There are many examples of the call to serve others throughout the New Testament. In Ephesians 2:10, Paul writes “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Or as in 1 Peter 4:10, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (NIV) There is no doubt, as Christians, we are called to serve.
The Diocese of Pittsburgh needs the prayerful wisdom and service of a great variety of people, both lay and ordained, to further the mission of the Episcopal Church here in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Would you please consider serving on a Diocesan Board, Committee, or Commission to make a positive impact on the work God has given us to do together?
What qualifications do I need to serve? A passion to work with others for the mission of the Church spreading the Gospel throughout our corner of God’s Kingdom.
What are the time requirements? Time to read, reflect and prepare for the meetings varies. Remote participation is possible for most of the meetings. Most meetings average less than 90 minutes per month. Terms range from 1 to 4 years depending on the position.
Do I need to be nominated by my clergy or warden? No. However some lay positions do require the signature of your clergy or senior warden.
What positions are available? Positions that will be elected during the Diocesan Convention include the following:
- 1 Lay Person and 1 Clergy Person on the Standing Committee for a 4 year term. The Standing Committee serves as a council of advice to the Bishop. Please note that Standing Committee members also serve on the Diocesan Council (brief description below).
- 1 Lay Person for the Board of Trustees for a 3 year term. The Board of Trustees is responsible for all the financial and property resources of the Diocese.
- 1 Lay Person and 1 Clergy Person for the Committee on Constitution and Canons for a 3 year term. This committee examines diocesan governing document and makes appropriate recommendations for changes as needed.
- 1 Lay Person and 1 Clergy Person for the Cathedral Chapter for a 3 year term. The Chapter oversees the mission of the Diocesan Cathedral.
- 1 Person, either Lay or Clergy, for the Commission on Ministry for a 3 year term. COM assists the Bishop in the selection, guidance, care and examination of persons for Holy Orders.
- 1 Clergy Person for the Regional Disciplinary Board for a 3 year term. This board adjudicates disciplinary charges against clergy within the 6 participating dioceses.
Positions elected by the Districts at the District convocations include the following:
- District 1 – 1 Lay Person for the Board of Trustees for a 3 year term.
- District 2 – 1 Lay Person for Diocesan Council for a 4 year term. Council acts on behalf of Convention when it is not in session. Please note that you must be a deputy to the 2026 Diocesan Convention to qualify for this office.
- District 4 – 1 Lay Person for the Board of Trustees for a 3 year term.
- All Districts – 1 Lay Person or 1 Clergy Person for each of the offices of District Chair and Vice Chair for a 1 year term – please note that you must be a deputy to Convention or clergy within the electing district to qualify for these offices. Newly elected Chairs and Vice-Chairs convene the District meetings at the Convention the following year and facilitate activities and communications which the District chooses to pursue
When is the Application Deadline? Applications for nomination are due by July 1, 2026.
Where can I find more information? For more information, including more detailed descriptions and nomination forms, please check the diocesan website at www.episcopalpgh.org/resources/2026-diocesan-convention/