Format for Parish Visitation
Bishop Beckwith's primary role in parish visitations is to support the ministry of the congregation, to hear the congregation’s story, to be the leader in worship – and, as bishop, to share his insights and vision for the diocese and larger Church. He discovers that these visits provide all sorts of opportunity for mutual learning and inspiration, and is humbled by the faith, passion, and commitment found among clergy and laypeople.
To provide the best opportunity for mutual learning, and, in consultation with the District Conveners, Bishop Beckwith asks the following:
- The program or report for the most recent annual meeting be sent to my office at least two weeks before my visit – so I can read a perspective on the parish “story”.
- That the Rector/Interim Rector/Sunday supply priest or Priest in Charge schedule a half-hour phone conversation with me the week before the visit – so I can hear the cleric’s story of the congregation and her/his relationship to it. We also will talk through the agenda of the visit – which will include various details of the liturgy, meeting with the leadership – and any special intentions that cleric wants me to include – or not include, in my sermon or forum.
- That a bishop’s forum be scheduled before the service, at which I will make a presentation on the life of the larger Church (or a topic that the clergy or lay leadership consider to be timely). I would like to have at least 45 minutes for this forum, but it will depend on the morning schedule of the parish. At present, I do not think I can offer a forum for afternoon visitations.
- During the liturgy, I would like to have five minutes to offer a homily for the children. This can happen at the beginning of the service, before the regular sermon – or at the exchange of the Peace.
- Following the service and coffee hour/reception/meal, I would like to meet with the Vestry/Executive Committee/parish leadership for at least an hour. I have some general questions to ask the leadership – What do they want to celebrate? What are the challenges? What is God calling you to do next? And what do people want to tell or ask me?
- If there is time after the Vestry meeting, I would like to meet with the Rector and spouse/partner for 45 minutes.
- I want for the visit to serve as an opportunity for building a relationship – but more importantly, to be an opportunity to reflect on issues of parish development.
(posted July 2007)
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