The Rt. Rev. Lewis Bliss Whittemore was the third bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan serving 1937-1953. Bishop Whittemore was a talented administrator and gifted pastor, bringing the diocese out of a period of financial instability and laying the foundation for growth and advancement over the next several decades.
Among his many notable accomplishments was the publication of the first diocesan newspaper, “The Bishop’s News Letter”, the designation of St. Mark’s, Grand Rapids as the diocesan Cathedral, advocating for fair treatment and consideration of those with mental illness, and the development of a robust Department of Christian Education.
Each year, the congregations of the diocese celebrate Bishop Whittemore Sunday – recognizing the life of Bishop Whittemore and the work of the foundation. Through special collections during the regular Sunday service, congregations help to support the work of the foundation and its work within the lives of all Western Michigan Episcopalians.
Checks may be made out to the Whittemore Foundation and sent to PO Box 6724, Grand Rapids, MI 49516.
“The great issues facing the world today are fundamentally spiritual issues. They can only be solved when the heart is touched by the love of God and life interpreted in terms of Jesus Christ.”
– The Rt. Rev. Lewis B. Whittemore III Western Michigan 1937-1953
The Bishop Whittemore Foundation is a separate organization from the Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan. Please contact them with any questions about the granting process.
