Voices of Transformation and Renewal

In November 2011, ECF Vital Practices attended

Transformation and Renewal Conference in Hendersonville, North Carolina. This conference focused on congregational development in Black Episcopal churches and was sponsored by the Office of Black Ministries, the Union of Black Episcopalians and Kanuga Conference Centers. 

While there, ECF Vital Practices had the opportunity to interview nine leaders from across the Episcopal Church about their own ministries and best leadership practices. We encourage you to explore these leaders' insights on transformative ministry.




“The lesson that I’ve learned is that ministry is not done alone... and that ministry is an opportunity to put yourself out there and try on some things that you haven’t thought within your grasp, and push yourself listening for the leading of God.”

The Rev. Karen B. Montagno
Director of Congregational Resources & Training / Green Grants Initiative Coordinator
The Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts


“As a leader, I have to sit back and watch and see what the Holy Spirit is doing.”

The Rev. Terrance Taylor
Parish Missioner at St. Agnes Church, Miami
Priest-in-Charge at Church of the Transfiguration, Opa Locka, FL
Priest-in-Charge at St. Kevins, Opa Locka, FL



“I believe that we’re in a post-denominational era.”

John Harris
President of the Union of Black Episcopalians
Treasurer, Diocese of Southern Ohio
Member of St. Simon’s Episcopal in Lincoln Heights, Cincinnati, OH


“The teams have been formed as far as building the church and I see a bright future for Corpus Christi.”

Fran Speights and Joan Lambert
Members of Corpus Christi, Okahumpka, FL


“One thing I learned as a young cleric is that a lot of things you learn in seminary can’t be taught, a lot of it has to do with heart and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.”

The Rev. Angelo S. Wildgoose
Vicar of St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church, Nashville, TN


“My style of leadership is to first set the bar and then encourage them to develop their own leadership abilities.”

The Rev. Walter Bryan
Church of the Good Shepherd, Tryon, NC


“We don’t give up on anyone and because we don’t the community never gives up on us.”

The Rev. Marcia M. Beam
Priest-in-Charge at St. Matthews, Delray Beach, FL


“I think one of the most important things is to listen to what peoples’ needs are, and help them articulate what it is they might be seeking.”

Dr. Roxanna Anderson
Member of St. Matthews, Delray Beach, FL

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