The 233rd Annual Convention of the Diocese of Massachusetts will take place on Saturday, Nov. 3 at the Cape Cod Resort and Conference Center in Hyannis. Additionally, convention-goers will have the option of attending a special dinner on Friday, Nov. 2 honoring Bishop Barbara C. Harris and the 30th anniversary of her historic election as bishop. Online registration opens in early October.
All resolutions, nominations for diocesan elections, proposed constitutional and canonical amendments and committee reports are due in the Office of Convention and Council by Friday, Sept. 7 at 5 p.m.
Positions to be filled by election at this year’s convention include: secretary and treasurer of the diocese, and members of the Standing Committee, Diocesan Disciplinary Board, Cathedral Chapter, Barbara C. Harris Camp and Conference Center Board of Directors, and Trustees of Donations, as well as deputies to the Provincial Synod. (Find the position descriptions here and the nomination form here.)
Pre-convention forums in October will offer an important opportunity for learning and discussion about the issues and business to come before the convention, including resolutions and the proposed budget. All are welcome; clergy and convention delegates are especially encouraged to participate. Forums are scheduled to take place from 7 to 9 p.m. on:
• Wednesday, Oct. 17 at St. Andrew's Church (3 Maple Street) in Framingham;
• Thursday, Oct. 18 at Trinity Church (124 River Road) in Topsfield;
• Tuesday, Oct. 23 at the Church of Our Saviour (120 Center Street) in Middleborough; and
• Wednesday, Oct. 24 at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul (138 Tremont Street) in Boston.
Find updates and all materials at www.diomass.org/diocesan-convention-2018.
Diocesan Convention is the primary governing body of the diocese. It convenes annually in November to conduct diocesan business, including the election of officers and members of various leadership bodies; approval of a budget for the upcoming year; setting and reviewing mission strategy; and establishing diocesan policy and procedure by considering and voting on resolutions and approving changes to the diocesan constitution and canons.
It is also an occasion for communication and teaching from the bishops; learning about and participating in shared mission and ministry; fellowship, community building and common prayer; and celebration of the Holy Eucharist together as a diocesan community.