Standing Committee

Overview

Every diocese in the Episcopal Church has a Standing Committee whose responsibilities are established by the Constitution and Canons of the wider Church. Of the various diocesan bodies, the Standing Committee serves as a critical council of advice and provides independent leadership.

Responsibilities

The Standing Committee serves as the Bishop's council of advice. Its key responsibilities include certifying candidates at major milestones on the path to ordination, consenting on behalf of the diocese to the election of bishops across the Church, and reviewing and consenting to certain congregational property transactions.

Additionally, the Standing Committee serves as the ecclesiastical authority of the diocese whenever there is no bishop in office, providing essential continuity during transitions.

Membership

The Standing Committee is composed of clergy and lay members elected by Diocesan Convention for staggered terms. Unlike other diocesan bodies, the Standing Committee is not led by the Bishop; it has its own President, the Very Rev. Hickman Alexandre. This structural independence allows the Standing Committee to offer the Bishop honest counsel and independent oversight.

Current Members

Until 2026

Tamara Harris

Secretary

The Rev. Lilo Carr Rivera

Until 2027

The Very Reverend Hickman Alexandre

President

Sharon Brown-Veillard

Until 2028

The Very Rev. Walter V. Hillebrand

Vice-President

Jorge Sánchez Serna

Until 2029

Jacqueline Mason

The Rev. Keith Voets

How to Get Involved

Standing Committee members are elected at Convention. Experience on a vestry or a diocesan body is valuable, as is a deep love for the Church's common life. To learn about current openings and nomination deadlines, contact Canon Eddie Alleyne at ealleyne@dioceseli.org.