EVANGELISM We spent time receiving presentations and discussing the topic of evangelism. One presenter reported on the spiritual vitality of Episcopal congregations. The news was sobering. 75% of Episcopal churches are considered troubled or stuck in complacency. We had frank conversations about the meaning of evangelism, and we pondered ways to be more intentional about our efforts. While there was no clear prescription, we were challenged to press onward.  

Some of the news was hopeful. Statistics show that evangelism is not about more programs or bigger events. It begins in the hearts of enthusiastic disciples of Jesus Christ. In other words, what matters most about evangelism is the formation of a living and life-giving relationship with Jesus Christ. The good news is that evidence shows that Episcopalians are hungry to go deeper in their relationship with God. Folks seek a deeper relationship with Christ Jesus that is forged in scripture, prayer and worship. If you want to know more, click here for the full research paper by Renewal Works. The Rev. Scott Gunn, executive director of Forward Movement, of which Renewal Works is a part, will present a workshop on this very topic at our Discipleship Day on April 14.  

ME TOO We took a day to discuss the issues of sexual harassment, exploitation and violence in the church. We passed an order that sets a time of listening during The General Convention for women and men to share personal stories. The point of such an occasion is that reconciliation begins in the courageous work of remembrance. Here is a link to the full text of the order: https://www.episcopalchurch.org/posts/publicaffairs/episcopal-house-bishops-meeting-accepts-statement-sexual-harassment-gender-bias.

THE GENERAL CONVENTION The last day and a half focused on The General Convention. We heard reports about upcoming legislation and then we spent time digging more deeply into the principles, hopes and goals driving such legislation. For instance, we heard a report about prayer book revision, but then we took time in small groups to talk about our hopes and fears for the liturgical life of our denomination.  

GUN VIOLENCE For me, the most poignant moment of the week came when Bishop Peter Eaton from Southeast Florida shared a letter from Philip and April Schentrup. They are the parents of Carmen Schentrup, an Episcopalian youth who died in the recent shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Carmen was a very active member of the local Episcopal Church and had participated in diocesan and national Episcopal events. I wept as I listened to the lament of her parents. I wept as I remembered the joy and life that the youth of our diocese brought to our recent convention.  

Carmen’s parents urged the bishops to do something. We did. Below is the statement passed unanimously - which is a rarity in the House of Bishops. https://www.episcopalchurch.org/posts/publicaffairs/episcopal-house-bishops-meeting-retreat-accepts-statement-gun-violence.

I commend the statement to you and urge you to respond to its challenge. I encourage you to join with our church to observe a day of lamentation on March 14. Many of our congregations have Wednesday evening events during Lent. I encourage you to incorporate a time of prayer and/or dialogue in your programs and worship on March 14.  Click here for a link to several liturgical resources. 

I also encourage you to participate in a local March for Our Lives on March 24. You can click here to go to the list of events in your local area. I suspect there may be more than those listed. Because I will be presiding at an ordination on the same day and time of the main march taking place in Washington DC, it is my intent to find time beforehand to walk in solitude and solidarity. Such an option might be one for you, too. March 24 is also the Saturday before Holy Week. So another choice might be for your church to incorporate prayers and special acknowledgment in your Palm Sunday liturgy and/or a Stations of the Cross liturgy later in the week.  

When we recite the Lord’s Prayer, we pray for God’s kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven. But prayer can be lacking if it does not also compel us to work for what we say. For me, participating in the March for Our Lives is not a political issue. It is spiritual. It is a very real way to pray with my feet. It is about the sacred work of building God’s kingdom now.  

It was a very busy week. I am tired and I look forward to a few days off next week. I am tired, but I am energized and hopeful because of the courage, confidence and conviction I found amidst these important conversations and decisions. May the way of Holy Week bring you to that holy place where you know the deep abiding truth of God’s eternal absolute love for you and for all creation. And may His love so capture you, that His life becomes your life. 

+Russell