Document Library

Including the Diocesan Alcohol Use Policy and a template to use as a guide in creating a parish alcohol use policy.

This booklet providing information and fun activities for children, for use with bishops’ visitations, is under revision.

In addition to the documents attached at the bottom of this page, here are links to other useful guidelines and resource documents.

In accordance with Episcopal Church canons, the Diocese of Massachusetts requires that all deacons (transitional or vocational) and priests wishing to officiate in this diocese must be licensed.

The licensing guidelines document is currently being revised.  Please direct any questions to David Ames at dames@diomass.org or 617-482-4826, ext. 445.

Guidelines and resource documents provided by the diocesan Committee on Compensation and Benefits.

The canons (church laws) under which the Diocese of Massachusetts operates.

This document provides guidance to clergy and congregational leadership in their use of digital/electronic technology and social media.

The Diocesan Budget, as voted by Diocesan Convention in November of each year for the following calendar year.  Other Diocesan Convention materials are available via the Diocesan Convention page.

A summary of actions taken by the annual Diocesan Convention.  Other Diocesan Convention materials are available via the Diocesan Convention page.

Policy from the Office of the Bishop discouraging the use of games of chance as a means of fundraising in the church.

This guide provides guidance, instructions and checklists related to the process for obtaining diocesan approval from the bishop and Standing Committee for transactions involving church real estate, such as purchases and sales of rectories and consecrated grounds, significant leases and loans secured by a lien on church property.

Policies and guidelines for the pastoral and liturgical ministry of deacons in the Diocese of Massachusetts.

This document provides a brief summary of the role and responsibilities of Diocesan Convention delegates, with excerpts from the Constitution and Canons.

A collection of resources from the Racial Justice Commission and the Dioceses of Massachusetts and Western Massachusetts Indigenous Peoples' Justice Network.

This investment policy statement presents guidance for the financial management of the investment funds of the Diocese of Massachusetts in a way that upholds the values, beliefs and mission of the diocese.  Stewardship of financial resources calls for balance, thoughtful deliberation and choices between competing alternative paths for carrying out the mission work of financial management. This document is intended to ensure that the ensuing process and outcome will faithfully serve the people and the congregations of the diocese and the wider world.

These documents provide guidance and requirements for churches with existing memorial gardens or columbaria, along with instructions for churches that are considering the establishment of places of interment.

A brief directory of contacts for diocesan programs and services, listed alphabetically by topic.