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A BISHOP WHO EMPOWERS CONGREGATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, STEWARDSHIP, AND EVANGELISM

New Hampshire currently has one of the fastest growing populations in the country, and we live in one of the fastest growing dioceses in the Episcopal Church. The southern tier of our state, which borders Massachusetts, has felt tremendous pressure for development as people choose to live in this area and work in Boston. While the advantages for new arrivals seem apparent and numerous—such as no sales or income tax, safe schools, and a beautiful environment—the long-term results of expansion affect our future. A wide diversity of wealth and lifestyle characterizes the ten counties that make up our state, and the legislature wrestles with how to equalize this disparity and support the needs of public education.

The greatest number of persons living below the poverty level is found in the three northernmost counties, but in recent years there has been a growing number of urban poor as well. In 2002 there are 165,000 New Hampshire residents age 65 or older in a population of 1.2 million, up 18 percent from 1990. We also have a growing prison population. We recognize the need for an emphasis on our work among the aging, on the significant ministries of the Episcopal schools in our diocese, and on the vital ministry of vocational deacons.

We expect our next bishop to possess skills in congregational development and mission strategy. Because we are geographically spread out, and some of our congregations are small, we seek leadership in assuring that all have the resources necessary to do ministry. This encompasses the possibility of working with us to determine ideas for church growth and evangelism, particularly in places where the population is growing. In addition, our next bishop needs to address the sense of isolation that has been identified by some New Hampshire Episcopalians, particularly in the western and northern areas of our diocese. Stewardship, an essential aspect of episcopal leadership, includes maintaining our history of financial health and finding the means by which to support new and existing ministries.

Which Questions Would You Ask a Candidate for Bishop?

  • Why do you believe in God?
  • How would you lead, inspire, and support the establishment of new congregations and assist faltering parishes and missions?
  • In our society, who are the lepers and those to whom the Good Samaritan would minister?
  • How would you focus on ministries such as feeding the hungry and serving the poor?
  • Are you willing to be theologically and personally challenged?
  • What do you do for fun?
  • How would you encourage the use and growth of music in the worship service?
  • How would you honor the traditions of the Episcopal Church?

(Survey and focus groups, June 2002)


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