Prayers are asked for the repose of the soul of the Rt. Rev. Russell Edward Jacobus who died October 24, 2023. He was 79. He is survived by his wife Jerrie, and adult children Penny, Beth and David.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 2nd at 11:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Paul, 51 W. Division St., Fond du Lac, the Rt. Rev. Matt Gunter presiding. A visitation will precede the service from 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Clergy are asked to vest (white stole) in Gulick/Trakel Hall by 10:30 a.m. and process.

Singers are invited to join a Diocesan Choir to remember Bishop Jacobus. Please be ready to rehearse at 9:00 am. Bring choral attire you normally wear in your congregation. 

Clergy and laity may participate in the Bishop’s Psalm Vigil, a gathering to read from the Psalter in shifts while the bishop lies in repose at the Cathedral on Wednesday evening, November 1st, from 6:00 - 11:00 pm. Please reach out to Dean Patrick Perkins if interested or if you have questions, dean@fdlcathedral.org.

While the Cathedral does not currently have the capacity to livestream the service, the Rev. David Simmons, Rector of Bishop Russ’ previous parish (St. Matthias, Waukesha) will livestream the service for us through the diocesan Facebook page at facebook.com/diofdl. 

A reception will be held following the service at the Hotel Retlaw, One N. Main, Fond du Lac,  since we anticipate attendance may exceed the parking near the Cathedral, please consider parking in the public ramp behind the hotel on levels 4-7, prior to the funeral  and walk over to the Cathedral.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the Diocese of Fond du Lac for the Jacobus Continuing Education Fund or the Cathedral of St. Paul for the livestream upgrade project.

Jacobus was born in Milwaukee on September 27, 1944. He was the youngest of three sons of Lester and Sarah Jacobus. He received a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1967 and M.Div. from Nashotah House in 1970. Russ was ordained by Bishop Donald Hallock of Milwaukee to the diaconate on February 21, 1970 and to the priesthood August 22, 1970.

Jacobus was called to be curate at Trinity, Wauwatosa (1970-73). He then accepted the call to become vicar of Grace/Holy Innocents Mission in Hartland which one year later became parish with the name St. Anskar’s with Jacobus as the first rector. In 1980 he was called to be rector of St. Matthias, Waukesha where he served until his election as the Seventh Bishop of the Diocese Fond du Lac. During his ordained ministry in the Diocese of Milwaukee, Russ served as member of many committees and commissions, and was deputy to four consecutive General Conventions starting in 1982.

During “walkabouts” preceding his election, Jacobus was clear about the style he would adopt as a Bishop. He stated his nature was pastoral, not administrative, and if the diocese was looking for an administrator, it should look elsewhere. After being consecrated Bishop of the Diocese of Fond du Lac on May 24, 1994, he was true to his word. His steady approach was to counsel those who needed help. As a primarily pastoral Bishop, it was difficult to deal with the few instances where there was clerical misconduct, but he did so courageously.

When Jacobus began his Episcopate, he wrote a Clarion article that said for the first year he would “just dust,” not make any major change. In the process of dusting, he found the diocese was in a perilous financial condition. As a smaller diocese with a significant town and county contingent, the budget was saddled with support for many missions, leaving few resources for diocesan programs, and without a large endowment. Over his episcopate, the bishop led missions to experiment with alternative styles of ministry, away from a historical model of a priest on a full-time basis for each congregation. He changed the investment philosophy of the Diocesan Common Trust, which at the end of his Episcopate more than doubled while generating increasing income to the diocesan budget and participants. Expense was reduced, endowment income increased, asking from congregations was reduced, leaving more funds at the local level to strengthen their financial positions in their communities. The diocese was more able to support congregations through a variety of ministries, support for common work, and programs including an annual vestry school.

One area Jacobus truly enjoyed was hosting gatherings for clergy and spouses. Along with Jerrie, a variety of venues and themes were seen. A “Mad Regals” dinner saw this group return to the renaissance. A paddle-boat cruise was supplemented by games, both on paper and announced over the loud-speaker. The bishop’s residence hosted both Christmas parties and summer picnics. He also enjoyed hosting dinners for his staff, both paid and volunteer.

The Executive Council of the Episcopal Church held a meeting in the diocese in 1999. As a part of the meeting, Bishop Jacobus presented to Presiding Bishop Frank Griswold the famous “Fond du Lac Circus” photo of the consecration of Reginald Weller in 1900. Pictured is Tikhon who had been invited by Bishop Grafton and would become the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia. Griswold presented this picture to Patriarch Alexy II when he met with him in Moscow later that year.

Issues of sexuality tended to dominate conversations in churches during Jacobus’ episcopate. A particular lightning strike was General Convention 2003 approving an openly gay priest as Bishop of New Hampshire. This led several congregations to leave the Episcopal Church and align with other jurisdictions. One of the great dividends of Jacobus’ pastoral approach was the trust placed in him throughout the diocese and his well-expressed wish to maintain unity of focus on proclaiming the Gospel. In 2004, he made a pastoral visit to every cleric of the diocese during the season of Lent. There was no set agenda, just the opportunity to sit down and chat over a cup of coffee. Although there were substantial segments in the diocese who disagreed with this General Convention action, the bishop was able to accommodate many concerns and hold the Diocese of Fond du Lac together.

There were disappointments. One was the closing of Christ Church, Green Bay. The facility was magnificent, but its physical size combined with a need for much maintenance along with a diminishing membership, put extreme strain on remaining operational. Towards its end it existed with diocesan financial support and many initiatives for growth were tried. None could overcome the shifting demographics of a downtown church and the congregation voted to close. The silver lining was the premises were sold to another denomination providing significant funding to build a new building for the growing congregation of St. Paul’s, Suamico, funding support for ministry initiatives in the Green Bay area and adding principal to the diocesan endowment.

Over a number of decades, the three Wisconsin dioceses had held discussions about joining with no action. Toward the end of Jacobus’ Episcopate a feasibility study of forming a new diocese by junction with the Diocese of Eau Claire was made. Several teams outlined what a new diocese would look like in ministry and program and developing pros and cons. The proposition was voted on in 2011. The split was so close, that Bishop Jacobus felt it unwise to proceed and withheld his consent as allowed in the diocesan constitution.

Having been a youth leader and recognizing the importance of young people’s involvement in the Church, Jacobus supported youth work on a broad level. He hosted several dinners with young people considering ordination as well as participating in many diocesan youth events. A paid youth ministry position was added to the diocesan staff in 1999, even though it was a strain on the diocesan budget. He spent much time at the diocesan summer camp, and twice served as a chaperone for the triennial national Episcopal Youth Event.

When Jacobus retired in 2013, there were a number of areas of diocesan life that were improved from when he started. The financial condition of the diocese was solid with more program support to its congregations. Many committees and commissions were organized into a more efficient structure and able to act on their own initiative. One example is the Commission on Ministry holding a “Day of Discernment” for those considering entering the ordination process. The quality of the priesthood was enhanced and more effectively deployed, and wardens and vestry had a better understanding of their stewardship roles. Volunteers abounded throughout the diocese, performing functions that are done by paid professionals in a larger diocese. It is, as former Presiding Bishop Griswold said, “a small but active diocese”.

Following retirement, Russ and Jerrie spent much of their time travelling, often with friends, including a trip to Italy earlier this month. They also spent time with family, lavishing love on their twin granddaughters. Time spent at their home “up north” in Townsend often saw them as worshippers at St. Paul’s, Marinette and St. Augustine’s, Rhinelander. Bishop Jacobus never wanted to take supply ministry opportunities away from others, so was often called on to supply when others were not able to. With a heart for pastoral care, Russ served in two extended positions including St. Michael’s, Orlando, Florida and St. Francis in Harrod’s Creek, Kentucky.

The Rev. Ralph Osborne has announced retirement from active ministry as a priest as of January 31, 2023. He served as Rector of St. Thomas, Menasha since 2010, during which time he has fulfilled various roles at the diocesan level including Intake Officer and Dean of the Lake Winnebago Deanery. He was of Co-Chair of the Way of Love Revival Planning Committee in 2019.  He served as Deputy and Chair to the General Convention a number of times. He was awarded the Bishop’s Cross in 2022.

He was ordained Deacon in 1994 and Priest in 1996. He served congregations in the Diocese of Central New York. He earned a Masters of Divinity from Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri; a Master’s in Counseling and Bachelor’s degree in Biblical Literature.
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In a letter to the people of St. Thomas, he shared “Even in retirement, we are all a part of God’s Kingdom, so there will be ministry of some type in my future. I just don’t know yet what that will be.” In retirement he is looking forward to spending more time with his wife, Cindy, as well as his children, grandchildren and his mother. 

The Board of Trustees of the Episcopal Diocese of Fond du Lac has approved the 2023 Clergy Minimum Compensation and Benefits schedule which provides an 8.0% increase to the minimum base. The schedule sets minimum compensation for clergy working an a full-time basis with a scale for those in church provided housing and providing their own housing. The level of compensation increases with the years of credited service. Congregations with clergy working less than full-time are encouraged to provide compensation on a proportional basis.

"In looking at the various criteria, not the least of which is trying to keep pace with inflation, the Finance Committee recommended an 8% increase," Jeanine Limberger, Diocesan Treasurer shared with the board. "It should be noted a congregations who is above the minimum may adjust compensation as they see fit. There is not requirement to increase it by 8%. It is only the minimum base that increases 8%"

Information used by the Finance Committee recommendation includes key compensation information such as poverty guidelines, Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), and national Episcopal clergy compensation reported by the Church Pension Fund. Based on the best information available, clergy of the diocese receive adequate compensation, although slightly below the national median.

Download the schedule here.

The Rev. Diane Murray has announced retirement from active ministry as a priest as of December 31, 2022. She has been rector of St. James, Manitowoc since 2009. As a member of St. Peter's, Sheboygan Falls, she discerned a call to ordination and was ordained deacon in 1998. She earned a Bachelor's degree from Marian College and a Master of Leadership and Organizational Development (concentration in Christian leadership) from Lakeland College, Sheboygan.

As a deacon she was active in the local community and diocese, especially with youth. She was diocesan youth ministries coordinator 2006-2012, worked with the Hands of Christ Deaf Ministry and was active in Cursillo. She has served in numerous diocesan elected positions and just ended a term as President of the Standing Committee.
 
Ordained a priest in 2009, Murray accepted a call to serve as rector of St. James, Manitowoc on a part-time basis. As a bi-vocational cleric, Murray continued her secular work in management roles at Bemis Manufacturing Company and currently with Sargento Foods. She will continue to work with Sargento. Amma Diane plans to do supply work around the diocese and participate in diocesan events and activities.

Prayers are asked for the repose of the soul of the Ven. Edwin Ball Smith who died August 4, 2022. He was 84. He is survived by his wife Joan, and adult children Julie,  Jonathan and Richard.

Smith was an active lay member and cleric of the diocese for nearly five decades. Ordained a deacon in 1983 and a priest in 1996, if you had any involvement in the diocese, you knew Dcn. then Fr. Ed. The list of involvement includes Cursillo, Happening, camp, and most every elected diocesan position and many volunteer ones. He was made and Archdeacon in 1993 and his extensive service to the church was honored as an inaugural recipient of the Bishop's Cross in 1997.

Parochial service included Trinity, Oshkosh, All Saints, Appleton, St. Anne's, De Pere and St. Thomas, Menasha along with service to most every congregation of the diocese as long-term and Sunday supply and leading numerous workshops, consultations and just stopping by. Bishop Matt described him as "an inspiration to generations" who "helped form and strengthen the faith of many" and also was  "a counselor to bishops."

Not to be overlooked is Smith's professional career in serving students at post-secondary institutions. Ed graduated from Carroll College, received a master's degree from Indiana University and Ph.D. from Kent State University. He was Dean of Students at Illinois State University then moved to the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh retiring as Assistant Chancellor for Student Affairs in 1996. He was active in the Oshkosh community in many ways as well.

Funeral arrangements are on Tuesday August 16th at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Menasha. Visitation from 4:00-5:30 p.m., Eucharist at 5:30 p.m., and a reception following the service. An obituary may be found here.

The Rev. Amanda Sampey has announced acceptance of a position with a hospice ministry in New Hampshire, near where her family’s cottage of several generations is located. Ordained a deacon in 2011 and a priest in 2016, she was called to the part-time position of Vicar at St. James, Mosinee in 2017. For more than a decade, she was worked as a chaplain in a local hospital system providing spiritual care to patients, families and staff.

St. James' celebrated with Amma Amanda on July 10. "The members of this church family are doing great work" she shared, and thanked them for "the honor of allowing me to come together in the name of Christ to press on the kingdom." In addition to her new hospice work, she is seeking a church position in the Episcopal Diocese of New Hampshire.

"Her presence in a variety of diocesan ministries and elected positions reflects her commitment to the church as a whole," Bishop Matt Gunter noted. "Serving in a bi-vocational role is a challenge, and one she met well in serving the people of St. James."

The Rev. Dcn. Michael Burg retired from active ordained ministry December 31, 2021. Received into the Episcopal Church in 1982, he previously was Lutheran and Roman Catholic. He was ordained a deacon by Bishop William Stevens in 1990 and had assigned to serve at Grace, Sheboygan since ordination until retirement.

In addition to serving in a diaconal role at the altar of Grace, Dcn. Mike was deeply involved in Hmong ministry. Working with Episcopal Migration Ministries, he helped resettle over 400 people from over 100 families. He was part of bringing Cursillo to the Diocese of Fond du Lac and served on many teams as a lay person and as a deacon.

When Grace's regular healing ministry started in 1992, Dcn. Mike was one of the ministry's leaders and continued to be involved over three decades. Most recently, he is a member of the Companion Diocese Task Force and had the honor of hosting Friar Fungayi for several days during their visit in 2018.

Dcn. Mike will continue to be involved at Grace, Sheboygan and in the diocese, but on a more informal basis.

​The Rev. Dcn. Sandra Muinde retired from active ordained ministry May 7, 2022. 11 years earlier, she was ordained deacon and assigned to serve at Trinity, Oshkosh. Prior to ordination, she had been an active lay member there since 1969.

Dcn. Sandy is well known across the diocese. She served on the Executive Council and Standing Commission, been a General Convention deputy and served on numerous committees and commissions. She is a Cursillista and Bishop's Cross award recipient.

"This does not mean that I will no longer be a Deacon, it means I will step down from actively serving on a regular basis at Trinity." she shared in a letter to the parish. "I am not going anywhere. I will continue to be a regular communicant and assist with some ministries as needed and as I am able to do so."

Shortly after the start of the pandemic in 2020, the clergy of the Diocese of Fond du Lac began meeting regularly by Zoom. The weekly gathering was to update clergy with current Covid information, listen to what was going on in congregations, and pray with each session ending with a cacophonous recitation of the Lord’s Prayer. As time moved on, Zoom gatherings were less frequent, but continued.
 
Zoom allowed to two clergy continuing education conference and one retreat, but pandemic spikes prevented in-person gatherings. A number of clergy who recently arrived in the diocese had not had opportunity to meet their ordained colleagues face-to-face. That changed in February 2022.
 
The clergy of the diocese gathered in-person for the first time for a pre-Lenten retreat at the Norbertine Center for Spirituality, De Pere. Bishop Matt invited Bishop Jake Owensby of Western Louisiana to lead. The cold wind outside may have chilled the toes, the time to be together warmed the heart.
 
Fr. Paul Coey, ordained during the pandemic and called to be rector of St. Peter’s, Sheboygan Falls, was attending his first clergy retreat. “I appreciated the collegiality, and vulnerability of my brother and sister clerics,” Coey shared, and was “able to connect more than just faces to names, but also their stories, humor, hopes, and concerns allows me to more robustly know, be known, and pray for each of them.”
 
There retreat included a variety of things to do: community worship, prayer, meditation, Bible study, confession, spiritual counsel, reading, eating, and sleeping. Part of the retreat, including communal gatherings, is spent in silence.
 
“I couldn’t help but be thankful for the time spent in prayer, silence, and space allowed at the St. Norbert Abbey,” Deacon Paul Aparicio noted. As a deacon, assigned to Grace, Sheboygan, he is “employed outside the Church so my ability to attend is largely based on the available paid-time-off,” but appreciated the time away as “a re-orientation towards the vows that I carry and the community I have been sent to.”
 
In the four reflections provided by Bishop Owensby, the focus was on “messiness” and finding God in the messiness of life. Through sharing personal stories of vulnerability, he reflected on his life and spiritual growth. Mthr. Meredyth Albright, serving as rector of St. Augustine, Rhinelander, found the “unified message of trusting God in a way we have never trusted before, set for me, a tone with which to approach Lent.” Ordained in 2011, she remarked the reflections laid groundwork “to be open to a sense of honesty with God and start thinking about what to do with that gift of unencumbered love and support.”
 
Aiding clergy to better serve spiritual needs of those in their care is another reason for the retreat. Coey remarked that the week was “edifying as I return to the parish to lead the community through Lent.” Albright expanded for her it “was an opportunity to advance in my own thinking and belief to hopefully share an inspired Holy Lent with parishioners and those beyond our church doors.” Aparicio’s prayer is that the time in retreat “turned me towards my role as a deacon, my role as a husband, and my role as a father.”
 
Holding retreats has become more difficult as the costs involved, continue to increase, but clergy are charged only for their room and board as all other costs are covered through the diocesan Amaan Fund. Even though that cost can strain already tight budgets, the value of being together in-person was clearly priceless.
 
“I pray that the diocesan clergy may together continue to turn towards the direction of the Holy Spirit and continue the work we have been ordained to do,” Aparicio said.  “We have been sent into the world in peace to love and serve the Lord and I give thanks to God for it!”

The Rev. Jerry Molitor has accepted a call to serve as Vicar of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Waupun, Wisconsin, on a part-time basis. Molitor received a B.A. from Lakeland College in Business Administration and Philosophy and an M.A. in Religious Studies from Cardinal Stritch University.  As he neared retirement from a career in banking and information technology, he engaged in the diocesan Circles of Light discernment process. After receiving a Certificate of Anglican Studies from Nashotah House, Molitor was ordained deacon then priest by Bishop Matt Gunter in 2021.

The people of Holy Trinity, Waupun have been seeking a vicar following the call of their previous vicar to serve another congregation. His first Sunday is October 17, 2021. He is married to Linda.

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church is a mission church of the Episcopal Diocese of Fond du Lac in Waupun, Wisconsin. The congregation was organized in 1867 shortly after services had started and a visit from Bishop Jackson Kemper. It is a worship community of 43 baptized members with an average Sunday attendance of 14. Located in the heart of Waupun, its ministries focus on outreach to the community.

The Rev. Amy Heimerl has accepted a call and started service as Vicar of Ascension Episcopal Church, Merrill, Wisconsin on a part-time basis. Heimerl earned a B.A. in Education from St. Norbert College and M.A. in Education from Viterbo University. For over two decades as an educator she focused on working with students with emotional and behavioral struggles and who learn differently. On completing the diocesan Circles of Light discernment process she started "reading for orders," the historic practice of a guided program of studies individualized to the needs and goals of a candidate for ordination. She was ordained deacon then to the priesthood by Bishop Matt Gunter in 2021.

As a lay person, Heimerl served the church at the local, diocesan and national levels. She has been senior warden, treasurer, worship leader, camp counselor, and deputy to the Episcopal Church General Convention. She was one of the founders of a weekly youth ministry program at Ascension.  Following many years of supply priests serving the congregation, Heimerl becomes the first resident Vicar in Merrill in many decades. She also works as Chaplain at a juvenile correctional facility in northern Wisconsin. She is married to Eric.

Ascension Episcopal Church is a mission church of the Diocese of Fond du Lac in Merrill, Wisconsin.  First services were held in 1877, with a mission organized in 1882. It is a worship community of 54 baptized members with an average Sunday attendance of 20. Located in the heart of Merrill, it has a deep-rooted history in giving thanks for serving the poor and needy in the community.

The Rev. Roberta "Bobbi" Kraft, Vicar of Saint Barnabas the Encourager Episcopal Church, Suamico, has announced acceptance of a call to serve as chaplain for the St. Francis House Episcopal Student Center on the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She will also serve as Missioner for Young Adults for the Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee. This position begins mid-October 2021. Mthr. Bobbi has served at Suamico since June 2019. May God continue to bless Mthr. Bobbi in continuing to serve in ordained ministry. More here.

Through an announcement and in a letter to the congregation, the Rev. Monica Burkert-Brist announced her resignation as Vicar of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Waupun. Mthr. Burkert-Brist has accepted a call to serve as Priest-in-Charge of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Watertown, in the Diocese of Milwaukee. Having served as Holy Trinity’s Vicar since 2016, she noted “My time at Holy Trinity has been a true joy. They have formed me and made me a better priest.” Through mutual agreement of each diocese, she will continue to serve as Commission on Ministry Chair and maintain canonical residence in the Diocese of Fond du Lac. Her final Sunday at Holy Trinity will be September 5.

Prayers are asked for the repose of the soul of the Rev. Canon John A. Cell, SSC who died July 28, 2021. He was 78.

Born in Philadelphia, John Cell and was raised in the church. Graduating with a degree in education from Temple University he served three years in the Army and worked for a decade of secular employment before testing his vocation. With a Masters of Divinity from the Episcopal Theological Seminary in Kentucky, John was ordered Deacon in May 1978 and Priest in December 1978.

From 1978 through 1982, he served as Curate at St. Paul’s, Muskegon, Michigan. Fr. Cell accepted the call to serve as Rector of Blessed Sacrament, Green Bay, arriving in March, 1982 and would extend over the next 28 years until his retirement in 2011. He served both congregation and diocese faithfully.

As Rector he was pastor to the people. As priest of the diocese he served in many ways: Summer Camp
Chaplain, Executive Council, Trustee, Commission on Ministry, Standing Committee, Rural Dean, Cursillo Spiritual Director, Vocare for Young Adults, Happening for Youth, Mission to Seamen Chaplain. He was a longtime member of the Society of the Holy Cross (SSC, Societas Sanctae Crucis). In recognition for his many years of service to diocese, congregation and community, he was awarded the Bishop’s Cross in 2009. Following retirement, Fr. Cell moved back to Philadelphia to be close to his family. A copy of the article in the diocesan paper on his retirement is posted below.

Father Cell is survived by his brother and sister, Paul J. Cell and his wife Dorothy “Dolly” and Beverly A. Gebeline and her husband Paul, and many nieces and nephews.

A Requiem Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday August 3, 2021 at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 105 W. Broad St. Burlington, NJ., where he was active in retirement.  A Celebration of the Life and Ministry will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church,  De Pere. The Rt. Rev.  Matt Gunter and the Rt. Rev. James Adams, Co-Officiants. The Ven. Ed Smith, Homilist. 

Contributions in his memory may be made to Wounded Warrior Project or Tunnels to Towers Foundation, or to The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham.

In a letter to the congregation, Cheryl Dobrzynski, Senior Warden and the Rev. John Throop, Rector announced that by mutual agreement, the pastoral relationship between St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Sheboygan Falls and its Rector will be dissolved June 1, 2021.

Fr. John was called as Rector in late 2015. The parish is grateful for his time as Rector and plans to celebrate his ministry with them. In addition to the serving the congregation, he has been involved in the Diocese and serves of President of the US Council of the Anglican Fellowship of Prayer.  Opportunity will be made to be to say good-bye as Fr. John explores ministry opportunities.

The Vestry has engaged a consultant and will use supply clergy as it explores going forward.

The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, Wausau has announced the resignation of the Rev. Copeland Johnston as their Rector. Bishop Matt Gunter noted in a letter to the congregation he had been been involved with Fr. Copeland, vestry, and members of St. John’s for several months, but "it grieves me that we have not found fruitful ways to resolve the differences." The Rev. Barb Sajna, who has recently retired, will serve as a Regular Supply Priest with other clergy in the area assisting with pastoral care.

​The Rev. Dr.  Christopher Corbin has accepted a call to serve as Priest-in-Charge of Trinity Episcopal Church in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.  Growing up in Florida, Corbin attended Florida Southern College, earned an M.Div. from Yale Divinity School, and an M.A. and Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University. Ordained a priest in 2019, Corbin is currently serving on the diocesan staff of the Diocese of South Dakota

The people of Trinity, working with Bishop Matt Gunter and the Rev. Meredyth Albright, diocesan Transition Ministry Officer began seeking a priest to serve after the former Rector announced his resignation. As noted by the Senior Warden in a letter to the parish, "Even as we expressed our heartfelt appreciation for and made our farewells to Rector Chris Arnold and Celeste Williams, our Vestry began to focus on Trinity's future." A Priest-in-Charge canonically has the same duties and responsibilities as a Rector, but is often used when a congregation makes a call resulting from a process differing from the normal search process. The congregation and Bishop may decide to translate Fr. Corbin's position to that of Rector in the future. Fr. Chris's wife, the Rev. Portia Corbin, has been called to serve as Vicar of St. John's Episcopal Church, New London. The have two children, Louisa and Millie, and will live in Oshkosh. His first Sunday is Palm Sunday, March 28, 2021.

The Rev. Portia R. Corbin has accepted a call to serve as Vicar of St. John's Episcopal Church in New London, Wisconsin, on a part-time basis. Born in South Dakota, Corbin attended Cottey College, and Creighton University. She earned an M.Div. from Berkeley Divinity School, the Episcopal Seminary at Yale. Ordained a priest in 2013, Corbin is currently serving on the diocesan staff of the Diocese of South Dakota and as Rector of Christ Episcopal Church, Lead, South Dakota.

The people of St. John's have been seeking a vicar following the the retirement of Fr. Paul Feider in 2016. Over this time, they have been served by the Ven. Ed Smith, the Rev. Canon Wilson Roane, and the Rev. Jim Conradt. Fr. Jim will continue as Assisting Priest. Portia's husband, the Rev. Dr. Christopher Corbin, has been called to serve as Priest-In-Charge at Trinity Episcopal Church, Oshkosh. The have two children, Louisa and Millie, and will live in Oshkosh. Her first Sunday is Palm Sunday, March 28, 2021.

St. John's Episcopal Church is a mission church of the Episcopal Diocese of Fond du Lac in New London, Wisconsin. First services were held in 1876, with a mission organized in 1906. It is a worship community of 57 baptized members with an average Sunday attendance of 40. Located on the southeast side near New London High School, St. John's also runs a Thrift Store in downtown New London. Its ministries includes the healing Order of St. Luke, a food pantry and food pantry. 

The Rev. Julie Hendrix has accepted a call to serve as Rector of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Waupaca, Wisconsin. Completing her senior year at Nashotah House, Hendrix is preparing to graduate in May with an expected M.Div. God willing and the people accepting, she will be ordained a priest in July.

Born in Illinois, her family moved to the Diocese of Fond du Lac when she was 8 years old. Hendrix holds a B.A. from Carroll College, Waukesha, a J.D. from Columbia School in Law, Washington D.C. and a post graduate level certification in Education from Reagent University in Virginia.  Fluent in Spanish, she was English teacher in Venezuela. Accompanying her husband Steve, a diplomat for the United States State Department, they have lived in many countries around the world. They returned to Wisconsin in 2014.

The people of St. Mark's are looking forward to this next chapter in shared ministry. Following the retirement of previous Rector, Fr.  Nigel Bousfield, they began working with Bishop Matt and the Rev. Meredyth Albright, diocesan Transition Ministries Officer, towards calling their next Rector.  "During her conversations with your vestry," Senior Warden Pat Pfeiffer shared in a letter to the congregations, "she spoke passionately of her love of church and bringing people together through their connections in the church and in ministry." Julie and Steve have three adult children and one grandson. She begins as Rector on June 1, 2021.

St. Mark's Episcopal Church is a parish church of the Episcopal Diocese of Fond du Lac in Waupaca, Wisconsin. First services were held in 1854 by Bishop Jackson Kemper, with a parish organized in 1858. It is a worship community of 110 baptized members with an average Sunday attendance of 54. Located on Main Street just south of Downtown, St. Mark's serves members of its congregation and community through a variety of programs and outreach opportunities.

Prayers are asked for the repose of the soul of the Rev. Michael Minter who died January 25, 2021. He was 74.  He is survived by his sister, Shirley Minter Trempel and his nieces and nephew.

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, he attended Northwestern University and Nashotah House Seminary. He was ordained a deacon and priest by the Bishop of Kentucky in 1973. Shortly after he became the Vicar of St. John's, Shawano and St. John's, New London from 1974-75 then served as an Assistant at Holy Apostles, Oneida from 1975-76. Remaining a priest, he made a decision to leave active parochial ministry earning a Master's Degree at the University of Wisconsin, a Ph.D. in Religion from Fordam University, and a Ph.D. in Psychology at New York University. Through his retirement he worked for the the New York court system as well as teaching college courses.

The Rev. Frank H. Maxwell has accepted a call to serve as Interim Pastor of St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Sister Bay, Wisconsin. Pastor Frank is a retired Pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America and licensed by Bishop Matthew Gunter for Extended Service in the Episcopal Church. His tenure follows the retirement of the Rev. Barb Sajna.

Born and raised in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Pastor Frank attended Carthage College. "The best thing about college," according to Maxwell "is that is where I met my wife, Mary!" After attending Northwestern Lutheran Seminary in St. Paul, he was ordained in the Lutheran church. He has served Lutheran congregations in Bayfield County, Menomonee Falls, Fort Atkinson, and Verona. After Mary took an early retirement from teaching, they moved to Door County and Pastor Frank served Trinity Lutheran on Washington Island, retiring in 2013. As many retired clergy will attest, retirement doesn't end your ministry. Pastor Frank has served interims in Ellison Bay, West Allis and , Milwaukee.

Pastor Frank has a long connection to the Anglican tradition and the Episcopal Church. He worked closely with an Anglican priest in Halifax, Nova Scotia. and Episcopal clergy while serving in various congregations. He has assisted, preached and served as a supply at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Key West, Florida (yes, a favorite vacation spot) over the years.

The people of St. Luke's are excited and grateful to receive this experience minister of the Gospel who will serve with them for the next 12-18 months. The congregation will work with the Rev. Meredyth Albright, diocesan Transition Ministries Officer, towards calling its next Rector. Pastor Frank's began his work on January 25, 2021.

St. Luke's Episcopal Church is a parish church of the Episcopal Diocese of Fond du Lac in Sister Bay, Wisconsin. Starting with services in 1994 held at Scandia Village senior living campus, St. Luke's became a mission in 1999 and then parish in 2008. It is a worship community of 100 baptized members with an average Sunday attendance of 63. As a congregation in a tourism community, there are 50 persons who are active, though not technically be members. Located near the intersection of Highways 57 and 42 in Sister Bay,  St. Luke’s has a commitment that all people, regardless of circumstance, are welcomed and accepted as the love of Christ gives unity in diversity while seeking to share that love with others.

The Rev. Christopher Arnold has announced his resignation as Rector of Trinity Episcopal Church, Oshkosh, to pursue the changing shape of his ministry. "The exact shape of my future is unknown right now." Arnold shared in a letter to the parish, "but I believe it lies in a strong dedication to contemplative prayer, retreat work, and spiritual direction, in greater silence and solitude."

Fr. Chris has served Trinity since January 2016, serving previously in the Diocese of Kansas. His last Sunday will be February 14th. There will be opportunities for good-byes virtually as well as individual "drop-in" times for those who wish to meet in person, observing pandemic precautions. Fr. Chris and Celeste will remain in Oshkosh and he continues to be a Priest of the Church.

The leadership of Trinity has begun working with the Rev. Meredyth Albright, diocesan Transition Ministry Officer, in this season of transition.

The Rev. Barb Sajna has announced retirement from active ministry as a Priest of the church effective the end of January 2021. She has served as Rector of St. Luke's, Sister Bay since 2004. Technically already retired according to Church Pension Fund rules, she has continued to serve a congregation with permission of the Bishop which Bishop Matt gladly gave each year.

Sajna was born in Rhinelander and earned a law degree from the University of Madison. She practiced as a lawyer for a number of years before entering Perkins School of Theology, Dallas, where she earned a Masters of Divinity. Ordained a priest in 1999, she served Episcopal congregations in Dallas prior to coming to the Diocese of Fond du Lac.

Leaders of St. Luke's have noted her exceptional gifts as preacher, teacher, pastor and priest and that "due in large measure to her leadership, St. Luke's is strong and healthy." She is active and well known in the community. She served the diocese in a number of ways including as Dean of the Green Bay Deanery, Deacons School instructor, and Summer Camp Chaplain.

Mthr. Barb plans to continue to live in northern Door County.

Prayers are asked for the repose of the soul of the Rev. Dcn. Susan C. Burman who died January 10, 2021. She was 82. She is survived by her husband Harv, her four adult children and their spouses and numerous grandchildren.

Sue was born in Kenosha, Wisconsin and baptized at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church. She became a nurse and worked in that profession in a number of areas. Prior to pursuing ordination, she served as a volunteer parish nurse at St. Paul's Cathedral, Fond du Lac and as manager of The Parish Press housed the Cathedral. She noted in her letter of application for the ordination process the interest in "becoming more involved with projects involving stewardship of our earth, housing projects, exchange and partnership programs and work and mission projects." Following discernment and attending the diocesan Deacon's School, she was ordained to the Diaconate on October 3, 1998. She was assigned to serve St. Paul's Cathedral, Fond du Lac until assigned to serve Holy Trinity, Waupun in 2002.

Deacon Sue pursued her stated interests as a deacon. She helped coordinate diocesan mission trips to such places as Honduras and New Orleans, served as a nurse at summer camp, advocated for a number of events related to stewardship of the earth, and was the diocesan Episcopal Relief and Development Coordinator for many years. She participated in the life and worship of the church by her regular presence at diocesan events (especially loving to fly a Dove banner in processions) as will as a member of the diocesan Executive Council and Abuse Prevention Committee.

Due to the Covid pandemic, her funeral will be delayed until a time that all her loved her are able to be together in-person. 

Deacon Sue requests that all memorials be made by donation to Episcopal Relief and Development.

An obituary is available at zacherlfuneralhome.com.

The Rev. Nigel Bousfield has retired from active ministry as a Priest of the church. He served as Rector of St. Mark's, Waupaca from 2008 until his retirement the end of 2020.

Bousfield was born in the United Kingdom and received his M.Div. from Nashotah House. He was ordained in the Diocese of Quincy in 2003. He served congregations in New York State and on diocesan committees such as Stewardship, Commission on Ministry and the Committee for Canon Law prior to coming to the Diocese of Fond du Lac.

Fr. Nigel is what is sometimes called a "second-career" priest, having worked for many years in marketing in Arizona, California and Illinois. During his time at St. Mark's, he worked with congregational leaders to demolish a neighboring house owned by the church and install an outside worship space, the Garden of Blessings. He served the diocese in a number of ways including on the Trustees and Executive Council.

Fr. Bousfield has moved to Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, planning to take some time for refreshment.