About The Episcopal Church In East Tennessee

Our Diocese is a collaborative community of engaged members with a “can-do” spirit who are creative, energetic, and generous followers of Jesus. We are nestled in the valley between the Cumberland Plateau and the Appalachian Mountains, covering approximately 14,350 square miles in 33 counties in East Tennessee and three counties in Northwest Georgia. Within this area are 46 diverse congregations which range in attendance from 8 to more than 300 faithful worshipers. The Rt. Rev. Brian L. Cole is the fifth Bishop of East Tennessee. Clergy number more than 200, including approximately 55 priests, 15 vocational deacons and more than 130 non-parochial and retired priests and deacons. In addition, the diocese nurtures a vibrant culture of lay leadership and ministry with ongoing formation and support for lay preachers, evangelist facilitators, pastoral leaders, pastoral care ministers, catechists, and worship leaders. All East Tennessee Episcopalians serve under a common call to Reconcile All Things in Christ. Our diocesan offerings, kept relevant and informative through a culture of learning, are the product of our Christian Formation, Evangelism, Becoming Beloved Community, and Pride working groups. The Diocese of East Tennessee is committed to being a community of prayer and action, caring for the people of our beautiful East Tennessee region. Our forward-looking vision is that creativity and innovation are theological tasks, guided by the Holy Spirit. We are rooted in Christ and we are open to the world.