The Reverend Canon Terri Bays, PhD
Missioner for Transitions and Formation

(she/her/hers)

The Rev. Canon Terri Bays has served on the diocesan staff of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Indiana since 2016, most recently as Missioner for Transitions and Formation. The transitions side of that portfolio involves consultation with faith communities regarding various types of transition, risk management, and compliance with legal and canonical obligations. The formation side involves responsibilities as Vocations Director, Dean of the School for Faith and Ministry, Chair of the Diocesan Board of Examining Chaplains, and Safe Church Training. Terri serves on the Diocesan Youth Camp Design Team, the Joint Disciplinary Board for the Diocese of Northern Indiana and Indianapolis, the Diocesan Becoming Beloved Community Commission, and the Province V Executive Board. She has served as a deputy to General Convention in 2018, 2022, and 2024.

Since graduation from Yale Divinity School in 2012, Terri has served as a priest at the Episcopal Cathedral of St. James and at Church of the Holy Trinity, South Bend. Prior to ordination, Terri acquired a somewhat eclectic professional background including medieval English Literature, leadership within the Open Education movement, and study abroad program management. Terri resides in South Bend, Indiana with her husband, Tim, two daughters, and four cats.You can follow Terri (when she remembers to post) on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Education

Masters of Divinity
Berkeley Divinity School at Yale University

Phd in English
Concentration in 14-15th Century Liturgy and Literature
UCLA

Bachelor of Arts
Concentration in English Literature and Poetry Composition
Northwestern University

Fun Facts

Hometown: Garland, Texas
Faith Community: A different faith community each Sunday.
Greatest inspiration: Philosopher, Theologian, Activist, and Cookie-Baker Extraordinaire, Marilyn McCord Adams
How does God speak to you?: Name that tune
Hobbies: Coaching mock trial, gardening, trying new things
Childhood ambition: Circus clown
Favorite food: Fried okra, just about anything spicy!