June 2023

This is a corrected copy to include:

-Video introduction to the Pride Campaign from Bishop Deon Johnson

-Children & youth ministry news & events from the Rev. Erin Pickersgill

-Corrected link for June 3 Ordination story

-Music events at Hope Church and Holy Communion on June 11

Welcome to our monthly newsletter!

We invite you to check out our featured stories here and click the links to get more information on items of interest for you.

Stay up to date on all the latest news and events between newsletters by checking and bookmarking these pages on our diocesan website:

Featured Stories:

June Cover Story:

Planting Seeds of Hope

Hope Episcopal Church in Town & Country is growing more than vegetables in their garden this year. They're nurturing the hope that comes as young people experience the wonders of gardening and giving.

Prayers for Presiding Bishop Michael Curry

Presiding Bishop Michael Curry was hospitalized over the Memorial Day weekend for internal bleeding and an irregular heartbeat. He is recovering at his home in North Carolina. We pray for Bishop Curry's full and speedy recovery.

Pride 2023:

We Are Sorry

Bishop Deon Johnson invites the Diocese to reconcile with those in the LGBTQIA+ community who have been hurt by the Church.

Missioner Profile:

Bren O'Connor

Meet the missioner who has worked to expand the role of lay ministry while pursuing justice and faith for the LGBTQIA+ community in DioMO.

Celebrate Juneteenth:

Freedom Day

The Emancipation Proclamation was signed in 1863, but it took two more years for all enslaved people in the country to be free. The bishop offers prayers to mark Juneteenth.

The Intersection of Juneteenth and Pride Month

Bishop Deon Johnson reflects on the histories of these seemingly unconnected June celebrations and the common thread he finds between the two.

ECM Walk-a-thon Raises $4,000

The Diocese enjoyed a day of fun and games to support Episcopal City Mission's ministry with youth in detention.

Leadership Changes at Episcopal Recovery Ministries

ERM offers resources and support for those dealing with addictions. Our diocesan leaders discuss their roles in this important ministry.

2023 Missouri Legislative Wrap

Our Missioner for Public Advocacy reports on issues our church has been following in Jefferson City this year and offers ways you can stay involved.

Strengthening Lay Ministry Leadership

The Bishop Kemper School for Ministry offers courses this fall for lay leaders to learn new skills and strengthen their ministries.

Featured Events:

Children & Youth Ministry

News & Events

The Rev. Erin Pickersgill, Ministry Developer for Children and Youth in the Diocese, has put together a big calendar of events and initiatives this summer. Take a look at what's new!

Prayer Service & Community Events: June 2 - 4

Honor the victims, pray for the future, and take action to help stop gun violence in our communities. Join our prayer service this Friday and "Wear Orange" events this weekend in our communities.

Your Presence is Requested

Ordinations: June 3

Join Bishop Deon Johnson as he ordains Ryan Missel to the Sacred Order of Priests, and Loretta Go, David Luckes, and Aaron Rogers to the Sacred Order of Deacons.

Dismantling Racism Training

June 9-10

Register by Friday, June 2 to be a part of this important and engaging anti-racism work in the Diocese.

Softball Tournament

June 9-10

Have fun with the Emery Washington Convocation as they host their annual softball tournament in Tower Grove Park.

Music events in the Diocese:

June 11

Enjoy a Music Fest at Hope Church in Town & Country after morning worship and/or an Organ Recital at Holy Communion in University City at 4 p.m.

Requiem or Renaissance Retreat: July 14-15

This retreat marks an important turning point in our intentional discernment program. Participating teams and other guests should register by June 14.

Women's Ministry Celebration: June 25

All are invited to Christ Church Cathedral as we celebrate women's ministries, including Dean Kathie Adams-Shepherd's 40-year ordination anniversary.

Final Note:

Bishop Deon Johnson is grateful for the generosity of all those who donated to the Bishop's 2023 Annual Appeal. The appeal ran through the Lent and Easter Seasons and raised more than $25,000 to support The Chester Hines Racial Reconciliation Fund, Children & Youth Ministries, and Episcopal City Mission.

Although the Bishop's Appeal is officially over, it's never too late to donate to these and other ministries to support the good work happening throughout the Diocese.

Stay in Touch:

Get additional and updated news and events on the diocesan website: