Schedule of Workshops
Click on each title for the description

9:30AM-10:45AM
11:00AM-12:15PM
12:30PM-1:45PM
2:00PM-3:15PM

A CALL TO ACTION – Advanced Anti-Racism Dialogue – Participate in a workshop that will assist individuals in congregations to begin living into the “action step” in working towards further dismantling racism. B22
Mission to Dismantle Racism, Diocese of Newark

ALL LOVE IS OF GOD – Curriculum Around Homosexuality and Homophobia – A curriculum developed by The Oasis that promotes a better understanding of the diversity of human sexuality and sexual expression. D20
The Oasis, Diocese of Newark

ALTAR CREATIVITY – How to Create Conceptual Altars – How to freshen your look and make the congregation think at the same time. Lent is the perfect time to start this process. C12
Ms. Carol Homer, Diocesan Altar Guild; Messiah, Chester

ANGLICAN PRAYER BEADS - Creating and Using With Prayer - An opportunity to make your own prayer beads, receive instruction on using the beads in prayer as well as a brief history. B11
Srs. Mary Lynne, Julia Ann and Barbara Catherine, Convent St. John Baptist, Mendham

APPRECIATIVE INQUIRY - A Process for Parish and Personal Renewal - The process of asking positive questions about our experiences, our values and our dreams that can enable change to take place within a system. Participants will discuss what Appreciative Inquiry is and how it can be used to create Mission Statements, Strategic Plans, Goal Setting and Parish Renewal. C14
The Rev. Michael Delaney, Church of St. Andrew, Staten Island

THE ART OF THE GRANT – Go through the grant writing process. Invaluable guidance from an experienced, successful grant writer. A16
Ms. Meredith Tilp, Executive Director of St. John’s CDC, Boonton

BE JOYFUL– Experience of the Diaspora- Come and enjoy a spirit-filled ecumenical workshop. A21
Minister Sandra Rock

BIBLIODRAMA – Encounter the Bible in a New Way - This workshop is for your own spiritual development – it is not a Bible study. A creative and dramatic way to examine your relationship to sacred story. B2
The Rev. Dr. Cathy Deats, St. James’, Hackettstown

BODY BUILDING – Strengthen Community Through Inclusive Ministries – Congregations that work to include people with disabilities and special needs have an opportunity to learn about community building skills and strategies that can strengthen the life of the congregation. A look at state of the art strategies in community building and processes for group planning, circles of support and developing community on the strength of everyone’s gifts. C21
The Rev. Bill Gaventa, The Boggs Center

BULLYING – This workshop will deal with one of the most troubling realities in the life of today’s youth. C4
Dr. Michael Greene, Director, YCS Center for the Prevention of Violence

CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW? – Public Relations That Can Increase Recognition – Learn new, easy, cost-effective techniques to increase visibility and community recognition of your church or organization. Exchange ideas with others. A18
Ms. Susan Robinson, Director of Communications/Events, Diocese of Newark

CAPITAL PLAN OR PAIN? – Taking on a Capital Campaign (Panel) – A panel will talk about their capital campaigns – where to start, questions to ask, what worked, what didn’t work and what they might have done differently. D16

CARING FOR YOUR CHURCH – This workshop will cover the in’s and out’s of the maintenance of church property and facilities as well as funding sources and strategies. D15
Mr. Larry Hayes and Ms. Mary Sunden, Ward J. Herbert Executive Committee

CHILDREN LOVE TO SING – Singing Hymns With Children – Come and learn the hymns that kids love to sing. A10
Mr. Steven Giammarino, organist and choirmaster, Christ, Pompton Plains

CHRISTIAN ARTS CAMP – Here’s a Vacation Bible School with a twist! Music, drama, dance, arts and crafts, church art and architecture and a field trip. Come find out how one parish increased their VBS attendance and drew in older elementary kids. A2
The Rev. Victoria Greer McGrath, All Saints, Millington

CHURCH FINANCE BASICS - An invaluable walk through the responsibilities of the people in charge of the finances of their church. C18
Mr. John Zinn, Chief Financial Officer, Diocese of Newark and Warden, St. Paul’s, Paterson

CHURCH VS. SOCCER – You CAN Win! – Hear how one church offers youth programming that had kids choosing church over sports. A6
Ms. Liz McFarland, St. Peter’s, Essex Fells

THE CLERGY-WARDEN PARTNERSHIP - Clergy, wardens and those who might be called to be wardens - explore some of the multitude of ways to develop the most effective ministry partnership possible. B15
Canon Carter Echols, Canon for Congregational Development, Diocese of Newark

COLOR YOUR CHURCH GREEN – Religious-Environmental Education for ALL– Receive practical, easily applied information and resources on incorporating issues of environmental spirituality, sustainability and justice into the life of your congregation. Will include energy conservation, renewable energy, water conservation, creation-centered liturgy, religious-environmental education for adults and children and an introduction to environmental justice. A19 The Rev. Fletcher Harper, President, Partners for Environmental Quality (PEQ)

COMING HOME – Coming From Another Christian Tradition (Panel) – Episcopalians from other Christian denominations share the stories of their faith journeys leading to the Episcopal Church and the traditions that make this church their home. D18
Ms. Janice Newman Teetsell, Ms. Geri Livengood, St. Andrew and Holy Communion, South Orange

COMMITMENT PROGRAMS THAT WORK – It is time for the annual financial commitment program. If this annual “begathon” is the sum total of your congregation’s “stewardship program”, you should be looking for new ideas, even some theological thoughts, to make the whole experience more productive, maybe even life-changing. D12
Ms. Terry Parsons, Stewardship Officer, Episcopal Church Center

CONSERVATION 101 – Energy Conservation for Congregations – Learn basic strategies for reducing your congregation’s energy use, energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions by 10%. Information especially useful for vestries, building and grounds, finance and outreach committees. B19
The Rev. Fletcher Harper, President, Partners for Environmental Quality (PEQ)

CURIOUS ABOUT CURSILLO?– Learn about this movement within the Church dedicated to renewal and equipping leaders for ministry in their daily lives, with a gathering of music, prayers and sharing. A20
Diocese of Newark Cursillo Community

DEACONS IN OUR MIDST - This workshop will explore the impact of reclaiming a lively, thoughtful, ordered Diaconate in the Diocese of Newark. We will review the canonical steps to ordination, as well as a model and rationale for diaconal ministry in today’s world. C17
The Rt. Rev. John Palmer Croneberger, Bishop of Newark; The Rev. Herbert Tinning, St. Stephen’s, Millburn

DE-MYSTIFYING THE PAROCHIAL REPORT - Solid advise for treasurers and clergy on completing the annual parochial reports with ease and simplification. A15
Mr. Lee Clark, President, Church Reporting Company; St. John’s, Montclair

DOING THEOLOGY – A Mini-Theological Reflection from EFM (Education for Ministry) – Test out EFM by doing one of the core components of the program – theological reflection. Learn about one of the most powerful adult Christian Formation resources in the Church. B7
Ms. Melissa Kneuer, EFM Mentor

ENGAGING GOD’S MISSION – Making Meaning Out of Meetings – A formation opportunity for those interested in “meetings as formation”. Attention will be given on attending to the other, creating safe space and maintaining an agenda while allowing for discernment. C7/D7 The Rev. Robyn Szoke, Children’s Ministries and Christian Education, National Episcopal Church

THE FIVE “W’s” OF HOSPICE – Who – What – When - Where - Why – Offers answers to basic questions about hospice as well as an awareness of the end-of-life care options that all of us will someday face for our loved ones, ourselves and/or those with whom we live, work and minister. A14
Ms. Nancy Read, Hospice Nurse/Chaplain and other Hospice Professionals

THE GIFT OF CHILDREN – The Children’s Charter and Children’s Sabbath (Panel) – How to involve your church in programs and celebrations that raise awareness of child advocacy. A1

GODLY PLAY – Come experience the wonder…a Sunday School program that teaches spiritual thinking and sparks creative responses in children through the telling of our sacred stories. B1
Ms. Shannon Haddox, St. Peter’s, Morristown and Ms. Liz McFarland, St. Peter’s, Essex Fells

GODLY PLAY AND MUSIC – The joy of the Godly Play program and experience can be multiplied with the inclusion of music. Learn songs and techniques designed to enhance the Godly Play program. C1
Ms. Mary Jane Wilkie, Music Educator, Redeemer, Morristown

HISPANIC MINISTRY – The Doorway to Evangelism – Sharing a model for multi-ethnic, cross-cultural ministry and evangelism. C15
The Rev. David Wolf ; The Rev. Edgar Gutierrez-Duarte, St. Paul’s, Paterson

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW? – An environmental ministry in your congregation that engages people of all ages in nature walks, a children’s garden, Adult education opportunities, Creation season and concrete steps to greening your church. C5
Ms. Ellen Kuhn and Ms. Judy Massey, Environmental Team of Atonement, Tenafly

HOW TO LEAD SMALL GROUPS – Small groups can work graciously and well! Clear procedures for developing trust, cooperation in work and openness to the creativity of the Spirit. B8 The Rev. Robert C. Morris, Executive Director, Interweave; Ms. Tilly-Jo Emerson, Interweave

THE INTERIM TIME – Spiritual Growth and Development – There are five developmental tasks that a congregation faces during the interim period. You will learn about these and what you can do to use the interim period productively. A13
The Rev. Cooper Conway, St. John’s, Union City

INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH MINISTRY AND PARISH NURSING – We will define health and examine its relationship to faith. We will also discuss health care and the unique ways the Church can offer health and healing to a hurting world. B14
Ms. Rebecca Sickles, Province II Representative, National Episcopal Health Ministries

IS PEACE THE CHURCH’S BUSINESS? - Find out what the newly-formed Episcopal Peace Fellowship chapter is doing and how to be involved. Experience a taste of the From Violence to Wholeness program and learn how you can participate in the Decade to Overcome Violence in your own congregation. D23
Ms. Martha Gardner, Diocesan Jubilee Officer; Johanna Young, Diocesan Network Admini./Voice Production

IS YOUR CHURCH’S GRO-LITE PLUGGED IN? – Explore various issues in congregational growth, including some you may not have thought of. We will provide you with resources to aid you in evaluating growth in parish or mission and as it relates to your community. B13
Commission on Evangelism

JESUS AND BUDDHA – Making Connections – A basic Buddhist-Christian dialogue. What does a Buddhist believe to be the strengths of Christianity? What does a Christian believe to be the strengths of Buddhism? What common values can inspire common action? C22
Ecumenical & Interreligious Commission of Our Diocese and a Buddhist representative

JUST BECAUSE OF MY AGE – How Do I Keep From Being Excluded (Panel) – A discussion to examine the multi-generational aspects of life within the congregation while exploring cultural aspects and sensitivities of being considered “old”. C13
Commission on Aging, Diocese of Newark

JUST FOR ME – Spiritual Journaling – If you think a journal is just something written between the covers of a book – think again! Let your spirit speak to you in surprising ways. Share your unique ideas with others. Remember, we are as special and different as snowflakes. C8
Ms. Joan Kirby, St. Peter’s, Mountain Lakes

KEEPING IT REAL – How Faith-Based Sexuality Dialogue Helps (Panel) – A panel of teens will talk about the importance and power of this program. D2

LAUNDRY AND DISHES – All About the Altar Guild – Everything you need to know about the Altar Guild including recruitment, tools, organization and tried and true helpful hints. A11 Sr. Suzanne Elizabeth, Convent of St. John Baptist, Mendham

LET’S DO IT TOGETHER – Community Service With and For Youth – Focus on why it is good to get youth involved; how to get youth involved; how to get local agencies involved; how to get adult help and supervision, evaluation and reflection. C2
The Rev. Margaret Otterburn, Grace, Newark

LITURGICAL DANCE – Move to the music of the scripture. A9
Ms. Marge Burke

LITURGY AS CHRISTIAN FORMATION - How can we “teach” within the context of the canons. We will explore numerous creative ideas for helping people become aware of our heritage using the vernacular of present-day spiritual thinking. D5
The Rev. Janet Kraft, Grace Van Vorst, Jersey City

LIVING INTO IT – Celebration and Engagement – The Next Steps – Going beyond “having a crush on diversity” to live out the ten intentions in your congregational life. D19
The Rev. Prince Singh, St. Alban’s, Oakland

LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF…But Who Is Your Neighbor? - We will address issues of inclusion and accessibility for all who come to worship. Everyone possesses special gifts and the Church is the venue to use these gifts. Come to meet your neighbor and explore the spiritual basis for an inclusive ministry. D21
The Bethsaida Team, Diocese of Newark

MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE – Music for the Soul - Join us as we lead you in singing the songs for and of your soul. Experience new music and ways of crafting more creative liturgies. D11 The Rev. Michael Delaney, Church of St. Andrew, Staten Island; The Rev. Dana Rose, Trinity Church, Irvington

MASLOW MEETS JESUS – Designing Stewardship Strategies – Abraham Maslow’s “hierarchy of need” doesn’t hold all the answers but it is an illuminating place to start. Understanding the characteristic church behaviors we all exhibit as we move through life’s different phases can make designing stewardship strategies and programs not only more productive but fun. B20
Ms. Terry Parsons, Stewardship Officer, Episcopal Church Center

THE NUTS AND BOLTS OF CHURCH GROWTH – We will discuss the various stages of church growth with practical, real world ideas about what can be done in your parish or mission. You will come away with resources available from the Diocese of Newark and the national church. D13
Commission on Evangelism

ON BEING AND WELCOMING THE STRANGER - A Meditation – Growing out of an amazing experience of being welcomed as a traveler at a temple in Thailand, Diana will reflect on that experience and upon her welcome in various Episcopal churches. Participants will have an opportunity to share their experiences of being welcomed and of how to be more welcoming in our own congregations. “For often, often, often goes the Christ in a stranger’s guise”. B9 or C9
The Rev. Dr. Diana Beach, priest, Jungian psychotherapist

OUR STORIES, GOD’S STORY – Sharing Our Faith Stories (Panel)– Hear ideas for lifelong Christian Formation. C6
Diocesan “Will Our Faith Have Children” Conference Team

OUT OF THE BOX – Old and New Ways of Approaching Lay Ministry – Ministry opportunities abound in workplaces, homes, congregations and neighborhoods. Conversation and tools for the discernment, claiming and support of lay ministries. B17
Ms. Mary Barrett, Commission on Ministry, Diocese of Newark

PARISH CLEAN-UP DAYS - The How and the Why - A fun, how-to session on parish clean-up. B12
The Rev. Randall Day, St. Mark’s, Teaneck

THE PLUMB LINE - With Christ at the center of our faith, there is no need or time for guilt or put-down, but only engaging our call as we keep our eyes on him to do justice. C19
The Rev. Dana Rose, Trinity, Irvington

REACHING TOWARD WHOLENESS II—Report on Status of Women - A discussion focusing on the work of the Committee on the Status of Women around the extent of women’s participation in the leadership of the Episcopal Church; values and perceptions of national and diocesan leaders concerning women’s participation in the Church and other mission and ministry priorities. C23
Ms. Marge Burke, Project Chair; Ms. Marge Christie, Women’s Commission, Diocese of Newark

RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES - Exploration of Religious Orders (Panel) -There are more than twenty Anglican religious communities which have different ways to be associated with them. Although you may not live within the community, you make a commitment to follow a rule of life. Panel to include the Order of Jonathan Daniel, the Order of St. Helena and the Convent St. John Baptist. A17

REPARATIONS – An Ongoing Conversation – An interactive discussion around institutional and individual racism as rooted in the system of slavery and our efforts to meet our commitment to become a transformed, anti-racist diocese, church and society. D22
Mission to Dismantle Racism, Diocese of Newark

REPLACING GUILT MOTIVATION WITH GRACE MOTIVATION – Do you go to church because you feel guilty if you don’t? Are you thoroughly convinced that you will go to hell if you don’t volunteer to chair the church bazaar committee? You may be suffering from Guilt Motivation. Come and help develop a theological reflection process designed to engender Grace Motivation. D8
The Rev. Anne Wrede, interim rector and EFM mentor

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. – Continuing Formation for Adults Working With Youth - This workshop will focus on how adults who work with youth can create a spiritual and psychological space in which adolescents can grow. A4/B4
The Rev. Tim Barrett, Grace Counseling Center

ROOTED IN BAPTISM, CALLED TO MINISTRY – By Whose Authority? – A LARC (Lutheran, Anglican, Roman Catholic) workshop on perspectives on ministry and authority. Informed by current events: What connects us? What keeps us apart? A23
The Rev. Lynne Bleich Weber, Ecumenical Officer, Atonement, Tenafly; ecumenical representatives from the ELCA and Archdiocese of Newark

SAY YES TO “VBS”- Running a Successful Vacation Bible School – Learn and share ideas for starting or reviving a vacation bible school Topics include choosing a theme, teacher resources, budgeting, community outreach, special events, recruiting and post VBS follow up. D1 Ms. Kathleen Estes, Christ, Short Hills; Ms. Betsy LaVela, Calvary, Summit

THE SEARCH PROCESS - Making Sure It Is Diverse – Work with the tools available for congregations as they write a profile and begin their search process. Vestries and Search committees will find useful exercises to aid in the search process for new clergy leadership. B21 Ms. Janet Brocklesby; The Rev. Kevin Coffey, Women’s Commission, Diocese of Newark

SIGN LANGUAGE AND SONG – Learn to Sign Songs – Learn to sign songs for Christian Education and worship. From “Jesus Loves Me” to “The Doxology”. Especially for Sunday School teachers and worship leaders. A5
The Rev. Dr. Cathy Deats, St. James’, Hackettstown

SO, YOU WANT TO BE A STORYTELLER – Biblical Storytelling - A hands-on Biblical storytelling session. Explore various storytelling methods with scripts for everyone from beginner to expert. Useful tips for congregations from 50-500. Bring any materials you wish to share or problems you wish to solve. D5
Ms. Sarah Moden-Alliston, Lay Associate for Christian Formation, St. Timothy’s, Fairfield, CT

SPIRITUAL HEALING FROM DIFFERENT TRADITIONS (Panel) – A panel discussion exploring some of the ways healing happens in different communities of faith. A22

SPIRITUAL PLAYGROUNDS - Explore Different Ways of Praying With Children - Unique ways to introduce children to contemplative prayer through the use of various aids such as Orthodox Prayer Ropes, Signing, Finger Labyrinths, Taizé Chants, Icons, Anglican Prayer Beads. A3/B3
Ms. Jane Cates, St. George’s Maplewood

SUPERCHARGE YOUR PARISH NEWSLETTER – Create dynamic parish publication in print and in e-newsletters by improving the layout, graphics and content of your parish newsletter. Learn how to create a simple e-newsletter. B18
Ms. Donna Frischknecht, VOICE Editor; Ms. Susan Robinson, Director of Communications/Events, Diocese of Newark

TAIZÉ CHANT – Simple Meditative Music – The hallmark of a Taize service is simplicity. It permeates the setting, the music, the Bible readings and the silence. Come, learn by doing. C11 Mr. Doug and Ms. Pat McKenzie, Interweave and Saviour, Denville; The Rev. Kevin and Ms. Kathy Coffey, Atonement, Fair Lawn

TEACH PEACE – An After-School Program for Kids - Designed around the themes of peace and non-violence. Using music, crafts, non-competitive games, stories, conflict resolution and talking about feelings, children can develop self-esteem, self-control and the desire to make peace without surrendering their selves. D3
The Rev. Fain Webb, Good Shepherd, Wantage

THEY ARE LISTENING – Preaching to the Young People in Your Church – Get some ideas for effective children’s sermons. B6
Ms. Betsy LaVela, Christian Education Coordinator, Calvary, Summit

THE “T” IN LGBT – Is Your Church Welcoming Transgender People? – These days we are frequently hearing phrases like “LGBT” or “lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender”. The transgender part may be new to many of us. Clergy and laity will talk about transgender issues and inclusion. C20
Ms. Donna Cartwright, Oasis Board, The Rev. Dr. Allison Moore, Good Shepherd, Fort Lee

TOOLS FOR TRANSITION – How to Improve Your Job Search – An overview of job search techniques and how to avoid common mistakes as well as tips for forming a support group in your own parish. Bring your resume for suggestions and/or questions. D10
Mr. Bill Nikel, St. John’s, Montclair and co-founder of Job-Seekers of Montclair

12-STEP SPIRITUALITY FOR ALL – The 12-step program is not limited just to alcoholics, gamblers and overeaters anonymous (AA, GS, OA). It is a helpful spiritual guide for any Christian. This program can be done for twelve consecutive weeks or compressed by discussing several steps in each session. C10
Mr. Scott Bennett, Saviour, Denville; The Rev. Fain Webb, Good Shepherd, Wantage

UNDERSTANDING CLERGY COMPENSATION - For treasurers, wardens and clergy who have questions about how to handle and understand clergy compensation accurately and fairly. A12
Canon Paul Hunt, Canon to the Ordinary, Diocese of Newark; Ms. Carlotta Budd, Trustee and Clergy Compensation Chair, Diocese of Newark

VALUING OUR HISTORY – How to Collect & Preserve Records – Learn how to collect your congregation’s data and history and preserve it for posterity. D14
Mr. Charles Cummings, Assistant Director, Newark Public Library and Grace, Newark

VOICES FOUND – Women in the Church’s Song – Dip into this newly published collection of psalms, hymns and spiritual songs celebrating the gifts and diversity of women. B10 Ms. Lisa Neufeld Thomas, editor and President of Women’s Sacred Music Project

WE ARE ALL THEOLOGIANS – Discerning Your Theology – Identifying language, images and stories that communicate your understanding of God and God’s stories. D17
Canon Carter Echols, Canon for Congregational Development, Diocese of Newark

WELCOMING THE SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD INTO SUNDAY SCHOOL – Having individuals with special needs can be both challenging and rewarding. This workshop is about inviting, welcoming and lifting up the gifts of those individuals. We will talk about specific challenges and possible solutions. Take the difficult situations and make them manageable. C3
Ms. Sarah Moden-Alliston, Lay Associate for Christian Formation, St. Timothy’s, Fairfield, CT

WHAT CAN BE DONE IN PRISON MINISTRY ?- An overview of the kinds of ministries that can be done in your congregation. Will include writing prisoners, mentoring children, teaching Bible Study and advocating for justice as well as a short training on prison lingo, aliases and do’s and don’ts. You will also hear from an ex-offender. D6
Prison Ministry Committee, Diocese of Newark

WHAT IS CDI? – Church Development Institute – Learn about a congregational development training program for lay leaders and clergy designed to make their parishes stronger, healthier, more deeply rooted in our Episcopal tradition and more effective in their communities. D9
The Rev. Dr. Bevan Stanley, Christ, Short Hills

WHAT YOUR CONGREGATION NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT THE LAW—Update your knowledge around what your congregation needs to know about the law and how to perform a legal audit of your congregation. C16

WHERE’S THE MONEY? – Sources of Grant Money (Panel) – Enhance your chances of receiving project funding with a discussion from funders on where to go, resources available and what they look for. B16

WORKING FOR JUSTICE – What’s Out There? – Want to get involved in an area of justice but don’t know where to begin? Discover resources, curriculum and organizations that help individuals and congregations get involved in areas of environment, peace, economic justice and more! B23
Ms. Martha Gardner, Diocesan Jubilee Officer

WRESTLING WITH GRACE - Spirituality for the Rough Edges - Can daily frustrations be the doorway to grace? Learn the power of cultivating the habit of “blessing not cursing” to deal with difficulties and difficult emotions. A8
The Rev. Robert C. Morris, Executive Director, Interweave

YIKES…THIS IS ONE BIG BOOK – Getting Started With J2A – The Journey to Adulthood is a complete youth ministry program of spiritual formation for 11-18 year olds. Come learn and talk about the program and how to get started. B5
Ms. Martha Wolf, Christian Educator, St. Paul’s, Paterson

YOUTH IN CRISIS – Suicide and Pastoral Care – This workshop will discuss current statistics on suicide among youth, common warning signs and ways in which you can address issues of youth suicide within the context of your congregation. A7
The Rev. Virginia Samuel, Associate Dean, Drew Theological School, United Methodist Minister