Search & Nomination Committee prepares profile; Transition Committee invites your help

The committees that are managing the transition process to identify, elect and welcome our next bishop are busily working.

In August, the Search & Nomination Committee (see list below) is conducting listening sessions around the diocese to supplement information gathered in the committee’s survey process.

In September, the committee plans to post the Diocesan Profile (www.episcopalrisearch.org). The profile will help potential candidates have a better understanding of the size and nature of the Episcopal Church in Rhode Island. The profile also will specify the skills, characteristics and background we are seeking in our next bishop.

“We are collecting information and looking at other diocesan profiles to come up with the best approach for our document,” says Lora MacFall, chair. “Our profile will contain information about our parishes and clergy, our history, financial trends, our strengths and the challenges we face, what it’s like to live in Rhode Island and, of course, what we seek in a bishop.”

Once the profile is available, the committee will begin accepting both self-nominations and nominations submitted on behalf of candidates.

After reviewing the nominations, the committee will conduct initial interviews using computer-based video technology (Skype). The current schedule calls for these interviews to be completed by the end of the year so that teams can visit candidates in their home parishes early in 2012.

While the Search & Nomination Committee has been working on the profile, the Transition Committee (see list) also has been busy — and is seeking additional help.

Planning is under way and will continue for more than a year for several major diocesan events. The Transition Committee will host meetings, parties, tours and liturgies, all requiring an abundance of hospitality:

• Walkabout (May 2012). The finalist candidates will visit locations around the diocese to meet with members of our congregations.

• Electing Convention (June 2012). Delegates elect the 13th Bishop of Rhode Island.

• Celebration of Bishop Wolf and her ministry with us (September 2012). This is an opportunity to thank Bishop Wolf for her ministry with us and wish her well as she prepares to retire.

• Ordination of the 13th Bishop of Rhode Island (November 2012). The Most Rev. Dr. Katharine Jefferts Schori, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church, presides at a festive Eucharist and consecrates our new bishop.

“If you are an energetic person with an interest in serving the diocese and would like more information please contact me at transition@episcopalrisearch.org,” says Cathy Iacobucci, chair. “I will work with you to match you with a subcommittee that best suits your interests and your available time.

“On behalf of both committees, Lora and I ask all Episcopalians in the diocese join us in praying that the Spirit guide us in this process,” Iacobucci said. “And please pray that God will send us the leader we need.”