The 52nd Annual Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego

By Fr. Michael Plekon

The 52nd Annual Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego was held at St. Dunstan’s Church, San Carlos, on Friday and Saturday, November 7–8, 2025. Fathers David Madsen, rector of St. Barnabas, and Michael Plekon, along with delegates Beth Sanderson and Joan Leopold, Jan Naragon, and Andrea McKenna represented our Borrego Springs parish.

Nearly sixty clergy were present and voting, with twice as many lay delegates. Bishop Susan Brown Snook, head of the diocese, presided over all business sessions with Canon Jason Evans and the diocesan staff. She also preached and presided at the Eucharist that opened the convention on Friday.

There was a remarkable sense of community and friendship among the delegates from more than forty congregations across San Diego County, extending as far as Yuma. The youth of the diocese gave an impressive presentation of their work and even assisted in conducting the elections for delegates to the 2027 national church convention and various diocesan boards.

The 2026 budget was presented in detail and approved, and several inspiring ministry reports were shared. Among the most notable was the establishment of Comunidád de la Luz (Community of Light) in Tijuana—a former parochial school, convent, and chapel now serving as a refuge for migrants unable to cross the border. Families there receive food, shelter, medical care, and job training. Migrant missioner Roberto Vivar, who has visited Borrego Springs, led this effort.

Another highlight was the emergency loaner AC program based at St. Barnabas and supported by the Borrego Ministers’ Association (BMA), funded through a diocesan grant to help Borregans during the summer heat.

Also noted was the presence of clergy and laity from Episcopal, Catholic, Methodist, and other churches accompanying immigrants at the San Diego Immigration Court, where individuals are often detained simply for attending hearings or legal appointments.

In every report and gathering, the convention reflected how love for God translates into love and care for one another and for our neighbors in need—a true moment of joy and compassion in challenging times.

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Remembering Craig Johnson

November 10, 2025

Craig Johnson, a beloved member of St. Barnabas and the larger Borrego Community died October 30, 2025. He had been in memory care for the last two years. Craig was born and raised in Chula Vista. He was a star in high school football and known for his motorcycles later in life as well as his art. Craig was a big person, not just way over six feet tall, probably 6,6 but big as a generous volunteer at food banks, part of the art circles in town. He had been an elementary school teacher for decades, usually one of the few male teachers. May he rise in glory and rest in the Lord with the saints.