A Shepherd In The Field

“For the first five years, our field was marked by hard work, preparation, healing, building trust, transparency, and faith. Then we were thrown into a field none of us wanted or expected. We adapted, adjusted, and accomplished things that no one thought possible. … In late summer, I will lay out the tools and seeds for the new field we must prepare and sow together".

And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan, and he was with the wild beasts, and the angels waited on him.   Mark 1:12–13 As Jesus stood at the edge of the wilderness, he saw an expanse of desolation—the wind, heat, obstacles, danger, and no definable path or exit. It would be natural for fear, anxiety, uncertainty, and despair to envelop every moment. He experienced everything we would, but Jesus was without sin.   Recall the instances when, before us, there is a bleak and barren expanse. We begin to doubt, lose hope, and feel isolated and lost. Many feel lost in the wilderness right now. 1 Corinthians reminds us that we may not understand God's plan, but we are led to have the mind of Christ. This is our hope as we enter the holy season of Lent. Jesus stepped forward with faith. Because he had unity with the Spirit, knowing God was with him with perfect love.   While the wilderness is dau...

  My Siblings in Christ, Since the beginning of this year, I have had 131 meetings with our churches, with you. I spend every waking hour and many sleepless nights thinking about how we can strengthen our churches, deepen our faith, and make your prayers a reality. At each visitation, I deeply listen to your dreams, fears, and challenges.  The number one question I am asked is:  How can we grow? Beginning this Advent, and continuing for the next three to four years, the diocesan offices will not launch new initiatives. Once again, all our financial, spiritual, and physical resources will be used to grow our churches, empower your ministries, connect churches, and build up the resources you need to meet the challenges ahead. (See the list of resources we have and are continuing to build for you:  https://www.diopa.org/help . ) I believe our parishes and their ministries are the direct connection between the world and the Gospel. The purpose of the diocese is to w...