The CEC-NA Theological Commission met at St. Luke’s CEC church in Manchester, Georgia on September 14-18 2026 for its annual meeting.

Present were Bishop David Simpson, Father Terry Hedrick, Canon Robert Wills, Canon Glenn Davis and Father Michael Pacella. Many issues were discussed and long hours of study and deliberation were devoted to bringing clarity and a three-streamed hermeneutic to the theology of the CEC. This is done so that the House of Bishops can judge and embrace our work or send it back for further examination. Papers are presented and worked on together for congruency and doctrinal clarity.

Each day started with Holy Mass presided over by Bishop Simpson and several of the participant clergy gave the homilies or lead evening prayer. The evenings were spent around the dinner table continuing our investigations and deliberations. One of the evenings we were joined by other clergy including Bishop Jason Epps. There is great diligence given to this endeavor and our prayer is that the Lord will bless us with wisdom and the mind of Christ. Please pray for the CEC-NA theological commission.

Father Michael Pacella III, PhD

Transfiguration Church

On February 7th, 2026 Deacon Caleb Northwood and Eddie Sluka were ordained! Deacon Caleb Northwood was ordained to the priesthood and Eddie Sluka was ordained to the diaconate! God is doing big things!

Click this link here to purchase your ticket! https://www.tickettailor.com/events/cecmidatlanticdiocese/2002812

The October 2024 House of Bishops meeting was a deeply reflective time, marked by a strong sense of spiritual renewal, connection, and shared mission. Bishop Chuck Jones shared insights on the aftermath of the hurricane and then focused on the story of Caden—the young quarterback from Selma whose final prayers were for revival in his community. His prayers, intentions, and the community’s response appear to be sowing seeds of revival, particularly among the youth. 

Some notable quotes from Bishop Jones concerning the important of humility as the foundation for consensus government,  which is a hallmark of the CEC: 

“ If you’re seeking Christ, you’re obeying instructions, not making decisions”. 

“There’s only One  person who has the right to have an agenda.” 

“For consensus government, you must lay down your will.” 

Bishop Simpson’s teachings on humility, honoring one another, and the power of childlike faith emphasized the necessity of shedding strife and jealousy. These teachings were grounded in scriptural principles advocating kind speech and humility, calling us to release jealousy and grievances and to witness the power of God’s work when the Holy Spirit is no longer grieved. 

Bishop Rob Northwood’s reflections on St. Ignatius of Antioch and martyrdom provided a profound historical layer to the discussions. His insights on embracing the cross and living out Christ’s way, alongside a call to remember the sacrifices of martyrs, encouraged leaders to pursue authentic faith—not merely in orthodoxy (right teaching), but in orthopraxy (right practice). All were reminded to view the Church, both militant and triumphant, as the “one undivided body” from Christ’s perspective, transcending schisms and embracing unity, presenting a compelling vision of oneness and purpose. 

Overall, the House of Bishops meeting was marked by themes of unity, humility, forgiveness, and revival. This gathering emphasized the Church’s collective calling to be transformed through the cross, lay down individual agendas, and join Christ in His mission for the world. 

The Mid Atlantic Diocese is thrilled to announce the opening of the new facility of Saint Michael’s and all angels church in Williamsburg, Virginia! After a series of closed doors, Saint Michaels, and I’ll angels church was blessed with an opportunity to move their facilities to the top floor of a commercial building near downtown Williamsburg. The exposure and space have allowed for growth and an overhaul of church facilities. Father Michael Pacella, and Archdeacon, Larry Rieger are thrilled with what God has done and will invite anyone in the local community or in the Mid Atlantic region to come and visit and see what God has done! New chairs, new technology, new branding, and a new space are just he beginning of God’s move on Williamsburg.

Wednesday evening, in the Eucharistic celebration of a healing service at the Cathedral in Belair, Maryland, Bishop Rob Northwood, was inspired to invite the clergy present in the room, representing Virginia, and Maryland, to come and con, celebrate the Eucharist with him. Present were Father Jeffrey Welch, Father Jim Ball, Father Terry Murphy, Father Samuel Foss, archdeacon Larry Rieger, and Deacon Mark Carico. Deacon Mark Carico preached a moving sermon on God’s desire to deliver from entanglements and bondage.

Bishop Rob said that the Holy Spirit was moving in that service, and that he believes the Holy Spirit has much that he wants to do. He hailed this summer as a “Summer of Healing” and highly anticipates the move of God through His Church, through the Eucharist, through the Holy Sacraments, and through healing services.

Saturday, May the 7^th was marked by several momentous occasions. In a time of great fulfillment, those gathered witnessed the installation of its first archdeacon in many years, the ordination of Deacon Elijah Northwood, and the ordination of Father Samuel Foss.

Bishop Rob Northwood blessed and installed Deacon Lawrence Rieger to the office of Archdeacon with the assignment of developing that office and expanding the administrative processes of the diocese. He was given a red cincture in recognition of the responsibilities of the office he now holds, and following the service, the new Archdeacon expressed his true delight to serve the diocese and its churches in this manner. He has been operating in this role for several months and was instrumental in the coordinating of the weekend’s events.

Archdeacon Rieger receives a red cincture in recognition of his new office.

Deacon Elijah Northwood is one of the youngest ordinands ever in the North American CEC at 23 years old  and has been in ongoing seminary classes for several years. He is Bishop Northwood’s third son and is also the fourth of six children. He felt called to the ministry at the age of 19 and has not hesitated in his progress toward that calling. Prophetic words spoken over him during the ceremony encouraged him to continue to deliver the unaltered truth with characteristic compassion and foretold of his going where most men would not go, sitting with the poor and serving among the broken. He is a great gift to the church in this time of great need.

“Meditate on the law of God, believe what you read, teach what you believe and put into practice what you teach.” – Ordination Liturgy

Father Samuel Foss was ordained a priest and has completed his seminary training. He is a steadfast servant and has served as leader of the men’s ministry at the cathedral for several years. He concelebrated mass alongside Bishop Northwood Saturday after his consecration and boldly preached the gospel Sunday morning. People remarked on his bold delivery and the strength of his spirit to speak the truth. Bishop Northwood spoke after of his pride at seeing the young priest walking in faith to a life of such great service. Father Samuel said “I hope to execute and bring about the vision and mission that God has placed on our bishop for the different communities of our diocese.”