Three-Streams

Update from the Communications Office of Navajoland- April 30, 2025

Building on the momentum from the overwhelming acclamation of the House of Deputies and the concurrence of the House of Bishops at the 81st General Convention of The Episcopal Church—approving our petition to become a Missionary Diocese in June 2024—we have been prayerfully and diligently preparing for the next steps in our journey.

Many hours have been spent gathering, reflecting, editing, and shaping what we now call The Three Streams. These three vital structures—our Vision and Mission Statement, Navajoland Constitution and Canons, and the process for electing a Bishop—represent the living foundation of our Missionary Diocese.

The First Stream: Vision and Mission Statement

This stream is flowing strongly, grounding us in shared purpose. Across Navajoland, we recite the Mission Statement during Sunday worship and in our homes. Friends throughout The Episcopal Church join us in this affirmation of our call.

The Second Stream: Constitution and Canons

The second stream flows gently but with deep intention. We are preparing to vote on the acceptance of our Constitution and Canons—documents lovingly crafted by many hands and hearts, shaped to reflect our unique identity and spiritual journey. These texts carry the hopes of our congregations, seeking both stability and new growth in our shared autonomy.

The Third Stream: The Election of a Bishop

Now, the third stream begins to trickle to life. Our Standing Committee, through prayer and discernment, has appointed a Bishop Search Committee that reflects the rich diversity and wisdom of our diocese.

Together with a Bishop Search Consultant, this group will create a diocesan profile that tells our story and outlines the qualities we seek in a bishop. They will also engage and educate our congregations about the ministry of a bishop and the election process. This team will receive nominations and prepare a slate of candidates for election by a Special Electing Convention, anticipated for December 2025 or January 2026.

We are pleased to introduce the dedicated individuals who have committed themselves to this holy work:

Chairs:

Chairperson: Marianita Chee, All Saints’ Church, Farmington, NM

Assistant Chair: The Rev. Carol Tookey, St. Luke’s in the Desert, Huerfano, NM

Members:

Georgia Buck, St. Mark’s Church, Coal Mine, NM

Lilly Henderson, St. John the Baptizer, Montezuma Creek, UT

Evelyn Kaniatobe, St. John the Baptizer, Montezuma Creek, UT

Rev. Paula Henson, St. John the Baptizer, Montezuma Creek, UT

Consultant:

The Rev. Ann Hallisey

We invite you to participate in this sacred process as much as you can. Let us walk together, rooted in prayer and community, as we prepare for our first bishop election in the Missionary Diocese of Navajoland.

We can only imagine the power and grace that will surge when all Three Streams converge, propelling us into a deeper river of Firsts.

Please continue to seek God’s guidance and blessing on this journey, both in your personal prayers and in the worship life of your congregation.