Greetings,
 
In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit: One God. Amen.
 
I am writing to share with you that I am one of five candidates nominated for the Seventeenth Bishop Diocesan of the Episcopal Diocese of New York. The possibility of deepening relationships among the clergy, laity, and larger community in New York resonates with my desire to live more fully into the resurrection power of Jesus Christ. 
I ask that you pray for Saint Ambrose, the Diocese of New York, and my family to listen for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I am humbled to be a part of this process. If elected, I would have the opportunity to return to the diocese that prepared me for ministry in seminary and field education church internship as well as played a pivotal role in my formation as a deacon and priest.
 
The process to call a bishop begins as a confidential process, with applicants signing a confidentiality agreement. After the Standing Committee votes on the proposed slate submitted by the Committee to Elect a Bishop is when the process becomes public. This is different from the process to elect a rector where the sole candidate is public only after the letter of agreement is signed by the bishop, rector, and wardens. The election of a bishop in The Episcopal Church is a public process of discernment building up to an election. The laity and clergy vote following several months of holy listening and deep discernment. The Diocese of New York will hold its election at a special convention on December 3.
 
I invite your prayers during this time. God is present and will continue to do a great work at Saint Ambrose. Jesus reminds us in John 15 to abide in his love. It is that abiding love that sustains people during a season of discernment. Please pray that God will give us all wisdom and listening hearts to delight in God’s will.
 
Faithfully,
The Rev’d Jemonde Taylor