The Second Conversation
Sponsored by the Father Sidney B. Parker Chapter of Black Episcopalians


This day of conversation and learning took place Saturday, February 29, 2020 at St. John’s Cathedral, Jacksonville, courtesy of the Dean, the Very Rev. Kate Moorehead and under the aegis of the Bishop’s Institute. Some sixty-five or more were in attendance from churches around the Diocese.

The conference, that ran from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., opened with the Eucharist in Cummings Chapel after a warm welcome from the Dean. Fr Hugh Chapman from St Michael’s and All Angels, Tallahassee celebrated and Canon Wiley Ammons from Redeemer, Jacksonville, gave a stirring homily.

The Atlanta based author and racial healing consultant, Dr Catherine Meeks, was the keynote speaker and facilitator for the day.

The morning session included opening exercises in which all were encouraged to take stock of their hopes and fears for the church and society and to make a personal inventory of one’s life in the light of the challenge to live according to one’s baptismal covenant and as disciples of Christ. There were two video presentations: ‘White Like Me’ and ‘A Girl Like Me’.

After a delicious lunch prepared by members of the UBE chapter and other volunteers, the afternoon session included a lecture by Dr Meeks entitled ‘Inner and Outer Journey’ and an opportunity for participants to make a verbal commitment to continue to work for racial harmony in our churches and in our community. The meeting closed with remarks by Edward Wright, Vice President of the Father Sidney B. Parker Chapter and a blessing from the Rev. Carrie English of Resurrection, Jacksonville.

Special thanks go to Mrs Linda Belton, President of the Father Sidney B. Parker chapter; Mr Edward Wright, Vice President of the Chapter and Senior Warden, St Philip’s Church; Mrs Jacquelyn Wright, St Philip’s (luncheon coordinator); Ms. Barbara Lee, St Philip’s Church Parish Secretary and Mrs Sue Engemann, Diocesan Office Administrator and Assistant to the Canon Theologian.