Evangelical Episcopal Communion Celebrates 30th Anniversary with Global Synod in New Orleans

By Archbishop Russell McClanahan

New Orleans, Louisiana — October 3, 2025 — The Evangelical Episcopal Communion (EEC) gathered in New Orleans, Louisiana, from October 1–3, 2025, to celebrate its 30th anniversary and to reflect on three decades of God’s faithfulness and growth.

Founded in 1995, the EEC has developed into a vibrant global communion that integrates evangelical faith, sacramental worship, and apostolic order. The 30th Anniversary Synod welcomed archbishops and bishops from across the United States, India, South Africa, and other regions, marking a significant milestone in the Communion’s international expansion.

During the synod, leaders celebrated the official inclusion of the Province of India, representing over 9 million members, and the reception of a new African jurisdiction with more than 3 million members. With these additions, the Evangelical Episcopal Communion now embraces a global fellowship of approximately 15 million believers engaged in ministry, education, and mission across numerous nations, including outreach efforts in several closed and restricted-access countries.

The three-day synod featured a series of workshops, plenary sessions, and worship gatherings addressing timely topics such as preaching to Generation Z, church-based nonprofit work, financial stewardship, apostolic succession, and global missions. The highlight of the gathering was the Thursday evening Eucharist, during which two deacons and two priests were ordained, an archbishop was consecrated, and the Province of India was formally established within the Communion.

Reflecting on the milestone, Archbishop Russell McClanahan, Primate of the Evangelical Episcopal Communion, stated:

“I stand amazed at what God has done over the last three decades. Who could have imagined that from our humble beginnings we would see such a global family of faith—working together to proclaim the Gospel and advance God’s kingdom in so many parts of the world?”

The Evangelical Episcopal Communion continues to build on its founding vision of unity in diversity, fostering partnerships among churches, ministries, and leaders committed to the Gospel, the sacraments, and the historic episcopate.

For more information about the Evangelical Episcopal Communion, upcoming events, or to connect with EEC leaders worldwide, visit www.eec1.org.

Archbishop Russell McClanahan is the Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Episcopal Communion (EEC).