Gathered. Nurtured. Sent.
Presenter: Bishop Ann Ritonia, Bishop Suffragan – Armed Forces & Federal Ministries
Beyond the Walls: Serving Those Who Serve
SESSION DESCRIPTION
Learn how you and your congregation can support those who serve through Federal Chaplaincy, veterans' ministry, and care for individuals in Federal Prisons. Discover the experiences you or your parish can gain by partnering with Federal Ministries and local organizations. There will be opportunities to share what is working in your context, as well as brainstorming for ministry initiatives in the Diocese and beyond.
The Rt. Rev. Ann Ritonia, presently serving as the 8th Bishop Suffragan of Armed Forces and Federal Ministries of the Episcopal Church is distinguished by an exemplary record of service in both ecclesiastical and military spheres. Prior to her episcopal election, she dedicated more than sixteen years to parish leadership and pastoral care. Notably, Bishop Ritonia is a former Major in the United States Marine Corps and Marine Corps Reserve, serving with distinction for seventeen years. Her military tenure encompassed numerous executive and leadership roles, including assistant to the chief of staff at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, and Commanding Officer of the Marine Wing Reserve Engineer Support Unit, where she oversaw critical engineering and air base support operations as well as administration, training, and personnel management.
Her military accomplishments have been recognized through multiple honors, including two Navy Commendation Medals, the Navy Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendations, and the Recruit Honor Graduate Award. Bishop Ritonia’s commitment to supporting military personnel is further demonstrated by her long-standing involvement with the Chaplain Selection Committee for the Armed Forces and Federal Ministries, her service as a spiritual director and facilitator for annual training sessions, and her chaplaincy roles within the Veterans Affairs Healthcare System and the Marine Corps League.
In addition to her military and chaplaincy achievements, Bishop Ritonia has held prominent positions within the wider Episcopal Church, including serving as chair of various diocesan commissions and committees. Her academic and spiritual credentials include degrees and fellowships from prestigious institutions, as well as specialized training in conflict transformation and disaster chaplaincy. Bishop Ritonia’s spiritual practice is grounded in the daily office, centering prayer, and ongoing formation. Outside her professional commitments, she is devoted to her family, including four grandchildren and three dogs, and maintains interests in music, travel, and outdoor activities.