Annual Conference Offers Opportunities for Learning, Formation, and Fellowship
Lay Readers and other interested Anglicans from across the Diocese of Algoma are invited to gather in Sudbury from September 24–27, 2026, for the 2026 Lay Readers’ Conference, a weekend of theological learning, ministry formation, and fellowship.
Hosted in partnership with Thorneloe University, this year’s conference—Bring God’s Grace and Love—combines the annual Lay Readers’ educational event with a special theological intensive led by Rev. Dr. H. Daniel Zacharias, offering participants multiple ways to engage depending on their interests and availability.
Thursday, September 24 — Public Lecture
The weekend begins with a free public lecture by Rev. Dr. H. Daniel Zacharias entitled Reading the Bible on Turtle Island: An Invitation to North American Indigenous Interpretation. This lecture introduces participants to Indigenous approaches to biblical interpretation and explores how Scripture can be read within the context of Turtle Island.
Format: In person or online
Fee: Free
Friday, September 25 — Thorneloe Theological Intensive
Thorneloe University will host a full-day theological intensive continuing the theme of Reading the Bible on Turtle Island. Led by Rev. Dr. Zacharias, the day provides opportunities for deeper learning, discussion, and reflection on Indigenous perspectives in biblical studies and Christian formation.
Format: In person only
Fee: $50 (includes lunch)
Friday Evening — Opening of the Lay Readers’ Conference
The Lay Readers’ Conference formally begins with an evening of worship and fellowship, bringing together lay ministers from across the Diocese of Algoma. This opening gathering offers participants an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues in ministry and prepare for a weekend of learning and encouragement.
Format: In person only
Saturday, September 26 — Lay Readers’ Conference
Saturday’s conference program features keynote presentations, practical ministry learning, and opportunities for worship and discussion. Special guest speaker The Right Rev. Michael Oulton will join participants as keynote presenter.
Additional presentations will include Rev. Genny Rollins, reflecting on more than thirty years of prison chaplaincy ministry, and Rev. Norm Blanchard and Rev. Rhonda Hurst, leading a session on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) and pastoral ministry.
Format: In person or online
Fee: $20
Supporting Lay Ministry Across Algoma
Lay Readers play a vital role throughout the Diocese of Algoma, particularly in communities where lay leadership supports worship, preaching, pastoral ministry, and congregational life. The annual conference provides opportunities for continuing education, spiritual renewal, and the strengthening of relationships among lay ministers serving across a geographically large and diverse diocese.
Registration Information
Participants are asked to register online for the event(s) of their choice before September 16, 2026.
For More Information
Rev. Joyce Foster
Deanery Warden of Lay Readers, Sudbury-Manitoulin
Phone: 705-282-7066
Email: joyce.foster49@outlook.com