UTAH DIOCESAN CONVENTION 2025
"Abundant in Spirit" | Oct. 17-19, 2025
2025 Diocesan Convention Theme:
"Abundant in Spirit"
Welcome to the official website of the Episcopal Diocese of Utah’s 2025 Utah Diocesan Convention. This site contains official details such as the solicitation and posting of resolutions, the forms for nominations, reports, and other official information.
The 2025 Diocesan Convention will feature services, talks from Bishop Phyllis Spiegel, a keynote presentation, and several engaging classes on important topics on being “Abundant in Spirit.” Information and a schedule will be released in coming weeks.
For guests seeking lodging, the Diocese will be securing a number of hotel rooms at discounted group rates. Please stay tuned for more information.
What's Happening at Convention
Delegates, clergy, and all will gather on the shared campus grounds this October for workshops, worship, and community time in spaces like the Cathedral sanctuary and the ERCC’s various meeting rooms. Spiritual activities, workshops, and hospitality events will keep the energy high, while the Cathedral hosts key moments like the Bishop’s Address and the Festival Eucharist. The 2025 Utah Diocesan Convention promises to be a lively mix of business, learning, and joyful connection in a beautiful setting.
The 2025 Diocesan Convention will be hosted at...
The Cathedral Church of St. Mark & The Episcopal Retreat & Conference Center
The 2025 Diocesan Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Utah will take place at the Episcopal Retreat and Conference Center and the Cathedral Church of St. Mark, both located in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah. The ERCC is situated at 75 South 200 East, offering modern meeting spaces and lodging, while the historic Cathedral Church of St. Mark stands nearby at 231 East 100 South, serving as the spiritual and ceremonial heart of the gathering.
2025 Diocesan Convention Resolutions
Resolution 4 withdraw.
Key Resources
General Convention Downloads
Need Help?
Questions or concerns? Contact communications@episcopal-ut.org
Livestream the 2025 Diocesan Convention
We are pleased to share that the joint sessions of Day 2 of Diocesan Convention will be livestreamed for all to join. The stream will include the Opening Prayer, the Bishop’s Address, our Keynote Speaker, and the Eucharist with the Installation of Officers.
On Day 3, we invite you to worship with us online for the festive Eucharist celebrating the installation of The Rev. Canon Jeff Stevenson, HoSM, as Canon to the Ordinary.
Livestream links will be available here soon. Please check back for updates and join us in prayer and celebration as we gather—both virtually and in spirit—as one diocesan community.
Workshops at the 2025 Diocesan Convention
Spirit-Liberated Word
Led by Lon Young and Chandler Kendall in English and Don Wood in Spanish
Workshop participants will reflect on biblical passages using practices such as lectio divina, breath prayer, and sacred imagination. You will be guided in a reflective reading practice and invited to share insights (if you wish) in a supportive, prayerful environment.
Workshop: Spirit Liberated Word – Lon Young (Convention 2025)
Spirit In Action
Led by Deacon Libby Hunter and Deacon Anita Miner
How does discipleship come alive in acts of justice, mercy, and everyday faithfulness? Participants will engage in brief spiritual exercises (such as Examen or silent listening) to begin discerning where the Spirit might be leading them next.
Lay Ministries that require licensing (TEC)
Outreach Ministries – Diocese of Utah
Tract: Come Holy Spirit, come. Prati
Disciple vs Minister vs Apostle
Journey with the Spirit
Led by Laura Orcutt
Step into the sacred path of the Labyrinth. Whether you are new to the practice or a seasoned pilgrim, this workshop offers a rich opportunity for reflection, healing, and spiritual grounding. Participants will be gently guided through a labyrinth experience (space allowing), with time for silence, intention-setting, and optional sharing.
- Resources for Download Coming Soon
Positions Open for Nomination at Diocesan Convention
Nominations are open for key leadership roles within the diocese. These opportunities allow individuals to contribute their time, skills, and commitment in shaping the work and direction of our shared community. We invite you to put forward names of those who are prepared to serve with dedication and responsibility.
Available Positions
Nominations are open for key leadership roles within the diocese. These opportunities allow individuals to contribute their time, skills, and commitment in shaping the work and direction of our shared community. We invite you to put forward names of those who are prepared to serve with dedication and responsibility.
Diocesan Council – Clergy
- Diocesan Council – Clergy
Diocesan Council – Northern Regional Representative
Diocesan Council – Eastern/Southeastern Regional Representative
Standing Committee – Lay
- Standing Committee – Clergy
Disciplinary Board – Lay
Disciplinary Board – Clergy
Diocesan Treasurer
General Convention Deputy & Alternates (8)
Nomination Resources
Current Nominations
Diocesan Council – Clergy
Name: Deacon Anita Miner
Congregation: All Saints Episcopal Church, SLC
Name: Gabriel Garang Atem
Congregation: All Saints South Sudanese Jieng/Dinka Congregation
Diocesan Council – Northern Regional Representative
Name: Diane Behl
Congregation: St. John’s Episcopal Church, Logan
Diocesan Council – Eastern/Southeastern Regional Representative
Name: Kathy Paulin
Congregation: St. Paul’s, Vernal
Standing Committee – Lay
Name: Stacie Kulp
Congregation: St. James, Midvale
Standing Committee – Clergy
Name: Pamela Archbold
Congregation: St. Luke’s, Park City
Name: Pat Hart
Congregation: St. Peter’s, Clearfield
Disciplinary Board – Lay
Name: Sandra Corp
Congregation: Grace, St. George
Name: Rori Rooker
Congregation: Cathedral Church of St. Mark
Disciplinary Board – Clergy
Name: Pastor Angela Chacon
Congregation: Ascension St. Matthews, Price
Diocesan Treasurer
Name: Melissa Wank
Congregation: St. Paul’s, SLC
General Convention Deputy – Lay
Name: Kristin Madden
Congregation: St. Paul’s, SLC
Name: David Reed
Congregation: St. Paul’s, SLC
Name: Joel Deaton
Congregation: St. Paul’s, SLC
Name: Timothy Higdon
Congregation: St. Luke’s, Park City
Name: Natalie King
Congregation: St. Mary’s, Provo
Name: Branden Burningham
Congregation: Cathedral Church of St. Mark
Name: Garrett Parry
Congregation: Church of the Resurrection
General Convention Deputy – Clergy
Name: The Rev. Gilherme de Azevedo
Congregation: St. Stephen’s/San Esteban
Name: The Rev. Dani Lee
Congregation: St. Mary’s, Provo
Name: The Rev. Isabel Gonzales
Congregation: El Buen Pastor, Ogden
Name: Gabriel Garang Atem
Congregation: All Saints South Sudanese Jieng/Dinka Congregation
About these Positions
Diocesan Council (3-year term): The Diocesan Council oversees the Diocese’s programs, finances, and policies between annual conventions. Made up of elected clergy and lay leaders, the Council ensures that the goals of Convention are carried out, supporting congregations with practical and faithful leadership.
Standing Committee (3-year term): The Standing Committee advises the Bishop and becomes the ecclesiastical authority when the Bishop is absent. It approves ordinations, consents to episcopal elections, and helps guide the Diocese through spiritual and leadership transitions.
Disciplinary Board (3-year term): The Disciplinary Board addresses clergy misconduct under Title IV, using formal procedures like investigations and hearings. It consists of four clergy and three lay members elected by Convention and ensures accountability in disciplinary matters.
General Convention Deputy (term limited to each General Convention): Deputies represent their diocese at General Convention, voting on legislation, budgets, and church policies. Elected by their dioceses, they also report back on Convention actions to keep local leadership informed and engaged.
All elected positions carry three-year terms, with the exception of General Convention Deputies. Deputies serve only for the length of each General Convention cycle and must bring a willingness to study, participate in a Convention Committee if appointed, and apply strong organizational skills.
Hotels for the 2025 Diocesan Convention
Attendees are responsible for making their hotel reservations. The following hotel has been secured for the Convention. The hotel room block is reserved for October 17 and 18, 2025.
1. The Plaza
122 W South Temple, SLC, UT 84101
Contact: Richard Williams 801-606-2410
Reference: The Episcopal Diocese of Utah
King Rooms – $99 per night
Deluxe Double Rooms – $ 99 per night
2. The ERCC- Diocese
75 S 200 East, SLC, UT 84111
801-322-4131
Contact: Gary Lindemann at 801-322-4131
Diocesan Convention Rate – $55.00 per night
Registration Sunday
The Episcopal Diocese of Utah is in the midst of a quiet transformation—one that reflects a deepening commitment to discipleship, vitality, and shared identity across our congregations. This year’s Diocesan Convention is not simply about doing the business of the church; it’s about doing that business in the context of who we are becoming as followers of Jesus.
Convention is evolving. No longer just an annual obligation for a few delegates, it is becoming a place where the spiritual formation of our whole diocesan community can be nourished. It is a time for gathering, listening, growing, and learning together. Through workshops, worship, conversation, and connection, we are building the kind of Church that empowers every voice and invites every person to be seen, heard, and valued.
Registration Sunday—August 10—is our collective first step into that new vision.
On that day, each congregation is invited to register its full convention delegation together, alongside any additional attendees—curious newcomers, lay leaders, spiritual seekers, and anyone else who wants to be part of this movement. This is not simply a logistical exercise. It is a spiritual moment, an intentional act of showing up, standing together, and saying: “We are here. We belong. We are part of this.”
Smaller congregations—who have often felt disconnected or disempowered—are being specifically invited to step forward and claim their place. Their presence matters deeply. Large churches and our Cathedral community are being called to live into their roles as spiritual leaders, not just for their own parishes but for the diocesan body as a whole. Everyone has something to offer—and something to receive.
This year’s convention theme, “Abundant in Spirit,” centers us in that reality. We are a people in motion. We’re moving toward each other. We’re moving toward deeper discipleship. We’re moving toward a Church that reflects the living, liberating love of Christ.
As clergy, your role is vital. On August 10, we ask you to:
- Speak to your congregation—whether from the pulpit, in the bulletin, or during announcements—about this new vision for convention.
- Share your excitement. Share your hope. Share the expectation that this is no longer just about voting; it’s about showing up for one another.
- Appoint a registration lead—a layperson who can collect names, assist with sign-ups, and make sure all delegates and attendees are registered that day (ideally using a shared QR code or registration station).
- Encourage your delegation to review the workshop options and choose not just based on individual preference, but in service to what your church needs to grow. What knowledge will you bring home? How will you disciple others through what you learn?
Key Dates
- Registration Sunday: August 10, 2025 (in every parish)
- Resolutions Due – Monday, August 18, 2025
- Delegate Registration Deadline: September 5, 2025
- Final Registration Deadline (General): September 12, 2025
- Pre-Convention & Regional Meeting – Saturday, September 27, 2025
- Convention Dates: October 17–19, 2025
Registration Sunday is not the end of a process—it’s the beginning of a movement. It is our way of practicing what we preach: that we are one Body, one Spirit in Christ, each of us essential, each of us called.
Let us step boldly into this new way of being Church together.
Convention Reports
- 2025 Camp Tuttle Report
- 2025 Canonical List of Clergy with Assignments
- 2025 Chaplain to the Retired Clergy
- 2025 Intergenerational Convention Report 2025a
- 2025 PPT Convention Report
- Official Acts of the Bishop 2024–2025
- 2025 COPAJ Report
- 2025 ECS Convention Report
- Bishops Staff Salary Disclosure 2025-10-01-1
Candidate and Nominee Biographies
Below you can find the biographies provided for all nominees to the 2025 Diocesan Convention.
Diocesan Council - Clergy
Rev. Gabriel Garang Atem, All Saints South Sudanese Jieng/Dinka Congregation
- Born in Boma, South Sudan, on Christmas Day 1978, Rev. Gabriel’s journey began amid the turmoil of civil war. As one of the Lost Boys of Sudan, he survived immense hardship before finding refuge and purpose through faith. After years in refugee camps in Ethiopia and Kenya, he resettled in the United States in 2001, later moving to Utah where he pursued ministry through the Utah Ministry Formation Program. Ordained in 2016 at All Saints Episcopal Church in Salt Lake City, Rev. Gabriel now serves as Assistant Rector and pastor to the South Sudanese Jieng/Dinka congregation. His ministry extends beyond parish walls, serving on the Diocesan Council, Standing Committee, and the African Descent Ministries Advisory Council. He has twice served as a clergy deputy to General Convention. His life and service reflect faith’s power to heal, unite, and inspire hope. Nominated by The Rev. Mary Janda, St. James.
Rev. Deacon Anita Miner, All Saints Episcopal Church, Salt Lake City
- Deacon Anita has faithfully served on Diocesan Council, originally filling a mid-term vacancy. Her professional experience in finance and her steady presence have proven invaluable to the Council’s work. After prayerful consideration, she has agreed to stand for election to a full term, offering her gifts of discernment and stewardship to continue serving the Diocese. Nominated by The Rt. Rev. Phyllis A. Spiegel, Bishop.
Standing Committee - Lay
Stacie Kulp, St. James, Midvale
- A lifelong Episcopalian, Stacie brings both deep faith and professional expertise to her nomination. At St. James, she has served in leadership roles, including Vestry service during a critical period of transition. Professionally, she has more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience and currently serves as Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Utah Chapter. She is committed to supporting the Diocese’s growth through collaboration and discernment. Nominated by Nancy Tanner, St. James.
Standing Committee - Clergy
- Rev. Pamela seeks to support the Diocese in practical and visionary ways, helping to strengthen shared ministry and vitality. Self-nominated.
- Priest in Charge at St. Peter’s since January 2022, Pat+ is a lifelong Episcopalian who has served in various leadership roles at the Cathedral Church of St. Mark, including organizing the “Blessing of the Bikes” and coordinating logistics for the Bishops’ March Against Gun Violence during the 2015 General Convention. With a career in city administration and as an adjunct instructor at Salt Lake Community College, she brings organizational expertise and collaborative leadership to her ministry. Nominated by Kurt Cook, Cathedral Church of St. Mark.
Disciplinary Board - Lay
Sandra Lee Corp, Grace, St. George
- An attorney and former prosecutor, Sandra offers extensive experience in investigations, evidence analysis, and canon law. Her disciplined, fair-minded approach and commitment to listening deeply equip her to serve with integrity on the Disciplinary Board. Self-nominated.
Rori Rooker, Cathedral Church of St. Mark
- Rori is a compassionate and dedicated leader known for diligence, empathy, and integrity. Her faithful service and sensitivity make her well-suited to the responsibilities of the Disciplinary Board. Nominated by Madalin Rooker, Cathedral Church of St. Mark.
Disciplinary Board - Clergy
Rev. Angela Chacon, Ascension St. Matthew’s, Price
- Rev. Angela brings valuable experience from her military career, along with a deep love of the Church and its people. Her practical insight and pastoral heart make her a strong addition to the Disciplinary Board. Nominated by The Rt. Rev. Phyllis A. Spiegel, Bishop.
Diocesan Treasurer
Melissa Wank, St. Paul’s, Salt Lake City
- No biography provided.
General Convention Deputation - Clergy
Rev. Gabriel Garang Atem, All Saints South Sudanese Jieng/Dinka Congregation
- See bio above. Nominated by The Rev. Mary Janda, St. James.
Rev. Gill de Azevedo, St. Stephen’s/San Esteban
- Fr. Gill brings a strong understanding of church business, budgeting, and canonical structure. His faith and integrity ensure that his decisions at General Convention are grounded in fairness and discernment. Nominated by Sandy Garrard, St. Stephen’s/San Esteban.
Rev. Isabel Gonzalez, El Buen Pastor, Ogden
- Isabel brings extensive ministry experience and valuable bilingual skills to the role. Her inclusive leadership and dedication enrich the diocesan and wider church community. Nominated by The Rev. Lisa Mensinger, Church of the Good Shepherd – El Buen Pastor.
Rev. Dani Lee, St. Mary’s, Provo
- As Vicar of St. Mary’s and Missioner for Congregational Vitality, Rev. Dani bridges parish life and diocesan leadership. Her prior service at General Convention deepened her understanding of the Church’s diversity and mission. She seeks re-election to continue representing the Diocese with clarity, compassion, and engagement. Nominated by Self.
General Convention Deputation - Lay
Branden Burningham, Cathedral Church of St. Mark
- Branden, Chancellor of the Diocese, is a thoughtful and faithful leader whose prior service as a deputy demonstrated deep legislative knowledge and teamwork. His insight and preparation strengthen diocesan representation. Nominated by The Rev. Dani Lee, St. Mary’s.
Joel Deaton, St. Paul’s, Salt Lake City
- A longtime parish and diocesan leader, Joel has served on Vestry, Diocesan Council, and numerous committees, bringing human resources expertise and a strong commitment to discernment and collaboration. Nominated by Dianne Franz, St. Paul’s.
Timothy Higdon, St. Luke’s, Park City
- With extensive experience in national church administration and a current postulant for the priesthood, Timothy offers spiritual depth and institutional knowledge. Nominated by The Rev. Ashley Wright.
Natalie King, St. Mary’s, Provo
- Natalie is a deeply engaged lay leader with a passion for Episcopal liturgy and formation. Her theological grounding and joyful leadership strengthen both local and diocesan life. Nominated by The Rev. Dani Lee, St. Mary’s.
Kristin Madden, St. Paul’s, Salt Lake City
- Kristin has served as deputy to multiple General Conventions and is currently on the Standing Committee. A lifelong member of St. Paul’s, she has served in nearly every parish leadership role and continues to contribute through music, lay ministry, and governance. Nominated by David Reed, St. Paul’s.
Garrett Parry, Church of the Resurrection
- Garrett is committed to faithful service and will make an excellent deputy to General Convention. Nominated by The Rev. Canon Jeff Stevenson, Episcopal Diocese of Utah.
David Reed, St. Paul’s, Salt Lake City
- A seasoned deputy to several General Conventions, David has also served on the Commission on Ministry and the Diocesan Disciplinary Board. His leadership and experience continue to benefit both parish and diocese. Nominated by Kristin Madden, St. Paul’s.
Call to Convention
The Rt. Rev. Phyllis Spiegel has issued a call for the Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Utah to be held at the Episcopal Retreat and Conference Center and the Cathedral Church of St. Mark in Salt Lake City, Utah, from October 18-19, 2025, with a Pre-Convention meeting via Zoom on September 27, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to noon.
This call is made in accordance with the Canons of the Episcopal Diocese of Utah.
The Pre-Convention will focus on explaining resolutions, providing electronic voting instructions, introducing candidates, and sharing other important information. Additionally, Zoom elections for Regional Representatives for the Salt Lake and Eastern/Southeastern regions will take place just before the Pre-Convention.