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ANNUAL PARISH MEETINGSunday, November 9 - 9:15 a.m.
Parish Hall
During this meeting, Emmanuel will elect the vestry members who will serve from 2026–2028. Below is a list of the candidates who have graciously offered themselves for this important ministry of leadership and service.
You will be asked to vote for four candidates at the meeting. We encourage all eligible members of the parish to participate prayerfully and thoughtfully in this process as we discern together those called to help guide Emmanuel’s mission and ministry in the coming years.
DALTON BRYANT
I am a recent convert to the Episcopal Church. My wife Shelby and I were confirmed in May and married in July of this year at Emmanuel, after regularly attending since January of 2024. We both live in the Fairmount neighborhood in Bristol, Tennessee. I work in banking compliance, and she is becoming licensed to be a therapist. We feel truly blessed to be a part of the history, community, and the loving presence of Christ that is at our church.
I am an ETSU grad, with a bachelor's in economics. In my career I have experience working alongside nonprofits, managing discretionary and charitable funds for the bank. My hobbies consist of hiking, canoeing, working on our house, reading, and watching way too much college football (Go Vols!) I love to learn new things, have a deep appreciation for history, our worship practices and traditions, and am open to helping the church as much as I'm able to. Thank you for your consideration for this role!
ANN CHRIST
I’ve attended Emmanuel for 48 years after moving to Bristol. Along with my husband Charlie and daughter Anna and son Ayres, we were faithful participants in parish worship and life. My husband is a member of the choir and I attend the 8:00 a.m. service. Through Emmanuel, we found both family and long-term friendships.
I’ve served on various committees and commissions over the years and was on Vestry, including senior warden. I’m also a member of Altar Guild which is a ministry I treasure. ’ve helped with Meals on Wheels, Social Club, LOE, and all things to do with food and feeding the parish or the community. It’s been a joyous journey.
I have a deep love for our history and mission, and with God’s help, I hope to contribute to the process of our Christian commitment over the next three years.
JERRY GREEN
I have been attending Emmanuel Episcopal Church for almost three years. I was both baptized and confirmed here at Emmanuel, a place that has truly transformed my faith journey. Before finding this church, I had visited several others but never felt a real sense of belonging. From my very first visit, I knew God had led me to Emmanuel — a place where I could grow in faith and community.
Through Emmanuel, I have discovered a deeper sense of purpose and connection with God. I serve on the Altar Guild, assist with live streaming our services, and, along with my husband, help care for the church grounds. I have also enjoyed singing in the choir in the past. Professionally, I work as a voice engineer and enjoy working with technology and electronics. In my free time, I love spending time with my husband and family, taking walks, and exploring the mountains. Emmanuel has strengthened my relationship with God and inspired me to give back to the community that has given me so much.
TOM HAIRSTON
Photo and bio are unavailable.
KAREN TILLISON
I am very honored to be nominated for the vestry of Emmanuel Episcopal Church. This has been my home church for 74 years. I grew up coming to church here every Sunday with my mom, three sisters and brother, attending Sunday school and youth group. I was baptized and went through conformation classes being confirmed at Emmanuel. I have accepted Jesus as my savior, I am passionate about my faith, and sharing it with others. I believe that the Bible is the true word of God, and that we need to be faithful in sharing the gospel and its truth in love. I have lived in Bristol my entire life. My husband Dean Tillison and I have been married 53 years and have one daughter Courteney. I graduated from Virginia High School and attended VI College, majoring in art. Growing up , I went to Camp Sequoya, and later in life taught arts and crafts there. I have been a strong supporter of the Bristol community, especially in the arts. I am passionate about ballet and grew up taking lessons from Connie Harding, founder of Bristol Ballet. I have served on the Bristol Ballet board for many years, fundraising and event planning. Counting my blessings every day, thanking my God for my faith, family, our church community, health, our country, freedom and so much more. I would consider it an honor to help steward this church in honoring Jesus, our congregation, and community. The great commission is to spread the gospel, Gods love and care for our neighbors. Thank you for this honor as Emmanuel has my heart.
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