ECOBAL

Ecumenical Council of Bishops & Apostolic Leaders

The mission of the Ecumenical Council of Bishops & Apostolic Leadership (ECOBAL) is to equip Bishops, Bishop-Designates, Apostles, Overseers, and Five-Fold ministry leaders through a comprehensive training program that fosters uniformity, dignity, and excellence beyond denominational and reformational boundaries. ECOBAL serves as a catalyst for growth and development within the episcopacy, emphasizing ongoing education for Episcopates and Apostles in a dynamic and contemporary learning environment. Committed to ecumenical excellence, ECOBAL strives to empower leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve with distinction.

Who we are.

We are an ecumenical college dedicated to serving as a training ground for developing, equipping, and consecrating Episcopates while affirming Apostolic gifts in alignment with Ephesians 4:11.

What we offer.

ECOBAL is an ecumenical college providing ministry training, episcopal development, accountability, support, fellowship, and credentialing for church leaders.

The Presidium.

A team of leaders entrusted with overseeing the coordination, strategic development, and execution of ECOBAL’s mission and vision.

Our History

In November 2014, Archbishop Devin Owens traveled to Bronx, NY, to seek the counsel of Bishop Michael Frith regarding the formation of an organization dedicated to the training and development of Episcopal and Apostolic gifts. At the time, many were being elevated to the offices of Bishop and Apostle without the necessary education, demonstration, and proper understanding of the Episcopacy. Recognizing the urgent need for structured preparation and accountability, The Ecumenical Council of Bishops and Apostolic Leadership (ECOBAL) was conceived. By divine mandate, Archbishop Owens was chosen to lead this movement.

In March 2016, Archbishop Owens assembled a group of esteemed leaders, including Bishop J.T. Cohen (Philadelphia, PA), Bishop Zach Davis (St. Louis, MO), Bishop Marvin Denson (Columbia, MD), and Bishop J.O. Smith (Baltimore, MD). Shortly after, he was unanimously elected by his peers as Presiding Bishop-Elect and was enthroned as Metropolitan-Archbishop during the inaugural Holy Convocation of ECOBAL.

Today, ECOBAL stands as a premier institution of higher learning devoted to the education, development, and equipping of those called to Episcopal and Apostolic leadership. Built upon a foundation of notable and highly gifted men and women operating in the fivefold ministry (Ephesians 4:11), ECOBAL has become a driving force in the Kingdom. Through its training, affirmations, and consecrations, ECOBAL continues to produce strong, capable, and well-prepared leaders who are making a profound impact in ministry.

With a commitment to excellence, integrity, and biblical fidelity, ECOBAL upholds the theological mandate to demonstrate Kingdom principles and proclaim the redemptive work of Christ.

Each year, ECOBAL hosts gatherings across the United States, designed to equip, empower, and educate Episcopal and Apostolic leaders. These gatherings provide a platform for cross-cultural, multi-denominational fellowship, impartation, and personal and ministerial development. ECOBAL has brought together renowned national and international leaders, many of whom are experts in Christian education and ministry leadership.

Through the contributions of esteemed educators, theologians, and academic advisors, ECOBAL has developed an exceptional curriculum and training model that fosters ongoing education. Leaders are equipped through lecture sessions, developmental seminars, online courses, and personalized one-on-one mentoring, ensuring that every member is thoroughly prepared to walk in their divine calling.

Bishop Paul S. Morton

“The Ecumenical Council of Bishops and Apostolic Leadership is good because people need to be taught.”

Bishop Bose Bradford

“The Ecumenical Council of Bishops and Apostolic Leadership is necessary for the church”

What we’ve Achieved!

  • * National headquarters established in Brooklyn, NY

    * College membership includes Bishops, Apostles, Overseers and Apostolic gifts in every contiguous state.

    * Hosting of regional UNITE Rallies designed to inform potential members about the purpose of ECOBAL and how it can be a benefit to them and their matriculation process.

  • * The college is purposely diversified in its membership to reflect various races, nationalities and gender.

    * The college has educated and consecrated 12 individuals to the Episcopacy

    * Establishment of a yearly School of Episcopacy that takes place in the spring in New York and a yearly EXCEL Leadership Conference that takes place in the fall in Arizona.