Gathering Space
Bishop Deon Johnson formed a task force in 2021 to discern whether to pursue creating a space for the Diocese to gather together for shared ministry, formation, recreation, and fun.
The Gathering Space Task Force has been working steadily since that time to consider what a potential shared gathering space might look like and how the Diocese might work towards developing this ministry.
What we've learned from you:
- Try to keep the drive less than 1.5 hours.
- Emphasize children, family, youth & young adult; Creation Care.
- Get buy-in from the 'people in the pews' before moving ahead with purchasing property or a facility.
- Share a gathering space with a broader audience through an expanded mission.
What our next steps will look like:
- Begin to develop a culture of 'Gathering' in the Diocese.
- Partner with an established center first, to gain experience.
- Start smaller: undertake a Gathering Space for 20-70 people.
Read our full 2023 convention report:
Get more details about the work completed (as of October 2023).
Gathering Space Task Force Report
Gathering Space Task Force members:
The following diocesan members make up the Gathering Space Task Force:
- Betty Bowersox, Co-leader
Grace Episcopal Church, Kirkwood - The Rev. Kevin McGrane, Co-leader
Trinity Episcopal Church, St. James - Katie Ong, Facilitator
Consultant for Strategic Visioning
- The Rev. Deacon Betty Bowen
Trinity Episcopal Church, St. Charles - Angela Breeher
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Carondelet / St. Louis - The Rev. Deacon Loretta Go
St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, Ellisville and the Episcopal Church of All Saints & Ascension, Northwoods - The Very Rev. Bill Nesbit
Grace Episcopal Church, Jefferson City - The Rev. Dr. Clive Samson
Faith Christian Church of India, Ballwin - Machelle West
The Episcopal Church of All Saints & Ascension, Northwoods
- The Rev. Andrew Archie, ex-officio
The Episcopal Church of St. Michael & St. George, Clayton
If you are interested in joining the Gathering Space Feasibility Task Force, please contact:
- Betty Bowersox – [email protected]
- The Rev. Kevin McGrane – [email protected]