Members and regular attenders of Upper Midwest diocesan churches are invited to nominate member(s) to serve on the Standing Committee of the Diocese. It is composed of three clergy and three lay people; this is no longer tied specifically to a deanery. Two three-year terms are open.

The Nominee must agree to being nominated, and aware of what’s involved in serving, before their name is submitted. Self-nominations are accepted.

What does the Standing Committee do? 
The Standing Committee functions similarly to a Vestry or Parish Council. Some of its responsibilities include:

• virtual monthly meetings
• a council of advice to the Bishop
• oversight of the annual budget
• establishing policies and practices, task forces, and subcommittees
• consulting with the Bishop regarding individuals discerning ordination
• determining the final nominee slate for annual Standing Committee elections

What characteristics are sought in nominees? 
The Diocese seeks a variety of women and men in marketplace professions, ministry roles, and different stages of family life. A good Standing Committee member is a person who:

• loves the Lord and loves the Church,
• is devoted to prayer and fasting,
• actively engages in discussions collaboratively with love and maturity,
• and enjoys building relationships and fostering unity among diocesan churches

Nominees should meet the following criteria:

1. 1. Be a communicant and member in good standing.*
   2. Be able to serve a three-year term.
   3. Be able to attend monthly evening Zoom meetings, on the first Monday of each month, 7-9pm.
   4. Be able to attend up to four in-person meetings. (The delegate or church needs to be able to pay for travel expenses. Unfortunately, the Diocese is not able to cover these expenses.)
   5. Members of the Standing Committee shall certify annually that he or she (1) is a communicant and member in good standing in a congregation of the Diocese; (2) submits to the Constitution and Canons of the Diocese; and (3) ascribes to the Jerusalem Declaration.