What Are We Looking For?

The Diocese of West Missouri is a medium-size diocese of 51 congregations set in a relatively large geographical area in the western half of Missouri. Most of its congregations are small, and only a few are program or resource size. Representing only about ˝ of 1% of the population in western Missouri, the diocese has a large impact in its feeding and caring ministries, and a very significant health ministry presence, especially in the greater Kansas City area with the Saint Luke’s Health System and Bishop Spencer Place. The diocese has benefited from good episcopal leadership to date, which is reflected in its healthy finances and generally harmonious relations. Still, the larger cultural forces contributing nationally to decline in The Episcopal Church are also at work in West Missouri. Most of our congregations are both aging and shrinking. The next decade will be a critical period in the life of our diocese. With that in mind, we are looking for a bishop who will lead us through these uncertain times.

Easter at Grace and Holy Trinity CathedralWe are looking for a bishop who will be:

  • A strong presence both spiritually and pastorally.
  • A visionary leader who is open minded, flexible, innovative, and creative.
  • A pastor to congregations and clergy who is compassionate, helpful, supportive and nurturing.
  • A capable administrator who communicates effectively and maintains clear and open processes.
  • The public face of The Episcopal Church in West Missouri.

We are looking for a bishop who has:

  • Sufficiently varied experience to understand the differing dynamics of churches of all sizes and in each locale of the diocese.
  • A passion for social outreach and health ministry, with demonstrated experience in board leadership.
  • Good liturgical skills and the ability to preside in worship settings large and small, formal and informal, in English and in Spanish.
  • The health and stamina to travel frequently and to drive long distances.
  • The courage to try new things, the patience to allow new things to develop, the ability to work collaboratively with others, the strength to deal firmly and compassionately with conflict, the humility to admit failure, the grace to celebrate success and share credit with others, and a sense of humor throughout it all.