FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
The Church Club of New York
224 Waverly Place
New York, New York 10014
(212) 828-7418
director@episcopalconnections.org
Historic Church Club of New York Announces Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe as Keynote Speaker for Annual Dinner
Episcopal Church's Youngest-Ever Elected Presiding Bishop to Address Issues of Faith and Leadership in Modern Times
NEW YORK, NY – September 8, 2025 – The Church Club of New York, a cornerstone of Episcopal fellowship since 1887, proudly announces that The Most Reverend Sean W. Rowe, 28th Presiding Bishop and Primate of The Episcopal Church, will serve as the keynote speaker at its signature Annual Dinner on Monday, April 27, 2026.
The evening celebration, to be held at Trinity Church Parish Hall in Lower Manhattan, continues a treasured tradition of bringing together the Episcopal community for an evening of fellowship, reflection, and inspiration with one of the church's most distinguished leaders.
"We are deeply honored to welcome Presiding Bishop Rowe to address our community," said Emory Edwards, President of the Church Club's Board of Trustees. "His visionary leadership and expertise in organizational transformation speak directly to the challenges and opportunities facing our faith community today."
A Leader for Modern Times
Presiding Bishop Rowe, who took office in November 2024 for a nine-year term, serves as the church's chief pastor and CEO. At 49, he became one of the youngest elected presiding bishops in Episcopal Church history, having been consecrated as a bishop in 2007 at age 32.
Known for his expertise in organizational learning and adaptive change, Rowe earned a doctorate in organizational learning and leadership at Gannon University in Erie in 2014. His academic credentials are matched by practical experience leading complex institutional transformation during times of change.
Since taking office, Presiding Bishop Rowe has focused on reorienting churchwide resources to support dioceses and congregations "on the ground where ministry happens,” emphasizing local ministry and mission strengthening.
Building Community Through Fellowship
Founded in 1887, the Church Club of New York has served for nearly 140 years as a vital hub for increasing fellowship and educational opportunities within the Episcopal community. Open to all members of the faith, the Club has maintained its commitment to bringing together diverse voices for meaningful dialogue and connection.
The Annual Dinner represents the Club's longest-standing tradition, consistently drawing Episcopal clergy and laypeople from across the New York area and beyond. Past speakers have included bishops, theologians, and thought leaders who have shaped contemporary Anglican discourse.
"This event offers unparalleled opportunities to connect socially with friends new and old as we celebrate our Episcopalian heritage, the Anglican communion, and our shared faith," noted Kate Hill, who is coordinating the evening's program.
Event Details
What: Church Club of New York Annual Dinner featuring Presiding Bishop Sean W. Rowe
When: Monday, April 27, 2026 — Cocktails: 6:00 PM, Dinner: 7:00 PM
Where: Trinity Church Parish Hall, 76 Trinity Place, New York, NY
RSVP: by April 10, 2026
The evening will include fellowship, a formal dinner, and Presiding Bishop Rowe's keynote address on contemporary issues facing the Episcopal Church and broader Christian community.
Supporting Episcopal Ministry
As a recognized 501(c)(3) organization and integrated auxiliary of the Episcopal Diocese of New York, the Church Club of New York relies on community support to continue its mission of fellowship and education. Contributions to the Church Club are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law, with the non-deductible portion of Annual Dinner tickets being $150 per person.
Tickets and table sponsorship opportunities are available for individuals, families, and organizations seeking to support Episcopal fellowship while experiencing an evening of meaningful connection and inspiration.
About The Church Club of New York
Established in 1887, the Church Club of New York has served the Episcopal community for nearly 140 years, focusing on increasing fellowship and educational opportunities. In 2023, it formed Episcopal Connections as a center for its programmatic work. The Episcopal Connections identity allows the organization to reach a broader audience and communicate the inclusive spirit for which the group is now known. Open to all members of the Episcopal faith and denominations in full communion with it, the Club serves as a gathering place for meaningful dialogue, spiritual growth, and community building. The organization operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and integrated auxiliary of the Episcopal Diocese of New York.
About Presiding Bishop Sean W. Rowe
The Most Reverend Sean W. Rowe was elected the 28th presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church on June 26, 2024, and began his nine-year term on November 1. Born in Sharon, Pennsylvania, and raised in nearby Hermitage, Rowe comes from a working-class family with roots in steel and manufacturing. He previously served as bishop of the Episcopal Dioceses of Northwestern Pennsylvania and Western New York, where he gained recognition for innovative approaches to ministry and organizational development.
For more information about the Annual Dinner, including ticket purchases and table sponsorships, please contact the Church Club of New York’s director, Kate Hill, at director@episcopalconnections.org
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE High-resolution photos of Presiding Bishop Rowe and historical images of Church Club events are available upon request.
INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES Church Club leadership may be available for interviews prior to the event. Contact Kate Hill at director@episcopalconnections.org to arrange.