Getting there…
The Bishop Search and Nomination Committee has been working diligently during these months of discernment. We have completed the review of applications, interviews, background checks, and our recent retreat with the candidates. The retreat was an integral portion of the discernment process. It allowed the search committee members and the candidates to spend focused time together over multiple days in order to gain a deeper understanding of the candidates’ call to the Diocese of New Jersey. Time throughout the retreat was spent not only getting to know the candidates, but also for the candidates to get to know more about the diocese.
We are on schedule to announce the slate of candidates for the election of the 13th Bishop of the Diocese of New Jersey by the end of October. Please continue to watch for further announcements and information as we get closer to the end of the month. We ask you to continue to pray not only for the diocese and the search process itself but for the search and nomination committee as well as the candidates.
The following prayer was written by The Rev. Dr. Maria B. Sanzo, Chaplain of the Bishop Search and Nomination Committee.
A prayer for support and confidence in our Search Committee
Most gracious God you have blessed this church with the liberty to select our leadership under your guidance and care. Bless the Search Committee that we have chosen, give them discerning hearts, open minds, and quiet reflection time as they consider the nominations for our next bishop. Keep us mindful of their work throughout the weeks to come and let give us patience and confidence that your desire for our diocese will be made known to us.
More information on the bishop search process can be found on the Bishop Search website.
Thank you for your support at this special time!
Rev. Patterson
