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May 02, 2014 | EDOT Staff

Bishop Doyle Appoints Mary MacGregor to New Canon Position

The Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle, Bishop of Texas, announced the appointment of Mary MacGregor to the newly created position of Canon for Evangelism and Congregational Development. In her new role, Canon MacGregor will continue her significant involvement with congregations in transition and with clergy groups. She will also  oversee the Invite, Welcome and Connect evangelism ministry, the Iona School for Ministry, congregational coaches, and numerous workshops and conferences.

“It has been an extraordinary opportunity to serve the clergy and congregations of the Diocese of Texas," MacGregor said. "I am so honored that Bishop Doyle has named me Canon for Evangelism and Congregational Development. I know this is an unusual appointment and I am deeply grateful."

Although the Diocese of Texas has not done so in many years, there is a long tradition of appointing lay canons in other dioceses. The honorary title "canon" often refers to those who work for the diocesan bishop's office and have given dedicated service over a long period of time.

 

"Ten years ago, Mary MacGregor and I and a few others gathered at Camp Allen to map out the dream for a school to train missionary priests, which became a reality through her ministry and drive," Doyle said. "Her appointment as Canon recognizes a lifetime of mission work in Jesus’ name and through the Episcopal Church. It also recognizes the importance of evangelism and congregational development. I have been blessed to work with Canon MacGregor throughout my own ministry, and I look forward to her continued leadership."

 

MacGregor is a graduate of LSU and holds a Master of Education. Bishop Claude Payne hired her to establish the mission funding program in 1997, and Bishop Don Wimberly appointed her as director of leadership development in 2003 with the primary task of establishing the Iona School for Ministry and creating opportunities for continuing education for clergy and laity. MacGregor grew up at St. Stephen’s, Houston, where her father, the Rev. Claxton Monro, was rector for 31 years. As an adult, she has been a longtime member of St. Christopher's, League City.