Two members of the Standing Committee of the Episcopal Church in Connecticut will be stepping down in the coming months. On behalf of all of ECCT, we offer our deepest gratitude to Zachary Kohl and Madeline Anderson for their faithful service to our diocese. According to ECCT’s Canon IX Section 2, “In case of a vacancy in the Standing Committee, the remaining members shall have power to fill such vacancy until the next Annual Convention, at which time the Convention shall elect a member to fill the vacancy for the unexpired term.”
Thus, the Standing Committee is seeking lay persons who are interested in serving until ECCT’s next Annual Convention (Oct. 24-25). Anyone who wishes to be considered is encouraged to complete the nominee application form on ECCT’s website no later than May 1.
What is the Standing Committee?
The Standing Committee has three main functions: oversight, advice, and in the absence of any bishop, ecclesiastical authority of the diocese. The committee must consent to elections of bishops throughout The Episcopal Church; to matters regarding disposition of church property including any encumbrances, openings, or closings, to candidacy and ordination of deacons and priests; and to appointments to major boards. They also may meet regularly with the diocesan bishop as a confidential council of advice. Members of Standing Committee are elected at Diocesan Convention
When does the Standing Committee meet?
The Standing Committee generally meets at 6:30 PM on the third Thursday of the month, except in October or November when they may meet on a Saturday after the conclusion of the Annual Convention. (Meetings are held in July and August only as needed). Four times a year, the Standing Committee meets on a Saturday from 9 AM—12 PM with other groups that make up the Joint Leadership of ECCT.