The Rev. Amanda Akes-Cardwell, newly called missioner for faith formation and development
I am delighted to announce that the Rev. Amanda Akes-Cardwell will join the diocesan staff as Missioner for Faith Formation and Development beginning February 1.
A key objective in our diocesan strategic plan calls on us to focus on the needs of rising generations so that we become a spiritual home for our children and grandchildren. In 2022, we will begin this effort in earnest and with Amanda’s arrival on staff, we will be well placed to move forward.
With diocesan leaders, Amanda will be developing a vision for children, youth and young adult faith formation initiatives that will strengthen both their relationship with God and their sense of belonging to our Episcopal community. Through these initiatives, they will be invited to follow Jesus’ way of love through personal and collective action.
Amanda also will develop diocesan formation events, work to identify and recruit youth, parents and young adults in planning and leading formation events, and serve as the Diocese’s liaison with Claggett Center camp ministry.
Amanda comes to us well prepared. She served at Grace Church, Silver Spring for eight and a half years where her ministry primarily focused on children, youth and families. She also anchored the Young Adult Ministry program. Last year, she underwent training to serve as a coach for the Tending Our Soil thriving congregations initiative.
“I am eager and ready to engage in formation ministry and leadership development at a wider level,” Amanda shares. “I look forward to working collaboratively with leaders from across the diocese, helping equip us to meet the needs of our rising generations.”
Please join me in welcoming Amanda.
Faithfully,
Bishop Mariann
