Bishop Baxter Writes...

September 26, 2011

Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ:

I have just returned from the Fall meeting of the House of Bishops. Under separate cover I will provide a brief report of that gathering which was productive and intense. We worked on critical issues of Church mission and structure, issued a Pastoral Teaching on theology of environmental stewardship; built greater understanding of the work and mission in the Latin American Diocese of The Episcopal Church, much of which has direct effect upon life in the USA.

As I return I am catching up on administrative matters, my visitation schedule to parishes, and checking in with our congregations who are still recovering from the effects of the recent earthquake and flooding. As you can see from the calendar, the work of the Diocese continues quite intensely this week through mid October. Then we begin our Convocational meetings in November. I am so very thankful for the leadership and support provided by clergy and lay volunteer officers & leaders of the diocese. Together with Diocesan staff we are making strategic strides towards strengthening our local and regional witness.

I wish to announce that the Rev. Canon Andy France has resigned as Archdeacon for Congregational and Clergy Development, effective the end of October. Canon France came to the diocesan staff 4 years ago following his retirement as rector of Trinity, Williamsport. He came to my staff at a very critical time and I continue to be grateful for his ministry, including continuing as a consultant to staff during the months of transition. His resignation follows the recent resignation of Fr. John Hoover, Senior Consultant for Small Congregations and the Clergy Fresh Start Program. Beginning in November, the Canon to the Ordinary, Father Ted Babcock, will assume oversight for Congregational and Clergy Development. Mr. Bill Graffius will continue in his part-time ministry overseeing Parish Transition Ministry and assisting with congregational development. The Rev. Canon Robyn Szoke will move to full-time, continuing as Canon for Children and Youth Formation but also assisting with congregational development and the Clergy Fresh Start Program.

Your bishop and all members of the staff are deeply committed to supporting and strengthening local parish ministry. We desire to be “Servants of the Servants”.

Peace & Grace,
+Nathan