Grace and peace be with you in Jesus, the Light for all people!

As I began my eighth year of Episcopal ministry last summer, I entered into a time of discernment regarding possible diaconal transitions. I would like to share those transitions with you.

Having served at St. David's Elkhart since his ordination in April of 2014, through the challenges of the COVID 19 pandemic and three clergy transitions which included conversations most recently with Father Robert Armidon; Deacon Clay Berkley and I agreed that it was time to discern a new diaconal ministry for him in our diocese. As of 1 January 2024, Deacon Clay will be assigned to the Cathedral of St. James and become the Missioner for Deacons. His duties will include accompanying me, based on his availability, on selected visitations especially to those faith communities in our diocese who have not experienced Diaconal Ministry. This will provide an opportunity to highlight the ministry of Deacons in their unique liturgical role as well as conversation during coffee hour about the various ministries our deacons are engaged in throughout the diocese. He will also assume a role, yet to be determined, in the EDNIN School for Faith and Ministry, working alongside The Rev. Canon Terri Bays and The Rev. Canon Ted Neidlinger.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank Deacon Anne Wietstock who has served as the Missioner for Deacons since September of 2016. She was elected by her deacon colleagues to serve in this new ministry which I introduced to the diocese. I am grateful for the gifts of her hospitality, compassion and pastoral care for our deacons engaged in various ministry sites throughout the diocese and those in local formation for the diaconate and as well as her service on the Commission on Ministry which will continue.

Deacon Anne and Deacon Clay will work with Dean Brian Grantz and me in discerning how best to serve the Cathedral community and surrounding South Bend community and its needs.

I invite you to uphold both of these faithful servants in your prayer during this time of transition.

Every blessing,

Doug
(he, him, his)