The 241st Annual Convention of the Episcopal Church in Delaware was held on November 21 – 22, 2025 at Clayton Hall | University of Delaware
Reflection on the 241st Annual Convention
of the Episcopal Church in Delaware
by Cynde A. Bimbi
The 241st Annual Convention of the Episcopal Church in Delaware was a joyful and grace-filled gathering — lay and clergy came together to reconnect, learn, pray, and tend to the meaningful work of our diocese. From the very first moments, as “We Are Family” played while people found their seats, a joyful tone was set.
Friday opened with Bishop Brown’s orientation for new delegates before moving into our first business session, the Trustees Master Fund A Annual Meeting, and an open hearing for resolutions. During Business Session I, Bishop Brown delivered his annual address, reflecting on the past year, the road ahead, and our theme of abiding and dwelling in Christ. He reminded us that we are all called to important ministry, rooted in deep connection — he is the vine, and we are the branches.
One of the highlights for many was the social gathering — friends greeted friends, delegates met the candidates, and a spirit of community filled the room. After dinner, we listened to the keynote from the Rt. Rev. Scott Anson Benhase, who spoke about humility and prayer. The day ended with the quiet beauty of Compline, sending us into the night in peace.
Saturday began bright and early with morning prayer at 7 a.m., followed by a worship service with Holy Eucharist that grounded the day in grace and gratitude. The morning workshops focused on discipleship, growth, and service; and the afternoon was dedicated to Business Session II, including diocesan elections, ministry presentations, and discussions of the budget and resolutions.
When convention closed, “We Are Family” played once again, a joyful bookend to a full and meaningful weekend. We departed in peace — grateful for renewed connections, grateful for the work accomplished, and grateful for the reminder that in Christ, and with each other, we truly are family and one church in Delaware.
Text of Bishop’s Address will be published in the Winter edition of the Delaware Communion.
Keynote Speaker: The Rt. Rev. Scott Benhase
The Holy Eucharist at convention
Calvary Church, Hillcrest
Reflection of Leave-Taking Service
All Saints’, Delmar
Journey through history as they prepare for the leave-taking.
Click image to view PHOTOS from convention
Ministry presentations at convention:
Business at convention:
Election results
- Constitution & Canons: The Rev. Ben Rockwell
- Diocesan Council:
- Clergy — The Rev. Wayne Rollins, The Rev. John Tober
- Lay-at-Large — Keziah Soto, Diane Dudderar
- Lay, Area 2 — Edward Clay
- Lay, Area V — Thomas Marshall
- Disciplinary Board:
- Clergy for a 4-year term — The Rev. Russell Bohner
- Clergy for a 2-year term — The Rev. Deacon Chris Miller-Marcin
- Lay — Consuelo Miller
- Standing Committee:
- Clergy — The Rev. Thom Peters
- Lay — Tom Angell
- Trustee: Lydia York
- Deputies to General Convention
- Clergy Deputies — The Rev. Jeffrey Ross, The Rev. Patricia Downing, The Rev. Patrick Burke, The Rev. Ted Olson
- Clergy Alternates — The Rev. Howie Sasser, The Rev. Deacon Cecily Sawyer Harmon, The Rev. John Tober, The Rev. Greg Wilson
- Lay Deputies — Helen Spence, Nana Soto, Keziah Soto, Mariann Marston
- Lay Alternates — John Michael Sophos, Robert Marston, Beth Mauer, Jordan Kinsey
Finance
Resolutions
Workshops at Convention
Spiritual Direction
Drawing upon Christianity’s rich contemplative tradition, this workshop explored the ancient practice of “holy listening,” also known as spiritual direction, spiritual guidance, or spiritual companionship. The workshop offered a nurturing environment inviting an increasing openness to the many ways God’s Spirit is alive in those drawn to this practice.
Invite Welcome Connect
Invite Welcome Connect offered congregations’ assistance with evangelism (invite), hospitality (welcome), and belonging (connect). In this interactive workshop, they discussed the power of relationship, nurturing conversations, and what it means to be a holy listener.
Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministry, a Christ-centered program equips lay people to provide caring support to others in times of need. This workshop offered an introduction to the ministry, its purpose, and how it strengthens congregations through compassionate service and confidential care.
