FIND A CHURCH

Young Adult Missioner to Depart

by | Jul 6, 2016

Dear Friends of the Diocese of Washington,

I write to let you know that Jason Evans, the diocese’s young adult missioner, has accepted a position as missioner for missional communities in the Diocese of Texas. His last day with us will be August 12.

While we are very sad to see Jason go, this is an extraordinary opportunity for him, and one that particularly draws upon his gifts and passion for ministry. In speaking with Bishop Andy Doyle, it was clear that Jason quickly rose to the top in their search process and all in the Diocese of Texas are very excited about his call.

Jason came to us in September 2012 to fill what was a new position for us. In four years, he has built a strong network of young adult leaders–lay and clergy–throughout the diocese, helped congregations welcome young adults and support them in ministry, and encouraged us to experiment with forms of worship and community-building to engage young adults. Moreover, when he assumed responsibility for the diocese’s campus ministry, he helped strengthen and unify our campus efforts, and significantly expand the Episcopal Church’s presence on campuses throughout the diocese.

Jason has been a champion of evangelism in our neighborhoods. A natural collaborator and joyful presence. Jason has also helped us strengthen relationships with other dioceses, Virginia Theological Seminary and campus ministry networks.

“It’s hard to leave Washington,” Jason told me. “The groundwork we’ve laid in developing new expressions of this tradition, reinvigoration of ministry on campuses and support of young adults in our parishes has been deeply fulfilling. At the same time, my family and I are extremely excited about the opportunities ahead in the Diocese of Texas!”

Joey Rick, our canon for congregational vitality, who was Jason’s immediate supervisor,  gave voice to my own thoughts when she said, “Jason’s departure will be a huge loss, but we are delighted for his new opportunity and we are grateful for the time he spent with us. Jason brought the diocese both joy and imagination. His contributions strengthened us, and the seeds he planted will continue to grow here for years to come.”

We will also miss Jason’s family, and we wish his wife, Brooke, and their children Paige, Matt, and Sam every blessing in their new adventure in Texas.

As I write, we at Church House are working to secure interim leadership right away for our young adult and campus ministry, so that we can begin a thoughtful search process in the fall.