I did not have the opportunity to capture the usual interviews. My fault. Luckily Jennifer Tucker was extraordinary. She captured footage. I have to return to St. Peter's for the interviews.
My sisters, I greet you in the name of Jesus Christ, Welcome to Week 3 of our pilgrimage. I was asked to attend the Anti-Racism Committee of the Diocese of Pennsylvania. As I was driving into the parking lot, I felt sadness in that we place “racism” into a committee. Racism is a sin against God’s creation and destroys lives, people, and communities. We are committed as a Diocese to not only address racism, but to systematically and institutionally eradicate racism in our churches, public places, private spaces and in our homes. I am moved by the tireless efforts of our brothers and sisters who have worked to remove this stain. I want to thank the members of the committee who put their hearts and souls into substantive change. As we begin a new narrative, we will highlight the work of the committee, emphasize training and education and make things new in the name of Jesus Christ. It is who we are as followers o...
As for me, I shall behold your face in righteousness; when I awake I shall be satisfied, beholding your likeness. Psalm 17:15 I pray you are covered with Christ as we journey through the Holy Season of Lent. I am struggling over the lingering question: Do our churches and faith look like Jesus? Can we say yes? I am not speaking of looking like Jesus architecturally or artistically (e.g. carved in stone, Tiffany stained glass, Jesus covered in gold or European Jesus). I wrestle with something more profound. If someone walks through our door, will they find a place where they belong? Will the person wearing dirty clothes feel they belong? Will the immigrant who does not speak English or the single mother or father with three screaming kids? Maybe that guy who smells like alcohol and needs a shave. Anyone who does not look, think, act, or talk like us. This is a time of Lenten reflection, and we all like to believe we welcome everyone.We know that despite the smiles, and the quick w...
A most blessed Christmastide. Over this past summer and fall, we have continued the Pilgrimage. With each stop, I am moved by your faithfulness, hope, life and deep love of Jesus Christ. The pilgrimage reflects the beauty of our journey together. I will continue to share the experiences on this blog and will post weekly on Saturday mornings and share highlights of our week together. Within the blog, I will post current news and events in the diocese and the Episcopal Church. CONVENTION This past convention was a sacred time together. Prior to the convention, we held six additional budget listening sessions. Your time, thoughtfulness and input was essential to discerning our life together. The budget is a living, and sacred document and your recommendations improved the budget presentations and convention document. Diocesan Convention was a wonderful time of growth and celebration. In addition ...