A Guide to Ministry & Visitations
Episcopal Diocese of Idaho
The Bishop's Visitation: A Ministry of Connection
The Bishop's annual visit is more than a canonical requirement; it's a vital pastoral and apostolic ministry. Especially in a diocese with vast distances, this time together is crucial for celebrating our shared life and strengthening our mission.
The Multifaceted Goals of a Visit
This chart illustrates the key areas of focus during the Bishop's time with your parish. It's a time for celebration, problem-solving, guidance, and empowering local ministry.
Your Visitation Preparation Checklist
Follow this timeline to ensure a smooth and meaningful visitation. Click on each step for more details.
6 Months Before the Visit
Confirm the Date:
The Diocesan office plans schedules a year out. Contact the office six months in advance to confirm your parish is still on the Bishop's calendar. Once confirmed, mark it on all parish calendars.
The Month Before
Plan the Liturgy:
- Choose readings from the Revised Common Lectionary.
- Identify any candidates for baptism, confirmation, or reception.
- Begin preparing candidates and identifying sponsors.
- Communicate the chosen readings to the Diocesan office.
The Week Of the Visit
Submit the Visitation Form:
This is a critical step. The form, with all liturgical details and candidate names, must be sent to the Diocesan office. This allows the Bishop adequate time to prepare a sermon tailored to your parish.
Deadline:
5
Days Before Visit
Day of the Visit
Final Preparations:
- Arrange for confirmands/reception candidates to meet the Bishop 30 minutes before the service.
- Have name cards ready for each confirmand, with phonetic spelling if needed.
- Ensure sponsors are present and understand their role.
- Designate the loose offering for the Bishop's Discretionary Fund.
After the Visit
Follow-Up:
Mail a check for the loose offering directly to the Diocesan office. Do not give cash or an envelope to the Bishop.
Focus on the Sacraments & Stewardship
The Bishop's visit is a special occasion for baptisms and confirmations. Proper preparation ensures these sacraments are joyful for the candidates and the entire congregation.
Confirmations & Receptions
Candidates meet with the Bishop 30 minutes prior to the service for a private conversation.
Sponsor Preference
2
Sponsors Per Candidate
Sponsors can be clergy, wardens, family, or other church members, and one person can sponsor multiple candidates.
Baptisms
The Bishop will preside at all baptisms during the visit, assisted by local clergy if present. The same preference for two sponsors applies.