Our vision: Joy in Christ a way of life.

Our mission: To grow and develop congregations spiritually, numerically and in missional leadership.

With Christ’s help, we seek to fulfill our mission and vision through:

• Radical hospitality: Embracing all as equal and beloved members of Christ’s body.
• Passionate spirituality: Encouraging all members of Christ’s church to be on fire with the Gospel.
• Thoughtful engagement: Creating safe environments for discussion and works related to justice, peace and equality.

We are followers of Jesus Christ, our Lord, and we believe in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We strive to love our neighbors as ourselves and respect the dignity of every person.

We are affirming. Both men and women, including those who are married, are eligible for ordination as deacons, priests and bishops. We believe in amendment of life, the forgiveness of sin, and life everlasting.

Holy Communion may be received by all baptized Christians, not only members of The Episcopal Church, during our services. We uphold the Bible and worship with the Book of Common Prayer.

The Episcopal Diocese of Rochester is a collection of 46 diverse parishes spread throughout the region. Our diocese includes urban parishes in the heart of Rochester neighborhoods, country churches in the northern reaches of Appalachia, parishes in small towns and suburbs, and beautiful lakeside chapels.

We have parishes in Allegany, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Schuyler, Steuben, Wayne and Yates counties - view the parish map to see parishes near you. The Episcopal Church Welcomes You.

View the parish map...

Bishop Kara Wagner Sherer was ordained and consecrated on July 13, 2024.    More from Bishop Wagner Sherer.

Leadership of the diocese is shared with the Bishop by Diocesan Staff and District Deans.