Becoming the Church of the Future: Bishop Hughes' Annual Address

Bishop Carlye J. Hughes released a written address detailing a collaborative vision for the Diocese of Newark ahead of the 152nd Convention.

The address, which the Diocese of Newark published for parishes to read in advance of the gathering, moves away from the traditional annual spoken address in favor of a distributed written format. The document outlines a strategic shift from individual, siloed parishes toward a unified, regional model of ministry.

“Perhaps it is a blessing to focus instead on the transformation already unfolding among us,” Bishop Hughes said.

The Bishop’s message centers on a transition from a collection of independent churches to a “collaborative community” that includes clergy, laity, parishes, a camp, and a convent. This shift aims to ensure that no part of the church is left behind, regardless of whether a specific congregation is currently strong or fragile.

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Regional networks replace geographic districts

A central pillar of this evolving structure is the continued utilization of eight Regional Ministry Networks. These networks were established six years ago to replace the 10 Regional Districts that previously organized the diocese by geography.

The networks serve two specific functions: fostering supportive relationships between parishes and preventing clergy isolation. While some networks have developed annual fellowship and shared outreach traditions, others have struggled to establish a meaningful presence.

The Diocese of Newark reported that the goal of supporting these struggling regions is not merely to facilitate meetings, but to encourage “global” thinking. This approach encourages clergy and laity to consider the needs of an entire region rather than focusing solely on the interests of a single parish.

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Lay leaders undergo professional training through School for Ministry

The Diocese is also leaning heavily into the professionalization of lay leadership through the School for Ministry. This initiative changes traditional models where ordained clergy addressed almost all spiritual needs.

The program has entered its third year, with the second class of trained lay leaders graduating this past summer. These individuals are trained to serve as worship leaders, preachers, and lay pastoral leaders, providing essential support to parishes both with and without resident clergy.

This expansion of leadership coincides with a growing demand for structured religious education. The Bishop said that new members arriving in parishes during the 2025–2026 program year have arrived with a “strong desire for in-depth and high-quality teaching” regarding theology, church history, and the Book of Common Prayer.

Immigration crisis impacts church participation and finances

The address also addressed how the immigration crisis affects diocesan ministries. The Bishop said that fear of detention has had a direct, tangible effect on church participation and financial stability.

The Diocese of Newark reported that the fear of detention, affecting both documented and undocumented individuals, has prevented many from attending services and caused an immediate reduction in operational income for certain ministries. This instability occurred even as the demand for support from immigrant communities increased.

In response, the diocese has utilized donations to fund life-saving ministries, specifically those tending to families left behind following the deportation of one or both parents. The Bishop emphasized that while perspectives on immigration policy may vary among members, the diocese remains united by baptismal promises to respect the dignity of every human being.

“Our ability to talk about our faith is a help to those who are looking for the hope that God brings,” Bishop Hughes said.

This emphasis on communication extends to a specific initiative where 73 parishes have practiced “talking about faith” during coffee hours. The Bishop said that this is a distinct skill from simply inviting someone to a church service, noting that many Episcopalians have been culturally conditioned to keep their personal piety private.

The vision for the diocese concludes with the stated goal of creating a “world transformed, where all creation knows God’s life-changing love.”

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