Episcopal Diocese of Rochester
Joy in Christ, a way of life

Our Mission & Vision

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.

Our Faith

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.

Our Parishes

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...

Our Leadership

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

Leadership is also supported by Diocesan and District Deans

Prayers

General prayer: For the Human FamilyO God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Bishop's Writings

Bishop's Writing / Enews July 2024

Thursday, July 25, 2024

A good bishop “is not the master of your faith, but the servant of your joy.” (anonymous)
This quote arrived with a funny card depicting ancient sculptures of saints in various states of
torture, ecstatic joy, and labor and was hand-labeled: “some days as bishop,” “occasional days as
bishop,” and “most days as bishop.” That this is hard work is not surprising, but the quote
immediately spoke to me. I feel called not to direct your faith or correct your ways but to witness

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Bishop's Writing / Enews June 2024

Thursday, July 25, 2024

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News

Save the date for Presiding Bishop-elect Rowe’s installation service

Friday, July 26, 2024

As announced at the close of the 81st General Convention, the installation of Presiding Bishop-elect Sean Rowe will be a simpler, scale

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Presiding Bishop Michael Curry urges action in letter to President Biden regarding conflict in Gaza

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Presiding Bishop Michael Curry urges action in letter to President Biden regarding conflict in Gaza

Click here

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WATCH - Slideshow and Livestream

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

 

Play the photo slideshow

or

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