The leaders of EPA and GNJ have done something truly remarkable: they have jointly purchased a house to serve as the new residence for their bishop. This joint purchase represents a historic milestone for both conferences, showcasing leadership and collective action at its best.
A United Effort of EPA and GNJ Leadership
Rev. VK Macwana, Chair of Trustees for EPA, led the initiative. The chairs of the Trustees and the Council on Finance and Administration in both GNJ and EPA, along with a representative from the Episcopacy Committees of both conferences, formed a collaborative Episcopal Residence Committee. Together with Bishop Moore-Koikoi, they began the search for an appropriate residence.
These dedicated leaders worked together with Bishop Moore-Koikoi to identify a residence that would be suitable, forging a path forward to ensure both transparency and equity in the arrangement. The CFOs, Na’Aisa Ausley (EPA) and Rob Zuckerman (GNJ), as well as the chancellors of both annual conferences, Matthew Morley (EPA) and Lynn Caterson (GNJ), guided the collaborative team in their efforts. Once a suitable property was identified, the team worked diligently to draft a memorandum of understanding that protected the property rights and financial interests of both conferences. They completed this within a week and a half.
Rev. Macwana shared, “With transparency and accountability at the core, they [the team] navigated complex details, balancing budget constraints with the goal of finding a house that reflects the bishop’s role and the church’s values.” Rev. Matthew Enzler, Chair of GNJ’s Board of Trustees, added, “We often talk about efficiency in connectionalism. This was done well and fast. We executed a memorandum of understanding and came to an agreement within about a week and a half.”
A Historic Milestone with Long-Lasting Impact
This purchase holds profound symbolic and practical significance. It marks the first time in the histories of EPA and GNJ that they have joined forces to provide a unified residential plan for their bishop. This joint action reflects an evolving model of shared responsibility and mutual support. EPA and GNJ are equal co-owners of the episcopal residence, which is located in Eastern Pennsylvania. Both conferences will share the cost of utilities and maintenance for the residence, as well as the cost of an apartment near the Greater New Jersey office, each paying half of the total cost.
Looking Forward: A Strong Foundation for Future Collaboration
This historic milestone demonstrates the strength and unity of EPA and GNJ as they work together to advance their shared mission. With the purchase of the new bishop’s residence, EPA and GNJ have shown that collaboration and mutual support can lead to profound accomplishments.
Rev. VK Macwana, Matt Enzler, and the entire team have modeled the power of collaboration. This new chapter holds the promise of continued progress, growth, and shared success for both conferences. The new episcopal residence is more than just a building; it is a testament to faith, unity, and the power of community.