Nina Soto, Cuban missionary and first episcopal woman to graduate from the Episcopal Seminary in Cuba.

Nina Soto, a Cuban missionary who spent decades spreading the Gospel in Latin America and beyond, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025, surrounded by love. She was born in Morón, in the Province of Camagüey, Cuba, the sixth of nine children of Ulpiano Ulloa and Carolina Companioni.

From an early age, Nina distinguished herself as an excellent student with a deep love of learning. Books were her lifelong companions and shaped the thoughtful, reflective spirit that defined her life. She studied philosophy at the University of Havana and later earned a master’s degree in Christian Education from the Episcopal Seminary of Matanzas, where she made history as the first Episcopal woman to graduate from the seminary. Following her graduation, she served as Director of Christian Education for the Episcopal Diocese of Cuba in Havana, beginning a life devoted to faith, education, and service.

In January 1956, Nina met the love of her life at a student retreat in Manicaragua. Onell Soto was preparing to represent Cuba at a world meeting of Christian students in Germany. When they met, he told her he hoped to see her again upon his return so he could show her photographs from his journey. That simple invitation marked the beginning of a love story that would span fifty-five years of marriage and a life lived across five countries: Cuba, the United States, Ecuador, El Salvador, and Venezuela.

Nina and Onell married on July 4, 1960, at the Church of the Holy Trinity in Morón, Cuba. They honeymooned in the colonial city of Trinidad while quietly making the difficult decision to leave their beloved Cuba, holding on to the hope that one day they might return.

They departed Cuba in late 1960 and began a life shaped by faith and church service. In 1965, the family moved to Quito, Ecuador, where Onell served as vicar of the Episcopal Church of San Nicolás. Nina supported the Spanish-speaking congregation and helped organize the city’s ecumenical movement. In mid-1971, the family relocated to El Salvador when Onell was appointed Executive Secretary of the Episcopal Church’s Ninth Province. Nina continued her ministry alongside him, working on ecumenical publications.

In December 1977, Nina and Onell moved to Montclair, New Jersey, following his appointment as Officer of Information and Education for the World Mission Unit of the Episcopal Church. There, they raised their four children. During these years, Nina’s leadership and faith extended far beyond her home. In 1985, she represented the Episcopal Church at the Third United Nations World Conference on Women in Nairobi, Kenya. She served for many years on the National Committee of the United Thank Offering, as a board trustee of the Episcopal Seminary in Puerto Rico, and for more than a decade as editor of Día a Día, the Spanish-language edition of Forward Movement Day by Day, offering daily devotions to Spanish-speaking Episcopalians.

In 1987, Nina and Onell moved to Venezuela after he was elected Bishop of the Anglican Church of Venezuela. They lived there until 1995, serving with devotion and humility. Onell later served as assistant bishop in the Episcopal dioceses of Atlanta and Alabama. In 2002, as they transitioned into retirement, he was appointed Interim Director of Communications for the Anglican Communion, leading them to spend several months living at St. Andrew’s House in London.

Nina and Onell eventually retired to Miami, Florida, where they lived together until Onell’s death in 2015, and where Nina remained until her own passing. They celebrated fifty-five years of marriage surrounded by their children and six grandchildren.

Above all, Nina was a devoted and loving mother, a lifelong partner to her husband, and a woman of quiet strength and compassion. She deeply loved Cuba and carried it in her heart always. She found joy in coloring mandalas, tending flowers, traveling, and surrounding herself with beauty. She had a true gift for gardening, a compassionate spirit, and a quiet elegance that drew admiration from all who knew her. Her faith was lived daily through action and kindness.

Nina Rosa Ulloa Soto leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faith. She is survived by her daughter Ana María Soto and granddaughter Susana Cárdenas-Soto; her daughter Lidia Soto-Harmon and son-in-law Robert Harmon, and grandchildren Tomás Harmon (husband Brandon Rogers) and Nina María Harmon (fiancé Emory Nolte); her son Onell Robert Soto and daughter-in-law Robin Soto; and her daughter Elena Soto-Chapa and son-in-law Jimmy Chapa, and grandchildren Cristina Elena, Alicia Mía, and Lucero. She is also survived by two sisters, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family who loved her deeply.

May she rest in peace.

A Service of Thanksgiving for the Life of Nina Soto will be held on Saturday, January 17, at 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 464 NE 16th Street, Miami, Florida 33132.

The service will be livestreamed at:
https://youtu.be/HOVX4adphHI

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hispanic Ministry of the Diocese of Southwest Florida.

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Dr. Hannah Matis.

The School of Theology is pleased to announce that Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Dr. Hannah Matis has been elected president of the Anglican Theological Review (ATR). Matis succeeds Dean of the School of Theology the Very Rev. Dr. James F. Turrell, who served two terms as ATR president and shaped the trajectory and future of the journal. Dr. Matis brings to the presidency a deep scholarly background and substantial experience in academic leadership.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Matis into this leadership role,” said Director of Operations Christopher R. Smith. “Her scholarly insight, administrative skill, and deep commitment to theological education make her exceptionally well-suited to guide the ATR into its next chapter.”

Matis has taught widely across the field of church history, including the history of spirituality, Anglicanism, the Episcopal Church, and the experience of women in Christianity. Her most recent book, The History of Women in Christianity to 1600 (Wiley-Blackwell, 2022), reflects years of teaching and was designed as a resource for both seminarians and lay readers. Her research focuses on early medieval biblical interpretation and the church in late antiquity and the early Middle Ages. Dr. Matis is a graduate of the Medieval Institute at the University of Notre Dame and the University of Durham (UK).

“As many of you know, I am honored to be following on from the two terms of my predecessor, Dean of the School of Theology James Turrell, and building on the strong connection he established between the ATR and the School of Theology at Sewanee,” said Matis.

“As the newly appointed president of the Anglican Theological Review, Inc., I want to express a deep sense of gratitude and respect for the extraordinary leadership of our outgoing president, the Very Rev. James F. Turrell,” Matis remarked.

During his two terms as president, Turrell played a pivotal role in advancing the mission and long-term viability of ATR. In 2019, he led efforts to secure a new institutional home for the journal at the School of Theology in Sewanee, Tennessee—a strategic move that strengthened administrative support and positioned ATR for continued growth. His leadership was also central to establishing a successful publishing partnership with SAGE Publications, Ltd., a collaboration that has expanded the journal’s reach and visibility.

Turrell’s steady and wise stewardship guided the ATR through a period of financial challenge. His advocacy, foresight, and commitment to strategic planning ensured the journal’s fiscal stability and paved the way for a capital campaign that will support ATR for generations to come.

Beyond these organizational achievements, Turrell remained steadfast in upholding the intellectual rigor and scholarly excellence that define the Anglican Theological Review. His dedication to thoughtful theological discourse has preserved ATR’s vital place within the Anglican Communion and the wider academic community.

“On behalf of the board, the editorial team, and all those who have benefited from the journal’s work, I extend our deepest gratitude to Jim for his invaluable contributions. His leadership will remain an enduring part of the ATR’s prominent history,” Matis said.

When asked about the future Matis shared, “2026 looks to be an exciting year for the journal, and you will hear more from us in the coming months about developments here. For now, I recommend to you the current fall 2025 issue of ATR, and the wonderful work of its editors and contributors.”

“As a medieval historian, I am particularly moved by our opening essay from a professional hero of mine, the great Caroline Walker Bynum, in her essay with the ATR engaging the work of Julian of Norwich and Annie Dillard. There is no better time of year to consider the themes of “Embodiment and Sacrament in Christian Thought.”

Learn more about the Anglican Theological Review here.

Alsay said he is excited to join a congregation known for its vibrant music, community outreach and diverse representation. “For 200 years you have been a linchpin in Detroit and an anchor for the Diocese of Michigan. It is my privilege to take on the mantle of ministry and work with you as we continue to build up the kingdom of God in Detroit and beyond,” Alsay said.

Alsay becomes the cathedral’s first Black dean, a move praised by Episcopal Diocese of Michigan Bishop Bonnie A. Perry. “Electing Joseph
Alsay to lead the Cathedral Church of St. Paul is a bold, historic choice, and the perfect next step for this community of faith to become the soul of the city and heartbeat of our diocese. I could not be more delighted!”

Alsay received his Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Studies from Oklahoma Baptist University and his Master of Divinity from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago.

Alsay made history on Aug. 6, 2005, at the Philadelphia Episcopal Cathedral. At 10 a.m. that day he was married in the cathedral to the former Cecelia K. Gray of Philadelphia. Two hours later, after a small reception, he stood in the same spot and was ordained as a pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. On Jan. 15, 2011 — the same day that year as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day holiday — Alsay joined the Episcopal Church as part of the Called to Common Mission agreement. In Oklahoma, Alsay was known for his passion, positive energy and leadership. During his time at St. Augustine of Canterbury, he developed new programs, increased membership and moved the congregation from mission to parish status.

Alsay’s official start at the cathedral was Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025, the first Sunday of Advent. In addition to his wife, Cecelia, joining Alsay will be children Zoe, Zipporah and Caleb, who says the family “can’t wait to go to Michigan” in a video posted by Alsay. “We look forward to welcoming Dean Elect Alsay into our cathedral family and to the ways his gifts and vision will help guide us in this new season to come,” said John LaDuke, senior warden, Cathedral Church of St. Paul.

About The Cathedral Church of St. Paul:
The Cathedral Church of St. Paul is the cathedral church of the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan. Formed in 1824, the congregation was the first Episcopal and first Protestant church in Michigan. The cathedral, located at 4800 Woodward Ave in Midtown Detroit, was designed by architect Ralph Adams Cram and constructed in 1907.

Media Contact: Erin McClellan, 313.833.4409, emcclellan@detroitcathedral.org

The Rt. Rev. Diane M. Jardine Bruce

The Board of Trustees of Seminary of the Southwest (Southwest) is pleased to announce the appointment of The Rt. Rev. Diane M.  Jardine Bruce as Interim Dean and President, effective January 2, 2026. The Executive Committee of the Board, following consultation with an advisory group of seminary administrators and faculty, and the concurrence of the Board, made the appointment at a specially called meeting on November 14th, at which it also selected the Isaacson Miller search firm to assist with the search for the 10th Dean and President.

Bishop Bruce, a well-known leader in The Episcopal Church with extensive experience in diocesan leadership, multicultural ministry, budgeting, and organizational development, will guide the seminary during the transition. “I am thrilled to join the students, staff, and faculty at Seminary of the Southwest and to walk with them and the Board through this time of transition!” said Bishop Bruce. “I have long admired the work and direction of this fine and forward-thinking institution and am excited to be a part of it.”

“Bishop Bruce takes a relational approach to her work of oversight, deepening trust through listening and partnering with other leaders,” said The Rt. Rev. Kathryn M. Ryan, Chair of the Southwest Board of Trustees. “She understands the role of an interim to strengthen the institution during a time of transition and will be a thoughtful and wise support and guide for our whole community. Her financial expertise and gifts as a seasoned leader in multicultural ministry make her well-suited to lead Seminary of the Southwest in this season.”

Bishop Bruce most recently served as Bishop Provisional of the Diocese of West Missouri (2021–2025), where she led the diocese of 47 congregations through a successful period of stabilization and preparation for the election of their next Bishop Diocesan. During her tenure, she worked with diocesan leaders to revamp governance structures, establish a zero-based and narrative budgeting process, and rebuild key commissions and committees. She currently serves on the Executive Council of The Episcopal Church, where she is Chair of the Joint Budget Committee and Vice Chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Finance.

Bishop Bruce was elected Bishop Suffragan in the Diocese of Los Angeles in 2010. In her 11 ½ years in that role, she oversaw over 70 congregations serving as the bishop to 5 of the diocese’s 10 deaneries, and visited each of the 133 congregations in the diocese multiple times.  She expanded multicultural ministry, strengthened stewardship programs, and effectively supported parish growth and vitality across the diverse diocese. Her earlier ministry includes distinguished service as Rector of St. Clement’s by-the-Sea in San Clemente, where she led significant parish growth, expanded Spanish-speaking ministry, and built innovative liturgical and community programs.

Before entering ordained ministry, Bishop Bruce spent 17 years in corporate leadership at Wells Fargo Bank, ultimately serving as Vice President of Compensation, Management and Analysis. Her background in corporate systems, analytics, training, and team management has informed her strong administrative and financial leadership in the Church.

With proven excellence in transitional leadership, Bishop Bruce brings a deep commitment to multicultural ministry that aligns with Southwest’s mission and identity. With fluency in Spanish, Mandarin, and some Cantonese, she is adept at leading and connecting in diverse contexts. She is widely recognized for her creative, transparent budgeting. She brings genuine enthusiasm for Southwest’s mission, a deep commitment to inclusive, creative, and diverse Christian communities, and a special interest in each of the three core programs of the seminary: the residential M.Div, the Iona Collaborative, and the Loise Henderson Wessendorff Center for Counseling and Spirituality.

Bishop Bruce holds a D.Min. in Congregational Development from Seabury-Western Theological Seminary, an M.Div. from Claremont School of Theology, and a B.A. in Linguistics from UC Berkeley. She has been recognized with multiple honorary doctorates and numerous awards for excellence in clergy leadership and service.

Isaacson Miller is a nationally recognized search firm. Ernest Brooks, III, the primary consultant for Southwest’s search, has recently worked with the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City on their dean’s search and is currently engaged with Berkley Divinity School at Yale on a search for their next dean.

Bishop Julia Whitworth and the Reverend Jacqueline Clark

The Reverend Jacqueline Clark was installed as the Rector of Trinity-Trinidad Episcopal Church of Haverhill in a celebratory service officiated by Bishop Julia Whitworth and attended by over 200 community members and 50 clergy.

Jacqueline, who goes by Jack, arrived at Trinity in 2022 in an interim role as a “priest-in-charge.” Trinity had re-opened its doors following the Covid pandemic and resumed its mission programs, Academy of Creative Arts at Trinity and Dinah’s House. Latino participants from Dinah’s House began to attend the Sunday church services and Jack made it her mission to ensure that Trinity Church was a welcoming and inclusive place for worship and fellowship.

Over the three years in her role as priest-in-charge, she re-invigorated the church by making it completely bi-lingual and ensured newcomers had the opportunity for roles in all aspects of church life and governance. Trinity Church has been re-named Trinity-Trinidad Episcopal Church to reflect the unique bi-lingual approach and commitment to inclusion. Given her strong faith and enduring commitment to all members of the church, the Vestry, the governing body, voted to invite Jack as the permanent rector.

Jack, is also chaplain at Esperanza Academy, an Episcopalian tuition-free all-girls middle school in Lawrence that builds future leaders. She has a particular gift with inspiring  children’s faith as reflected in their enthusiastic roles in the church service.

If you are interested in learning more about Trinity-Trinidad Episcopal Church (www.trinityhaverhillorg) or would like to meet the Reverend Jack Clark, feel free to contact rector@trinityhaverhill.org, or call (978) 372-4244.

“I am pleased to announce the election of Jane as a Trustee of the CPF Board,” Canon Anne Vickers, Chair of the CPF Board, said. “Her two decades of experience advising the Wisconsin state pension fund boards and the State of Wisconsin Investment Fund, combined with her corporate legal background, will bring a breadth of expertise in fiduciary oversight and investment strategy to the CPF Board. I also want to extend our sincere gratitude to Bishop Douglas for his dedicated service over the years.”

Mary Kate Wold, Chief Executive Officer and President of CPF, commented, “I am excited to welcome Jane to the CPF Board. Her background as a corporate lawyer and her deep commitment to retirement security for those who serve others will make her a valuable addition to the CPF Board. I want to thank Bishop Douglas for his invaluable contributions and commitment to CPG over the past several years. We will miss his wise counsel.”

Jane Hamblen

Jane brings more than 40 years of legal and governance experience to the CPF Board. After nearly two decades practicing corporate law in New York City with leading firms O’Melveny & Myers and Davis Polk & Wardwell, where she specialized in corporate finance and securities law, she transitioned to public service in Wisconsin.

For 20 years, she represented the Wisconsin public pension fund and its investment arm, the State of Wisconsin Investment Board (SWIB), ultimately serving as Chief Legal Counsel. In that role, she oversaw all legal and compliance matters for an agency managing more than $100 billion in public pension and trust funds, including $50 billion managed internally. She served on the Board of Directors of the Council of Institutional Investors, a national association advocating for the interests of pension funds and institutional investors. She also served as the Wisconsin Attorney General’s representative to the Wisconsin Insurance Security Fund.

Since retiring in 2015, Jane has held leadership roles in nonprofit organizations, including as a Vestry Member and Senior Warden at Grace Episcopal Church in Madison, Wisconsin, where she currently chairs the Development Fund Trust. She also serves on the boards of the Madison Symphony Orchestra and the Shorewood Hills Foundation, where she currently serves as President.

Jane earned her LLB from Cambridge University (Trinity College), her JD from the University of Texas School of Law, and her BA in English from Rice University.

About the Church Pension Group

The Church Pension Group (CPG) is a financial services organization that serves The Episcopal Church. It maintains three lines of business—benefits, property and casualty insurance, and publishing. CPG provides retirement, health, life insurance, and related benefits for clergy and lay employees of The Episcopal Church. CPG also offers property and casualty insurance as well as book and music publishing, including the official worship materials of the Church. Follow CPG on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. cpg.org.

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Media Contact:
C. Curtis Ritter
Senior Vice President
Head of Content & Creative Services
212-592-1816
critter@cpg.org

Lydia Bailey celebrates her High 5 Award with Archdeacon Bryan Gillooly and the Rt. Rev. Anne Jolly.

Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry Volunteer Coordinator, and Episcopal Deacon, Lydia Bailey was selected as one of Greater Cleveland’s High 5 winners of 2024-2025!

Lydia was honored at the annual Celebration of Human Services on November 21 on the campus of Case Western Reserve University. The High 5 Awards highlights contributions of excellence within Cuyahoga County health and social service organizations, recognizing the tireless efforts of those serving in either a staff or volunteer capacity. Celebrating with Lydia at the ceremony were the Episcopal Bishop of Ohio, Rt. Rev. Anne Jolly, as well as Archdeacon Bryan Gillooly.

Lydia is entering her 19th year with LMM and is a highly accomplished photographer along with her incredible work with LMM and never-ending dedication to those the organization serves. With this recognition, Lydia received an award emblem and a $500 prize in appreciation for her dedication.

“There is this deep stream of service, so alive and well at the shelter where I work and throughout Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry,” said Lydia. “It’s an energizing and humbling thing to be a part of, and I love drawing people from the wider community into this as volunteers. To have this recognized by Center for Community Solutions is gratifying.”

Congratulations Lydia on this well-deserved honor!

Canon to the Ordinary Teresa Pinney

At the invitation of the Rt. Rev. Thomas Brown, tenth bishop of Maine, Teresa Pinney has accepted a new role as Canon to the Ordinary for the Episcopal Diocese of Maine.

The responsibilities of canons to the ordinary vary; in Maine the canon to the ordinary functions as the bishop’s chief deputy. Since Pinney joined the diocesan staff in an administrative position 12 years ago, she has been assistant director of communications, and most recently, director of engagement. “Her faith, knowledge of The Episcopal Church, and deep care for our churches inform every aspect of our ministries,” said Brown. “Teresa is a careful listener, a thoughtful strategist, and someone who leads with humility and humor.”

In addition to serving as an advisor to the bishop and chief of staff, Pinney will take a leading role in supporting clergy and lay leaders, both directly and through interactions with congregations.

“I believe in Bishop Brown’s vision to help Maine’s Episcopal faith communities engage God’s mission in their own context, supported by a diocesan staff that offers practical assistance and spiritual encouragement,” said Pinney.

Along with Pinney, two other staff members have been given new titles and expanded roles. Former Accounting Manager Sherri Quint is now Finance Director, and Susan Sherrill Axelrod, formerly Director of Communications, is now Director of Communications and Engagement.

Prior to joining the diocese in 2013, Pinney worked in fundraising and community outreach for Preble Street, Greater Portland Landmarks, and FOX23—WPFO TV. She and her husband, Matthew, live in Portland.

The Episcopal Diocese of Maine is home to 11,000 people who worship in 57 year-round parishes, 17 summer chapels, and Camp Bishopswood. 

The Episcopal Church Foundation (ECF) is pleased to announce the appointment of The Most Rev. Sean W. Rowe as Honorary Chair of the Board and the election of Charles N. Atkins of New York, New York; G. Frederick Reinhardt of Downingtown, Pennsylvania; and Amalia Sykes of Mill Valley, California, to its Board of Directors, effective immediately.

“Our new Honorary Chair of the Episcopal Church Foundation and board members exemplify the values and forward-thinking approach that define us,” said Dail St. Claire, President and CEO of the Episcopal Church Foundation. “I am excited to work alongside them as we strengthen our impact and chart a bold future for our faith communities.”

The Most Rev. Sean W. Rowe was elected presiding bishop and primate of The Episcopal Church in June 2024 and assumed office on Nov. 1, 2024, for a nine-year term. Known for his expertise in organizational learning and adaptive change, Rowe is committed to strengthening support for local ministry and mission. It has been customary for the Presiding Bishop to serve as Honorary Chair of the Board of the Episcopal Church Foundation. The President, Board, and Foundation staff are delighted that Rowe continues this tradition.

Charles N. Atkins has over 30 years of experience in capital markets investment banking, law, and government. As CEO of Atkins Capital Strategies LLC, Charles advises senior officials at alternative investment funds, corporations, and law firms on portfolio company legal structure optimization, capital allocation strategies—including securitizations of lease and contract rights, intangible property rights, infrastructure assets, and corporate subsidiaries—in sectors such as telecom, power, natural resources, intellectual property, and services.

Frederick Reinhardt, also known as Fred, began his career at Chemical Bank, serving in the International Division in New York City, specifically with the Southern Europe Government and Correspondent Banking Group and the Southeast Asia Credit Group. He transferred to the Europe Group (Italy) as Manager of Corporate and Private Banking in Rome, then moved to Merrill Lynch & Co. (London and New York), and last served as Director, Global Bank Group. Following his tenure at Merrill Lynch, Fred was appointed President and Board Member of the Bank of Fairfield, a de novo community bank. After the merger of the Bank of Fairfield and the Bank of New Canaan, Fred became Chairman and CEO of Brickell Bank in Miami, leading a major compliance restructuring and, in 2019, its subsequent sale to Banesco USA.

Amalia Sykes, also known as Amy, is a seasoned real estate professional with 25 years of experience in acquiring, financing, repositioning, and managing the day-to-day operations of undervalued, under-managed, and over-leveraged multifamily residential properties. Amy is a co-founder of Abiete Real Estate, which she established with her brother, Rawleigh Pyne, in 2019. Abiete is a real estate company investing in multifamily properties across the United States. Amy currently provides asset management and financing services, managing a portfolio of approximately 1,100 multifamily apartments valued at over $500 million.

Episcopal Church Foundation and Endowment

Founded in 1949, the Episcopal Church Foundation has been at the forefront of supporting lay leadership in The Episcopal Church. ECF’s self-directed Endowment was formed in 1955.

ECF Endowment Management Services celebrates over 25 years of service to churches, dioceses, and schools nationwide, now managing over $954 million in assets for more than 380 Episcopal clients. The Vital Practices platform, ecfvp.org, for ministry leaders, has provided tools and support to more than 100,000 Episcopal leaders globally over the last three years. The Fellowship Partners Program has supported over 230 scholars and ministry fellows since its inception in 1964.

For more information about the Episcopal Church Foundation and its services and programs, visit www.ecf.org.

Justin and Elena Vogel and their family.

A third-generation camper and a longtime volunteer will serve as the new leaders of the beloved Cathedral Domain, a vital ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Lexington located in Irvine, Kentucky. Bishop Mark Van Koevering has called Justin and Elena Vogel to guide the Cathedral Domain in its next chapter of ministry and transformation.

Justin has been appointed as director of the Domain, and Elena will serve as program and administrative assistant. Originally from Northern Kentucky, the couple has deep roots at the Domain—in fact, Justin’s grandfather attended some of the earliest summer camps and helped build the cathedral building at the center.

“The Cathedral Domain has been a part of my life as long as I can remember,” said Justin, who currently serves as assistant vice president at Thomas More University in Crestview Hills. “From my earliest days as a camper through years of service on staff, the Domain has shaped my faith, leadership, and sense of community. Over time, it has truly grown into our family’s second home, and we are excited to serve in this new way.”

The Cathedral Domain offers a dynamic summer camping program, drawing more than 500 children and teens from across the state for a time of spiritual formation and community building. In addition, the Domain hosts retreats, conferences, special programs, weddings, and other events. Perched on the mountains in Lee County about an hour southeast of Lexington, the Cathedral Domain is often called “the heart of the diocese.”

“I am delighted that Justin and Elena will be taking up the task of leading the Cathedral Domain into its next season,” said Bishop Van Koevering. “They have deep roots in Domain lore and bring a fresh vision to this vital diocesan ministry. Let’s give them a big DioLex welcome, for “This is the Lord’s doing, and it is wonderful to see.”

The appointment follows the retirement in December 2025 of longtime Domain leaders, Andy and Cindy Sigmon, who have spearheaded the ministry for thirty-four years.

“Cindy and I have been praying for God to provide the right leaders to continue the ministry of the Cathedral Domain into the future, and God, as always, came through,” said Andy. “We are beyond thrilled that Bishop Mark chose Justin, Elena, and their family. After thirty-four years, it will be hard to walk away, but now we can leave knowing that the ministry will be in good hands. We can’t wait to see how the Domain thrives under their leadership.”

Justin and Elena and their three children—Joshua (11), Trevor (8), and Caroline (5)—will make their home at the Cathedral Domain. Justin will begin his work on February 1, 2026; Elena will work part-time remotely so she can finish the school year in her role as a paraeducator at a Northern Kentucky elementary school. She and the children will join Justin in time for summer camp.

“I never imagined my career would lead me here, but Justin and I feel strongly that God is calling our family to this work,” said Elena. “Over the years, I’ve experienced Domain love through Justin and his family, and I’m grateful for the chance to step fully into this community. I’m excited to serve alongside all of you in the years ahead.”

Butch Clements, chair of the Cathedral Domain board, said the new leadership of Justin and Elena will build upon and expand the mission of the center.

“While it’s hard to imagine the Cathedral Domain without Andy and Cindy Sigmon on the mountain, waiting to greet us when we arrive, I’m looking forward to supporting Justin and Elena in their calling to lead the Domain in the next chapter of our storied mountain mission.”

“Elena and I are honored and humbled by the trust placed in us to lead this place into its next exciting chapter,” said Justin. “We are ready and willing to build upon all that has been created here, while exploring new ways to grow and sustain the camp for generations to come.”

For more information about the Cathedral Domain and upcoming programs, visit www.cathedraldomain.org. View a welcome video from Justin and Elena.

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The Diocese of Lexington encompasses 34 faith communities across the eastern half of Kentucky, including Lexington, the second largest city in Kentucky, north to the Ohio River, and east to the mountain communities of Appalachian Kentucky. Our purpose is to join in with the Spirit to restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ Jesus. Learn more about our ministries at www.diolex.org.