don Hunley (2025-2027), Dr. Daniel Raiford (2026-2028), Kathy Wright (2026-2028) The Rev. David McNair St. John's, Asheville - 2026–2028 Sandy Rountree St. James, Black Mountain - 2023–2025 ASHEVILLE DEANERY The Rev. Logan Lovelace St. Mary's St. Stephen's - 2024–2026 Mr. Steve Snyder St. Alban's, Hickory - 2026–2028 FOOTHILLS DEANERY MOUNTAIN DEANERY The Rev. Perry Hildreth Holy Communion - 2025–2027 Jean Harrison St. Luke's, Boone - 2025-2027 HENDERSONVILLE DEANERY The Rev. David Henson St. James, Hendersonville - 2024-2026 Ms. Amy Cook St. Paul's, Edneyville - 2025-2027 PIEDMONT DEANERY The Rev. Ron Taylor St. Peter by the Lake, Denver - 2026–2028 Ms. Sandra Miller Camp St. Gabriel's, Rutherfordton - 2026–2028 WESTERN DEANERY The Rev. Skully Knight Incarnation, Highlands - 2025–2027 Ms. Lee Berger All Saints, Franklin - 2024–2026 Joint Resolutions