The Rev. Suzanne Watson, currently director of the Evangelism and Congregational Life Center of The Episcopal Church, has been named to a new post as leader of the Church’s strategic planning and strategic collaboration efforts, effective May 4, according to an April 2 announcement by Linda Watt, Chief Operations Officer for the Church Center.

“Suzanne has been an energetic and optimistic force for mission,” Watt commented. “We are thrilled that she will continue on in this critical new role for the future of The Episcopal Church.”

The Strategic Planning Task Force was created by Executive Council at its January meeting in Stockton, California, to focus on a strategic-planning process and to a draft ten-year strategic vision with planned periodic updates.

Watson was named to the Task Force jointly by Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori and House of Deputies President Bonnie Anderson. She will lead the strategic planning efforts on a part time basis while she pursues her doctorate degree. She will also be working on collaborative events, resources and planning.

Since January 2008, Watson has served as the first director of the Center for Evangelism and Congregational Life, created through the reorganization of the Church Center staff. She began her ministry at the Church Center as a staff officer for congregational development with special responsibility for small and rural congregations.

The Rev. Dr. Robert Honeychurch, program officer for congregational vitality, has been appointed interim director of the Evangelism and Congregational Life Center. Honeychurch, who is based at the Los Angeles regional office, will also continue his current responsibilities, and will divide his time between the Los Angeles office and the Episcopal Church Center in New York City.