[The Episcopal News] Delegates and visitors to Diocesan Convention will have opportunities to attend Friday morning workshops on topics of interest to church leaders and members. All are welcome, and no reservations are required.
Topics, presenters, meeting times and rooms (on the lower concourse) are:
9 – 10:15 a.m.
Congregational Discernment Committee Training
Meeting Room 1
Presenter: Cameron Johnson, co-chair of the Commission on Ministry
This workshop is for those discerning for lay or ordained ministry and leadership and for those who have been called to sit on a congregational discernment committee for a person discerning in their congregation. The workshop will briefly cover the discernment process for ordination, as well as the responsibilities and process for congregations (lay) discernment committee members.
9 – 9:50 a.m.
Insurance Claims and Cost Management
Meeting Room 2
Presenters: Jack Rutledge, Church Insurance Company, and the Rev. Susan Stanton, Diocese of Los Angeles chief financial officer
Taking care of the small details can have a huge impact on your insurance claim’s costs. Hiring the right folks with the same standards of care and fixing the small problems on your church buildings can have a significant impact on your future claim’s costs and future insurance premiums.
10 – 10:50 a.m.
Love in Action with and to the LGBTQ+ Community
Meeting Room 2
Presenters: Thomas Diaz, the Rev. Canon Susan Russell, the Rev. Neil Tadken, and the Rev. Courtney Tan
As we experience an upturn in backlash and the targeting of God’s LGBTQ+ beloved in our communities and our nation, the Diocese of Los Angeles continues its decades-long commitment to full inclusion. Join members of the Commission on LGBTQ+ Ministry for an informative and inspiring session offering resources and strategies for ministry to and with the LGBTQ+ community. Bring your questions and your concerns as we continue on the journey to become the Beloved Community God would have us be.
10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Leadership Development Training for Clergy
Meeting Room 1
Presenter: Linda Allport, dean of Bloy House
The workshop will highlight ways to identify, develop, and nurture leadership in a congregation. Information regarding the recently announced Lay Licensing Program will be covered.
11 – 11:50 a.m.
Affordable Housing on Church Property
Meeting Room 2
Presenter: The Rev. Michael Bell, director of Housing & Business Development, Episcopal Communities & Services (ECS)
A brief overview of process followed by Q&A about next steps to further discern and take action.