Navajoland nears historic autonomy as Episcopal Church approves diocese resolution
The Episcopal Church's House of Deputies has approved a historic resolution to elevate Navajoland from an area mission to a missionary diocese. The vote, met with celebration on the convention floor, marks a major step toward greater autonomy for Navajoland Episcopalians after decades of advocacy. The decision now awaits final approval from the House of Bishops.
The resolution, known as C009, is the result of a process launched in 2022 during the 80th General Convention. It was passed during the 81st General Convention, held in Louisville, Kentucky, from June 23 to 28. To honour the occasion, deputies suspended standard time limits, allowing all Navajoland representatives to speak freely.
If fully adopted, the resolution will grant Navajoland the right to elect its own bishop while still receiving financial backing from the wider church. The proposed 2025-27 budget includes $800,000 over three years for a bishop's position and a $1.5 million block grant for local congregations and ministries.
This change is part of a broader restructuring of the church's 108 dioceses, with three other similar resolutions under consideration. For over 40 years, Navajoland members have sought greater self-governance, including the ability to appoint their own bishop.
The resolution's passage in the House of Deputies brings Navajoland closer to achieving long-sought independence within the Episcopal Church. Final approval from the House of Bishops will determine whether the region officially becomes a missionary diocese with expanded authority and resources.
