The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego History

In recognition of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego’s 50th anniversary this year, we are posting a series of articles exploring our history. In the photo above, the newly consecrated Bishop Wolterstorff greets the congregation with the Peace.

OUR HISTORY: WITH A NEW DIOCESE CAME A NEW LEADER

By: Chris Tumilty, Director of Communication

Beneath the shadow of San Diego palm trees, a religious transformation was taking root in the early 1970s; a new chapter began for Episcopalians throughout San Diego, Imperial, and Riverside counties. A portion of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles Diocese was carved out, paving the way for a new diocese–The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego. And with a new diocese came a new leader. Bishop Robert M. Wolterstorff was a stalwart figure with a past deeply intertwined with the region. Having served two decades as the rector and associate rector at St. James by-the-Sea in La Jolla, he wasn't new to the San Diego community. When he was consecrated as the first bishop of the freshly minted Episcopal Diocese of San Diego on March 30, 1974, anticipation buzzed in the air. Read More