2011 Diocesan Nominees
2011 Diocesan Nominees Diocesan Council (2 Year Term) Elected by Convention: Elect 3 Clergy at Large
The Rev. David Hefling St. John’s, Canandaigua As a rector of a parish currently defining its own mission, ministry and direction, I’m interested in being part of Council to share in the reshaping of our diocesan resource structure and allocation of those resources to support all parish mission and ministry. Council’s decisions and direction in these challenging times are of great significance as we move forward as a Diocese, and I believe I can support and assist with my experience and interest.
The Rev. Andrew Johnson Incarnation, Penfield I am excited about continuing as a member of Diocesan Council. As a former member of the editorial board of Living Water, I am familiar with every corner of our diocese. I am enthusiastic about the strategies we are employing to identify ministry needs in our metropolitan area and consolidate congregational efforts to respond to the; this approach can work throughout the diocese. I think my experience and listening ability can help make this work.
The Rev. Stephen Meister Northeast Partners Episcopal Ministry I have served the last two years on the Diocesan Council. I have helped in the reshaping of the diocesan resources. This expertise would be a value to continue on the Diocesan Council for the next two years as a clergy-at-large representative. I have served on the council in the past as a representative from the Northwest District as a lay person.
Trustees (3 Year Term) Elected by Convention: Elect 3 Clergy or Lay
Thomas Bennett St. John’s, Clifton Springs My parish experience is warden, vestry, Sunday School Leader and teacher, finance committee and property committee chair. I have been a member of five non- profit boards and Interim Executive Director at St Paul’s Community Development Corporation. I have been the Co Chair of the Antiracism Committee, Chair of the Nominations 2011 Committee and a member of the Stewardship Committee. I have over thirty years experience at AT&T and the Army.
Gilbert Ferris St. Thomas, Bath Serving others is our purpose in life, as Christians. One way to do this is to help administer the Diocese and enable programs that help parishes and people. I have served as a trustee of the Diocese for 10 years. I still have the time, energy and desire to continue my efforts for another term. As we all weather this current economic storm, I hope to bring the voice of the smalltown parish and the needs of rural portions of the Diocese to Rochester. I would appreciate your vote again. Richard Frey St. Luke’s, Brockport I am currently a Trustee and seeking reelection. In 30 years at my home church (St. Luke’s Brockport) I’ve served in many positions and been active both in times of financial health and times of struggle. My past diocesan experience includes service as Chair of the Commission on Ministry, and I currently serve on the Prison Ministry Advisory Board.
Lyn Omphroy Incarnation, Penfield I’m a “cradle Episcopalian” who grew up with the attitude of always giving & serving others. I have served on Incarnation’s Vestry and over the last 10 years have served as Treasurer. Completing my 1st term as member of the Board of Trustees, where I have held the position of Audit Committee Chair and Board Vice Chair. In addition to my work with the Church, I’m a Finance Manager with Xerox responsible for monitoring and planning expenses.
Standing Committee (4 Year Term) Elected by Convention: Elect 1 Clergy and 1 Lay The Very Rev. J. Brad Benson St. Thomas, Bath and Good Shepherd, Savona I have served in this diocese for 17 years including COM, Council, General Convention Deputy, Dean of the SED, and various committees and task forces. I’m seeking re-election to the Standing Committee, of which I have previously been the president, so that I may continue to help monitor the strategic direction to which this diocese is being called. I believe God has very big dreams in store for us.
Jay Benesh St. Peter’s, Henrietta I’ve been an Episcopalian within the Rochester Diocese for nearly 20 years. I have worshiped with several congregations & served on two vestries as well as several commissions. Today, I am a member of St. Peter’s Henrietta and currently serve a Sr. Warden. I am a NYS licensed real estate broker & realtor. My professional experience includes work within small and large corporations as well as being a small business owner.
Commission on Ministry (3) Year term Elected by Convention: Elect (2) Clergy The Rev. Peter F. Bryant Allegany County Episcopal Ministry As a product of the Total Common Ministry movement, implemented under Bishop Burrill, I have experienced firsthand an alternative entrance into ministry through a Canon 9 ordination. For the past several years I have served nine congregations, in two different clusters in Allegany and Steuben counties. Over the last 29 years I have served as a vestryman, warden and priest. This accumulated experience enables me to bring valuable insights on the needs of small congregations to the Commission on Ministry.
The Rev. David Hefling St. John’s, Canandaigua As a rector of a parish currently defining its own mission, ministry and direction, I’m interested in being part of Council to share in the reshaping of our diocesan resource structure and allocation of those resources to support all parish mission and ministry. Council’s decisions and direction in these challenging times are of great significance as we move forward as a Diocese, and I believe I can support and assist with my experience and interest.
Commission on Ministry (3) Year term Elected by Convention: Elect (2) Lay Ms. Claire Crump Christ Church, Pittsford ● 50+ year active member of Christ Church with a wide variety of clergy, 43 years as a mentor to Girl Scout adults and young people ● Years of teaching have helped me realize the qualities needed for people in the helping fields ● Gaining knowledge of the wider church as a two time diocesan delegate, I see the importance of aiding the diocese in discerning, recruiting, and nurturing talented new clergy to meet the present and future needs of today’s church
Judy Shepherd St. Peter’s, Henrietta I would be honored to serve on the Diocesan Commission on Ministry. Some of my varied experiences include Warden, Vestry, served on a Discernment committee, Lay Eucharistic Minister, volunteer Worship Leader at Episcopal Church Home, and prison ministry (adolescent boys, coed adult and women). Have an Anglican Rosary ministry and am a member of an Education for Ministry group. I ran my own word processing business for 25 years. Thank you for your consideration.
Morton “Mort” Nace, Jr. St. Thomas, Rochester Hands-on experience involving laity in a parish and diocese, helping to facilitate and support their ministries in the world (at work and daily situations).
Alternate Deputy to General Convention (3) Year Term: Elected by Convention Elect (4) Clergy and (4) Lay The Rev. Canon Peter W. Peters St. Luke and St. Simon Cyrene I have served as both a rector, chair of public policy committee, member of council, and lately as canon for vocational and leadership development. I am committed to serve in the best possible way that I can with a passion to see the good news of Jesus Christ offered to all and the justice of God’s Kingdom embracing all, especially those who are, or have been at the margins of both society and church.
The Rev. Kit Tobin St. Matthew’s, Horseheads I have connected with many of you as Safe Church and AntiRacism Trainer, as Southeast District Diocesan Council member, Diocesan Evangelism/Communications Committee and as a straight ally for Oasis Rochester. I have written and spoken for several resolutions and served twice at General Convention working for Recovery Ministries. Currently I work as supply priest throughout the Diocese. All of this has given me a good sense of who we are – our needs and our vision for the future.
Ms. Joan Mistretta St. Mark’s, Penn Yan A lifetime Episcopalian, I have served in most capacities available to lay persons: Sunday School teacher, lector, vestry, Commission on Ministry, district delegate. My life and professional experience have taught me thoughtful discernment. I also count thirty years as a clergy spouse as a full time volunteer position. None of this is unique to me, but I am willing to offer what I don have to the church I love, as needed.
Sarah Stoll St. George’s Hilton Currently I am Senior Warden at St. George’s. I have held numerous positions within the church over the years. My qualifications to serve as an Alternate Deputy to General Convention include my background as a lifelong Episcopalian, member of Diocesan Council since 2001 and a thirtyfour year career as an elementary school educator. I am available to offer my administrative expertise and strong dedication to the growth of the Episcopal Church.
The Rev. David Hefling St. John’s, Canandaigua As a rector of a parish currently defining its own mission, ministry and direction, I’m interested in being part of Council to share in the reshaping of our diocesan resource structure and allocation of those resources to support all parish mission and ministry. Council’s decisions and direction in these challenging times are of great significance as we move forward as a Diocese, and I believe I can support and assist with my experience and interest.
The Rev. Andrew Johnson Incarnation, Penfield I am excited about continuing as a member of Diocesan Council. As a former member of the editorial board of Living Water, I am familiar with every corner of our diocese. I am enthusiastic about the strategies we are employing to identify ministry needs in our metropolitan area and consolidate congregational efforts to respond to the; this approach can work throughout the diocese. I think my experience and listening ability can help make this work.
The Rev. Stephen Meister Northeast Partners Episcopal Ministry I have served the last two years on the Diocesan Council. I have helped in the reshaping of the diocesan resources. This expertise would be a value to continue on the Diocesan Council for the next two years as a clergy-at-large representative. I have served on the council in the past as a representative from the Northwest District as a lay person.
Trustees (3 Year Term) Elected by Convention: Elect 3 Clergy or Lay
Thomas Bennett St. John’s, Clifton Springs My parish experience is warden, vestry, Sunday School Leader and teacher, finance committee and property committee chair. I have been a member of five non- profit boards and Interim Executive Director at St Paul’s Community Development Corporation. I have been the Co Chair of the Antiracism Committee, Chair of the Nominations 2011 Committee and a member of the Stewardship Committee. I have over thirty years experience at AT&T and the Army.
Gilbert Ferris St. Thomas, Bath Serving others is our purpose in life, as Christians. One way to do this is to help administer the Diocese and enable programs that help parishes and people. I have served as a trustee of the Diocese for 10 years. I still have the time, energy and desire to continue my efforts for another term. As we all weather this current economic storm, I hope to bring the voice of the smalltown parish and the needs of rural portions of the Diocese to Rochester. I would appreciate your vote again. Richard Frey St. Luke’s, Brockport I am currently a Trustee and seeking reelection. In 30 years at my home church (St. Luke’s Brockport) I’ve served in many positions and been active both in times of financial health and times of struggle. My past diocesan experience includes service as Chair of the Commission on Ministry, and I currently serve on the Prison Ministry Advisory Board.
Lyn Omphroy Incarnation, Penfield I’m a “cradle Episcopalian” who grew up with the attitude of always giving & serving others. I have served on Incarnation’s Vestry and over the last 10 years have served as Treasurer. Completing my 1st term as member of the Board of Trustees, where I have held the position of Audit Committee Chair and Board Vice Chair. In addition to my work with the Church, I’m a Finance Manager with Xerox responsible for monitoring and planning expenses.
Standing Committee (4 Year Term) Elected by Convention: Elect 1 Clergy and 1 Lay The Very Rev. J. Brad Benson St. Thomas, Bath and Good Shepherd, Savona I have served in this diocese for 17 years including COM, Council, General Convention Deputy, Dean of the SED, and various committees and task forces. I’m seeking re-election to the Standing Committee, of which I have previously been the president, so that I may continue to help monitor the strategic direction to which this diocese is being called. I believe God has very big dreams in store for us.
Jay Benesh St. Peter’s, Henrietta I’ve been an Episcopalian within the Rochester Diocese for nearly 20 years. I have worshiped with several congregations & served on two vestries as well as several commissions. Today, I am a member of St. Peter’s Henrietta and currently serve a Sr. Warden. I am a NYS licensed real estate broker & realtor. My professional experience includes work within small and large corporations as well as being a small business owner.
Commission on Ministry (3) Year term Elected by Convention: Elect (2) Clergy The Rev. Peter F. Bryant Allegany County Episcopal Ministry As a product of the Total Common Ministry movement, implemented under Bishop Burrill, I have experienced firsthand an alternative entrance into ministry through a Canon 9 ordination. For the past several years I have served nine congregations, in two different clusters in Allegany and Steuben counties. Over the last 29 years I have served as a vestryman, warden and priest. This accumulated experience enables me to bring valuable insights on the needs of small congregations to the Commission on Ministry.
The Rev. David Hefling St. John’s, Canandaigua As a rector of a parish currently defining its own mission, ministry and direction, I’m interested in being part of Council to share in the reshaping of our diocesan resource structure and allocation of those resources to support all parish mission and ministry. Council’s decisions and direction in these challenging times are of great significance as we move forward as a Diocese, and I believe I can support and assist with my experience and interest.
Commission on Ministry (3) Year term Elected by Convention: Elect (2) Lay Ms. Claire Crump Christ Church, Pittsford ● 50+ year active member of Christ Church with a wide variety of clergy, 43 years as a mentor to Girl Scout adults and young people ● Years of teaching have helped me realize the qualities needed for people in the helping fields ● Gaining knowledge of the wider church as a two time diocesan delegate, I see the importance of aiding the diocese in discerning, recruiting, and nurturing talented new clergy to meet the present and future needs of today’s church
Judy Shepherd St. Peter’s, Henrietta I would be honored to serve on the Diocesan Commission on Ministry. Some of my varied experiences include Warden, Vestry, served on a Discernment committee, Lay Eucharistic Minister, volunteer Worship Leader at Episcopal Church Home, and prison ministry (adolescent boys, coed adult and women). Have an Anglican Rosary ministry and am a member of an Education for Ministry group. I ran my own word processing business for 25 years. Thank you for your consideration.
Morton “Mort” Nace, Jr. St. Thomas, Rochester Hands-on experience involving laity in a parish and diocese, helping to facilitate and support their ministries in the world (at work and daily situations).
Alternate Deputy to General Convention (3) Year Term: Elected by Convention Elect (4) Clergy and (4) Lay The Rev. Canon Peter W. Peters St. Luke and St. Simon Cyrene I have served as both a rector, chair of public policy committee, member of council, and lately as canon for vocational and leadership development. I am committed to serve in the best possible way that I can with a passion to see the good news of Jesus Christ offered to all and the justice of God’s Kingdom embracing all, especially those who are, or have been at the margins of both society and church.
The Rev. Kit Tobin St. Matthew’s, Horseheads I have connected with many of you as Safe Church and AntiRacism Trainer, as Southeast District Diocesan Council member, Diocesan Evangelism/Communications Committee and as a straight ally for Oasis Rochester. I have written and spoken for several resolutions and served twice at General Convention working for Recovery Ministries. Currently I work as supply priest throughout the Diocese. All of this has given me a good sense of who we are – our needs and our vision for the future.
Ms. Joan Mistretta St. Mark’s, Penn Yan A lifetime Episcopalian, I have served in most capacities available to lay persons: Sunday School teacher, lector, vestry, Commission on Ministry, district delegate. My life and professional experience have taught me thoughtful discernment. I also count thirty years as a clergy spouse as a full time volunteer position. None of this is unique to me, but I am willing to offer what I don have to the church I love, as needed.
Sarah Stoll St. George’s Hilton Currently I am Senior Warden at St. George’s. I have held numerous positions within the church over the years. My qualifications to serve as an Alternate Deputy to General Convention include my background as a lifelong Episcopalian, member of Diocesan Council since 2001 and a thirtyfour year career as an elementary school educator. I am available to offer my administrative expertise and strong dedication to the growth of the Episcopal Church.
