Diocesan Convention

In an Episcopal diocese, the primary governing body is an annual Convention that comprises delegates from each parish in the diocese. Delegates are elected at their parish’s annual meeting to represent the concerns and viewpoints of the members of their parish in the Convention. Our diocesan Convention typically occurs in mid-October. We also elect youth delegates who have full voice and vote to help us determine the future direction of our diocese.

The Diocesan Convention meets to democratically make decisions about our annual budget, mission priorities, policies and procedures and to adopt or reject any motions to amend our Constitution and Canons, the governing documents of our Diocese. The business meeting portion of our Diocesan Convention is conducted following parliamentary procedure as understood through Robert’s Rules of Order, along with any special rules adopted by the convention to help maintain a democratic environment.

It is our tradition, brought with us from our legacy dioceses, to also include workshops in our two-day gathering. The workshops feature topics relevant to our ministry and unique context in our diocese so that we can learn and grow together. Another convention tradition we’re bringing forward with us into our new diocese is to invite and feature a keynote speaker to challenge, affirm, celebrate and inspire our ministry to and with each other. Of course, any time we’re gathered together, with joy and gratitude we worship together in prayer services and in the celebration of Holy Eucharist. Another important aspect of our diocesan convention is the “family reunion” feel of getting connect onsite together with so many friends, new and old, from across our diocese in the Mitten.

From time to time, a Special Convention may be called if such changes, challenges or special circumstances arise that merit democratic discussion and decision-making by representatives from across the diocese. Our Joint Convention in March of 2024, at which our two legacy dioceses voted to pursue juncture and becoming one new diocese, was one such Special Convention. Often, Bishops are elected via Special Convention.

The theme and focus of our next Diocesan Convention is typically announced before Pentecost each year and the official first call to Convention is sent out in the summer.