The Episcopal Diocese of Utah

The Diocesan Vitality Initiative

The Diocesan Vitality Initiative (DVI) is a collaborative movement designed to shift our shared life from a model of regulation and maintenance to one of formation and mission. Grounded in the Book of Acts, we believe that church vitality is found where joy, fellowship, and the movement of the Holy Spirit intersect with our strategic stewardship.

By organizing our work into "fractals"—interconnected ministry teams—we ensure that no congregation or leader walks alone. This methodology allows us to replicate healthy patterns across the diocese, ensuring that every branch of our work remains rooted in the same Christ-centered DNA.

The 4 C's Methodology

Coaching

Providing monthly team meetings to fuel awareness, accountability, and spiritual support for leaders.

Context

Leveraging unique challenges and opportunities—from urban centers to rural outposts—to ensure local relevance.

Collaboration

Harnessing the genius of the whole diocese, moving away from "siloed" ministry toward a common good.

Cohort

Pooling wisdom through experiential learning and peer-groups to navigate the changing landscape of the Church.

"Surprise is a sign of vitality. If we are not being surprised by what the Spirit is doing, we are probably just following our own plans."
— Bishop Michael Hunn / DVI Spiritual Foundation
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Vitality Fractal

Details

PURPOSE

TEAM MEMBERS
VITALITY
Congregational
Financial
Discipleship
Evangelism
PRIDE
Clergy Dev

What is a Fractal?

A fractal is a complex pattern where each individual part resembles the greater whole. Whether you look at a single leaf or the entire tree, the design remains the same.

The Goal: To create systems emblematic of our core DNA. By utilizing a fractal structure, our administrative leadership, financial transparency, and community evangelism are all interconnected expressions of the same Christ-centered vitality.

Guided by Vision

The Rev. Dani Lee

Missioner for Congregational Vitality
Genesis Fractal Congregational Fractal

As the Vicar of St. Mary’s in Provo, Dani provides a vital link between the Genesis Fractal (lead planning) and the Congregational Vitality Fractal. Her work ensures that diocesan systems remain responsive to the lived experience of our congregations.

The Strategic Fractals

Congregational

Purpose & Focus

Directly walking alongside congregations to increase church health. This team manages the Vitality Database, organizes regional "Vitality Days," and supports vestries in identifying unique missional opportunities.

The Rev. Dani Lee David Skorut Don Wood

Financial

Purpose & Focus

Shifting from financial regulation to missional support. Focuses on vestry financial literacy, best practices for discretionary funds, and managing the TENS stewardship resources for the diocese.

Bill Potts John DePaul Terry Palmer

Discipleship

Purpose & Focus

Dedicated to the spiritual health and formation of our leaders. This fractal manages clergy retreats, lay discernment processes, and specialized training sessions with partners like Dr. Chad Ford.

The Rev. Canon Jeff Stevenson, HoSM The Rev. Dave Sakrison The Rt. Rev. Phyllis A. Spiegel

Evangelism

Purpose & Focus

Engaging our Episcopal identity in the public square. This team leads our presence at Pride festivals, organizes social justice panels, and equips congregations to share their story with the wider community.

Terry Palmer Volunteer Team Leaders The Rev. Dani Lee