Convention Booklet 2023

104th Annual Convention

The Rev. Scott West, Christ, Blacksburg I've served the church for the past 28 years as a deacon, deacon-in-charge of a congregation, and rector, having served the last 15 years in the Diocese of Southwestern Virginia as Rector of Christ Church, Blacksburg. Over that time period, I've served on the Executive Board, Dean of the New River Convocation, Diocesan Historiographer, Board of Examining Chaplains, the Commission on Ministry, the Phoebe Needles Board, and a previous term on the Standing Committee and as president of the Standing Committee for two years. I bring a clear understanding of the Episcopal Church and how it is governed as well as listening and pastoral sensibilities.

The Rev. Karin MacPhail, St. Elizabeth’s, Roanoke I would welcome a chance to serve on the Standing Committee. I have been a priest for 18 years, and I've served as rector of St. Elizabeth's for the past five years. I currently serve on the Commission on Ministry and Trustees of the Funds in this diocese. I have served as President of Trustees of the Funds, served a term on the board of the Southwestern Virginia Episcopal Fund, and was elected to serve as a General Convention Deputy. Before coming to this diocese, I previously served both small and large parishes in the Diocese of Virginia.

Disciplinary Board, Lay Member

Christopher Brown, Stras Memorial, Tazewell I am a cradle Episcopalian with 28 years of work experience in healthcare finance, information technology, project consulting, and leadership. I have served at Stras Memorial Episcopal Church in Tazewell as a vestry officer (both senior and junior warden). I currently serve as church treasurer, organist, and lay minister. I have been active in DioSWVA having been an Executive Board Member and currently sit on the board of Grace House on the Mountain. I would be honored to serve as a Disciplinary Board Lay Member. If elected, I will represent the diocese with leadership experience and the utmost integrity.

Martin Siebken, St. John’s, Waynesboro I have been a member of St. John's Waynesboro for 32 years and have worn many hats during that time including vestry membership, youth leader, and EFM Mentor. I have also served as a Convention Delegate for St. John's, and I am very familiar with the polity of the Episcopal Church and the Diocese of Southwest Virginia. Professionally I have held leadership roles requiring managing personnel issues objectively and fairly. I also serve on the Augusta County Recycle Board and chair the steering team for the CWS CROP Hunger Walk in Waynesboro/East Augusta County. If elected, I will serve to the best of my abilities.

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