Meet the Nominees for the 14th Bishop of Maryland
Walk-Abouts
The Nominees for the 14th Bishop of Maryland will be presented to the people of the Diocese of Maryland at a series of local gatherings. Four sites have been selected for meet-and-greet sessions commonly known as Walk-Abouts.
Dates and Locations
March 4, 2008
6:00 PM -- Arrival and registration
6:30 - 9:30PM -- Presentations
All Saints', Frederick
March 5, 2008
6:00 PM -- Arrival and registration
6:30 - 9:30PM -- Presentations
Emmanuel, Cumberland
March 7, 2008
6:00 PM -- Arrival and registration
6:30 - 9:30PM -- Presentations
St. James', Lothian
March 8, 2008
10:00 AM -- Session One Arrival and Registration
10:30 AM - 1:30 PM -- Session One Presentations
2:30 PM -- Session Two Arrival and Registration
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM -- Session Two Presentations
Trinity, Towson
Presentation Format
The Transition Committee is delighted to report that we had over 200 people attend the first Walk-about in Frederick. The people of All Saints’ were incredibly hospitable, and the nominees and their spouses enjoyed a delicious meal before gathering in the church to pray and introduce themselves. The mood was energizing and uplifting as we all continue to discern the vision God has for the Diocese of Maryland.
Due to the huge attendance and feedback from many in the diocese, the Transition Committee has made a few changes in the format. At each walk-about, attendees will register and be assigned a meeting room. Then attendees will gather in the church for an opening prayer and to hear each nominee’s introduction. We will then disperse to six separate rooms where they will remain for the evening. The nominees and their spouses will rotate among the rooms for about 20 minutes of questions and answers.
The Transition Committee is grateful for fifteen people who submitted questions by email. However, we want those attending the walk-abouts to have as much time as possible to ask questions. The time-keeper will use those questions that were submitted to fill in the extra time. Please feel free to ask your question of the nominees as you are able in the time allotted.
We look forward to seeing you at one of the upcoming walk-abouts.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Walk-Abouts
What is a Walk-About?
A Walk-About is a public event designed to give the nominees the opportunity to speak directly with the clergy and lay people of the Diocese of Maryland. The nominees will respond to questions from the participating audience in a moderated format. These sessions are not debates, nor are they a time for a political campaign. Those in attendance should participate with prayerful discernment and open their hearts and minds to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
What role do the Presentations play in the election of our next bishop?
The Presentations provide the opportunity for all the people of the diocese to participate with the nominees in discerning what God has in store for us. The Presentations are the final stage of discernment before the election.
Who can attend a Presentation?
Electors and alternates are particularly encouraged to attend a Presentation, and all Diocese of Maryland parishioners and clergy are welcome.
Which Presentation should I attend?
You can attend any Presentation that you find convenient - no matter where you live or attend church. Every Presentation will follow the same format. Feel free to compare your experience of each nominee with others who attend the Presentations.
What should I do to prepare for a Presentation?
- Read about each nominee. Their essays in particular say a lot about how they feel called to lead this Diocese.
- Read the diocesan profile.
- Pray for guidance.
- Come with an open heart and an open mind. What you learn may surprise you when you are open to it.
Can’t I just read the information and make up my mind?
Meeting nominees in person is a unique, important step in your discernment and theirs. The more you learn about each nominee, the better you are able to discern the person that will be the 14th bishop of Maryland.
Can’t I just attend the Presentations without reading the nominees’ essays?
Yes, but reading ahead of time may make it easier to ask effective questions. Nominee materials include nominee statements, resumes and answers to interview questions.
What should I do after the Presentation?
- Try to maintain an open heart and an open mind.
- Hold a forum or roundtable for your congregation before the electing convention on March 29, 2008.
- Share your discernment afterwards with others.
Will there be parking?
Parking varies at each site. Most sites do have designated parking areas or street parking. Carpooling is highly recommended for all locations.
What else will nominees do during the week?
Nominees will spend much of the week learning about the diocese, sometimes in formal sessions and sometimes less formally. They may visit some of the many ministries of the diocese. Nominees from outside Maryland and their families will be trying to learn what life would be like for them here.
