Episcopal Church in Iowa

Eleven thousand baptized members in 62 congregations, large and small,
Configured to grow “in mission with Christ through each and all.”

Our Diocese is the geographic state of Iowa with 62 congregations, divided into 12 regional Mission Chapters.

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A History of the Diocese of Iowa, 1853-2003
By Loren N. Horton
            The Diocese of Iowa was formed at a convention called by Missionary Bishop Jackson Kemper and held at Trinity Church in Muscatine on August 17, 1853. On October 7 and 8 of the same year the General Convention of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America admitted the Diocese of Iowa to membership. On June 1, 1854 the first annual diocesan convention was held in Davenport, and the Reverend Henry Washington Lee was elected the first bishop.

            The boundaries of the new diocese corresponded with the boundaries of the State of Iowa. Thus, the sesquicentennial of the formation of the new diocese was celebrated in 2003.

            Nine bishops have served the Diocese of Iowa. Alan Scarfe, the Ninth Bishop of Iowa, was ordained in April of 2003. Three of the bishops had long tenures, and it is interesting to note that from 1854 until 1929, the Diocese of Iowa had only three bishops. That continuity undoubtedly aided the growth of the Church in the state.

            Men and women priests and deacons, priests of Native American Indian and African-American heritages have served the Diocese of Iowa. Although the number of preaching stations, missionary stations, Missions, and Parishes has changed over time, there are 63 congregations gathered to worship in many parts of the state after this one hundred-fifty years. Many beautiful church buildings have been built. It is also worth noting that eleven Iowa Episcopal Church buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

            As we look back on the successes and the challenges of the past, we consider the present, and look forward to the future. Publication of a sesquicentennial history of the Diocese, the information becomes known and will be used as a foundation of for future growth the development. We can never stand with out eyes looking to the past, but we also must remember that it was that same past that created the context in which we live today.

“The Beautiful Heritage” A History of the Diocese of Iowa, 1853-2003. This beautiful book was commissioned for the Diocese's Sesquicentennial Celebration and includes photos and historical information. You may order a copy in either hardback or softcover by clicking on the title of the book and downloading a PDF order form.