About Bishop Stokes

Prior to becoming the Bishop of New Jersey in 2013, Bishop Stokes served as the Rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Delray Beach, Florida, Associate for Christian Education at the Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea in Palm Beach, Florida, and School Chaplain and Curate to Grace Episcopal Church and Day School in Massapequa, Long Island. He is a recognized preacher and Christian educator. He has been active in the area of anti-racism, is a certified trainer in multi-culturalism and anti-racism and was a member of the Committee on Anti-Racism for the Episcopal Church. He has served at many levels of governance in the Episcopal Church. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees of General Theological Seminary. He and his wife Susan live in Trenton. They have four grown children, and several grandchildren.

Bishop Stokes will retire in June 2023. He and Susan plan to live in St. Augustine, Florida.

Latest Messages from Bishop Stokes

Bishop's Weekly Message

Feb. 8—Bishop’s Appeal for Earthquake Relief

I urge all who can to respond compassionately to this crisis by making as generous a donation as you are able to Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD). ERD is a powerful and effective means by which we as a Church can give concrete expression to Christ’s command to love of neighbor no matter where in the world that neighbor may be.

Please hold the people suffering from the devastation of this earthquake in your prayers. Pray also for all who are providing emergency rescue, relief, and recovery support.

Bishop's Weekly Message

Feb. 3—Black History Month & Jemar Tisby

In some parts of the country, sadly Florida being one of the most egregious examples, a war is being waged on Black history and, by extension, on the Black community. It is sinful. Thank goodness others are standing up to this.

Bishop's Weekly Message

Jan. 27—Electing the 13th Bishop of New Jersey

On Saturday, we are all called to ask ourselves, what does God want for the Diocese of New Jersey? What does God want for, and from, God’s Church? Asking these questions faithfully and prayerfully will help guide us in choosing the right person to journey forward into God’s future. Please pray.