This episode features The Reverend Benedict Varnum sharing insights on church transitions, clergy placement, and the emotional dynamics involved. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the process, practical advice, and spiritual reflections for clergy and congregations navigating change.

About the Hosts

The Rev. Karen Schlabach (she/her) is the Youth, Young Adult & Campus Missioner for the Episcopal Diocese of Kansas. Karen was an active youth in the Kansas youth ministry program, and as a college student participated in Campus Ministry at K-State, she returned as an adult volunteer in her late 20s. Karen was the Youth Minister at St. Michael and All Angels for four years, and prior to that worked as an Academic Advisor at UTA and UMKC and Associate Registrar at UMKC. Karen has a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Master’s Degree in Higher Education Administration, is an EFM graduate, and received a Certificate of Presbyterial Studies from the Bishop Kemper School for Ministry. She was ordained to the priesthood in January 2022. In her free time she enjoys reading novels, Lego video games on her Switch, and being ordered around by her personal trainer. She lives in Merriam, KS, with her husband Mike.

Guest: 

The Rev. Benedict Varnum (he/him)

The Reverend Benedict Varnum is the priest and rector at St. Augustine of Canterbury, in Elkhorn, Nebraska. Fr Ben grew up in the Catholic Church before being confirmed in the Episcopal Church in the eighth grade, and he spent time preparing to become a history or philosophy professor before feeling called to ordained ministry. Ben, his wife Megan, their daughter and two cats have a home in Omaha. Ben enjoys biking, fancy board games, reading, and keeping up with the latest comic book movies – he can probably tell you which of your favorite comic characters makes a better Christian!

Relevant links:

Comic Belief podcast: https://www.facebook.com/ComicBeliefPod/

St. Augustine of Canterbury: http://www.sainta.net/

Suggestions and Comments for the Co-hosts? Click here to submit your question or comment. 

To learn more about the Episcopal Diocese of W. MO College and Young Adult Ministry click here

To learn more about the Episcopal Diocese of Kansas Children, Youth, Young Adults, & Campus Ministry  click here

All Things…Episcopal podcast is a production of The Diocese of West Missouri and Diocese of Kansas in association with Resonate Media. 

Music is provided by Blue Dot sessions. Our opening theme is New Found Believers and our closing theme is After Sunrise.