Bishop's Visitation

A few details/FAQs:

• The bishop is happy to meet with the Vestry, please indicate that on your Visitation Form.

• The bishop is happy to teach a class/talk as part of his visitation, please indicate that on your Visitation Form.

• As you'll see on the form, we have envelopes for the discretionary fund available to bring with us, or which can be sent in advance to be included in the bulletin. Per canon, the loose offering during the Bishop's Visit is to go to the diocese's discretionary fund. The offering should be counted/handled as you normally would, with one total check then written to "Diocese of Kentucky Discretionary Fund" and mailed to the Diocesan Office along with. Any checks made out to the discretionary fund should just be forwarded along with the loose offering. 

• The bishop uses the episcopal introduction for the blessing, if you want to include that in the bulletin so the congregation knows the responses:
Bishop: Our help is in the Name of the Lord;
People: The maker of heaven and earth.
Bishop: Blessed be the Name of the Lord;
People: From this time forth forevermore.
followed by the blessing...Amen

• The Chaplain needs a chair next to or near the bishop.

• Having a glass of water for the Bishop and Canon at their chair, one at the pulpit, and one at the altar is helpful.

• It's helpful to have a parking spot reserved close to the doors since we have several things to carry in with us.

• Note that sometimes following the planned baptisms/confirmations, the bishop is moved to invite anyone who feels called to come forward.

• Usually one of the Canons accompanies the bishop and serves as Chaplain (dealing with his books, mitre, crozier.) They do not need to serve in any other capacity (lector, chalice bearer, etc.) but can do so if you need.

 • The bishop prefers for all the clergy to stand together at the altar. Usually his chaplain will turn pages of the altar missal.

• Use color of the season or day.

 • Candidates should have be prepared for the liturgy, and we are happy to rehearse with you. Helping them to feel comfortable with when/where to come forward and stand, and being able to articulate the responses in a clear voice is helpful. Nametags placed high on the shoulder are very helpful. 

• A brief explanation of who should be confirmed/received: Any candidate who has previously made a mature profession of faith, whether made before a bishop or not, means that the candidate will be "received." All candidates--confirmation, reception, or reaffirmation will receive the laying on of hands. 

• If there is confirmation/reception, the bishop's preference is to go straight to the peace instead of additional prayers of the people.

• We try to take a photo with the class of candidates following the service.

• Please have the parish register, and any certificates/prayer books which are to be presented prepared and ready for the bishop's signature.