Diocese’s 57th Annual Convention Extends Gospel Focus With ‘Mission’ Emphasis

Over the not quite three years of his episcopacy, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin S. Holcomb has sought to cement the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida’s identity as those gathered by Christ through the gospel, nurtured in the Church through the gospel and sent into the world to proclaim the very same gospel that drew them in: Gospel. Church. Mission.

For a total of 477 delegates, staff and invited guests, the diocese’s 57th annual Convention, held Jan. 23-24 in the Palms Convention Center at the DoubleTree by Hilton at SeaWorld, Orlando, highlighted the multifaceted emphasis on “Mission.” Both days – Jan. 23, with a focus on education and an evening Eucharist, and Jan. 24, with a focus on diocesan business, including the bishop’s annual address, reports and elections – began with delegate registration at 7:30 a.m. in the Palms’ Majestic Hall. Both days also included the opportunity to view a long hallway of table displays from 20 diocesan and partner exhibitors.

Ahead of the Convention, the Ven. John Motis, archdeacon, expressed his excitement. “It’s one of the most exciting events of the year,” he said. “My favorite parts are the Eucharist and the bishop’s address. The Convention also offers the opportunity to see people we don’t see very often – legitimate friends – and that’s what makes it special.”

“I’m looking forward to it,” said Jeanne Weaver, artist-in-residence and vestry member at St. David’s by-the-Sea, Cocoa Beach, also an exhibitor for her upcoming icon workshops with the Institute for Christian Studies. “I’m hoping to be able to participate and represent St. David’s and to find a way to help our church and The Episcopal Church become more active within our culture.”

Day 1: Friday, Jan. 23

The first day of Convention opened early, with volunteers arriving at 7 a.m. and check-in for both clergy and lay delegates beginning at 7:30. Each registered delegate picked up a packet of pertinent information and moved on to view the nearby exhibits or to the Majestic Convention Hall, where the first session began at 9. This year, 18 diaconal aspirants, under the supervision of the Ven. Julie Altenbach, archdeacon, helped with set-up and check-in. They also acted as hosts to VIP guests and speakers and performed other duties throughout the Convention.

General Session 1: ‘Placing The Episcopal Church in the American Religious Landscape’

Bishop Holcomb opened the morning with welcoming remarks, noting the gracious hospitality of the Doubletree Orlando at SeaWorld staff and expressing his gratitude to all those in attendance. He also offered an opening prayer and explanation of this year’s mission emphasis, pointing attendees to the death, burial and resurrection of Christ as its foundation.

He then introduced the Rev. Dr. Ryan Burge, professor of practice at the John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics at Washington University in St. Louis and an ordained pastor in the American Baptist Church. Burge used stories, statistics and graphs to present a fact-based picture of The Episcopal Church, which, like other mainline denominations, is declining. In 1972, 30% of Americans belonged to a mainline Protestant church, a number that has now dropped to just 8.7%. “If you look at each religion in America, they are less religious than the previous generation,” he said.

While noting that the number of Americans with no religious affiliation (the “Nones”) has stopped increasing, he added, “This is not a revival.” Although his data presented a negative picture overall, he was quick to say, “I cannot model the Holy Spirit,” who will empower kingdom work regardless of the data, and to encourage clergy that “Your job is to be faithful, not successful.”

“The biggest structural problem facing The Episcopal Church is the age problem,” Burge explained, noting that according to the Average Sunday Attendance statistics, The Episcopal Church is composed of 50% senior adults, 29% middle adults and just 9% young adults. His advice, given during a Q&A that followed his presentation, was to nurture young seminarians and to “put money behind them” as they plant churches, pointing to the Association of Related Churches as an example of a group that has had remarkable church-planting success.

Video of Burge’s entire presentation will be linked here and distributed to the diocese when available.

General Session 2 – ‘Demystifying Evangelism’

Following a short break, Bishop Holcomb introduced the Rev. Michelle Tepper, national director for engagement at Alpha USA and wife of the Rev. Peter Tepper, rector at St. Peter’s, New Smyrna Beach. In her presentation, “Demystifying Evangelism,” she pointed out that although 94% of practicing Christians think the best decision anyone can make is to follow Christ, the majority – including almost 50% of millennials – also feel it is wrong to evangelize. However, “Jesus still calls us to engage in the gospel,” she said.

Using candid illustrations from her own life and ministry, including a story of radical hospitality previously shared by the Central Florida Episcopalian, she told attendees that “The invitation is to a way of life that brings us back to the way of Jesus.” She challenged her audience to ask, “Who is missing from our tables?” adding, “If we believe the gospel is for everyone, our first step is to create room – in our hearts, in our homes, in our churches – for those who are different from us.”

“Jesus communicated differently to pass on the faith to the next generation,” Tepper said, using a humorous example of emerging generation-speak and reminding attendees of how confusing church language can be. Although discussion has its place, “If you can argue someone into the Christian faith, they can be argued out of it,” she said. Her final challenge was to “make space for the Spirit to work” by holding up our nonbelieving friends in prayer: “Are we talking to God about our friends before we talk to our friends about God?”

Video of Tepper’s full presentation will be linked here and distributed to the diocese when available.

General Session 3 – The Rev. Dr. Randy Pope

A buffet lunch followed Tepper’s session, after which attendees gathered in the Majestic Hall again for the final large-group presentation, this one by the Rev. Dr. Randy Pope, founding pastor of Perimeter Church in Johns Creek, Georgia, and founder of Life on Life Ministries. Titled “Becoming a More Outward-Facing Church,” it focused on equipping Christ-followers to make disciples.

“Unless the church truly faces outward – its focus is directed on making and training disciples – the church is not going to be as healthy as it could be,” he said. He stressed the importance of personal coaching and gave numerous examples from his more than 40-year ministry of helping others learn to make disciples, which he defined as “helping people identify with the truth that Jesus is who he claimed to be.”

Because of both the biblical mandate to make disciples and the warnings against hell, turning outward to a missional mindset is not optional for God’s people, Pope said. He offered examples of what he called a “culturally relevant toolset” to assist believers in sharing their faith, emphasizing the primacy of the Word of God.

Video of Pope’s entire presentation will be linked here and distributed to the diocese when available.

Breakout Sessions

As at last year’s convention at Trinity, Vero Beach, a full complement of one-hour breakout sessions separated by a 15-minute break, all but two (each marked with an *) offered twice, offered a range of choices for attendees and included both a mission and a financial track:

Mission Track

• Honduras: Mission Possible, with the Rt. Rev. Lloyd Allen, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Honduras; and the Rev. Wes Dubic, chair of the Honduras Commission and priest assistant, St. James, Ormond Beach.
• Beyond the Walls: Serving Those Who Serve, with the Rt. Rev. Ann Ritonia, bishop suffragan of Armed Forces and Federal Ministries, The Episcopal Church.
• Exploring Global Partnerships: Partnering With Those Who Serve, with the Rev. Stephen and Mary Dass, missionaries to homeless children and youth, São Paulo, Brazil; the Rev. Elliot Drake, associate rector, All Saints, Winter Park; the Rev. Loren and Linda Fox, strategy consultants; and the Rev. Koko Wisdom, vice president of People Care at Pioneers, Orlando.
• *Together, On Purpose: Coordinating Youth Ministry Across the Diocese, with the Revs. Garcia Barnswell-Schmidt and Kevin Bartle, diocesan youth coordinators; and Joshua “J.J.” Joseph, executive director, Camp Wingmann.

Financial Track

• Sustainability and Spirituality: Fundraising for the Church, with the Rev. Meredith McNabb, associate director for educational programming, Lake Institute on Faith & Giving.
• *Church Pension Group: Supporting Those Who Serve the Church, with Alina Martinez, CPG relationship manager; and Chipasha Kashoki, CPG director, relationship management.

“The church is strengthened when veterans see us as leaders and partners,” Bishop Ritonia told those attending her sessions, adding that “Veterans ministry is about belonging, purpose and mutual transformation.” Taking time for Q&A at the end of her session, she told attendees that The Episcopal Church is beginning a Church-wide veterans ministry and will launch a new website soon. For diocesan veterans ministry, she asked interested churches and leaders to make initial contact via veterans@cfdiocese.org.

McNabb also offered practical, hopeful information for those attending her sessions, noting that “generosity is what God wants for us, not what God wants from us.” As individual churches, she said, “We are hoping to meet people where they are and invite them into the really good things that are happening with us.” She also discussed what she called a “year-round cycle of giving” that includes telling the story, asking, keeping momentum going, and learning and planning.

“This is holy and sacred work,” she said of encouraging giving at the local-church level. “And it is good for the donor and good for us.” She invited those interested in fundraising for the church to access the open-access resources available at this link.

Celebration of Holy Eucharist

A 30-minute break preceded the Celebration of Holy Eucharist in the Majestic Convention Hall with the Rev. Josh Bales, rector of Incarnation, Oviedo, leading worship on guitar and piano; the Rev. Michelle Tepper providing background vocals; and Bishop Holcomb preaching and celebrating.

“I just felt very honored to get to serve my brothers, sisters and colleagues in this way,” Bales said. “One of the thoughts I have every year is that leading worship at events like this is a part of my life throughout the year, but it’s way more special to do it with people who feel like family.”

The Rev. Carlos Cabrera, deacon from Grace, Ocala, read the Gospel lesson in English and Spanish. The Rev. Dr. Sebastiana Springmann, deacon from St. James, Leesburg, read the Old Testament and Epistle lessons, also in English and Spanish. The Rev. Kay Ruhle, deacon, St. Paul’s, Winter Haven, read the Prayers of the People. The Rev. Wes Dubic, priest assistant, St. James, Ormond Beach, served as crucifer, and Motis served as Deacon of the Table. The bishop announced that the offering taken during the service would go to the Timothy Fund, which supports the formation of future ordained clergy. To give, visit cfdiocese.org and select the fund “Dio Conv Eucharist Offer.”

The bishop’s sermon, drawn primarily from Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3, centered on a simple yet life-changing truth: God’s message is “Receive,” not “Achieve.”

“God loves you – not because you work for him, not because you’re useful to him, but because you’re his,” he told those in attendance, adding that “God loves you, but not because you are a gifted leader, not because you serve others and not because of all the things about you for which I am grateful. He loves you because he made you his child in Christ.”

He also urged his hearers not to measure God’s love by how convincingly they feel it but instead “by Jesus Christ – crucified and risen – delivered to you in the Word.” Our ministry must flow from being loved by him, not from striving to be enough. Watch the full sermon at this link.

Following the message, the bishop celebrated the Eucharist. He also introduced the three other bishops who were present to assist. These included the Rt. Rev. Lloyd Allen, bishop of the Diocese of Honduras; the Rt. Rev. Ann Ritonia, bishop suffragan of Armed Forces and Federal Ministries, The Episcopal Church; and the Rt. Rev. María Griselda Delgado del Carpio, former bishop of Cuba and visiting bishop, Diocese of Central Florida.

Day 2: Saturday, Jan. 24

Day 2 of the annual Diocesan Convention again opened early, with breakfast served from 7-8:30 and check-in and exhibitor displays open from 7:30-9 and on various breaks, including lunch.

Upon check-in, all Convention delegates received electronic voting devices from Vistacom, the same company that provides the VPOLL app used in previous years’ Conventions. Use of the alternative radio-frequency devices became necessary this year because of the high cost of Wi-Fi in the DoubleTree meeting space; delegates who attended a pre-Convention deanery meeting had already received training in their use.

Bales again led in opening worship using a selection of sacred songs, after which Bishop Holcomb called the 57th Annual Diocesan Convention to order and opened in prayer. He then proceeded with the organization of the Convention, announcing the Hon. Todd Pittenger as Convention chancellor and Canon Sarah Caprani as Convention secretary. He expressed his gratitude and encouraged applause for both.

Next, the bishop called on the Rev. Canon Dr. Dan Smith, canon to the ordinary, who, in his role as chair of the Credentials Committee, reported that 135 clergy delegates were present, constituting a quorum, and 212 lay delegates were present, also constituting a quorum. The Credentials Report was adopted without objection.

As chair of the Dispatch of Business Committee, Smith then delivered the agenda from the Convention packet delegates received at check-in, which was adopted without objection, and the Rules of Order, also in the Convention packet and adopted without objection.

After a brief expression of gratitude to diocesan staff, volunteers and the DoubleTree staff, the bishop turned the chair over to Pittenger and delivered the annual Convention address, available for viewing at this link.

Bishop Holcomb’s Address

Holcomb opened his address by noting that the early years of shared ministry together have “deepened my love and appreciation for you in ways I could not have imagined when you elected me to be your bishop,” mentioning celebrations and grief, challenges and disappointment, and interruptions later revealed as divine appointments. Pointing out that the “what” of ministry can wear us down and break us, Holcomb said he is grateful for the “why” of that journey, which breaks us open to root us more deeply in the love of God and the joy of the Lord that is our strength.

He took the diocese through 2025, the year of “Gospel” focus, noting that the gospel is the good news of reconciliation in 2 Corinthians 5:19, “In Christ, God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them.” He said in 2025, the frame was widened to include “Church,” which is “a miracle … the bride of Christ in splendor. … tragically flawed people in whom our Father delights, and to whom he remains faithful, even when we are faithless.”

As we move into 2026 with an emphasis on “Mission,” we complete the pattern seen in scripture, the bishop explained. He said mission is not a program, a slogan or one more burden placed on already-tired shoulders, but the work of the Triune God. “The Father planned our salvation and sent the Son; the Son accomplished salvation in his life, death and resurrection,” he said. “And the Spirit applies that salvation to our lives – uniting us to Christ and sending the Church.”

Holcomb also shared Jesus’ announcement of his resurrection to his disciples, pointing out that the announcement of the good news led to what missionary and theologian Lesslie Newbigin called an “explosion of joy.” “Mission does not begin with our going but with the joyful announcement of his victory and the commission to share the good news – with the promise that he is always with us through the Holy Spirit,” he said. “The posture of those who encounter God’s authority, presence and peace in this way is described in scripture with the following response: “Here I am.”

The bishop said this is never a declaration of competence but a confession of location. “And before we ever learn to say, ‘Here I am’ to God, scripture tells us that God says it first,” he explained, with the declaration reaching its fulfillment in the incarnation.

“Missions, then, is not strong people doing big things for God,” he said. “It is weak people who have been broken open by grace – fully known and fully loved – carrying a treasure that is not theirs, in a strength that is not theirs, for a glory that is not theirs.” He then transitioned to a report of what God has done through the diocese over the past year.

Visitations and Other Episcopal Ministry

Bishop Holcomb termed visitations “my favorite thing that I get to do,” telling attendees that since the 2025 Diocesan Convention, he has made 45 episcopal visitations and, with only three congregations left to visit, he will exceed the canonical requirement (one visit to each of the 79 congregations every three years) by at least six months.

He also reminded those present of his vow upon his consecration to share with fellow bishops “in the leadership of the Church throughout the world.” The past year brought more than one opportunity to fulfill this vow. In April, he visited the Anglican Communion Office in London with the Rev. Chris Rodriguez (Holy Trinity, Vero Beach) and the Rev. Stu Shelby (All Saints, Winter Park) to attend a symposium on the governance of the Anglican Communion, specifically the Nairobi-Cairo Proposals.

The Most. Rev. Sean W. Rowe, presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church, also appointed him to serve on the Task Force on the Anglican Communion and Countering the Colonial Mindset to address the structures of the Anglican Communion and to respond to the Nairobi-Cairo proposals. In September, Bishop Holcomb presented a theological reflection at the Fall House of Bishops gathering on the topic of “The Bishop’s Voice in This Time”; he has since been invited by the bishops of the dioceses of Atlanta, Louisiana, Western North Carolina and Long Island to teach and/or preach at their clergy conferences or other gatherings. In October, Presiding Bishop Rowe asked him to serve alongside the Rt. Rev. Doug Scharf, bishop of Southwest Florida, and the Rt. Rev. Chip Stokes, retired bishop of New Jersey, as assisting bishop in the Diocese of Florida until that diocese elects a bishop.

Leadership

Discernment and Ordinations

Bishop Holcomb reported that he has ordained five priests and 10 deacons over the past year, with 70 people currently in the discernment process: 40 discerning a call to the priesthood, 26 discerning a call to the diaconate and four discerning a call to licensed lay ministry. There were 85 aspirants in attendance at the Conference on Ministry this fall.

“We need all these leaders because Canon Dan and Canon Ellis are constantly looking to fill church openings with effective and committed clergy,” the bishop said, pointing again to the Timothy Fund and its role in supporting diocesan discernment ministry.

Lilly Sustainability Grant

Bishop Holcomb reminded the diocese of the $1 million leadership development grant received from the Lilly Endowment Inc. in 2020. Although that grant ended at the end of 2024, he announced that the diocese has received an additional $500,000 grant from the Lilly Endowment Inc. to continue its leadership work over the next three years.

The grant, which brings the diocese approximately $165,000 per year, will offset budget line-items already in place and has been included in the revenue section of the recommended 2026 diocesan operating budget, he said. He also announced that Caprani, his chief of staff, will serve as Lilly Grant Project Manager, with Diocesan CFO Roman Franklin overseeing grant distribution and financial reporting.

Chancellor and Former Vice Chancellor

“In addition to involvement with the Lilly Endowment, other officers of the diocese are serving and representing us for The Episcopal Church,” Bishop Holcomb said. He noted that Pittenger has been appointed to a select national Title IV advisors group at the request of Chancellor Mary Kostel of the presiding bishop’s office, serving in the role of advisor in Title IV matters across the Church but outside our diocese.

The bishop expressed his gratitude for Pittenger’s expertise; attendees joined him in applause for the chancellor’s service. He also noted that in July, after 26 years of service, the Hon. Bill Grimm retired from his position as vice chancellor of the diocese.

“Vice Chancellor Grimm’s passion for bylaws, rules of order and canonical changes paired with his witty, playful personality made him a joy to collaborate with,” Bishop Holcomb said, adding that Grimm has “earned his well-deserved rest” and calling for applause to demonstrate the Convention’s heartfelt gratitude for his exemplary service.

Diocesan Support

Youth Ministry

The bishop expressed appreciation for what he called “a renewed spirit of collaboration” that has emerged in youth ministry across the diocese, adding that the Revs. Garcia Barnswell-Schmidt and Kevin Bartle, youth ministry coordinators, “have launched a unified vision that aligns closely with the diocesan priorities of gospel, church, mission.” As in the past, the diocese will offer weekend retreats and local mission opportunities for students along with expanded training and spiritual retreat experiences for youth leaders, with the overall goal of providing strong, diocesan-level support to individual churches as they grow their youth ministries.

Latino Ministry Commission

Holcomb also expressed gratitude for the continued efforts of the diocesan Latino Ministries Commission, co-chaired by the Revs. Soner Alexandre and Maytée de la Torre and coordinated by Irais Murphy, in a season when fear and uncertainty are common. He added that diocesan staff and leaders remain in close, consistent partnership with Latino ministry leaders, with at least one or more joining the monthly meetings of the commission “to listen and walk alongside them in tangible ways.”

He also noted the appointment of Bishop Delgado del Carpio, the former bishop of Cuba, as visiting bishop for Latino Ministries. In 2025, she conducted episcopal visitations, women’s retreats and first Communion training, also participating in a Hispanic Cursillo weekend and a Latino Fall Festival.

Honduras

Bishop Holcomb gave a brief update on Central Florida’s continuing Companion Diocese relationship with the Diocese of Honduras, giving a preview of Bishop Allen’s presentation later in the day. He applauded the partnership between the two dioceses regarding diaconal formation, which was initiated with a challenge by the Honduran Bishop at Central Florida’s 2025 Diocesan Convention. He gave credit to Altenbach and Bishop Allen for the fact that the Diocese of Honduras now has 34 aspirants or postulants in its diaconal discernment process.

In February, the bishop and Murphy attended the Diocese of Honduras’ annual Convention, where he taught on safe church vision and policies, and Murphy translated for him.

Safe Church

“Our diocese is known for its good work on safe church issues, and this past year was no exception,” Bishop Holcomb said. He highlighted the second annual Diocesan Safe Church Training, “Understanding Emotional and Spiritual Abuse,” held in April at St. Michael’s, Orlando, along with the finalization of the revision of diocesan safe church policies through the work of Smith and the Very Rev. Audrey Sutton and Monica Taffinder, co-chairs of the Safe Church Commission, in consultation with G.R.A.C.E. (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment).

The bishop also noted Sutton’s appointment by Presiding Bishop Rowe to the International Anglican Women’s Network, through which she joins Anglican women from across the globe in working to eradicate gender-based violence and human trafficking. He added that Murphy and de la Torre represented the diocese at the Anglican Communion’s International Safe Church Conference in Mexico City in October.

Because of the diocese’s strong emphasis on safe church initiatives, Rowe has awarded the diocese a $10,000 grant to continue the development of safe church resources and support safe church initiatives in other dioceses, Bishop Holcomb said.

Global Partnership

The bishop also announced the creation of a new Global Partnership Commission, co-led by the Rev. Elliott Drake, associate rector, All Saints, Winter Park; and the Rev. Courtney “Koko” Wisdom, vice president of people care at Pioneers, a mission-sending organization. “Their hope is to better account for, coordinate, maximize and celebrate the good work being done between our diocese and other groups worldwide,” including a current audit of churches in the diocese and their various international connections, he said.

Military and Veterans Ministry

Bishop Holcomb next cast vision for a not-yet-developed ministry in the diocese: an intentional military and veterans ministry. Pointing out that the diocese not only has a number of clergy who are veterans but also is home to a large military and veterans population, he said, “This represents a great need and opportunity.” He urged those interested to email veterans@cfdiocese.org and also recognized Bishop Ritonia, who, like him, was consecrated in 2023, thanking her for her presence and ministry at the Convention.

Sharpening the Ax

The bishop next highlighted four areas in which he and his team had “sharpened the ax” this year to help them work more efficiently. In the area of web redesign, he noted that a restructured website, cfdiocese.org, with updated online documents, forms and procedures went live just before the annual Clergy Conference in October. “It’s easier for you to find what you need, to see who does what so you can get answers and to request updates or corrections to your clergy and church profiles,” he said, adding that the site is also the place where the diocese tells stories of what God is doing among us. He thanked Erik Guzman, director of communications, and his team, who helped bring this to pass.

Bishop Holcomb also mentioned another “truly balanced” budget, giving thanks to Franklin, diocesan CFO and administrator, for spearheading the “wise and prudent stewardship of lowering expenses and increasing income” and noting that, although the diocesan budget has been increased by $400,000, none of that has been passed on to the churches, and the 11% assessment has been maintained with the goal of decreasing it when possible. “We know that one of the best things we can do to support our churches is to keep as much money as possible in our churches,” he said.

He also said that although there are no significant updates regarding the sale of Canterbury Retreat & Conference Center, “the very best” people are continuing to work on this, including the Real Estate Commission, Canterbury Board, Diocesan Board and Standing Committee as well as Pittenger, real estate attorneys and diocesan staff.  He said Canon Caprani would share staff updates later in the day but took time to thank the diocesan staff for “their patience, steadiness, generosity and care for people,” asking them to rise for recognition.

Stories Behind the Numbers

The bishop concluded his address by sharing stories of the gospel’s impact on lives across the diocese, reminding his hearers that at the 2025 Diocesan Convention, he had called for a year of baptisms. “Over this past year, we prayed, paid attention and began to see baptism stories emerge among us,” he said. He told three baptism stories already featured on the CFE website, including one of students and parents at Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy, Melbourne; another featuring a teacher and special needs students at Bainbridge Academy, ministered to by clergy from the Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Orlando; and still another from St. Barnabas, DeLand, where Sutton baptized seven people in September at the church’s annual Fish Fry.

“I am overwhelmed by [Christ’s] goodness to us and through us,” the bishop said. “In these early years of our shared ministry, I have seen our Father’s hand at work in this diocese over and over again.” He affirmed, along with his hearers, the call to repeat once again: “Here I am.”

“I appreciate the passion of our bishop and his demonstrating that he is a caring person when he spoke of the happenings and baptisms that occurred in our natural settings,” said Dr. Coleen Cox, delegate from St. Matthew’s, Clermont, after the bishop’s address.

Staff Updates and Additional Introductions/Recognitions

After a brief break, the Convention reconvened with a brief presentation from Caprani, who updated those present by announcing new positions for staff members Irene Safier (assistant for diocesan operations), Beverly Jennings (finance and benefits specialist) and Adria Northern (executive assistant to the bishop) and two new staff members, Lourdes Thrash (financial controller) and Meagan Feibelman (executive assistant to the canon to the ordinary).

Caprani then invited Smith back to the podium to cover clergy introductions. He announced the 10 transitional deacons and five priests ordained over the past year along with 15 clergy in new positions since the 2025 Diocesan Convention.

Congregational Merger

Smith also announced the approved merger of two congregations, Christ the King and Jesús de Nazaret, Orlando, now to exercise shared mission and ministry as Christ the King, asking members from the congregation to stand for recognition.

Finally, he announced that the diocese currently has more than 60 aspirants, postulants and candidates for ministry, asking them to stand for recognition as well. Bishop Holcomb then returned to the podium to thank Smith and Caprani for their announcements and introductions, also asking for members of the Commission on Ministry, who walk alongside those in the discernment process, to stand for recognition.

Treasurer’s Report

The bishop next called upon Treasurer Lena Combs to present the treasurer’s report and the recommended diocesan operating budget for 2026. Combs summarized the balance sheet, noting that diocesan assets are $17.1M and total net assets are $16.6M. The diocese received $2.9M in congregational assessments (some from the prior year), an amount higher than budgeted, for a surplus of $70,000. Combs presented the report to the bishop for filing and submission for audit.

She then moved to adopt the 2026 recommended operating budget, contained in delegates’ packets, saying, “It has been reviewed in its entirety at all pre-Convention deanery meetings and is posted on the diocesan website.” Smith moved the adoption of the budget, which was seconded. Combs then gave a brief explanation of the budget, accompanied by slides, showing budgeted expenses of approximately $475,000 over the 2025 budget but still a balanced budget with no increase in congregational assessment. There were no proposed amendments to the budget, which passed by voice vote.

Test Votes

Bishop Holcomb then called on the Very Rev. Jason Murbarger, chair of the Committee on Nominations and Elections, to provide ballot instructions and test vote information using the RF devices from Vistacom that delegates received at check-in. The devices were numbered for clergy and laity to facilitate elections decided concurrently by order.

A variety of test votes were conducted, with technical support provided by students from St. Andrew’s Episcopal Academy, Fort Pierce. A group from St. Andrew’s has provided this support for the past few years. A total of nine high school students attended along with two adults: Head of Academy Mandy Doss and Deputy Head of Academy Charlie Bridge.

“I had an enjoyable time at the Diocesan Convention,” said Tehillah Brown, a junior at the school. “I met a lot of inspirational people and had great conversations. I’m very glad we got to help and learn. Watching the voting was exciting and insightful in seeing how the process worked. Everyone was extremely kind, and I had a wonderful experience.”

“This experience at the annual Diocesan Convention was eye opening from the beginning,” added Lily Stockman, a sophomore. “I learned about the importance of the voters in these elections and how this church truly cares for each individual vote. All the candidates were very carefully chosen and given equal recognition. … Overall it was an amazing experience, and I can’t wait to go back and learn more!”

Bishop Lloyd Allen

The bishop next introduced the first of several global partners, Bishop Allen of the Diocese of Honduras, reminding the Convention that the Great Commission “is not a distant idea – it’s a shared vocation. Bishop Allen thanked Central Florida “for being our Companion Diocese, not just in name, but in heart and actions.” He announced 2026 as a “Year of Evangelism” for his diocese, adding, “The gospel has never been about comfort. It has always been about transformation” and “The gospel is moving – not someday, not eventually, but right now.”

The Honduran bishop also reviewed some of the ways that relationship has been expressed this year, from Bishop Holcomb’s visit to Honduras to several churches traveling there on mission trips to the contributions to both 2025 and 2026 Thanksgiving Offerings, through which the construction of a church building for the parish in San Antonio de Masaguara, where the Very Rev. Canon Connie Sanchez serves as dean, is now well under way.

Bishop Allen also expressed gratitude for his diocese’s connection with StoryMakers and shared the news that the first StoryMakers materials have now arrived in Honduras and will be shared with his diocese. “I first learned of StoryMakers at Central Florida’s Diocesan Convention two years ago,” he said. He also thanked Central Florida, particularly Altenbach, for assistance with the permanent diaconate program in Honduras, which now has 26 deacons in training. All these prospective deacons are receiving instruction in Spanish through Central Florida’s Institute of Christian Studies and its partnership with Thirdmill.

After explaining the great need for well-equipped libraries for the Episcopal Schools in the Diocese of Honduras, he introduced Ms. Claudia Chicas, head of school for El Buen Pastor Episcopal School, San Pedro Sulas. He pointed to the gift of a school library from St. Barnabas, Deland, and added that his diocese hopes to expand on what St. Barnabas has done through partnerships with other churches and schools. “In the Diocese of Honduras, we are materially poor, but spiritually rich,” he said.

Bishop Holcomb then thanked Bishop Allen, Murbarger and the St. Andrew’s students before inviting Altenbach to share some pre-lunch announcements. Delegates had the opportunity to remain afterward for additional technical assistance if needed. The bishop then prayed over the buffet lunch, served in the Royal Ballroom, and dismissed the group.

Second Plenary Session

Following lunch, Bishop Holcomb welcomed delegates and guests to the second plenary session, where he continued introducing global partners. Bishop Ritonia delivered a brief message about her ministry of providing pastoral care to and endorsement of chaplains in both the military and the prison system, stressing The Episcopal Church’s commitment to “peace, justice and human dignity.” She noted that 50% of all service members are between the ages of 18 and 26, saying the Church is “uniquely equipped” to walk with service members and veterans in these challenging times.

“We don’t glorify war, but we do honor those who serve,” said Bishop Ritonia, a 17-year-veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, adding, “We are not partisan. We preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

The Rev. Loren and Linda Fox, who serve in Southeast Asia, also greeted the Convention. They live in Thailand, where Rev. Loren trains and develops strategies for work in communities where there is no visible Church of any kind. He works to help others develop capacity for innovation and press into the cultural dynamics of planting new churches. Linda coordinates spiritual, emotional and relational care for cross-cultural workers serving Jesus in Asia and is a popular trainer and conference speaker.

The Rev. Stephen and Mary Dass were introduced next as those who represent the diocese in the inner city of São Paulo, Brazil, where they have served since 2013. Their ministry began with children who are now young adults, and it has grown over the years. The Rev. Stephen shared stories of their ministry, recalling that the bishop’s words about people’s fear of not being known or loved give all of us a greater responsibility to go out and tell others that all are known and loved by God.

Bishop Holcomb then returned to the podium to thank these global partners and celebrate what he termed the “vital role” the diocese’s deaneries play in mission at the local level, “connecting congregations, strengthening leaders and supporting ministries that impact lives every day.” He also honored the deanery deans and presidents who served in 2025, who were listed in the deanery reports in Convention packets received by delegates at registration.

Elections

Bishop Holcomb then called Murbarger back to the platform to lead the elections for the diocese. These elections were held using the VPOLL devices, with results tabulated immediately but announced near the close of the Convention.

Resolution Honoring Marilyn Lang

Following a 15-minute break once the electronic voting concluded, Bishop Holcomb reconvened the Convention for consideration and debate of resolutions. Resolution R-1, presented by Canon Caprani, was a surprise resolution – approved by voice vote – honoring her mother, Marilyn Lang, longtime diocesan staff member who has stepped down to a part-time role. Lang came forward for the reading of the resolution and, after being presented with red roses, expressed her thanks from the podium. Video of the presentation of Resolution R-1 will be linked here when available.

Amendments

The bishop next introduced Smith for the presentation of amendments. Amendment A-1, “Deanery Dean and President Vacancies,” designed to give guidance on filling vacancies in these positions, was presented for the canonically required approval at a second Diocesan Convention; the amendment received the required majority vote at the January 2025 Convention and passed at this year’s Convention by the required two-thirds majority of each order via electronic vote.

The Very Rev. Matthew Perreault, dean of the Northwest Deanery and rector of St. Thomas, Eustis, next presented Amendment A-2, “Form Redactions to the Constitution,” designed to update language in the charter and correct typographical errors. The amendment was approved by voice vote; this was the first of two votes at successive diocesan conventions that will be needed for final approval.

The Rev. Steven Heisler, deacon at Christ the King, Orlando, presented Amendment A-3, “Standing Committee Membership,” which, after discussion, was ruled out of order because it contained a noncanonical term, “vocational deacon.” The canons refer only to “deacon” without the qualifier. Per Robert’s Rules of Order, an amendment that has been ruled out of order is ineligible for further consideration during the same meeting, so discussion ceased and no vote was taken.

Parishes, Aided Parishes and Organized Missions

Bishop Holcomb next called on Smith to present information regarding the canonical status of congregations, which had also been presented at pre-Convention deanery meetings. Smith explained that in past years, Canon XV had not been strictly observed, and said, “By returning to full adherence to Canon XV, the Ecclesiastical Authority is better equipped to offer essential support that helps congregations thrive.” He defined the differences between the canonical categories of parish, aided parish and organized mission, and told delegates they would be voting that day as to whether to move four aided parishes to mission status. Prior to the Convention, leadership from each parish had been in discussion with Smith and other diocesan staff about these changes.

The bishop added further remarks about the reasons for the changes, stressing the diocese’s desire to provide greater support for each included congregation. He also shared the good news that Christ Church, Suntree-Viera, has moved from aided parish status to parish status. In addition, Christ the King, Lakeland, returned to parish status from aided parish status at the Dec. 19, 2024, meeting of the Diocesan Board.

After individual voting for each congregation in question, all four congregations moved from aided parish to organized mission status: Christ Church, Longwood; Holy Child, Ormond Beach; Holy Faith, Dunnellon; and Advent, Dunnellon. Out of 79 congregations in the diocese, 10 now have organized mission status.

Election Results

Before the announcement of the day’s election results, Bishop Holcomb called Murbarger back to the platform to announce the results of deanery elections held prior to the convention:

Central Deanery: Dean (one-year term), the Very Rev. Stu Shelby.

Northeast Deanery: Dean (three-year term), the Very Rev. Audrey Sutton.

Northwest Deanery: President (three-year term), Betty Hensinger.

Southeast Deanery: Dean (two-year term), the Very Rev. Dr. Dave Johnson.

Southwest Deanery: Dean (three-year term), the Very Rev. Becky Toalster; president (one-year term): Richard McWhorter.

Standing Committee, Clerical Order: The Rev. Dr. Rob Strenth.

Standing Committee, Lay Order: Homer “Chip” Vanture Jr.

Diocesan Board, Clerical Order: The Rev. Woodford “Deke” Miller.

Diocesan Board, Lay Order: Lisa Mouton, Holly Vanture.

Trustee, University of the South, Clerical Order: The Rev. Dr. Robin Reed.

Deputies and Alternates, 82nd General Convention of The Episcopal Church: Clerical Order: The Revs. Kevin Bartle, Laura “Lo” Cook, Mark Lafler and Kay Mueller. Alternates: The Revs. Angel López, Woodford “Deke” Miller, Dr. Rob Moses and the Very Rev. Matthew Perreault. Lay Order: Paige Hinton, Kevin Kinnaird, Jason Ullrich, Heidi White. Alternates: Ama Brown-Fenton, Carrie Brown, Gail Carlson, Irais Murphy.

After thanking Murbarger and all those who stood for election, the bishop acknowledged the 2025 members of the Commission on Ministry, Diocesan Board, Standing Committee and University of the South Board of Trustees. He also announced the following appointments:

Chaplain: The Rev. Dr. Rob Strenth, Diocesan Assembly of the Daughters of the King.

Global Partners Commission: The Revs. Elliot Drake and Courtney “Koko” Wisdom, co-chairs.

Commission on Ministry (four-year term): The Rev. Rob Griffith, Erika Johnson, Mary Kay Predmore, the Rev. Garrett Puccetti.

In conformity with Diocesan Canon XII, a voice vote was taken to confirm members of the Commission on Ministry. The vote passed, and the named members were thus confirmed.

Bishop Holcomb then continued with the announcement of appointments:

Disciplinary Board (three-year term): Dan McIntosh, the Rev. Dr. Rob Moses, Len Oden.

These appointees also needed to be confirmed by the Convention, per Diocesan Canon XXII2b, so a voice vote was taken and the appointments were confirmed.

Invitation to the 58th Annual Diocesan Convention

The bishop next invited Smith to deliver important news about the schedule for future Diocesan Conventions, previously announced at the annual Clergy Conference. “Many have asked for this change, and we’ve listened. … Historically held in January, the Convention will shift to November, beginning this year,” Smith said. “As a result, we will hold a second Convention on Nov. 7 of this calendar year.”

The shift will not only avoid conflicts with annual meetings and other events in parish life but will also improve alignment with the diocesan budgeting process. The November 2026 Diocesan Convention, a one-day gathering, will focus solely on essential Convention business. Key dates include: amendments deadline, Sept. 8; resolutions deadline, Sept. 23; delegate election deadline, October. In addition, those serving in elected offices whose terms end at the next Convention will serve a slightly shortened term.

After these announcements, the bishop invited forward the Rev. Tom Phillips, who extended an invitation from his church, Holy Trinity, Melbourne, to the 58th Annual Diocesan Convention in November, to be held at Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy.

Memorial Resolution and Closing

The Rev. Kimberley Spear of Holy Spirit, Apopka, then presented a memorial resolution for the 10 diocesan clergy who died during the past year; the Convention observed a moment of silence before the bishop offered a prayer on behalf of the departed.

Bales again led in worship with “In Christ Alone” just before Bishop Holcomb closed the Convention with a prayer, blessing and official announcement of adjournment.

Responses From Attendees

Delegates and invited guests were united in their expressed enthusiasm for the two days of Convention. “I’m really feeling very encouraged and hopeful,” said President Carrie Brown of the Canon Nelson W. Pinder Union of Black Episcopalians Chapter of Central Florida and a delegate from St. John the Baptist, Orlando. “Everything has been wonderful, especially the workshops – very beneficial.”

“We are thankful to be here and grateful for the process,” said Scott and Christine Miller, delegates from All Saints, Winter Park.

Lauren Forgey, outreach coordinator at Camp Wingmann, said the exhibitor tables where she served had lots of visitors. “It’s been a really wonderful time being at Convention, to help with the Camp Wingmann and sometimes with the youth table,” she said. “It’s great for people to hear about all we have to offer. We’re hoping to see more campers from the diocese this summer at camp, especially now that we are working with the youth coordinators, and they’re doing the Spring and Fall Retreats here.”

“It’s a unique opportunity to be in a room full of people, knowing you all share a commonality: faith,” said Heidi White, newly elected General Convention deputy and delegate from All Saints’, Lakeland. “It seems like a family reunion. … We come to learn, listen and make decisions, discerning God’s will among us.  During debate, we are called to listen and think about topics from a new perspective or in a new way. During the educational sessions and the ‘Greetings’ portion of the plenary session, it’s exciting to hear the updates from the diocesan youth ministry and the various global ministries. It was fascinating to learn about the work of the Armed Services and Federal Ministries. Convention is a great opportunity to look beyond the walls of our personal church homes (and towns) and realize how much work there is beyond those boundaries.

“As I complete my three-year term as a Diocesan Board member, it has been an honor and privilege to witness and support Bishop Holcomb as he leads the diocese in its next phase of ministry,” she continued. “There have been significant issues confronting the diocese during his brief tenure, and he has led with transparency and humility. He has sought and surrounded himself with knowledgeable advisors, whose counsel he truly considers. The balanced budget, which does not draw on savings, is an impressive accomplishment. His homilies and Convention addresses are filled with messages of hope and God’s love. Like Jesus, Bishop Holcomb is a compassionate shepherd, and I am confident in the future stability of the diocese under his leadership.”