This is both an exciting and a challenging time for the Episcopal Diocese of Western New York.  Exciting because of the possibilities that come with a change in leadership, challenging as we try to discern what God would have us do for His church at this time, in this place.

We believe that Western New York is the center of the universe.  Located within a day's drive of six large urban areas, it is amazing how often there is a Western New York connection to national and international events.  Our industries helped put a man on the moon forty years ago; Franklin Roosevelt delivered his "I hate war" speech from the amphitheater at Chautauqua Institution; the mighty Niagara generates power for much of the Northeast.

Western New York is one of the most beautiful parts of God's creation.  Our four seasons offer an unparalleled experience of change and awe (though some would say that we have two seasons only: winter and construction).  From the glorious sunsets over Lake Erie in summer, to the crunch of newly fallen snow in winter, to the smell of Concord grapes ripening on the vine in fall, to the breathtaking sight of flowering trees in spring, our natural surroundings convey God's love and care for us.  This is a good place in which to raise a family or to be "empty-nesters."

The Episcopal Church has a greater presence in the Western New York community than our numbers might show.  Every parish is involved in outreach activities that reach deep into the fabric of life.  We are deeply committed to bringing the healing power of Jesus Christ to our fellows whether they are in our parish, our town, our Diocese, our nation or our world by serving them a hot meal or clothing them or just listening to their cares and woe.  We look after one another and often are the first to arrive when disaster strikes.  We seek a Bishop who will be a leader not only of us but of all the people of Western New York, whatever their faiths, and who will be courageous and steadfast when expressing an opinion even in the face of opposition.

We yearn for a Bishop who will help us realize that not only is the glass full, it is over-flowing.  We hunger for a Bishop whose vision is grounded both in the need for realism and in the hope of possibility.  We don't expect you to have all the answers; we're not even sure we know all the questions, but we promise that whoever is our next bishop, we will work beside you to bring about the Kingdom of God here in this small corner of the world.  We want a bishop who can see our challenges as opportunities.

We're looking for a leader who can make a difference.  Do you have the vision, the passion, and energy to lead when and where it truly counts?  Can you guide the Church in responding to the needs of our diverse communities?  Do you have a demonstrated record of working with ordained and lay persons to be faithful to our Baptismal Covenant?  Do you have the skills to think creatively to pilot us in developing new parish models?  Do you like to have fun?  Can you laugh at yourself?  Will you laugh with us?

This profile is a snapshot of who we are, what we would like to become, and whom we need to lead us as our next Bishop.    All of us on the Bishop Search Committee believe that it is the Holy Spirit indeed that is the driving force behind our task.  My prayer is that you will read this profile carefully and listen for the voice of the Holy Spirit telling you whether or not this is the next place for your ministry.

Catherine Way, Chair
Bishop Search Committee

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Letter from the Search Committee Welcome to Western New York WNY History WNY Today Welcome to the Diocese of WNY History of the Diocese Parish Profiles By the Numbers Mission and Ministry Strengths and Challenges Looking Ahead Profile of a Bishop