Our Story

The Genesis of Convergence (1994–1995)

The origins of the Evangelical Episcopal Communion began through intense discussions between the Reverend Dr. Russell McClanahan, then leading a network known as New Testament Ministries, and Robert Davis, President of the Board of Directors of the Evangelical Episcopal Church International (EECI). Both leaders sought to destroy the walls separating the distinct streams of the faith to establish a beautifully integrated network of convergent churches. This culminated in a historic merging of the two groups.

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The Founding Convention (October 3, 1995)

The formal, foundational convention of the communion was executed on October 3, 1995, in Fredericksburg, Virginia. During this landmark gathering, twenty-five priests and seven deacons representing five initial churches were ordained into the newly formed communion. Crucially, two bishops were consecrated in valid Apostolic Succession to provide fatherly oversight: Bishop Russell McClanahan and Bishop Vince McCall. They were consecrated via three guest consecrators: Bishop Michael Owen (who served as Chief Consecrator), Bishop Daniel Gincig, and Bishop Owen Augustin.

 

Realignment and Independence (1997–2022)

Following institutional shifts, including a period of shared ministry under the banner of the Communion of Evangelical Episcopal Churches (CEEC) starting in May 1999, a definitive moment arrived on January 7, 2022. Archbishop McClanahan and his global clergy parted ways amicably with the CEEC due to foundational differences regarding how the church must pastorally address shifting cultural tides. Archbishop McClanahan fully incorporated under our rightful name, the Evangelical Episcopal Communion (EEC); a direct lineage to the name given at our founding in 1995. Today, original founding leaders including Archbishop Russ McClanahan, Bishop Jonathan Wright, Bishop Bruce Wright, and Missionary Bishop Teddy Craven remain actively at the helm of the communion.

 

The Global Explosion: The New Orleans Synod (October 1–3, 2025)

Marking exactly three decades of kingdom advancement, the EEC gathered for its historic 30th Anniversary Synod in New Orleans, Louisiana. This gathering formally marked the communion's shift from a localized network into a massive international force. The synod celebrated the formal establishment and official inclusion of the Province of India, representing over 9 million members, alongside the reception of an expansive new African jurisdiction exceeding 3 million members. Entering 2026, the EEC stands amazed at what God has done—growing from humble, regional beginnings into a beautifully diverse, global family of faith encompassing 15 million believers advancing the Kingdom of God across the earth.