New Bishops & Spouses/Partners Conference
Held in January each year, the New Bishops and Spouses/Partners Conference is designed for bishops elected in the previous calendar year and their spouses to gather for five days of community building, reflection and support.
The conference’s primary purpose is to assist the participants in examining inherent transition issues as they experience a new location, new expectations, and new responsibilities. Bishops begin building relationships with other newly-elected bishops in their bishops’ “class.” Spouses/Partners form similar relationships with those who are in attendance. The Presiding Bishop and spouse join the group for a portion of this important transitional resource.
The conference provides “time out” for busy couples and offers insights into the common life experiences shared by all bishops. Faculty members share their personal experiences and discuss relevant research findings.
Past participants have gained the following from this conference:
- Refined clarity with spouse after a very busy and stressful transition
- Relationships, resources, renewed confidence
- Knowledge about the rhythm of the House of Bishops and other events
- Commitment to renewed spiritual discipline
- Confidence in my role as spouse
- Commitment to renewed relationship with my spouse
- I’m not in this alone. We have a lot of support from the Episcopal Church.