Governance
Our Constitution and Canons, revised 12 November 2011, speak boldly to build unity among these varying ecclesial structures and to tear down the institutional walls that separate us.
Canon III
Clergy and Laity in Other JurisdictionsThose clergy and Laity within the boundaries of The Gulf Atlantic Diocese who are in canonical relationship or partnership with the Anglican Church in North America but are under other jurisdictional relationships (e.g. Anglican Mission in America, Reformed Episcopal Church) may be welcomed into partnership with this Diocese upon request to the Bishop or Ecclesiastical authority. They shall be accorded full participation in the shared life and ministry of this Diocese with the exceptions of serving on the Standing Committee, electing members of the Standing Committee or electing a Bishop. They may determine their representation to the Synod up to the limits as prescribed by the Canons.
The Gulf Atlantic Diocese is governed by Bishop Neil Lebhar; an elected Standing Committee of three clergy and three lay members; and a Diocesan Council with a total of fifteen appointed and elected members.
The Constitution & Canons envision a model focused on ministry imperatives identified at the local level. Currently we have identified five Deaneries with clergy and lay oversight for each. Each Deanery will represent a cluster of geographically contiguous churches with the primary goal to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ and to change the hearts of a hurting world.
All Gulf Atlantic Diocese clergy meet together on a bi-monthly schedule, excluding the summer months, for prayer, fellowship, and continuing education.