Empowering Episcopal Leaders: ECF at the EPN Conference
“Strengthening our institution matters because it is the means by which we ensure that The Episcopal Church can make a strong and effective witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
— The Most Rev. Sean Rowe, Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, Episcopal Parish Network Conference 2025 Keynote Address
From February 25–28, Episcopal clergy and lay leaders gathered in Kansas City, MO, for the 40th Annual Episcopal Parish Network (EPN) Conference, drawing nearly 700 attendees from Episcopal churches across the country.
Bishop Rowe’s words set the tone for the event: strong institutions make for a strong Episcopal Church. His message reflects the work of ECF’s Endowment Management, which helps Episcopal churches, schools, and organizations build well-managed endowments that support long-term mission and ministry.
ECF Partnering with EPN to Lead
For the second consecutive year, ECF’s Endowment Management program partnered with EPN to lead the Endowment & Finance Pre-Conference, held February 25–26. Led by ECF’s Endowment Management team—Carsten Sierck (Executive Director), Anne Richardson (Senior Director), Susan McDowell (Senior Director), and Aline Sun (Director) —the pre-conference provided Episcopal leaders with strategies for managing their endowments effectively.
This two-day intensive brought together endowment experts and church leaders to explore the question, “Is Your Endowment Sufficiently Funded?” Topics included endowment basics, endowment giving, investing for long-term growth, and balancing present needs with future sustainability.
Sessions were interactive, incorporating small-group discussions and case studies that helped attendees apply what they learned to their specific parish situations. One of the greatest strengths of EPN and the pre-conference is the opportunity for leaders to learn not just from presenters but from each other. The response to the pre-conference was overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the value of shared learning.
ECF’s Goals at EPN
Beyond the pre-conference, ECF continued engaging with church leaders throughout the week. At the ECF booth, Endowment Management team members met with attendees one-on-one, offering guidance on governance, endowment giving, and investing in uncertain times.
On Thursday, February 27, ECF hosted a coffee break in the Exhibit Hall featuring Dail St. Claire, ECF’s new President & CEO. The coffee break provided an opportunity for President St. Claire to meet and reconnect with church leaders, reinforcing ECF’s commitment to supporting Episcopal institutions.
Takeaways from EPN
Discussions at EPN highlighted the realities facing Episcopal institutions today—economic uncertainty, shifting giving patterns, and the need for long-term planning. Key themes that emerged included:
- Financial leadership is ministry. Church finance committees play a critical role in maintaining the financial health of their congregations. Many leaders expressed a need for ongoing education and resources to manage their church’s assets effectively.
- Expanding donor engagement. As giving trends shift, leaders are seeking strategies to strengthen donor relationships and attract new supporters.
- The power of community. In his keynote address, Bishop Rowe emphasized collaboration and hope. Episcopal leaders benefit from working together and exchanging ideas, ensuring that no parish navigates challenges alone.
Perspective on the Overall Conference
Participating in EPN each year is a reminder of why ECF’s work matters. More than simply sharing expertise, ECF’s presence at EPN is about listening, learning, and building relationships. The conversations held throughout the conference not only highlight the challenges Episcopal institutions face but also showcase the resilience, creativity, and deep commitment of church leaders. As we look ahead, these insights will continue to inform and shape the role that ECF plays in The Episcopal Church’s future.