It has been several weeks since we have written to you. Here is an update of some of the activities that have been happening in the diocese since our electing convention.

Our Youth Coordinator, Desi Brown, has had to resign because of changes in her personal life. She had been serving in an interim capacity, but cannot continue in this role due to a new job and increased family responsibilities. We are grateful for her ministry to the youth of this diocese and we will miss her. The Sierra Service Project just completed another successful year working in Los Angeles in July. Happenings and New Beginnings are on hold for 2008 until we decide how to move forward. Thanks go to all of you who have contributed your time, talent, and treasure to make these programs a success.

For the past 2 ½ years we have been struggling to find the best way to handle the diocesan youth activities. We have asked the question if this is better done on a regional basis (by deanery), diocesan wide, or by individual parishes. We do know that a successful diocesan program will require someone in a full-time position. That is not in the budget for this year. We also know, however, that it is a topic that needs to be discussed with Mary and is not something we can decide quickly. As we move toward a plan for the future we would like your ideas on how you think it best to handle the situation. Your thoughts will be helpful as we consider the next steps.

The Conference Education Resource Team (CERT) sponsored a Faith Formation Event in Salinas at the Church of the Good Shepherd on August 4. Those attending will be receiving licenses for Eucharistic Ministry, Eucharistic Visitor training, and credit for Safeguarding Children training. An Introduction to Stephen Ministry was also offered. The next Faith Formation event will be held in the SLO deanery in October. We plan to hold these events at least 3 times a year in various parts of the diocese. Different programs will be offered. We hope to pilot a new program in October called Praying in Color. More on the October day will be forthcoming.

During July the Small Congregations Task Force offered a week long program presented by Suzanne Watson of the National Church and Keith Brown of the Church Pension Group. Three sessions were held in three different locations of the diocese: St. James’, Paso Robles, St. Phillip’s, San Jose, and Epiphany, Marina. All were well attended and all participants appreciated the opportunity to get together, hear the presenters and begin to think about how the information could be used at their churches. The Task Force will be meeting to analyze the week and to determine next steps. This opportunity offered by the National Church was well received by everyone who attended. Feedback for the week was excellent. Attendees were eager to take back information to their own parishes and to begin looking at how it can be used.

The Transition Committee is hard at work preparing for the arrival of Bishop-elect Mary and her family, and planning the Ordination Service on November 10 at St. Andrews, Saratoga. More information will be forthcoming with specifics about the ticket process and ways in which you can participate. The request for consents for approval of her election were sent over two weeks ago and we are waiting to hear from the other dioceses as well as the House of Bishops. As of today we have heard from 4 dioceses. It takes 56 votes in both orders for her to be officially elected the third Bishop of El Camino Real.

By now you will have received the official word from Bishop Romero on his call to the Diocese of New Jersey. While we are sad to have him go, we are very excited about what he will be doing. He is excited about his future, but is also sad because he is leaving us. You will have a chance to express your hopes and good wishes for him at one of the three parties in his honor: Aug. 17, 7 PM, St. Paul’s, Salinas; Aug. 19 St. Stephen’s, 12:30 PM, San Luis Obispo; Sept. 8, 4 PM, St. Timothy’s, Mountain View.

Again, our thanks for all you are doing and have done for this diocese. We are looking forward to seeing you at our Annual Convention on October 26-27 in Salinas when we will officially greet Mary and welcome her to El Camino Real. We will also welcome St. Stephen’s in the Fields as the newest Parish in the diocese. This will be an important time for all of us.

Your Standing Committee and Bishop-elect