Bishop Search Committee Announces Listening Sessions Schedule

To the Diocese of Alabama:

I am humbled, alongside Cornelia Heflin, to serve as co-chair of the Search Committee for the 13th Bishop of Alabama. Last weekend, we gathered at Camp McDowell with the Transition and Standing Committees to begin this sacred journey.

As part of our discernment process, the Search Committee will host twelve Listening Sessions across the diocese. These gatherings are opportunities for every member of our diocesan community to share their voices and be heard. Participants will be invited to respond to a series of thoughtful questions—reflecting on their experiences within the diocese, their hopes for its future, and the qualities they believe are essential in our next bishop. The Search Committee will prayerfully reflect on all responses, seeking to identify shared hopes, recognize common challenges, and discern the gifts and leadership qualities we believe God is calling forth in our next bishop.

Your participation is vital to this holy work. Through open and honest listening, we will shape the future of our diocese together. Please help us promote the Listening Sessions in your churches by sharing this information on your websites, in your Sunday bulletins, and in any other church communications.

We also ask that you join us in prayer by adding the following to your prayers of the people:

Almighty God, giver of every good gift: Look graciously on your Church, and so guide the minds of those who shall choose a Bishop for this Diocese that we may receive a faithful pastor who will preach the Gospel, care for your people, equip us for ministry, and lead us forth in fulfillment of the Great Commission; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For more information on the process, go to the Bishop Search link on www.dioala.org or email ALBishopSearch@gmail.com

Peace,

Todd Hollifield

Search Committee Chair

All Saints, Birmingham