Strengthening Support for Parishes and Diocesan Operations
November 1, 2025 — Bishop Sandra Fyfe is pleased to announce several staffing updates and role adjustments within the Synod Office, effective November 1. These changes coincide with the establishment of a new leadership position—Director for Parish Relations, held by Mike MacKenzie.
Guided by our shared mission to participate in God’s reconciling work in the world through Jesus Christ, and our vision to create and sustain Christ-centered, mission-minded, ministering communities of faith, these developments reflect our continued commitment to strengthening parish support and enhancing the overall effectiveness of diocesan operations.
Our goal in implementing these staffing adjustments,” Bishop Sandra notes, “is to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of service with no interruption to the support and care provided to our parishes, clergy, and lay leaders.”
Jana Gauthier – Manager of Operations
Effective November 1, Jana Gauthier has been appointed Manager of Operations for the Synod Office. In this role, Jana will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Synod Office, offering leadership in administration, event planning, and records management. She will continue to foster collaboration across the staff team and support the overall efficiency of diocesan operations.
Jana will also serve as the Property Liaison for the sale and redevelopment of parish properties and has been appointed to the Anglican Diocesan Centre Board and the Building Management Committee. In addition, Jana has been appointed a Commissioner of Oaths.
New Email (as of Nov. 1): operations@nspeidiocese.ca
Tonia Wright – Executive Assistant
Tonia Wright has been appointed Executive Assistant, also effective November 1. Tonia will provide direct administrative support to the Synod Office Senior Leadership Team while continuing to welcome visitors to the Synod Centre and produce The Net News.
Her responsibilities include managing Bishop Sandra’s calendar, handling general correspondence, assisting the Bishop with Canon 25 processes (the hiring of Rectors), and supporting key administrative functions essential to the smooth operation of the Diocese.
Primary Contacts:
office@nspeidiocese.ca
bishopsoffice@nspeidiocese.ca
Mike MacKenzie – Director for Parish Relations
As previously announced, Mike MacKenzie has begun his work as Director for Parish Relations. In this newly defined senior leadership role, Mike will nurture, guide, and support communities of faith across the Diocese—including clergy, wardens, and lay leaders.
He will provide leadership for the Engage program and offer pastoral and administrative support to parishes, particularly during times of transition and change. Reporting directly to the Bishop, the Director for Parish Relations shares in the Bishop’s ministry of mission, pastoral care, teaching, and worship, working closely with Archdeacons and Regional Deans to promote healthy relationships and sustain vitality across the Diocese.
Email: parishrelations@nspeidiocese.ca
Office: 902-406-8995 Cell: 782-641-1795
Supporting Communication
To help ensure clarity and accessibility, the Synod Office has prepared a “Who to Contact” document (attached), outlining key areas of responsibility for each team member. This resource will be updated regularly as roles evolve. Suggestions and feedback are always welcome.
Please join us in congratulating Jana, Tonia, and Mike as they step into their new roles. We give thanks for their dedication, gifts, and ongoing service to the mission and ministry of our Diocese.
I would ask you to hold each of them—and our entire diocesan staff team—in your prayers in the days and weeks ahead.
The Right Reverend Sandra Fyfe
Diocesan Bishop, Diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island
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