114th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia, October 25-26, 2024, Tacoma, Washington

The 114th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia was held October 25-26, 2024, in Tacoma, marking Bishop Phil LaBelle’s first diocesan gathering. With the theme “Come to Me, and I Will Give You Rest,” approximately 230 lay delegates and 130 clergy attended. The event featured workshops, networking, and significant votes on diocesan business.

Bishop LaBelle shared his vision for rest and healing within the Diocese, addressing post-pandemic challenges and emphasizing a shift toward relationship-centered ministry. He highlighted the importance of inclusivity, repentance for past injustices, and environmental stewardship. Bishop LaBelle announced the creation of the Sacred Waters Center, a retreat dedicated to healing and spiritual growth.

The 2025 budget, totaling $5,312,577, was adopted, focusing on three priorities:

Broader Church Support – $551,028 (10.4%) for partnerships beyond the Diocese.
Empowering Congregations – $2,644,540 (49.8%) for local ministry support.
Canonical and Corporate Expenses – $2,117,009 (39.8%) for administration.

The Convention elected new Committee members, to oversight bodies. Key resolutions included adopting a 2026 assessment rate and a 3.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025. A third resolution on peace in Israel and Palestine was postponed. The Personnel Commission addressed clergy compensation and healthcare access, proposing but not passing expanded health plan eligibility due to financial concerns.

Amendments to the Constitution and Canons, including quorum adjustments and updated delegate terms, were reviewed, with final approval pending. The Convention concluded at 4:00 pm on October 26, 2024. The 115th Convention will be held online on October 25, 2025.

For full Convention details, visit convention documents and Bishop LaBelle’s address.

Bishop Phil LaBelle addresses delegates

Bishop LaBelle addressed his vision for the Diocese, emphasizing the need for rest and healing amid challenges faced by the Church and society. He acknowledged the struggles that have emerged since the pandemic and the burdens associated with managing parishes and navigating a turbulent world, highlighting themes of stress, burnout, and societal upheaval. Bishop LaBelle underscored Jesus’ invitation to find rest, encouraging the congregation to prioritize authentic discipleship over traditional metrics like attendance and finances. He called for a transformational ministry approach that values relationships, inclusivity, and compassion, especially for those historically marginalized by the Church. Reflecting on past injustices within the Diocese, including racial discrimination and exclusion, Bishop LaBelle expressed a commitment to repentance and healing. He also addressed environmental issues, linking the call for Sabbath rest to climate justice and urging the Diocese to engage actively in sustainability efforts.

Luke's/San Lucas representatives

Luke’s/San Lucas was represented by four officials: Kathy Gallaher (right), Diane Smith (left), Rev. Lynette Poulton Kamakura (center), and Yasuhiko Kamakura.

Bishop Phil LaBelle and Yasuhiko

The Rt. Rev. Phil LaBelle is the Ninth Bishop of the Diocese of Olympia, elected on May 18, 2024, and consecrated on September 14, 2024. Previously, Bishop LaBelle served as rector of St. Mark’s Church in Southborough, Massachusetts, where he co-founded Southborough Neighbors for Peace with Dr. Safdar Medina. This organization fosters community unity through peace vigils, interfaith events like community Iftar dinners during Ramadan, and Thanksgiving services, alongside other bridge-building initiatives.

Rev. Canon Carla Robinson and Yasuhiko

The Rev. Canon Carla Robinson serves as Canon for Multicultural Ministries and Community Transformation in the Diocese of Olympia. A Concordia Seminary graduate, she was a Lutheran pastor for 13 years before joining the Episcopal Church in 2001. Ordained in 2009, Canon Robinson has served in roles at Saint Mark’s Cathedral, Church of the Resurrection in Bellevue, and All Saints in Seattle’s Rainier Valley, among others. She began her current role in 2022, dedicated to advancing multicultural ministries and community growth within the Diocese.