Getting to know Sam a bit better ...
You grew up in New Jersey but have lived in Georgia for years. What inspired you to embrace this adventure of moving to Boston to participate in the Episcopal Service Corps?
My parents both work in medicine (dad, a doctor, and mom, a nurse) so I’ve always wanted to do something to help others and the
Episcopal Service Corps Fellows Program seemed like a challenge where offering my energies felt right.
What are you most excited about as you make your home in Boston?
This will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to expand my knowledge and have new experiences in a new city, applying my faith as I grow in the Episcopal way of following Jesus.
Who will be your companions in this service learning year?
A few weeks ago the Episcopal Service Corps hosted a virtual gathering. We had break out sessions with the folks in our respective programs. They are men and women from around the country; not all are Episcopalians. Several are exploring calls to full time ministry. Others are simply looking forward to the journey as we grow together.
Where will you be serving and what will you contribute in that context?
I’m going to be serving as a Grace Episcopal Church Fellow and offering my skills in technology, web design, and marketing, while also contributing to the communal formation, fellowship, and spiritual growth of the cohort who will share life together in the year ahead. I’m excited to explore Boston and to ride the train to New York to take in a Broadway show. I’m also looking forward to getting back to the winter cold that I loved growing up.
You were Confirmed in the Episcopal Church last November. What questions compel you as you dig into this faith-deepening experience?
As I head into this year, I am wondering how best to pay attention to this journey that is a mystery. How can I discern the next right step? Where do I offer what I have to share—personally, mentally, and physically—as I take each step on my journey of faith? Especially as someone who has different abilities and whose racial identity invites others to grapple with their histories and experiences, I am curious about how I can help people feel freedom in discovering that regardless of our ability, race, or sexual orientation, we all belong in God.
What are some of your favorite All Saints’ memories?
Our discussion of Bryan Stevenson’s Just Mercy stands out as a highlight. And the pandemic game night where we played Kahoot together. In terms of community service, I loved the Emmaus House Earth Day project where we cleaned up the grounds of their Peoplestown campus. It was inspiring to be outside and caring for creation while enjoying connections with church friends.
You’re a guy who loves Scripture and theology. What is your favorite book of the Bible?
Having survived the pandemic and losing my grandmother this year, the story of Job means a lot to me. Knowing that we are not alone as we face life’s struggles, trials, and temptations really helps. As do the friendships we find in a faith community.
How can people be praying for you as you embark on this adventure?
Please pray for my safety and wellness. And for my future, as I consider where God is guiding me throughout this formative year.
When do you depart and how can folks stay in touch while you’re away, keeping up with all your explorations and discoveries?
The program begins on August 15 and will continue through the middle of June in 2023. You can keep in touch any of the following ways. I look forward to hearing from you!
Email
Twitter/Instagram
USPS Address
Sam Osakue
73A Columbia Rd.
Dorchester, MA 02121