JOURNAL OF THE

PROCEEDINGS OF THE

ONE HUNDRED TENTH SYNOD OF THE

DIOCESE OF MID-AMERICA OF THE

REFORMED EPISCOPAL CHURCH

MEETING IN COUNCIL AT THE

Embassy Suites DFW North Grapevine, Texas

June 14, 2017

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Business Session ......................................................................................................................... 5

Credentials Committee ......................................................................................................... 5 110th Synod Roster ............................................................................................................... 6 Declaration of Quorum ........................................................................................................ 9 Corresponding Membership ................................................................................................. 9 Election of Officers ............................................................................................................ 10 Minutes of the 109th Synod ................................................................................................ 10 Bishop Ordinary Report ..................................................................................................... 10 Bishop Coadjutor Report ................................................................................................... 13 State of the Church (Statistical Report) ............................................................................. 15 Standing Committee Report ............................................................................................... 16 Election of Bishop Suffragan ............................................................................................. 19 Diocesan Trustees Report .................................................................................................. 19 Nominations Committee .................................................................................................... 20 Constitution and Canons Committee ................................................................................. 21 Cranmer Theological House – Deans’ Report ................................................................... 22 Cranmer Theological House – Treasurer’s Report ............................................................ 23 Committee on Ministers’ Salaries ...................................................................................... 25 Old Business ...................................................................................................................... 25 New Business ..................................................................................................................... 25 Committee Appointments .................................................................................................. 25 Other Business ................................................................................................................... 26 Adjournment ...................................................................................................................... 26

Addendum 1 – Detailed Statistical Report ................................................................................ 27 Addendum 2 – Diocesan Financial Statements ......................................................................... 28 Addendum 3 - Certificates of Election ...................................................................................... 32

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Journal of the 110th Synod The 110th Synod of the Diocese of Mid-America began with registration and check-in Tuesday afternoon, June 13th at the Embassy Suites DFW North, in Grapevine, Texas.

BUSINESS SESSION Wednesday, June 14th, 2017

The Business Session was convened with prayer by The Most Rev. Ray R. Sutton at 9:52a.m. at the Embassy Suites DFW North in Grapevine, Texas.

CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE

The report of the Credentials Committee was presented by The Very Rev. Jason R. Grote, Chairman. The report stated that the following were in attendance:

1 Bishop 38 Presbyters 5 Deacons 3 Deaconesses 1 Trustee 25 Delegates 5 Alternates 2 Postulants 20 observers/guests

A total of 27 parishes and missions were represented from the Diocese. The Rev. Ron Martin moved to accept the report and Rudy Schenken seconded. Motion carried.

REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE June 14, 2017 To the 110th Synod of the Diocese of Mid-America: The Credentials Committee reviewed the online registrations and parish certifications for this Synod. Everything was found to be in order excepting the following. Mr. James (“Bud”) Longueville was registered as a Delegate and was certified as an Alternate. It is noted

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that Bud is a member of the Diocesan Trustees. His registration was changed to Diocesan Trustee. Three parishes did not complete a parish certification by the time the certifications were reviewed on June 3, 2017: Christ Anglican – Hot Springs, AR

Church of the Blessed Trinity – Alpine, CA Church of our Savior – Joplin, MO It is noted that there are no lay representatives present at this council from these parishes. The Committee recommends to the President of the Council that the list of clergy and lay representatives be given to the Secretary and that all representatives be seated. Respectfully submitted, The Very Rev. Jason R. Grote Committee Chairman

110th SYNOD ROSTER (Registered Clergy & Certified Lay Representatives)

Bishops

Ray Sutton Church of the Holy Communion - Dallas, TX 1 Total Bishop Present

Presbyter Robert Ahrens St. Michael's - Broken Arrow, OK

Walter Banek Good Shepherd - Tyler, TX Benjamin Bernier Providence Church - Corpus Christi, TX Henry Birkinbine III Diocese of Mid-America John Boonzaaijer The Chapel of the Cross - Dallas, TX Andrew Brummett Church of the Holy Communion - Dallas, TX Charlie Camlin Church of the Holy Communion - Dallas, TX Wayland Coe Diocese of Mid-America James Cole The Chapel of the Cross - Dallas, TX Matthew Colvin Holy Trinity - Colwood, BC Curtis Crenshaw Diocese of Mid-America Russell Ellisor Church of the Resurrection - Crosby, TX Charles Erlandson Good Shepherd - Tyler, TX Brian Foos St. Andrew's - Chester, CA Ed Fowler St. Michael's - Broken Arrow, OK Kasey Gage Church of the Holy Communion - Dallas, TX Jason Grote St. Matthias - Katy, TX Joshua Grote St. Matthias - Katy, TX

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Damien Grout Holy Cross - Alpine, TX Anthony Hartman Christ our King - New Braunfels, TX William Jerdan St. Andrew's - Tinley Park, IL David Jones St. Thomas of Canterbury - Houston, TX Jonathan Kell St. Stephen's - Flowood, MS Robert Kemendo St. Matthias - Katy, TX Jerry Kistler St. Stephen's - Montrose, CO Frank Levi St. Andrew's - Tinley Park, IL Carl Lund Holy Trinity - Houston, TX Rondal Martin St. Timothy's - Jonesboro, AR Alan Mezger The Chapel of the Cross - Dallas, TX Douglas Mills Holy Trinity - Webster Groves, MO Carlos Ortiz Diocese of Mid-America James Payne St. Thomas of Canterbury - Houston, TX Randall Pierpoint Christ's Chapel - Riverside, CA Steven Rutt St. Andrew's Anglican - Phoenix, AZ Stephen Stults St. Paul's - Houston, TX Phil Tjoelker St. Andrew's - Tinley Park, IL Stephan Toms St. Paul's - Baton Rouge, LA Jonathan Trebilco St. Francis - Spring, TX

38 Total Presbyters Present

Deacon

Joseph Blanchard St. Paul's - Houston, TX Werner Heissenhuber Church of the Holy Communion - Dallas, TX Charles Jones Ministry to the Elderly, Oklahoma City, OK Mark Shields St. Andrew's Anglican - Phoenix, AZ Mark Woolsey Providence Church - Weatherford, TX

5 Total Deacons Present

Deaconess

Annette Johnson St. Matthias - Katy, TX Teresa Johnson St. Francis - Spring, TX Karen Pierpoint Christ's Chapel - Riverside, CA

3 Total Deaconesses Present

Delegate

Jane Allison St. Stephen's - Flowood, MS Richard Allison St. Stephen's - Flowood, MS Nathan Banek The Chapel of the Cross - Dallas, TX Claudia Dorrington Holy Trinity - Colwood, BC Kathleen Foos St. Andrew's - Chester, CA

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Rosemarie Fusco St. Paul's - Houston, TX MIke Grommet St. Timothy's - Jonesboro, AR Cathy Heissenhuber Church of the Holy Communion-Dallas, TX Steven Howell St. Thomas of Canterbury - Houston, TX Christopher Hoyt Church of the Holy Communion - Dallas, TX Harry Johnson III St. Matthias - Katy, TX Danielle Kistler St. Stephen's - Montrose, CO Patricia Levi St. Andrew's - Tinley Park, IL Mark Marshall Providence Church - Corpus Christi, TX Dan McDonald St. Michael's - Broken Arrow, OK Jennifer Mills Holy Trinity - Webster Groves, MO Bill Newman Holy Cross - Alpine, TX David Norton Church of the Holy Communion - Dallas, TX Katherine Parker St. Francis - Spring, TX Rudy Schenken Church of the Holy Communion - Dallas, TX Johnny Simmons Holy Trinity - Houston, TX James Simpson Church of the Resurrection - Crosby, TX Caleb White Good Shepherd - Tyler, TX Bruce Woodcock St. Thomas of Canterbury - Houston, TX Mary Woolsey Providence Church - Weatherford, TX

25 Total Delegates Present

Trustee

James Longueville Church of the Holy Communion - Dallas, TX 1 Total Trustee Present

Alternate

Christine Boonzaaijer The Chapel of the Cross - Dallas, TX Cynthia Grommet St. Timothy's - Jonesboro, AR Mark Hoyt Good Shepherd - Tyler, TX Nancy Jones St. Thomas of Canterbury - Houston, TX Donna Taylor St. Matthias - Katy, TX

5 Total Alternates Present

Postulant

Steven Alspach St. Andrew's - Tinley Park, IL David Kester Good Shepherd - Tyler, TX

2 Total Postulants Present

Observer

Bruce Bagby St. Matthias - Katy, TX Nelda Banek Good Shepherd - Tyler, TX

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Frank Bateman Mariners' Church of Detroit Lindsay Bateman Mariners' Church of Detroit Katherine Birkinbine Diocese of Mid-America Janet Coe St. Barnabas - Bellville, TX

Ruth Crenshaw St. James - Memphis, TN

Marjorie Fowler St. Michael's - Broken Arrow, OK

Elizabeth Grote St. Matthias - Katy, TX

Ellen Grote St. Matthias - Katy, TX

Jacob Grote St. Matthias - Katy, TX

Bethany Hoyt Good Shepherd - Tyler, TX

Royce Ann Johnson St. Matthias - Katy, TX

Janet Kester Good Shepherd - Tyler, TX

Judith Martin St. Timothy's - Jonesboro, AR

Beth Mills Good Shepherd - Tyler, TX

Susannah Rutt St. Andrew's Anglican - Phoenix, AZ

Elizabeth See The Chapel of the Cross - Dallas, TX

Susan Sutton Church of the Holy Communion - Dallas, TX

Beatriz Toms St. Paul's - Baton Rouge, LA

20 Total Observers Present

DECLARATION OF QUORUM

Upon review of the report of the Credentials Committee, Secretary of the Diocese, Dss. Annette M. Johnson, declared the presence of a quorum.

CORRESPONDING MEMBERSHIP To the Synod of the 110th Synod, Based upon registrations, it is noted that there are no guests or visitors present at this 110th Synod for whom this committee recommends Corresponding Membership. Submitted by, The Very Rev. Jason R. Grote

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ELECTION OF OFFICERS The floor was opened by the Chair, The Most Rev. Ray R. Sutton, to hear nominations for the office of Diocesan Secretary. The Very Rev. Jason Grote nominated Cathy Heissenhuber. The nomination was seconded by Archdeacon James Payne. The Very Rev. Grote moved that nominations be closed, and the President cast one ballot for Cathy Heissenhuber. The motion carried. Dss. Annette was acknowledged for her many years of dedication and excellent service as secretary to the Diocese of Mid-America. The Chair then asked for nominations for the office of Diocesan Treasurer. The Rev. Stephen Stults nominated The Very Rev. Jason R. Grote to continue serving as the Treasurer for the Diocese of Mid-America. Nancy Jones seconded the motion. The Archdeacon moved that the nominations cease, and the Secretary cast one ballot for Rev. Grote. The motion carried.

MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING

Bishop Sutton requested a motion to file the minutes of the 109th Synod. The motion was made by Archdeacon James Payne, and was then seconded by Nathan Banek. The motion carried.

REPORT OF THE BISHOP ORDINARY One Hundred and Tenth Synod

Diocese of Mid-America Ordinary Report

June 14, 2017

Greetings in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is faithful to all believe in Him, yesterday, today and forever. Amen. Only a few months ago on November 24, 2016, my best friend and our beloved Presiding Bishop and Ordinary, the Most Rev. Royal U. Grote, suddenly passed away early Thanksgiving morning, into the life of the world to come and into the arms of his loving Savior Jesus Christ. As many of you may be aware, Bishop Grote had planned on beginning a process of transitioning his Ordinary position in the diocese in mid- 2017. Since I had been elected already as Bishop Coadjutor in 2008, his decision did not require an additional election to assume the role of Ordinary. Other important plans under Bishop Grote’s guidance had already been put in place primarily at Church of the Holy Communion where I had been Rector for fifteen and a half years. The plan involved finding a new rector for CHC, since our Ordinaries have a history of devoting themselves full time to their Episcopal duties. Early in 2016 therefore, a Transition and Search Committee had been formed by the Vestry to recommend my successor for approval. Thankfully by the beginning of November this committee had decided on the Very Rev. Canon Charles Camlin with Bishop Grote’s concurrence. Thus, the Vestry of CHC unanimously approved Fr. Camlin at its December meeting, and moved up the beginning of his service to February 1, 2017. I am pleased to report that the parish has shown widespread support of their new rector. Since then I have been working full time as your bishop. My full report of personal schedule and other statistics is attached.

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My priorities in the diocese have been, first, to respond pastorally to Bishop Roy’s dear widow and family, as well as our clergy and parishes, faced with the grief of a dearly beloved leader in the Most Rev. Royal Grote. To this end I have tried to the best of my ability to make certain Mrs. Ellen Grote and children have been assured of the support of our diocese at this time. Regarding our clergy I have established regular clericus meetings, in some cases monthly, for our clergy to gather, fellowship, and grow together in Christ. Second, I have attempted to fulfill the commitments that Bishop Roy was not able to complete. This has involved rescheduling ordinations, confirmations and other visits. I have also picked up the responsibility of continuing our Bishop’s preparations for Synod and General Council. Third, I have called for the election of a Suffragan Bishop, given the needs within and without the diocese that are my responsibilities. I am grateful that the Standing Committee under the Rev. Venerable James Payne’s excellent guidance has unanimously nominated the Very Rev. Walter Banek. I pray for the Lord’s will to be done as revealed through an orderly and unified election process. As I mentioned in my initial letter, I know the Very Rev. Banek to be a godly man full of much wisdom, a man with whom I have worked closely before, and whom I believe will make an excellent Bishop if this is the Lord’s desire. Fourth, I have continued with most of those visits that would have regularly been made by Bishop Roy in the winter and spring. I will be publishing a new schedule for the fall once I know when the new Suffragan Bishop can begin. The plan is for him to make up to ten visits a year as part of his Suffragan responsibilities. The new schedule will come out toward the end of summer. My month of July will be devoted to the Anglican Way Institute at the beginning, and vacation from the middle through the first week in August. It appears at present that the consecration of the new bishop will be some time later in the summer, depending on Archbishop Foley’s schedule. Fifth, I have also attempted to further the vision that Bishop Grote has had for this diocese. From the beginning, I have worked in complete agreement to carry out his vision to grow the REC, especially here in the Midwest and Western part of our jurisdiction. With a deep commitment to the vision of building traditional, Anglican prayer book parishes, I have tried to flesh out a model in my Presiding Bishop’s Report. It is called, REC 100. This vision will significantly impact our diocese. It calls for the continuation of existing supporting roles such as archdeacon and deans, some new assignments, as well as reassignment of some of our Diocesan Clergy officers. For one, I would like for the Venerable Dr. James Payne to continue serving in his capacity as Archdeacon in our diocese. Archdeacon Payne has been vital to the development of our diocese in assisting Bishop Grote and now me. As a skilled pastor and historical scholar, he is especially suited in his person and in his gifting concerning the canonical and administrative areas that require constant vigilance. He also has the vision to see the REC continue to grow, which requires where necessary, the formation of new canons consistent with the excellent Constitution and Canons, by-laws and customary, already in place within the REC and in our diocese. I also ask our current deans to continue their service helping me to oversee the cathedrals and regional areas of our diocese. The men are the Very Revs. Jerry Kistler, Frank Levi, Jason Grote, and Charles Camlin. These men have already been of immense help to me. I will be utilizing their gifts and office more and more in helping us to serve the diocese.

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As for a new position, I have asked the Very Rev. Jason Grote to be the Canon Missioner for the Reformed Episcopal Church, assisting me in implementing the vision that his father and I share. The Very Rev. Grote has worked side by side with his father and me for many years in the organizational, financial, and developmental aspects of our church and diocese. He has demonstrated very capable leadership in his capacity as Dean of the Cathedral, St. Matthias. He has as Rector of the parish demonstrated the ability to revitalize this congregation. I believe Jason possesses the vision and skills to work with the varied mission-al situations that arise when building the Kingdom of God. For another, since I am calling for the bishop of every REC Diocese to appoint a Canon Missioner to assist the national REC 100 program, I have asked the Rev. Rusty Ellisor to be our Diocesan Canon Missioner. He has been one of our clergy who has actually started and developed successfully a new congregation from scratch in the Crosby, Texas area. My sense is that he possesses and has demonstrated the kind of skills necessary for assisting the REC 100 process at a diocesan level. I should mention that the Very Rev. Canon Wayland Coe has served in the capacity of Canon Missioner in the past. He has done an excellent job for which I thank him. Fr. Coe has offered to step out of the Canon Missioner role for medical reasons. Nevertheless, given his valuable experience and wisdom, I am reassigning him to serve as Canon to the Ordinary. He will therefore still be a canon in our diocese. Also, I have asked the Very Rev. Canon Charles Camlin to take over the responsibility of chairing the Examining Chaplains. Fr. Charles served in this capacity for many years under the Rt. Rev. Daniel Morse of the Diocese of the Central States. In addition, I believe given his leadership role in the seminary and Dean of the Pro Cathedral at Church of the Holy Communion, that he will be best positioned to guide the processes of new postulants emerging within the diocese, as well as clergy transferring to us from other dioceses and jurisdictions. There is also the important practical provision at CHC of a large supporting staff to facilitate the organization of Examining Chaplains required by a diocese of our size. Sixth, in fulfillment of the REC 100 vision we hope to begin to see new missions and parishes planted. During Lent 2018 I will be calling for a special REC 100 offering, asking for all of our adult members to give at least $100 per person to support the expansion of the diocese. The details of this funding effort are provided in my Presiding Bishop’s Report. Seventh, since I have been called into the Presiding Bishop’s role, this move has required appointing a new Vice President, the Rt. Rev. Dr. David Hicks, Ordinary of the Diocese of the Northeast. I have also made in recent months Bishop Grote’s annual visits to Europe (Germany, Croatia and England) and other parts of the REC in my capacity as PB. My complete schedule is attached to this report. In the remainder of my report, I wish to express my gratitude to God for several groups of people and especially for the Most Rev. Royal U. Grote. One, I thank our bishops, General Committee, and all the REC. Everyone has been so supportive and helpful. They have taken time to contact me expressing their support and prayers. I have seen a wonderful team come together, without whom I could have never been able to continue the good work that my predecessors began long ago. Two, I particularly thank our President of the Standing Committee, the Venerable James Payne, as well as our Standing Committee and Trustees. I also wish to thank our Diocesan Deans and Canon, the Very Revs. Walter Banek, Charles Camlin, Frank Levi, Jerry Kistler, Jason Grote, and the Rev. Canon Wayland Coe. I especially thank our Diocesan Administrative Staff, the Very Rev. Jason Grote, Dss. Annette Johnson, and Cathy Heissenhuber. Three, I am grateful to the Lord God for the wonderful developments at Cranmer Theological House. I

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thank the Deans, Assistant Deans Wayland Coe and Charles Camlin, and the External Studies Dean, the Rev. Dr. Curtis Crenshaw, for their good work. I am also grateful for a special gift of $50,000 to the seminary by a donor who wishes to remain anonymous. Most of all, I thank the Lord for the seminary’s continued growth and development. Four, I take this opportunity to thank two of our parishes, who have made extraordinary gifts to the church and the diocese. Special thanks to the Chapel of the Cross, Dallas, Texas, for the magnanimous gift of $50,000 for church planting and development. They have blessed me, and all of us with their tenacious commitment to tithing that this special gift represents. Their Rector, Wardens, and Vestry, have all joined together their commitment to the vision of the diocese to plant Biblical and traditional, prayer book churches. Also, I thank St. Paul’s REC in Baton Rouge, Louisiana for their gifts of $10,000 to the Lenten Offering for Croatia, and another $10,000 to Cranmer Theological House. Their Rector and Vestry have also encouraged us with these special gifts, both of which have been greatly needed. Five, I thank all of you dearly beloved clergy, laity and parishes in the diocese. You all have been so supportive and flexible during a challenging time of transition. I thank you for the many cards, calls, emails and other communications. You all have made me even more appreciative of this wonderful diocese. Please convey my thanks to all of our vestries and parishes! Finally, I offer thankfulness to God for the Most Rev. Royal U. Grote’s ministry among us. He was my mentor and bishop for over twenty-nine years. I served him in various capacities, first as one of his Archdeacons before being called to the Reformed Episcopal Seminary to be President and Professor of New Testament. Upon returning to the Diocese I served him as Dean of Cranmer Theological House and Professor of Theology and eventually as Canon to the Ordinary. I became a Bishop in 1999, assisting in various capacities for Bishop Grote for seventeen years, first as Suffragan for nine years, and then as Coadjutor for eight years. It was truly a joy to serve Bishop Grote. He was a gentle giant of the faith. He shaped me in so many ways with his determined commitment to a vision that God gave him for our diocese and for the REC. He was a church planter above all else, quiet and peaceable, and full of grace, graciousness, that largeness of generosity that so characterizes the presence of Jesus Christ in a person’s life. He was a model for us all in his commitments, his love for his family, and his church, and his humility. I miss him greatly, but I am confident that he is with our Lord, enjoying all of eternity. May he rest in peace. Amen. Respectfully Submitted, The Most Rev. Ray R. Sutton, Ph.D. Ordinary of the DMA

BISHOP COADJUTOR REPORT MARCH 1, 2016 – NOVEMBER 24, 2016

Dearly Beloved Members of the Diocese of Mid America: The following information is the statistical aspect of my report for the period I served as your Bishop Coadjutor. My full report with further summary will be distributed at our synod on the morning of June 14, 2017. The rest of my statistical report from the time I became Ordinary, is included in my Presiding Bishop’s Statistical Report for the 55th General Council of the Reformed Episcopal Church.

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EPISCOPAL VISITS / CONFIRMATIONS The Chapel of the Cross, Dallas, TX, May 1, 2016 (5 confirmations)

Providence Church, Weatherford, TX, August 14, 2016 All Saints Church, Shreveport, LA, September 4, 2016 (12 receptions) St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Montrose, CO, October 9, 2016 Mariners Church, Detroit, MI, November 6, 2016 (1 confirmation)

CONFIRMATION Church of the Holy Communion, Dallas, TX, June 28, 2016 (1 confirmation) ORDINATIONS

Michael Vinson – May 21, 2016, Ordained to the Diaconate, Chapel of the Cross, Dallas, TX Timothy Reimer – August 20, 2016, Ordained to the Presbyterate, Church of the Holy

Communion, Dallas, TX PROVINCIAL / ECUMENICAL - MARCH 2016 - NOVEMBER 2016 March 8 ACNA Dean’s Meeting March 14-18 Bishops Leadership Development Summit, Asheville, NC March 24 Hosted ACNA Clergy Gathering for Chrism Mass

April 14-16 REC Bishops and General Committee Meeting, Katy, TX April 19-20 ACNA CEC Ecumenical Meetings, Dallas, TX April 22-23 Anglican Diocese of Pittsburgh Special Convention, Pittsburgh, PA April 28 Ecumenical Relations Sub Committee Chairs Meeting May 2-3 FACA Meeting, Atlanta, GA May 10 American Anglican Council, Atlanta, GA May 17 Fellowship of Sts. Alban and Sergius May 24-25 ACNA / NALC Ecumenical Meeting, Denver, CO June 19-25 ACNA Executive Committee/Provincial Council/ College of Bishops Mount Pleasant, SC July 19-22 Forward in Faith Assembly, Belleville, IL August 11-12 NALC Convention, Anaheim, CA August 17-18 ACNA / OCA Dialogue, Huntington, NY September 6-7 ACNA Dean’s Meeting, Washington, D.C. September 9-10 Consecration of James Hobby, Pittsburgh, PA

September 11-13 ACNA / NALC Ecumenical Meeting, Dallas, TX September 21 The Solemn Gathering Assembly, Southlake, TX October 11-12 Roman Catholic Church Ecumenical Meeting, Chicago, IL October 18-19 American Anglican Council, Atlanta, GA November 15-17 Forward in Faith/Holy Orders Task Force/Unity Task Force, Bedford, TX November 22 Fellowship of Sts. Alban and Sergius

OTHER – MARCH 2016 – NOVEMBER 2016 March 5 Speaker for Diocese of Ft. Worth Altar Guild, Granbury, TX

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March 6 Veritas Course March 13 Veritas Course

March 20 Veritas Course April 1-3 Speaker -Men’s Retreat, Church of the Holy Communion, Granbury, TX April 29 Clericus, Dallas, TX May 18 Bishops Council, Providence REC, Weatherford, TX May 22 Visit All Saints Shreveport, LA May 27 Clericus, Dallas, TX July 6-10 Plenary Speaker, Anglican Way Institute Summer Conference, Dallas, TX August 16 Bishop’s Council, Christ Church Anglican, Ft. Worth, TX September 30 Clericus, Dallas, TX October 2 Participated in the Annual Life Chain, Dallas, TX October 4-5 Meeting with Bp. Grote, Katy, TX October 23 Veritas Course October 27 REC DMA Standing Committee Meeting October 28 Clericus, Dallas, TX October 30 Veritas Course November 6 Veritas Course November 13 Veritas Course November 16 Bishop’s Council, Providence REC, Weatherford, TX November 20 Veritas Course

Respectfully Submitted, The Most Rev. Ray R. Sutton, Ph.D. Presiding Bishop, Ordinary of the Diocese of Mid America The Very Rev. Jason Grote made a motion to accept Bishop Sutton’s reports. Archdeacon Payne seconded. All voted in favor and the motion carried. All in attendance stood and applauded Bishop Sutton for his excellent leadership and for continuing the important work in the diocese begun by Bishop Grote.

STATE OF THE CHURCH As of December 31, 2016

Total Parishes & Missions 34 Parishes that did not report 4 Baptized Members 2089 Communicant Members 1694 Average Sunday Attendance 1364 % of Membership v. ASA 65 %

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Baptisms 2014-2016 176 Confirmations 2014-2016 193 It is noted that since the previous General Council, the Diocese of the West transferred to the ACNA. Some parishes voted to remain with REC and are now resident in the Diocese of Mid-America. The Diocese of Western Canada also voted to become a part of the Diocese of Mid-America and are now reported as such. A list of those parishes is included on the Diocese of Mid-America report. Respectfully Submitted, The Very Rev. Jason R. Grote Committee Chairman

[A full detailed report by parish is contained in Addendum A]

REPORT OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE The Standing Committee met four times since our last Synod. The following is a summary of actions taken. Standing Committee Meeting Thursday, October 27, 2016 Action taken:

A.) Approved Candidacy for Holy Orders: a. Mr. Stephen Alspach – St. Andrew’s, Tinley Park, IL b. Mr. Wesley Smith – Holy Cross, Alpine, TX

B.) Approved Candidacy for the Office of Deaconess: a. Mrs. Jill Nowell – Church of the Holy Communion, Dallas, TX

C.) Approved for examination and Ordination to the Diaconate: a. Mr. Frank Bateman – Mariners’ Church, Detroit, MI

D.) Approved for examination and Ordination to the Priesthood: a. Rev. Br. Joseph Blanchard – St. Paul’s, Houston, TX b. Rev. Mr. Gregory Chase – Church of the Blessed Trinity, Alpine, CA

E.) Approved reception as a Presbyter: a. The Rev. Robert Gresser from the Charismatic Episcopal Church

F.) Approved Parish and Mission transfers into the Diocese of Mid-America: a. Church of the Blessed Trinity – Alpine, California b. Church of the Redeemer Mission – Greenville, California c. St. Andrew’s Church and School – Chester, California

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G.) Reviewed clergy transfers accepted into the Diocese of Mid-America: a. Rev. Keith Acker from the Diocese of the West b. The Rev. Henry P. M. Birkinbine III from the Diocese of the West c. The Rev. Brian Foos from the Diocese of the West d. The Rev. Robert Peterson from the Diocese of the West e. The Rev. Dr. Steven Rutt from the Diocese of the West f. The Rev. Mr. Gregory Chase from the Diocese of the West g. The Rev. Mr. Mark Shields from the Diocese of the West h. Rev. Mr. Wyatt Boutwell from the Diocese of the Central States

H.) Reviewed Change in Status and Closures: a. Rev. Ed Fowler to become new Rector at St. Michael’s, Broken Arrow, OK b. Rev. Richard K. Barnard retirement due to health issues c. Closure of Christ Church Anglican in Ft. Worth (Rev. Barnard’s parish) d. Rev. Jerry Kistler appointed Dean of newly formed Convocation of the West

I.) In Memoriam: a. Rev. Dr. Randolph Constantine

Standing Committee Meeting Tuesday, February 7, 2017 Actions taken:

A.) Approved inclusion of Diocesan Deans and Canons in Standing Committee Meetings with voice, but no vote

B.) Election of new Standing Committee President: a. The Ven. Dr. James T. Payne

C.) Approved Call for the Election of Suffragan Bishop: a. Approved nomination of The Very Rev. Walter Banek as first nominee b. Request for further nominations to be sent to Clergy and Parishes

D.) Approved for Candidacy: a. Mr. Eric Parker – St. Stephen’s, Flowood, MS

E.) Approved for Examination and Ordination to the Diaconate: a. Mr. Marcus Bell – Church of the Holy Communion, Dallas, TX

F.) Approved for Ordination to the Presbyterate: a. Rev. Dcn. Michael Templin – Church of the Holy Communion, Dallas, TX b. Rev. Dcn. Michael Vinson – Chapel of the Cross, Dallas, TX

G.) Approved Reception of Clergy: a. Rev. Sigfrido Morales from the Diocese of Cristo the Redentor, Venezuela

H.) Review Change of Status and Closures: a. Rev. Canon Robert Gresser – Vicar, Providence REC, Weatherford, TX

1. Appointed as Canon to Military Chaplains b. Very Rev. Charles Camlin – Rector of Church of the Holy Communion, Dallas, TX

1. Appointed as Dean of the Pro-Cathedral c. Rev. Kasey Gage – Assistant Rector of Church of the Holy Communion, Dallas, TX

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d. Closure of All Saints Mission in Durango, CO

Standing Committee acting as Diocesan Search Committee - Meeting Tuesday, March 28, 2017 Actions taken:

A.) Reviewed nominations received from the Diocese for Bishop Suffragan a. Election Protocols and Nominations filed

B.) Reviewed Curriculum Vitae of The Very Rev. Walter Banek and conducted interview of the nominee

C.) Unanimously approved The Very Rev. Walter Banek as only nominee to be presented at Synod

D.) Approved Rev. Banek as ACNA Provincial Council /Assembly Clergy Delegate for the Diocese of Mid-America

Standing Committee Meeting Friday, May 12, 2017

Actions taken:

A.) Approved Candidacy for Holy Orders: a. Mr. David Kester – Good Shepherd, Tyler, TX

B.) Approved Candidacy for the Office of Deaconess: a. Mrs. Gay Flack – St. Stephen’s, Montrose, CO b. Mrs. Jane Keith – Church of the Holy Communion, Dallas, TX c. Mrs. Cynthia Longueville – Church of the Holy Communion, Dallas, TX

C.) Reviewed clergy transfers accepted into the Diocese of Mid-America: a. Rev. Mr. Dwight Dunlap from the ACNA Diocese of the Western Gulf Coast b. The Rev. Dr. Matthew Colvin from the Diocese of the Central States

D.) Reviewed clergy transfers to another Diocese: a. The Rev. David McMillan to the ACNA Diocese of the South

E.) In Memoriam: a. The Most Rev. Royal U. Grote, Jr. b. The Rt. Rev. George B. Fincke c. The Rev. Richard K. Barnard d. Deaconess Mary Jane Mathieu e. The Rev. James Dallman

Respectfully submitted, Dss. Annette Johnson Diocesan Secretary

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ELECTION OF BISHOP SUFFRAGAN Archdeacon James Payne explained the election process for a Bishop Suffragan to the Synod attendees. On behalf of the Standing Committee, Archdeacon Payne then officially placed in nomination The Rev. Walter R. Banek as Bishop Suffragan for election. Fr. Ron Martin seconded. Discussion followed and the motion was amended by the Archdeacon to vote by acclamation. Fr. John Boonzaaijer seconded the amendment. Archdeacon Payne then moved to file the report. Fr. Banek spoke for a few moments on the process he has been through to arrive at this place. He gave thanks to Bishop Sutton, the REC, the people of Good Shepherd in Tyler, his family, especially his dear Nelda. Finally, he thanked our beloved Bishop Grote for his teaching, counseling, care and kindness.

[Certificates of Election (House of Clergy and the House of Laity) – See Addendum 3]

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES to the 110th Synod of the Diocese of Mid-America

February 2016 – June 2017

Bud Longueville presented the report for the Chairman, Dick Teel who was unable to attend Synod. There was a motion made by Rev. Stephen Stults to receive the Trustees Report and support the budget presented. Nathan Banek seconded the motion. All voted in favor, motion carried.

[A copy of the Financial Statements are contained in Addendum 2]

Board of Trustees Meetings since the last Synod The Board of Trustees met one time, on February 2, 2017, since the previous Synod in February 2016. Necessary matters were addressed concerning the transition in leadership following the passing of The Most Rev. Royal U. Grote, Jr., and to fill a vacancy on the Board due to the passing of Mr. Guy Legendre. A review of the financial statements; the investment portfolio; adjustments to episcopal salaries; and discussions of anticipated budgetary needs for the upcoming year were presented by Lay Chairman, Mr. Dick Teel, and Diocesan Treasurer, The Very Rev. Jason R. Grote. A summary of actions taken and recommendations approved at the meeting are listed below. The Secretary, Dss. Annette Johnson, has filed a report of the Minutes of the Trustees for this meeting with the Bishop Ordinary. Summary of Actions Taken: 1. Elected Mr. James (Bud) Longueville to fill vacancy on Board of Trustees.

2. Approved Resolution that The Most Rev. Ray R. Sutton, President, and The Very Rev. Jason R. Grote, Treasurer, be the authorized signers on all deposit and investment accounts held by the Diocese of Mid-America and Cranmer Theological House.

3. Approved Proposed Budget for 2017 with recommendations.

4. Approved each of the following Recommendations (included with 2017 Budget):

Whereas Bishop Grote suddenly and unexpectedly passed away on November 24, 2016, the Trustees of the Diocese of Mid-America wish to provide the following gifts to his

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spouse, Mrs. Ellen Grote, to help with her continued care.

a. Mrs. Ellen Grote be provided a gift of $60,000 between January 2017 and June 2017. This gift will be offset by Bishop Sutton not receiving the Bishop Ordinary salary for that same period of time.

b. Starting July 1, 2017, Mrs. Ellen Grote will be provided a $1,333 monthly gift. This will provide $8,000 between July and December 2017.

c. Starting January 1, 2018 and in perpetuity, unless revoked or changed by action of the Trustees, the annual budget of the Diocese of Mid-America will include the provision of a gift to Mrs. Ellen Grote in the monthly amount of $1,333. This will provide a $16,000 yearly gift to help with living expenses and supplemental insurance premiums.

5. Formally recognized the contributions of Mr. Dick Teel following his request to step down as Lay Chairman after Synod in 2017.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS Dear Brethren: On April 20, 2016, the Committee on Nominations met and is pleased to present the following nominations for election: (Names in bold are those up for election.) BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE DIOCESE Existing Class of 2018 Mr. Bruce Woodcock – St. Thomas of Canterbury, Houston, TX Mr. James P. “Bud” Longueville – Church of the Holy Communion, Dallas, TX The Ven. Dr. Douglas Mills – Holy Trinity, Webster Groves, MO

Class of 2019 The Very Rev. Walter Banek – Good Shepherd, Tyler, TX Mr. H.D. “Dick” Teel, Jr. – St. Thomas of Canterbury, Houston, TX Mr. Bob Dobson – St. Timothy’s, Jonesboro, AR

* Class of 2020 The Rev. Jerry Kistler – St. Stephen’s, Montrose, CO Mrs. Virginia Bowers – Church of the Holy Communion, Dallas TX The Rev. Dr. S. Randall Toms – St. Paul’s, Baton Rouge, LA STANDING COMMITTEE Existing Class of 2018 The Rev. John Boonzaaijer – Chapel of the Cross, Dallas, TX Mr. John Simmons – Church of the Holy Trinity – Houston, TX

Class of 2019 The Very Rev. Frank Levi – St. Andrew’s, Tinley Park, IL Mr. Bruce Bagby – Church of the Holy Trinity, Houston, TX

* Class of 2020 The Ven. Dr. Douglas Mills – Holy Trinity, Webster Groves, MO Mr. Harry K. Johnson III – Cathedral of St. Matthias, Katy, TX

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The following individuals have been appointed by Bp. Ray Sutton to serve as representatives of the Diocese of Mid-America to the ACNA Provincial Council for 2017:

The Very Rev. Walter Banek Dss. Teresa Johnson

Respectfully Submitted,

The Ven. Dr. Douglas Mills Chairman, Committee on Nominations The Ven. Dr. Doug Mills presented the report of the Committee on Nominations. Archdeacon James Payne moved to approve the Board of Trustees of the Diocese of the Class of 2020. Harry K. Johnson seconded. The motion carried. The Rev. Ron Martin moved to approve the Standing Committee Members of the Class of 2020. The Rev. Jerry Kistler seconded. Motion carried.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CONSTITUTION AND CANONS

To: The Clergy & Lay Members of the 110th Synod: The committee did not meet since the last synod and thus proposes no changes or amendments at this time.

In the past year, we did review amended by-laws of St. Stephen’s, Flowood MS. & those of the Chapel of the Cross in Dallas, Texas and St. Paul’s, Houston, and found them to be in order.

As chairman, I also responded to various questions regarding the meaning or interpretation of the DMA (diocesan) canons and General Council Canons and compliance of parish by-laws with these authorities.

Over time, and particularly since the death of Bishop Royal U. Grote, it has become apparent that the Diocese of Mid America does not have up to date records on the by-laws of a number of parishes.

Accordingly, this committee requests that every parish and mission of the DMA provide a current copy of its by-laws (and articles of incorporation if they establish rules of parish governance that are referenced in the by-laws) to the diocese by August 1, 2017. The rector or vicar of each parish or mission is asked to be responsible for meeting this deadline.

By-laws and/or corporate article should be provided to me in electronic form (pdf or Word) at archdeacondma@yahoo.com with a copy to Deaconess Annette Johnson at dssaj@rechurch.org.

In addition, any requests to take up particular issues or areas of the diocesan constitution and canons should also be sent to me, as committee chair.

In Christ, The Ven. Dr. James T. Payne+ Chairman

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The report was presented by Archdeacon James Payne. Rev. Stephen Stults moved to approve the report. Canon Charlie Camlin seconded. Motion carried.

REPORT OF THE DEAN OF

CRANMER THEOLOGICAL HOUSE

Cranmer Theological House is committed to training orthodox clergy, deaconesses, and lay people in the service of Christ’s Church. Over the last several years, Cranmer House has seen growth in both its residential and distance studies program. Currently Cranmer House has 30 students engaged in five programs of study including Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Religion, Master of Arts in Religion-Deaconess Studies, Master in Theology, and Certificate in Anglican Studies. This year, we added a new program, Master in Theological Studies. This program is designed for those who already possess a Master of Arts in Religion (or its equivalent) but need additional course work to become Master of Divinity equivalent in order to be ordained as a presbyter/priest. Cranmer House offers a different course once a month in Dallas at Church of the Holy Communion. These courses are weekend intensive courses beginning on Friday at noon and ending on Sunday afternoon. A variety of courses are also available via our External Studies division. This year we offered online courses that meet over a ten-week period via Google Hangouts. This course platform has proven to be quite successful and beneficial for the student and instructor. The courses taught under this online platform included Greek and Hebrew course and Church History courses. In 2017, we are looking to reinvigorate our Houston campus by making some courses available in Houston. The Lord continues to bless the ministry of Cranmer House. The student body has grown to 31 students with men and women not only from the Reformed Episcopal Church and other Anglican jurisdictions such as the APA and ACNA but also from other areas of the broader Church including the Methodist Church and Western Rite Orthodoxy. The staff of Cranmer Theological House including Assistant Academic Dean, The Rev. Canon Charlie Camlin, Assistant Academic Dean, The Rev. Canon Wayland Coe, and the Registrar, Nancy Jones, work closely with the Dean, the Most Reverend Ray Sutton, to further the mission of Cranmer Theological House. Dr. Curtis Crenshaw is also continuing his work on the external studies program. The Cranmer House report was presented by Canon Charlie Camlin, and Rev. Wayland Coe, Assistant Deans. It was noted that Bishop Grote’s course on The Church and Sacraments was recorded before he passed away, and it will be available soon. There is also a certificate program currently being developed for Vocational Deacons and Deaconesses. CTH has 31 students from a variety of jurisdictions and had 5 graduates in February. Archdeacon James Payne moved to accept the report on CTH. The motion was seconded by Mark Marshall. and was approved.

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REPORT OF THE TREASURER OF CRANMER THEOLOGICAL HOUSE

The Very Rev. Jason Grote then presented the Treasurer Report of Cranmer House (see next two pages). The past two years the financial position of CTH has been improving. The seminary received $87,262.28 in donations and ended the year with a profit of $76,267.83. Cranmer is producing well trained rectors who have done well in ministry. The Archdeacon made motion to approve the CTH Treasurer Report. Nathan Banek seconded. Motion carried.

Cranmer Theological House

Statement of Financial Position As of December 31, 2016

Change during

Dec. 31, 2015 2016 Dec. 31, 2016 ASSETS Current Assets Checking/Savings $46,038.96 $29,992.16 $76,031.12

Undeposited Funds $1,250.00 $49,835.67 $51,085.67

Tuitions Receivable ($2,100.00) ($2,135.00) ($4,235.00)

Total Current Assets $45,188.96 $77,692.83 $122,881.79

Fixed Assets (Equipment/Furniture/Library) $4,808.94 $0.00 $4,808.94

TOTAL ASSETS $49,997.90 $77,692.83 $127,690.73

LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS Total Liabilities $0.00 $0.00 $0.00

Scholarships Payable $0.00 $1,425.00 $1,425.00

Unrestricted Net Assets $49,997.90 $76,267.83 $126,265.73

TOTAL LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS $49,997.90 $77,692.83 $127,690.73

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Cranmer Theological House Statement of Activities

for year ending December 31, 2016

Difference Actual v.

Budget 2016 Actual 2016 Budget Revenue *Donations $87,262.28 $23,000.00 $64,262.28

Fees $989.00 $300.00 $689.00

Scholarships Income $3,550.00 $0.00 $3,550.00

Scholarships Issued ($12,350.00) $0.00 ($12,350.00)

Tuitions $71,250.00 $20,000.00 $51,250.00 Total Revenue $150,701.28 $43,300.00 $107,401.28

Expenses Administrative Expense $6,788.00 $3,000.00 $3,788.00

Advertising $1,264.09 $1,000.00 $264.09

Bank & Accounting $2,845.54 $1,200.00 $1,645.54

Dean (Assistant - Dallas) $8,000.00 $0.00 $8,000.00

Dean (Assistant - Houston) $5,000.04 $5,000.00 $0.04

External Studies Processing $4,077.43 $0.00 $4,077.43

Educational Degrees $5,450.83 $8,000.00 ($2,549.17)

Graduation Expenses $418.01 $1,500.00 ($1,081.99)

Meetings & Travel (non-class related) $1,907.73 $1,000.00 $907.73

Office Expenses $4,437.45 $2,000.00 $2,437.45

Professors Honorariums $26,245.00 $15,000.00 $11,245.00

Professors Travel & Meals $4,050.33 $2,000.00 $2,050.33

Video Classroom $3,949.00 $0.00 $3,949.00 Total Expenses $74,433.45 $39,700.00 $34,733.45

Change in Net Assets $76,267.83 $3,600.00 $72,667.83

*Donations - We received two larger generous donations of $50,000 and $10,000.

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REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MINISTERS’ SALARIES

No report

OLD BUSINESS

None

NEW BUSINESS

None

COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS TO SERVE UNTIL NEXT SYNOD

Bishop Sutton indicated that committee appointments will be distributed via email at a later date. Those appointments are as follows: Board of Examining Chaplains

The Very Rev. Canon Charles Camlin, Chair The Venerable Dr. James T. Payne The Rt. Rev. Walter Banek The Rev. John Boonzaaijer The Very Rev. Frank Levi The Very Rev. Dr. Curtis Crenshaw The Rev. Canon Wayland Coe The Venerable Dr. Douglas Mills

Constitution and Canons

The Venerable Dr. James T. Payne, Chair The Rev. Lawrence Jones Dss. Annette Johnson

Committee on Credentials

The Very Rev. Jason R. Grote, Chair Dss. Annette Johnson

Committee on Nominations

The Venerable Dr. Douglas Mills, Chair The Rev. Russell Ellisor Mr. Harry K. Johnson III

Cranmer Theological House Trustees

The Most Rev. Dr. Ray R. Sutton, President & Dean The Very Rev. Jason R. Grote, Treasurer The Rt. Rev. Walter Banek

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The Venerable Dr. James T. Payne The Very Rev. Canon Charles Camlin Mr. Bud Longueville Dr. Robert Pickering Other Members can be appointed by the Board

Committee on Women’s Work

Dss. Nancy Jones Dss. Karen Pierpoint Susan Sutton Advisors: Dss. Annette Johnson Dss. Candidate Jill Nowell

Special Committee on Risk Management

The Venerable Dr. James T. Payne - Chair The Very Rev. Jason R. Grote The Rt. Rev. Walter Banek Mr. Bud Longueville Mr. Al See Mr. Bruce Woodcock

OTHER BUSINESS The Consecration service date for Fr. Walter Banek will be mid-to-late August. It may have to be midweek to allow for as many clergy as possible be able to attend. The next Synod will be February 8-9, 2018, in Katy at St. Matthias. * It was decided after the conclusion of the 2017 Synod that the date/location of Synod 2018 would be changed to February 22-23, 2018 at Church of the Holy Communion in Dallas.

ADJOURNMENT

A motion to adjourn was made by Harry Johnson at 11:31am. Canon Charlie Camlin seconded. Motion carried.

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Addendum 1 - Statistical Report

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Addendum 2-Diocesan Financial Statements

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Addendum 3- Certificates of Election

Bishop Walter Banek

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