Plenary speakers included the Rev. Canon Chuck Robertson, canon to Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori, speaking about crisis management and challenges in the Episcopal Church; the Rev. Cynthia Barnes and the Rev. Marilyn Sanders, speaking to the work of the Nathan Network; Sally Johnson, vice president of risk management and education for the Church Pension Group, speaking about Safeguarding God's Children and People; and Kathleen Norris, poet and author.

The conference included 17 workshops on a variety of topics such as physical wellness, personnel, legal, transitions, and administrative matters -- all applicable to the life and work of diocesan executives/administrators. The Episcopal Church Foundation, the Episcopal Church Medical Trust and the Church Pension Group hosted daily breakfast meetings and updated the group on their activities. The Rev. Deacon Barbara Mraz served as chaplain.

CODE was founded in 1963 for lay and ordained people who report directly to the bishop and serve at the executive or senior level on a bishop's staff. CODE seeks to build relationships and experiences that facilitate collegiality, confidence, and support. CODE's goal is to help its members find healthy solutions to the challenges diocesan executives face and to build up the body of Christ. The conference offers rest, rejuvenation, education and most importantly, a forum for networking with colleagues.

Outgoing president, Canon Gary Gleason (Diocese of Minnesota), and outgoing vice president, the Rev. Canon Robert Vanderau (retired), were both honored for their faithful service to the board. Newly elected officers/members include the Rev. Brian P. Nordwick (Diocese of El Camino Real), president; the Rev. Canon Rene Somodevilla (Diocese of West Tennessee), vice president; Susan Hardaway (Diocese of West Texas), treasurer; the Rev. Canon Michael Durning (Diocese of Southwest Florida), minister of communications; Peter Pereira (Diocese of Hawaii), secretary; and the Rev. Canon Heather Cook (Diocese of Easton), assistant secretary/communications. The Rev. Canon David Kent (retired) continues to serve as site coordinator.

Next year's conference will be held in Orlando, Florida April 21-24, 2009. For more information about CODE participation and membership, contact the Rev. Michael Durning at mdurning@episcopalswfl.org.