Functions of the Standing Committee

The Standing Committee of the Diocese of Louisiana consists of four lay members and four clergy members of the diocese elected by The Convention and authorized by the Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church.

• Fulfill all functions required of it by the Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church & of the Diocese
• Acts as Council of Advice to the Bishop
• Serves as the Ecclesiastical Authority when there is no Bishop

Duties of the Standing Committee

The work of the Standing Committee, as set forth in Canon 4, Section 3, of the Canons of the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana, “shall be to fulfill all functions required of it by the Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church and of The Diocese and to act as a council of advice for The Bishop.” The Standing Committee works with the Commission on Ministry to ensure the canons are followed in regard to the ordination process. This includes interviews with candidates throughout their ordination process. The Standing Committee also processes requests from other dioceses for consent to the election of bishops. The Standing Committee oversees the election process should there be an election for Bishop. The Standing Committee also is required to approve transactions involving any immovable property held in the name of the Diocese, or by any of its Ecclesiastical Units or institutions. 1 Meetings are held as necessary, with required attendance at the Ministry Conference in January.

Standing Committee members will be most effective if they work well with others, understand and appreciate the complexity of ministry, possess an understanding of sound business practices, and have a deep love of the Lord and of the Church.

Term

Four years

Members of the Standing Committee

Class of 2023-2027

• The Very Rev. Holly Burris (St. John’s Church, Thibodaux)
• Carolyn Harris

Class of 2024-2028

• The Rev.  Austin Wendt (St. Paul’s, New Orleans)
• Ronny Daley (St. Margaret’s, Baton Rouge)

Class of 2025-2029

• The Rev. Casey Duncan (Episcopal School of Baton Rouge)
• Sonia Romero (St. John’s, Kenner)

Class of 2026-2030

• The Rev. Bryan Owen (St. Luke’s, Baton Rouge)
• Laura Williams (Christ Episcopal Church, Covington)