|
Come to Me, and I Will Give You Rest:
The 114th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia
|
|
October 25-26 | Tacoma Convention Center and Marriott Hotel Downtown Tacoma
Rest. Engage. Pray. Over the last two years, we have been busily engaged in the work of transition, listening, discerning, and preparing to begin a new season as the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia. As we cross the threshold into a new life together with a new bishop, it’s tempting to rush forward without first taking stock of where we are and where we’re heading. Instead, let us heed Christ’s invitation: “Come to me, and I will give you rest.”
In this 114th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia, join us as we come together after a season of transition to rest in Christ, to engage deeply in the meaningful work of the Diocese, and to pray together as a community, heeding the call of our Savior and striking out in a new direction together. Learn from one another at workshops, celebrate milestones in the life of our Diocese, worship with Episcopalians across Western Washington, and hear from Bishop LaBelle as he begins his journey with us in the Diocese.
Rest. Engage. Pray.
|
|
|
Full Day of Workshops Offered at Diocesan Convention
|
|
Join Episcopalians from across Western Washington for a full day of education, inspiration, and community-building at Diocesan Convention’s first of two days. Workshops range in topics from creation care to prison ministry, world events to artificial intelligence, and crafting sermons to mapping neighborhoods. A mid-day plenary session with our newly consecrated Bishop Phil LaBelle will delve deeply into the Convention theme: Come to Me, and I Will Give You Rest.
With 36 different workshop options throughout the day, there is truly something for everyone, and all are welcome. If you’re not already registering as a delegate, alternate, or representative, register as a participant at $10 per person. Workshops will be held Friday, October 25, at the Tacoma Convention Center from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. See the schedule for more details.
|
|
|
College for Congregational Development Saturday Sessions
|
|
Saturdays, October 19, November 16, January 18, February 15, & March 15, April 26; 8:30 am
Registration for The College for Congregational Development Saturday Sessions is still open! These meetings will primarily be held at Diocesan House on Capitol Hill in Seattle. You may register at the link below. Our first session is on Saturday, October 19.
At a time when many of us are burdened by uncertainty, fatigue, changing expectations and the after-effects of COVID, the College for Congregational Development is an incredible way to support leadership and give us all a greater sense of agency and direction. Through grant funding and lots of work, we’ve revamped and reinvigorated the program and are continuing to fine-tune this work. We’re now in 12 dioceses and growing!
For this session, we will be in “Year A,” which focuses primarily on internal congregational processes of engagement and thriving to include processes that create ownership and inform action. As part of the curriculum, we will be learning and practicing conflict management and trust development tools, change and listening processes, facilitation skills, leadership development, and intercultural communication among other things.
As always, you are welcome to reach out to Matt Koski at mkoski@ecww.org.
|
|
|
|
|
Ordination to the Diaconate
|
|
On Saturday, September 28, Bishop LaBelle ordained Anna Lynn to the Order of Deacons at Saint Mark’s Cathedral in Seattle. It was the first ordination service for our new bishop and another joyous celebration in the life of our Diocese.
|
|
|
|
|
Celebration of New Ministry at St. Michael’s South Sudanese, Auburn
|
|
On Sunday, September 29, we celebrated the new ministry at St. Michael’s South Sudanese Church in Auburn, WA. Bishop LaBelle joined The Rev. Mary Bol and our new congregation in the Diocese of Olympia in this joyous and momentous occasion!
|
|
|
|
|
Clergy Transitions in the Diocese of Olympia
|
|
It is a time of transition within our Diocese, and we have a new clergy transition to announce. The Rev. Meredith Harmon has been called as rector of Church of the Holy Spirit, Vashon Island.
Please join us in welcoming The Rev. Harmon to the Diocese, and keep all congregations experiencing transition in your prayers.
|
|
|
|
|
October 12, 9:30 am | Saint Mark’s Cathedral, Seattle | $25 Registration
Whether you’re a newcomer or veteran to the Godly Play methodology, you are invited to a day of workshops, idea-sharing, and fun!
|
|
|
|
|
Bishops Cross and Ky Chen Award Nominations
|
|
The Office of the Bishop has issued a call for nominations for two diocesan awards. If you know of such a person deserving of either award, talk with your church office or leadership about submitting a nomination (using the form below). The awards will be made during the Diocesan Convention, held on October 25 and 26, 2024.
The deadline to submit nominations is October 14. Nominations must be submitted by using this form.
|
|
|
|
|
Baptism and Necrology Reports at Diocesan Convention
|
|
As we prepare for Diocesan Convention 2024, it is time to gather the names of those in our congregations who have been baptized – and those who have died – since October 1, 2023.
|
|
|
|
|
Diocesan House Renovations
|
|
Renovations at Diocesan House have begun! Due to the extensive interior and exterior work on Diocesan House, there will be limited access to the building until the Fall of 2024, and staff members will be arranging alternate meeting locations during the renovation. If you have any questions about the renovations, please contact our Diocesan Property Manager, The Rev. Dr. Dennis S. Tierney, at dtierney@ecww.org.
|
|
|
|
|
Visit the Diocesan Altar Guild
|
|
Diocesan Altar Guild (DAG) will be at Diocesan House as often as possible: please call ahead if you wish to come visit on Tuesday or Wednesday from 10:30 am – 5:00 pm at 206.826.7211 to reach the DAG room directly. For appointments on other days, if needed, call Sherry at 206.364.4707.
Parking will be across the street. It is not a long walk: a person can be let off at the front of Diocesan House before parking elsewhere. Only one space at Diocesan House is available for Disabled Parking.
|
|
|
|
|
Building a Place Where Love Dwells:
St. Luke’s, Seattle Capital Campaign
|
|
Bishop Skelton offers an invitation to join in the momentous work of St. Luke’s, Seattle’s redevelopment of their property to create affordable housing and a new worship space. You, too, can help to Build a Place Where Love Dwells!
|
|
|
|
|
Episcopal Relief & Development Responds to Needs Created by Hurricane Helene
|
|
Following Hurricane Helene, the deadly Category 4 storm that caused widespread damage throughout the southern US, Episcopal Relief & Development is working with church leaders within the Episcopal Diocese of Florida, the Episcopal Diocese of Georgia and the Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida to support survivors.
|
|
|
|
|
Vote Faithfully: Election Engagement Tool Kit
|
|
New resources from the Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations give every congregation the tools to engage more proactively and more faithfully in the upcoming elections.
|
|
|
|
Live-Streaming Services
Across the Diocese
|
As more of our churches have moved to live-streaming their services, we’ve created a directory of our churches with services times and links to where you can join for Sunday morning and weekday prayer.
|
|
|
|
|
Shipboard Benefit Luncheon for the Seattle Seafarers Center
|
|
October 5, 10:00 am | Pier 91 Cruise Terminal, Seattle | $75 Tickets
Enjoy a 3-course meal with wine aboard Holland America Line’s Eurodam cruise ship at this benefit luncheon for the Seattle Seafarers Center.
|
|
|
|
|
Contemplative Evening Eucharist
|
|
Sundays, 5:00 pm | St. John’s, Gig Harbor
A contemplative liturgy with candlelight, quiet and Celtic-inspired music.
|
|
|
|
|
Sundays, 5:30 pm | Epiphany, Seattle
Join Epiphany, Seattle every Sunday at 5:30 pm for Choral Evensong, followed by a reception.
|
|
|
|
|
Contemplative Worship in the Spirit of Taizé
|
|
First Sunday of the Month, 5:00 pm | St. Andrew’s, Seattle
Join St. Andrew’s, Seattle for contemplative worship in the spirit of Taizé.
|
|
|
|
Walking with the Indigenous Saints
|
|
Sundays, 9:40 am | St. George, Maple Valley
Join St. George, Maple Valley for a six-week study series especially designed for middle and high school youth that seeks to study and integrate scripture and the lives of holy men and women of Indigenous heritage in the Episcopal Church.
|
|
|
|
|
Fourth Sundays, 2:00 pm | St. George, Maple Valley
Join St. George, Maple Valley for guided meditative labyrinth walks with seasonal themes on the 4th Sunday of the month, 2:00-4:00 pm, rain or shine, as an indoor walk will be available in inclement weather.
|
|
|
|
|
October 5, 9:00 am | St. George, Maple Valley
Please join St. George, Maple Valley in their labyrinth for a free workshop with guided meditation “connecting and contemplating with nature.”
|
|
|
|
Learn About the Puyallup Tribe
|
|
October 5, 10:00 am | St. John’s, Gig Harbor
A representative from the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Puyallup Tribe of Indians will be sharing the history of the native people who lived in Gig Harbor and whose tribe continues to have prominent place in the south sound region and answering questions.
|
|
|
|
|
Sundays Beginning October 6, 9:30 am | Redeemer, Kenmore
Elementary-aged children will use Seeking God Together for church school at Church of the Redeemer.
|
|
|
|
|
Sundays Beginning October 6, 9:30 am | Redeemer, Kenmore
When you think of God, what images come to mind?
|
|
|
|
|
October 6, 12:00 pm | St. George, Maple Valley
Celebrating the Feast of St. Francis, we invite everyone to bring their pets to St. George for the annual Blessing of the Animals at noon on Sunday, October 6, 2024.
|
|
|
|
|
October 6, 3:00 pm | Trinity, Everett
International artist David di Fiore returns to the NW to perform PIPE ORGAN TIME MACHINE at Trinity, Everett, Oct. 6, 3;00 pm.
|
|
|
|
Beyond Land Acknowledgement
|
|
Sundays Beginning October 6, 5:00 pm | St. John the Baptist, Seattle
A speaker series exploring the history and future of the Duwamish Tribe in the Seattle Area.
|
|
|
|
|
October 9, 6:30 pm | St. Columba’s,Kent
A casual take on Evening Prayer over a meal.
|
|
|
|
Edible Hope Kitchen Annual Fundraiser
|
|
October 10, 6:00 pm | Bickersons Brew House, Seattle | $50 Tickets
Join for an evening of fun to raise money and raise a paddle for St. Luke’s Edible Hope Kitchen as they prepare to move to a new location.
|
|
|
|
Christian Formation: Halloween Special
|
|
Sundays Beginning October 13, 3:00 pm | St. Mary’s Lakewood
Join St. Mary’s, Lakewood for a creepy foray into the dark side of the Bible and the Christian Faith going into Allhallowtide!
|
|
|
|
Healing and Taize Worship
|
|
October 18, 5:30 pm | St. Mary’s Lakewood
Worship in Taize style with anointing and healing prayer.
|
|
|
|
|
The Elusive Quest: Reconciliation in a World of Conflict with David Porte
|
|
October 18, 5:30 pm | St. Mary’s Lakewood
Worship in Taize style with anointing and healing prayer.
|
|
|
|
|
October 20 & November 17 6:00 pm | St. Barnabas, Bainbridge Island
Join St. Barnabas, Bainbridge Island this fall for their contemplative Vespers services dedicated to female saints and sung by the Schola Nova treble choir.
|
|
|
|
|
October 25, 7:30 pm | St. Dunstan’s, Shoreline
A Haunting Halloween Organ Concert and Spooky Storytelling Soirée.
|
|
|
|
|
Whiffenpoofs at Christ Church Tacoma
|
|
October 26, 7:00 pm | Christ Church, Tacoma | $25 Tickets
Whiffenpoofs, America’s oldest A Cappella Group, is on tour and performing at Christ Church Tacoma.
|
|
|
|
|
Book or Treat (Libro or Trato)
|
|
October 31, 5:00 pm | St. Timothy, Chehalis
Trick or Treat at St. Timothy, Chehalis for free books, treats, and a warm break!
|
|
|
|
Keeping Hope When the World Seems Hopeless with The Rev. Scott Gunn
|
|
November 2, 9:00 am | St. Thomas, Medina | $45 Registration (Scholarships Available)
Join St. Thomas, Medina, for this timely retreat opportunity facilitated by Forward Movement Director Scott Gunn and explore how we can keep hope when the world seems hopeless.
|
|
|
|
|
November 2, 6:30 pm | St. John’s, Gig Harbor
Join St. John’s, Gig Harbor as they will name those who have died and light candles in their memory, while the choir ministers to souls with the singing of Mozart Requiem Mass.
|
|
|
|
Living Breathe | Organ and Flute
|
|
November 15, 7:30 pm | St. Luke’s Memorial, Tacoma | $20 Suggested Donation
As part of the 24-25 season of Music at St. Luke’s Memorial, Dr. Tracy Doyle (Director of the UPS School of Music) and Dr. Wyatt Smith will present a program of music for organ and flute by living composers.
|
|
|
|
Comfort & Joy: An English Christmas
|
|
December 7, 8:00 pm | Saint Mark’s Cathedral, Seattle | $5-30 Tickets
The Seattle Choral Company presents their annual Cathedral Christmas program featuring works by English composers Ralph Vaughan Williams, Cecilia McDowall, and Sir John Rutter, offering a rich celebration of music, embracing the joy and wonder of the season.
|
|
|
|
|
December 11, 7:00 pm | St. Luke’s Memorial, Tacoma
The choirs of St. Luke’s Memorial will present Advent Lessons & Carols, including works by Mark Schweizer, Thomas Ravenscroft, Frderick Frahm, Robert Lehman, Charles Villiers Stanford, and Thomas Walmisley, along with familiar congregational Advent carols.
|
|
|
|
|
January 6, 7:00 pm | St. Luke’s Memorial, Tacoma
Join Music Director Dr. Wyatt Smith, and cantor Kyle Haugen for Organ Vespers for the Feast of the Epiphany at St. Luke’s Memorial Church.
|
|
|
Pledge Campaign Materials Ready to Use TODAY!
|
|
Download the whole package today and begin your campaign right away! (2024 password is Ephesians5:2)
The 2024 Campaign is Walk in Love. Campaign materials are available in English and Spanish as Word documents for your editing – or use them as they are. This year’s package includes:
- Letters from the Clergy, Wardens, and Committee Chair
- Pledge cards that focus on time, talent, and treasure
- Proportional Giving cards
- Prayers for weekly offerings and for Campaign Ingathering
- Prayers of the People during your campaign season
- Reflections to use during the Campaign and year-round
On the TENS website, you can access informative and inspiring webinars about how to use the materials and ways to think about and engage your congregation in walking in love with one another, with God, and with your community.
The Diocese of Olympia’s annual membership in TENS (The Episcopal Network for Stewardship) means every congregation in the Diocese has full and FREE access to these resources. 2024 password is Ephesians5:2 (no spaces, case sensitive).
|
|
|
|
|
May 22, 2025 – June 1, 2025
September 24, 2025 – October 4, 2025
Join Fr. Steve Danzey for one of two trips being planned for next year: May 22-June 1 and September 24-October 4.
|
|
|
|
Celtic Pilgrimage to Brittany and Loire River Valley
|
|
May 22, 2025 – June 3, 2025 | $4,400 Registration
From megalithic monuments to monastic caves, discover how Celtic Christianity took root in ancient France.
|
|
|
|
|
Safe Church Online Update
|
|
In accordance with The Episcopal Church’s Safe Church, Safe Communities program, Universal Training is now offered for certification for Children/Youth and Vulnerable Adults. Universal Safe Church training fosters a culture of safety and inclusion for all people and covers a broad overview of issues of vulnerability, power, and healthy boundaries. Universal Safe Church training is designed to equip all people to live out their Baptismal Covenant.
|
|
Province 8 Network Meeting: Stewardship, Planned Giving, Grants, Investments, and Endowments
|
|
October 9, 1:00 pm | Zoom
A Province VIII gathering on stewardship trends. Former Bishop Rickel will speak on current status and trends in stewardship, areas of strength, and areas where opportunities exist for improvement.
|
|
|
|
2024 Beacon Church Collaborative Conference
|
|
October 17-18 | Lakeside Christian Church, Kirkland
Come join Bridge Disability Ministries for an informative time of learning and discussion at our third annual Beacon Church Collaborative Conference!
|
|
|
|
One Parish One Prisoner Office Hours
|
|
November 13, 5:00 pm | Online
Join for an open Zoom call to learn more about One Parish One Prisoner and the ministry of resurrection.
|
|
|
The following job opportunities are now open at churches and organizations across Western Washington.
|
|
|
|
|
