ECMN News
Eastertide Sermon Series 2021
Apr 11, 2021
The Big Lenten Prayer Tent 2021
Feb 9, 2021
Epiphany Sermons 2021
Jan 4, 2021
For those faith communities interested, ECMN will be curating weekly video sermons from January 14th - February 14th
$70,955 Granted to ECMN Faith Communities to Support Adaptation
Dec 15, 2020
Faith communities have worked hard to adapt to a new way of being church. In recognition of all that these adaptations have demanded, Council launched and coordinated a new, one time, COVID-19 Adaptation Grant, utilizing funds from the ECMN budget.
Annual Meeting Resources
Nov 17, 2020
As faith communities begin to plan for what an annual parish meeting may look like in 2021, ECMN is curating resources and providing places to gather and share ideas.
Election Day Prayer Vigil
Oct 12, 2020
On the day of the election, Tuesday, November 3rd, from the time that polls open in the morning until they close at the end of the day, all in ECMN are invited to observe a vigil of prayer.
Jesus in the Public Square
Oct 12, 2020
As followers of Jesus, we are called to partisan neutrality, but not moral neutrality. That's why it's essential for us, as Minnesota Episcopalians, to follow Jesus' example and step into the public square. ECMN is releasing resources to help faith communities as they engage in this contentious election season.
Pastoral Letter from Bishop Loya
Oct 12, 2020
Following the divisive election season, as we sit in the chaos and unknown, Bishop Loya has written a Pastoral Letter that is to be read or watched during services held at Episcopal Churches in Minnesota on Sunday, November 8th, 2020.
ECMN Announces $150,000 in Grants for Justice
Oct 2, 2020
Shortly after the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, the Executive Council of the Episcopal Church offered ECMN a $150,000 Rapid Response Gift. These funds were meant to support our work and that of our neighbors as we seek to dismantle the systemic racism in our country, in our state, in our city, and within the church. In this announcement, we outline how those funds will be spent to do that work.
An Exciting New Partnership in Downtown Minneapolis
Oct 1, 2020
There's some exciting news in the life of ECMN as we announce a partnership with Twin Cities Stand Together, an organization on the front lines of justice work in Minneapolis, who will be leasing the Gethsemane Episcopal Church building.
An Exciting New Partnership in Downtown Minneapolis
Oct 1, 2020
There's some exciting news in the life of ECMN as we announce a partnership with Twin Cities Stand Together, an organization on the front lines of justice work in Minneapolis, who will be leasing the Gethsemane Episcopal Church building.
Announcing ECMN COVID-19 Adaptation Grant
Oct 1, 2020
ECMN Council has designated $70,000 of our anticipated budget surplus to be made available to faith communities for a new, one time, COVID-19 Adaptation Grant.
Bishop Loya Visitation Schedule
Aug 25, 2020
Bishop Loya is excited to be with faith communities across ECMN to worship, build relationship, and connect.
ECMN Online Convention - 2020 Business Meeting Registration Now Open
Aug 13, 2020
Bishop Loya released information and registration regarding the 2020 ECMN Convention. The registration for the business portion of convention, happening on Friday September 25th at 5pm, is now open for clergy and lay delegates.
ECMN Justice Work
Jun 22, 2020
ECMN has been on a journey towards racial justice and reconciliation for years, now. This moment is calling us to deepen and expand this work. To that end, find resources framed in the categories of Learn, Act, Pray, given to us by Stephanie Spellers and members of the Presiding Bishop's office.
A Statement from Bishop-elect Loya in Response to the Killing of George Floyd
May 26, 2020
Bishop Prior and Bishop-elect Loya authored a statement responding to the killing of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis. It is both a reflection and a call to action for Episcopalians in Minnesota.
Covid-19 Resources
Apr 30, 2020
This page contains helpful resources and links for faith community leaders in ECMN navigating the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Webinar Recordings
Mar 3, 2020
Each week, clergy and lay leaders from around the state gather to engage in discussions and learn. This page provides links to recordings of these and other meetings and trainings.
ECMN Communications (COVID-19)
Mar 3, 2020
Find links to past communications from ECMN pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Virtual & Home Worship
Mar 3, 2020
Find ideas and resources to support worship practices at home while church buildings are closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Expectations for Pastoral Care for the Sick and Dying
Mar 3, 2020
During the COVID-19 pandemic, as pastoral care practices must shift and in cases where hospitals have imposed restrictions on visitors, find here resources to continue providing pastoral care without being physically present with those who are sick and dying.
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act and Faith Communities
Mar 3, 2020
The ECMN Finance Team is committed to supporting ECMN faith communities as they seek to maintain economic health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find here resources, links and wisdom from this team.
Pastoral Care (COVID-19)
Mar 3, 2020
Providing pastoral care is essential, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, many of our tried and true methods for doing so are not available to us. This page provides resources to help expand our capacity to provide pastoral care in new ways.
Other Resources (COVID-19)
Mar 3, 2020
Find resources for building use and planning during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Episcopal Churches Join Together to Offer Lenten Series
Feb 5, 2020
Faith communities collaborated to create joint lenten offerings. Read this story to learn more.
Further Resources from the ECMN Weekly News
Feb 5, 2020
There are so many great things happening around ECMN. This page is a one stop shop for stories and resources shared in the weekly news!
ECMN Elects The Very Rev. Craig Loya to be 10th Bishop
Jan 28, 2020
ECMN joyfully announces the election of the Very Rev. Craig Loya as our 10th Bishop.
Action from General Convention regarding clergy sexual misconduct
Feb 8, 2019
Please read this letter regarding important and time sensitive actions from General Convention.
Stories from the First Cathedral - Faribault, MN - The Rev Canon James C Zotalis
Jan 2, 2019
Weekly, the Rev. James Zotalis will be sharing a story about the Cathedral of Our Merciful Saviour, the place, the people and the events from the past and present. The Cathedral is truly a treasure of the ECMN.
New Ideas for Ministry - Spotlight Across the State
Jan 2, 2019
The constraints of this season have nurtured incredible creativity in faith communities across our state. We'll be sharing short stories here about innovative practices from our siblings in ECMN as we all seek to cultivate connection, depth, and care with those we serve and lead. Each week we'll highlight practices from a faith community or leader in ECMN.
New Ideas for Ministry - Spotlight Across the State
Jan 2, 2019
The constraints of this season have nurtured incredible creativity in faith communities across our state. We'll be sharing short stories here about innovative practices from our siblings in ECMN as we all seek to cultivate connection, depth, and care with those we serve and lead. Each week we'll highlight practices from a faith community or leader in ECMN.
Phishing Emails
Jan 2, 2019
Many of us have received emails that seem to be coming from leaders of our churches or from leaders in ECMN that seem off. Maybe they’re asking you to send them money, maybe they’re asking you to reach out to them urgently, but the text in the message is misspelled. These types of emails are called email-based impersonation, and are a form of phishing utilized by cybercriminals to get access to your information, or to influence you to send money.
MN TEC #2
Oct 23, 2018
October 18-21st, over 100 youth gathered at Calvary Episcopal Church in Rochester for the second statewide Teens Encounter Christ retreat. Click here to read more about the ways they were
An Important Announcement from Bishop Prior
Sep 25, 2018
Youth Commission Presence at Convention 2018
Sep 25, 2018
Last year, 436 young people across ECMN built Beloved Community together. It happened at our seven collaborative retreat and camping ministries. Then at ECMN’s Convention on Sept. 14-15, twenty-five members of our new Youth Commission showed up and stood on stage courageously sharing their ‘why’ with the hundreds of Episcopalians who were gathered.
Youth Commission Reflection on Convention 2018
Sep 25, 2018
Hear from Ryan Berlin, a young person who is a part of the new ECMN Youth Commission, and who attended ECMNConvention on Sept. 14-15th.
Shattuck-St. Mary's in Forest City Malaysia
Sep 25, 2018
Mission Area Gatherings
Aug 13, 2018
Join others from faith communities in your area to build relationships, dive into this year’s mission opportunity the Beloved Community, and gain skills to support you in your ministry.
Finding a Way Forward Together
Aug 8, 2018
As communities and congregations change, read a compelling story from two faith communities in Minnesota who asked themselves the pivotal questions 'Do we want to keep doing this?' and 'How might God be calling us forward?'
We Will Be The Change: A Recap of Dialogues Centered Around Race
Aug 8, 2018
After receiving a Missional Innovative Partnership Grant, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church built a series of 4 Forums, their impact is still being felt.
Honoring the Past
Aug 8, 2018
Paula Gillman gives us insight into the ways Christ Episcopal Church in Grand Rapids honors the past through their yearly service at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Coleraine.
Space to Imagine
Aug 8, 2018
Churches often sit vacant during weekdays. At St. Paul's on Lake of the Isles, they're welcoming some unexpected partners into their space.
Supporting Next Steps
Aug 8, 2018
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Minneapolis noticed that when their young people were graduating, they were becoming less engaged. Their solution? Support them in their next steps.
Beloved Community at Episcopal Youth Quest Camp
Jul 24, 2018
Young people and adults from across Minnesota spent a week together at Quest Camp this summer. And while they went on adventures, explored and stretched themselves, they also did something deeper and more important - they became a Beloved Community.
ECMN at General Convention
Jul 2, 2018
General Convention of the Episcopal Church takes place July 5th-13th, 2018 in Austin, Texas. ECMN is sending a Deputation to engage in the discussion and decisions being made by this great gathering of the Episcopal Church. General Convention sets the tone for how the church will grow and change for the next three years.
Our ECMN Ordinands
Jun 29, 2018
Meet the amazing and talented folks who were recently ordained in the Episcopal Church in Minnesota. We are so thankful for their dedication and ministry, and for all those who have and will continue to support them on their journey.
Considering Privilege: History of Power, Faith in Reconciliation
May 10, 2018
Recently, George Thompson, Sr. Warden of Holy Trinity, St. Paul and I traveled to Atlanta as representatives of ECMN. I felt privileged to have this opportunity to attend the Racial Reconciliation conference that was presented by Dr. Catherine Meeks, Executive Director of The Absalom Jones Center for Racial Healing which serves the entire Episcopal Church.
MNTEC #1
Apr 17, 2018
During a mid-April Blizzard, over 90 youth and adults gathered at St. Mark's Cathedral for the first ever MNTEC.
Remembering The Rev. Denzil A. Carty
Mar 14, 2018
On Sunday, March 25th, you are invited to celebrate and remember the life of The Rev. Denzil A. Carty, giving thanks to God for this African American civil rights leader in our midst.
Missional Innovative Partnership Grants
Dec 4, 2017
Missional Innovative Partnership Grants help jumpstart projects that bring together Episcopal faith communities or organizations and community organizations to meet the needs of the neighborhood.
Contrasts and Complexities
Oct 25, 2017
Read more about the experience of Thomas Taylor, Director of Breck's Upper School, as he joint Episcopal Relief and Development and the National Association of Episcopal Schools on a pilgrimage to Ghana.
Bagpipes and Bonfires
Oct 25, 2017
It was a hot time in the old town of Stillwater on September 23 when nearly 500 people, many in kilts and costume, turned out on a hot and steamy night for the 6th biennial Bagpipes & Bonfires – a Celtic Street Festival, presented by the Episcopal Church of the Ascension.
Fields to Families
Oct 25, 2017
On August 1st, for the fifth year in a row, Holy Apostles reached out to our neighbors with gifts of fresh vegetables during the National Night Out party at Conway Rec center in St. Paul.
Generosity and Giving
Aug 31, 2017
In this column from Dan White, learn some strategies for sharing the story of ministry and transformation that's happening at your faith community.
Mission Area Gatherings
Aug 24, 2017
Join others from faith communities in your area to build relationships, dive into this year’s mission opportunity of the Beloved Community.
More Than Just a Bible Study
Aug 11, 2017
Learn about how Education for Ministry is helping people engage scripture in such a way that it is shaping lives and influencing their ministry in the world
More Than Just a Bible Study
Aug 11, 2017
Learn about how Education for Ministry is helping people engage scripture in such a way that it is shaping lives and influencing their ministry in the world
Planning a Pledge Drive
Jul 20, 2017
In this column from Dan White, go into the nuts and bolts of what works when planning a pledge drive at your faith community.
A New Home for ECMN
Jun 19, 2017
The Bishop offers some insight on how this location was chosen. In ECMN, we see property transactions as an expression of the mission that God is calling us to. This property transaction was guided by that thinking.
Why Do We Give?
Jun 16, 2017
In this column, the focus will be on why we give, and in subsequent columns the focus will be on specific tactics.
ECMN Nominations for Elected Bodies
May 16, 2017
We need your help to shape the future of the Episcopal Church in Minnesota. Each year there are opportunities to step into leadership roles that allow you to engage in the big issues facing the church and our community. You can help create action that makes a difference.
A Resource for Stewardship
May 16, 2017
Dan White is a resource for faith communities in ECMN as they consider planning and implementing pledge drives. In a series of posts, Dan will illuminate practices and ideas from his experience and work.
An update to our Episcopal Faith Family
May 16, 2017
An update from Episcopal Homes, St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral and the Trustees of the Episcopal Church in Minnesota.
Union of Black Episcopalians - ECMN Chapter
Mar 20, 2017
An interested group of Black Episcopalians has begun a process of forming a chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians in ECMN.
Every Second is a Blessing
Mar 16, 2017
Camp changes lives and strengthens faith. Read more about Charlie Franklin's experience as a young leader for Episcopal Youth Quest Camp.
Circle of the Beloved
Feb 16, 2017
Circle of the Beloved is the Minnesota branch of the Episcopal Service Corps. This year marks their first year of programming, and the 4 individuals that make up the program's first cohort have some stories to tell!
Mission Opportunity Highlight
Feb 16, 2017
The good people of Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Rushford are engaging in the Mission Opportunity in their culture and context. Read on to learn how they're doing it!
Mission Area Gatherings
Feb 16, 2017
Join others from faith communities in your area to build relationships, dive into this year’s mission opportunity of racial reconciliation through storytelling, and gain skills to support you in your ministry.
Statement from Bishop Prior - Gun Violence Prevention
Feb 7, 2017
Read a statement from Bishop Prior that was read at a rally at the state capitol regarding gun violence prevention.
Statement from Bishop Prior - Immigration and Refugees
Jan 26, 2017
Read a statement from Bishop Prior regarding the immigrant and refugee ban.
Partnering for Innovation
Dec 7, 2016
This partnership is building new opportunities for Native Youth to engage in their faith and grow together.
Expanding our Horizons
Dec 7, 2016
ECMN affiliate Shattuck - St. Mary's is on the brink of global expansion.
Clergy responding to the election
Nov 13, 2016
A number of ECMN clergy from around the state have issued an open letter in response to the recent election.
Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Beatrice Garubanda
Sep 22, 2016
St. Matthew's Rector Blair Pogue tells the story of their own Saint, Beatrice Garubanda, and the installation of her portrait in the building.
Convention 2016 Re-Cap
Sep 22, 2016
Convention took place on September 16th and 17th, 2016. Find some updates and newsworthy items from Convention here!
Coming Together as the Church
Sep 22, 2016
The Rev. Rick Swenson shares the story of how faith communities on the Eastern Iron Range are coming together as the Church in today's world.
Eucharist Message from The Rev. Jennifer Baskerville Burrows
Sep 16, 2016
Read the message given by The Rev. Baskerville Burrows at the Eucharist at Convention
Discovering God at Camp
Aug 22, 2016
Read one young person's reflection on her experience at camp this summer.
A Statement from Bishop Prior
Jul 7, 2016
A statement from Bishop Prior after the tragic events in Falcon Heights, Minnesota.
Stories for Change
Jul 7, 2016
As we look to engage in this year's Mission Opportunity of Hearing our Stories and Healing Relationships, Stories for Change is a great model to bring people together and share and learn with each other
Care in Context
Jul 7, 2016
Community of Hope International provides resources for everyone to do pastoral ministry in their context - in their faith community, in their homes and in the world.
A History of Spirit
Jul 7, 2016
We look back and draw inspiration from our rich history, and use that to find the courage and energy we need to move forward
Addressing Anti-Judaism in Holy Week Scripture Texts
Feb 19, 2016
From The Rev. Devon Anderson, Trinity, Excelsior: It’s that time of year when many of us are designing our liturgical offerings for Holy Week. And it’s about this time every year when I reengage the Johannine Passion narrative on Good Friday and, in parts, cringe.
Video from Vestry Resource Day Now Available
Feb 8, 2016
Video from Vestry Resource Day, held Saturday, February 6 at St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, is now available.
Climate of Fear and Our Church
Feb 3, 2016
From Minnie Steele, St. Mark's: For me, the experience of Trinity Institute 2016: Listen for a Change - Sacred Conversations for Racial Justice began on the ride from LaGuardia Airport to the hotel on the island of Manhattan; as I was enjoying the landscape, I was a bit startled as we approached a gathering of NYPD vehicles and the very visible presence of men in military fatigues holding large assault weapons.
Next Round of Missional Innovative Partnership Grant Recipients of 2015-16 Program Year Announced
Jan 28, 2016
After reviewing Missional Innovative Partnership grant applications submitted for the second quarter of the 2015-2016 program year, we are excited to announce that the following grant proposals were approved as the applications successfully demonstrated that these partnerships will fulfill all criteria in the areas of Mission, Innovation, and Partnership.
Church Takes Ash Wednesday to the Streets
Jan 26, 2016
On Ash Wednesday, 10 February, ministers from several churches will be offering “Ashes to Go,” a new approach to a centuries-old Christian tradition, from 7 - 8 a.m. near the bus stops on 2nd Street and 1st Avenue in downtown Rochester.
Report on January 2016 Meeting of Elected Bodies
Jan 12, 2016
The Meeting of Elected Bodies took place Saturday, January 9 at the ECMN Retreat Center located on the campus of Shattuck-St. Mary’s in Faribault.
Multimedia Resources from January 2016 Meeting of Elected Bodies Now Available
Jan 11, 2016
Multimedia resources from the Meeting of Elected Bodies, held Saturday, January 9 at the ECMN Retreat Center at Shattuck-St. Mary’s in Faribault, are now available.
Wells Foundation Announces $10,000 Grant to Circle of the Beloved-Episcopal Service Corps
Dec 11, 2015
The Wells Foundation of Minneapolis approved a $10,000 grant to Circle of the Beloved-Episcopal Service Corps at their November 29, 2015 board meeting.
First Missional Innovative Partnership Grant Recipient of 2015-16 Program Year Announced
Dec 9, 2015
After reviewing Missional Innovative Partnership grant applications submitted for the first quarter of the 2015-2016 program year, we are excited to announce that the grant proposal submitted by the Episcopal Earthkeepers Circle, proposing a partnership with Minnesota Interfaith Power & Light, has been approved and will be funded without revision or changes for the amount of $3,840.
Video from Northeast MN MAG Now Available
Nov 16, 2015
Below you will find video of the morning presentations that took place at the Northeast Minnesota Mission Area Gathering on Saturday, November 14 at Trinity Episcopal Church in Hermantown, followed by video of a Q&A session with the presenters.
Report on October 2015 Meeting of Elected Bodies
Oct 27, 2015
The Meeting of Elected Bodies took place Friday, October 23 – Saturday, October 24 at the ECMN Retreat Center located on the campus of Shattuck-St. Mary’s in Faribault.
Multimedia Resources from October 2015 Meeting of Elected Bodies Now Available
Oct 26, 2015
Multimedia resources from the Meeting of Elected Bodies, held Friday, October 23 – Saturday, October 24 at the ECMN Retreat Center at Shattuck-St. Mary’s in Faribault, are now available.
Sheltering Arms Announces 2015-16 Grantees, New Trustees and Board President
Sep 28, 2015
The Sheltering Arms Foundation announces a new round of its ongoing grantmaking partnership with Episcopal faith communities to serve Minnesota’s most vulnerable children. Three grants totaling $3,000 will support tutoring and youth activities, mentorship and case management, and a youth adventure camp. Created to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Sheltering Arms in 2008, the grants program recognizes the important role churches play in helping at-risk children increase their potential.
Praying Shapes Believing: New Liturgies for Celebrating God in Creation
Sep 24, 2015
In his seminal book, “Praying Shapes Believing: A Theological Commentary on the Book of Common Prayer,” Leonel Mitchell reminded his readers: “probably more than any other contemporary religious group, Episcopalians are people of a prayer book.
Multimedia Resources and Post-Convention Materials Available
Sep 22, 2015
Below you will find materials relating to ECMN Convention 2015. Videos shown during the PowerPoint presentation are linked below.
MN Deputies Recap General Convention
Jul 23, 2015
General Convention happens every three years, and is that span of 12 days when four clergy deputies and four lay deputies (and alternates) and bishops from every, single diocese in the Episcopal Church, gather to set the direction for our church. We also worship (every, single day), caucus, debate, party, shop in the exhibit hall, and hone our proficiency in parliamentary procedure during extended sessions of the House of Deputies.