Diocesan staff announcements

Over the last few months Bishop Waldo, along with members of Diocesan Executive Council, have studied the current structure of Diocesan Staff and together identified two positions that will strengthen our common goal of Making, Equipping, and Sending Mature Disciples of Christ. Identifying the need to increase the ability to resource congregations and diocesan leaders in the areas of evangelism and mission, while also increasing diocesan communication efforts, Bishop Waldo is pleased to announce two new additions to the staff.

Canon for Evangelism and Mission

A graduate of Virginia Theological Seminary, Alan Bentrup currently serves as Associate Rector of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Cypress, Texas (Diocese of Texas). Prior to seminary, he spent more than 10 years as a marketing, public relations, and crisis communications consultant for business and individuals across the country. In addition to his parish work, Alan is co-founder and curator of Missional Voices, an organization focused on developing and sharing stories of missional communities, innovative ministries, and evangelism throughout The Episcopal Church. Alan has taught and presented on evangelism and missional theology across the Episcopal Church, and he writes a bi-weekly column on those topics for the Episcopal Church Foundation’s Vital Practices blog. Alan and his wife Elizabeth have two young sons, Ford (10) and Walker (8

The primary focus of Alan’s position will be to provide canon leadership in developing and resourcing opportunities “to proclaim by word and example the good news of God in Christ Jesus” (Evangelism), “to seek and serve Christ in all persons,” and “to strive for justice and peace” (Mission) within and outside the diocese. Also serving as the bishop’s primary communication officer, Alan will provide and maintain oversight (messaging, timing, quality) of diocesan communications as a tool for evangelism, telling and celebrating the story of Diocesan participation in God’s mission (digital, social media and print). Beginning August 1 you can contact Alan at [email protected].

Director of Communications

After serving 4 months as Interim Director of Communications, we would like to officially welcome Courtney Thompson as our Communications Director. Courtney is a Winthrop University alumna. Her passions for innovation and storytelling led her to pursue a degree in Integrated Marketing Communication. Her previous experience at nonprofit organizations such as YMCA and Boys and Girls Club have contributed to her intrinsic obligation to contribute to the greater good.

The Director of Communications primary responsibility is to serve as editor of all diocesan publications (EDUSC, Crosswalk and Clergy News). Additionally Courtney will highlight many of our diocesan ministry initiatives through various social media outlets. Courtney is grateful for the opportunity to work among such a compassionate Episcopalian community! Please do not hesitate to give her a call or drop by her office just to say hello! You can contact Courtney [email protected].