Some of you may know that the people of St. Matthew's, Westerville, have been undergoing a time of discernment about their future as members of St. Matthew's and of the Diocese of Southern Ohio. As part of the discernment, members were asked to vote whether or not they -- as individuals -- support leaving the diocese and affiliating with CANA (Convocation of Anglicans in North America). The results of the vote were 215 to authorize disaffiliation, 102 not to authorize, 30 declined to vote on this issue and 35 never turned in a ballot. The priest and wardens announced at a parish meeting that they intended to disaffiliate from The Episcopal Church and affiliate with CANA.

Since my election as bishop, I have met several times with various groups of the people of St. Matthew's. Along with Bishop Price, I met with the Rev. Ronald Baird and the wardens of St. Matthew's to discuss the vote and its implications. CANA is a ministry of the Anglican Church of Nigeria -- not a part of The Episcopal Church; therefore those voting to disaffiliate voted to leave The Episcopal Church and the Diocese of Southern Ohio. As you well know, a parish cannot leave a diocese. Some have chosen, as individuals, to dissaffiliate, and with great regret, I wish them well.

I will celebrate the Eucharist with the remaining members of St. Matthew's Episcopal Church on Dec. 23 at Otterbein College . Bishop Price will be with this congregation for Christmas Eve. I have asked the Rev. Canon Walt Mycoff to provide pastoral care for this group. Much of his duties as canon for ministry will shift to others on diocesan staff so he can devote his care and attention to the people of St. Matthew's. I am asking members of the diocese, particularly in the Columbus area, to come, support and worship with the people of St. Matthew's in January and in the months to come. More information about those services will be posted on the diocesan website and through e- Connections.

Let me assure you that St. Matthew's Episcopal Church will continue to minister and work in the community of Westerville and be a valued part of the Diocese of Southern Ohio. We continue to work for a resolution to the myriad challenges this vote presents. As this process progresses, we will keep you informed through our diocesan website, Interchange and other appropriate channels. I bid your prayers for the people of St. Matthew's and for those who are leaving The Episcopal Church.

Yours in Christ,

+Tom Breidenthal