The Episcopal Church in Alabama

09/11/2026

Congratulations to the recipients of the 2026–2027 ECW Scholarships!

This academic year, the Episcopal Church Women awarded $9,850 in scholarships to 17 students pursuing higher education across the country. Scholarships were awarded based on financial need, church involvement, and academic merit.

Thank you to everyone whose generosity makes these scholarships possible each year. Because of your support, the Alabama ECW has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to students over the last decade.

09/09/2026

"Grace and peace, everybody..."

Bishop Richard sends greetings from Cleveland. This Sunday, he will join the saints at the Church of the Holy Cross in Trussville for his annual visit. All are welcome.

09/08/2026

HAPPENING #89 is coming to Birmingham — and it's for YOU.

Calling all 10th–12th graders! Come share, laugh, learn, and grow alongside other young people from October 16–18, 2026, at Saint Luke's Church.

The application deadline is Saturday, September 19, 2026—don't wait; spots fill up fast.

Apply now: happeninginal.weebly.com/applications.html

09/07/2026

"Almighty God, you have so linked our lives one with another that all we do affects, for good or ill, all other lives: So guide us in the work we do, that we may do it not for self alone, but for the common good; and, as we seek a proper return for our own labor, make us mindful of the rightful aspirations of other workers, and arouse our concern for those who are out of work; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen."

—The Book of Common Prayer, p. 261

09/04/2026

Please join us in welcoming Kana Goldsmith back to Carpenter House as Interim Canon for Parish Vitality and Vocations, effective September 1.

“Kana is deeply trusted by those who have worked closely with her, and she brings a love for our Lord, our diocese, and our clergy,” Bishop Richard shared in a statement to the diocesan community.

In this role, Kana will oversee the discernment process, clergy programs, and parish vitality. She will work especially closely with small parishes as they develop strategies to share the Gospel in word and deed and strengthen their financial sustainability.

“I am blessed to walk alongside congregations and individuals as they discover God’s call and live more fully into their mission,” Kana said. “My hope is to make space for the Holy Spirit to work, accompanying others as they encounter Christ walking beside them and experience their hearts being set on fire with his love.”

You can reach Canon Kana Goldsmith at [email protected] or 205-358-9226.

09/03/2026

"Grace and peace, everybody..."

Bishop Richard invites you to join the Choir of the Cathedral Church of the Advent for Compline, a short and beautiful service of prayer at the close of the day.

Can’t join? The Order for Compline is found on page 127 of The Book of Common Prayer. You can pray it wherever you are.

09/03/2026

Can you imagine what a reunion of Camp McDowell summer staff from the 1980s might look like?

A few weeks ago, 40 former staff members traveled from 12 states to return to the place that still ranks among their favorites. Though the years had carried them in many directions, their stories shared a common thread: Camp had shaped who they became.

In this reflection, Camp McDowell CEO and Executive Director, the Rev. Derrick Hill, explores “the enduring gift of Camp”—the faith, belonging, love, and awareness of God’s presence that people carry with them into the world.

Read the full reflection: https://www.dioala.org/the-enduring-gift-of-camp-by-the-rev-derrick-hill/

09/02/2026

"What Kind of Legacy Will We Leave?"

At their August retreat, the DioAla Youth Department explored what it means to be kind in a world that doesn’t always reward it. Using Dolly Parton and Kermit the Frog’s rendition of “Everyday People,” the group reflected on how ordinary people can change the world—not only through big accomplishments, but also through the way they treat the people around them. They reflected on what the world rewards versus what God calls us to: being kind, loving others, serving God, and caring for our communities.

The youth brought those reflections to life in this collaborative collage. Each square is filled with words and images representing the purposeful people they hope to become and the legacy of goodness and kindness they want to leave behind.

The finished piece is a colorful reminder that everyday people can make a difference through everyday acts of love and kindness.

08/31/2026

08/31/2026

What a joy it was to have Bishop Jake Owensby of The Episcopal Diocese of Western Louisiana spend a day with us at Carpenter House last week.

Through the College for Bishops, new bishops receive formation and support as they begin their episcopacy. Bishop Owensby has been assigned as Bishop Richard’s coach throughout this process, offering wisdom, encouragement, and guidance along the way.

Bishop Owensby also serves as Chancellor of the University of the South in Sewanee—and he has a special connection to Alabama! From 1998 to 2003, he was the rector of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Huntsville.

We thank God for his visit and our shared ministries.