A Word From The Bishop

Call to Diaconal Vocation

We now intend to reopen diaconal discernment in the diocese. The following notes are meant to display the distinctiveness of the diaconal order as it is worked out in a practical way.  We are making progress in finding examples of this understanding, e.g. among those with PTSD, the homeless, the incarcerated, etc.

1. Deacons have, first of all, responsibility to be servants to those in greatest need, to encourage others to serve them too, and so to be a model for Church which imitates its Lord in His lowliness. Deacons should demonstrably serve the least and the lost.
2. Deacons in addition have responsibilities in the liturgy, teaching, and in pastoral care.
3. Deacons in our polity also have a share in the councils of the Church. For this reason, they need a theological education preparing them for this ministry. For this reason, diaconal candidates complete the new, streamlined, two-year Stanton diploma, followed by a one-year, online, ATS accredited diploma program through Wycliffe, Trinity in Ambridge, PA or an equivalent program.
4. Diaconal candidates will need to complete these requirements with enough time and energy for them to fulfill their ministry.
5. Deacons should have a faith consistent with our Prayer Book tradition as defined in our pathways documents. Prospective deacons should consult this document in all its details.
6. Deacons should understand themselves as serving according to the direction and placement of the bishop.

The Rt. Rev. George R. Sumner

Bishop, Diocese of Dallas

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Welcoming Bishop Michael Smith

Dear Brothers and Sisters, 

     Greetings in our risen Lord.  I want to take this opportunity to welcome Bishop Michael Smith who will be visiting us as an assisting bishop this spring.  He will be confirming on Sundays until Trinity Sunday, as well as meeting with congregations for encouragement and Bible study. Michael has served in Minnesota and Oklahoma before going to North Dakota, and is a member of the Potawatomi Nation of Oklahoma.  He has served as an assisting bishop in Louisiana.  I know you will be as impressed as I am with how personable, thoughtful, and faithful a person he is.  He ministers in the midst of great social need in a diocese with many native people; he knows a great deal about rural ministry, among other things.  He has a deep commitment to building up lay ministry and encouraging evangelism for all congregations.  He is also the chair of the Communion Partner bishops in our Church, and so has a deep commitment to our place in the Communion. He and his wife Lisa White Smith have three grown children. It is with pleasure and gratitude that I welcome him, and I am sure you will welcome him warmly as well.

Peace,

+GRS