In addition to the canonical responsibilities of Diocesan Council, the Episcopal West Texas offers a fun assortment of ministry meals, worship opportunities, and other programs for anyone who attends this annual gathering.
Announcing Council Workshops! The Rt. Rev. David Reed and diocesan staff have organized two workshop sessions on Friday afternoon, to share resources and develop skills for leading our congregations and for Christian faith formation.
Click here for more information and to view the Workshop 2020 Catalog. Individual workshop registration is a required part of online registration for Council 2020.
Thursday | February 20, 2020
Commission for Women’s Ministry Luncheon
Rotunda, American Bank Center Second Level
Gather with women from across the diocese for a fellowship luncheon at 11:30 a.m., prior to the start of Council 2020. Tickets cost $25.
Council Worship
Selena Auditorium, American Bank Center Ground Level
After Council Business concludes Thursday evening, all in attendance will gather for Holy Eucharist, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Selena Auditorium. Clergy are invited to vest and process, with green stoles.
Small Church, Big Mission Dinner
Railroad Seafood Station Brewing Company
Delegates and clergy from smaller congregations are invited to register for and attend the “Small Church, Big Mission Dinner,” beginning after Council Worship at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $30.
Friday | February 21, 2020
Christian Formation Workshop
The Christian Formation Department will not host a meal during Council and instead invites all volunteer, staff, and clergy serving as Christian Formation leaders in their congregations to attend the Christian Formation workshops, Friday afternoon.
Worship – Morning Prayer
Rotunda, American Bank Center Second Level
A service of Morning Prayer will be hosted at 8:00 a.m., Friday.
Bishop’s Luncheon
Featuring Dr. Scott Bader-Saye, Seminary of the Southwest Academic Dean and Christian Ethics Professor.
All Council attendees are invited to register for the Bishop’s Luncheon, at 12:00 p.m. in the Omni Hotel.
Clergy Spouse Gathering
The Omni Hotel
Clergy spouses will gather for a meal and fellowship at 12:00 p.m. on Friday.
Workshops
American Bank Center, locations to be announced
Friday afternoon, Bishop Reed invites all Council participants to select and attend two workshops to learn about skills, ideas, and resources for ministry. Click here to view the Workshops 2020 Catalog.
Council Banquet
Henry Garrett Ballroom,
American Bank Center 2nd Level
Friday business concludes with a fellowship banquet, celebrating the rich blessings of shared ministry and friendship within our diocesan community. A Reception will begin at 6:00 p.m., and the Banquet will start at 6:45 p.m.
Experiences | February 20 -22, 2020
“The Enlightened heART: A Showing of Artwork by the Clergy Family”
American Bank Center Foyer
Enjoy a gallery of original artwork created by the clergy family, on display throughout Council in the American Bank Center Foyer; arranged by Mrs. Patti Reed and the Rev. Kelly Conkling. Let us honor and empower the spirit of creativity within our diocese and nurture creativity within ourselves, even when we do not see ourselves as “artistic.”
Council Cafe & Coffee House
Exhibit Hall A
Local musicians and poets will share their gifts with us throughout Council, in the Hospitality area of the Exhibits Hall. All Council attendees are invited to bring your musical instrument, original poetry, or an interesting excerpt or poem to read. A sign-up sheet will be available in the Coffee House Area; pick a time to share in the fun.
The Traveling Labyrinth
Outside the American Bank Center Foyer
All Saints’, Corpus Christi will set up its traveling labyrinth outside the Foyer for prayer and meditative movement throughout Council. Attendants will be available to provide a brief introduction to this meditative and moving experience for anyone who has not previously experienced a labyrinth.
Collaborative Art Project
(Thursday & Friday only)
Everyone is invited to contribute to a fun, collaborative project to capture the creative heart of our diocese. Day Wheeler, member of Trinity by the Sea, Port Aransas, is a professional artist and art educator who will facilitate the project outside the primary Council Business Hall. It will be simple so everyone can join in; all you need is your hands.
Council Prayer Chapel
Rotunda, American Bank Center Second Level
Sponsored by the Daughters of the King chapters from throughout the Diocese.
Acts 3:16 Healing Room
Harborview Room, 225B, American Bank Center
Hosted by the Rev. Chuck Sharrow, Vicar of St. Paul’s, Brownsville and others from across the diocese.
