Episcopal Bishops Gather for First In-Person Meeting Under Presiding Bishop Rowe
The House of Bishops of The Episcopal Church gathered for its annual spring retreat in Nauvoo, Alabama, from March 19 to 24, 2025. This was Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe's first in-person gathering as the head of the house. The bishops discussed immigration, disciplinary canons, and the church's role in a secular society.
The bishops heard presentations on immigration actions and the church's response to legislative changes. They also reviewed and discussed Title IV disciplinary canons, calling for greater oversight and transparency in disciplinary cases involving bishops. Scott Bader-Saye, dean of the Seminary of the Southwest, presented a theological reflection on faith in institutions.
The retreat focused on discussions about witnessing to the Gospel in today's political climate and The Episcopal Church's future in a secular society. The bishops reviewed parochial report data showing a decrease in membership over the past two decades, from about 2.3 million to fewer than 1.6 million. Atlanta Bishop Robert Wright earned a standing ovation for his reflection on Christian nationalism, describing it as 'demonic'.
The House of Bishops will next gather in person in September 2025 in Juan Dolio, Dominican Republic. The bishops' discussions and decisions during these meetings will shape The Episcopal Church's response to contemporary issues and its future direction.
