|
Dear Friends in Christ,
Throughout Scripture, God has journeyed with people of faith into new adventures, across new bridges, and into new possibilities. As the Body of Christ here in the Diocese of Missouri, we now stand at a threshold-moment in our common life. Thresholds offer us expanded possibility, greater opportunity, and hopeful probability as we remain rooted in the past while journeying towards a Christ-centered future.
Over the last year and a half of pandemic, we have rediscovered the innovative, creative and restorative Spirit that guided our spiritual ancestors in faith. We are now called to gather as a household to be renewed, refreshed, and revitalized for the ministry that is ahead. This is an exciting season in the life of the Diocese.
The 182nd Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri will be held virtually November 18-20, 2021. Recognizing that we have been given all things, through Christ, for the building of the reign of God here in Eastern Missouri, our convention theme will be: "For such a time as this... Engage. Equip. Empower." as together we build on the foundation of our shared mission and common vision.
We continue to be the Body of Christ in Eastern Missouri in countless ways. From community gardens that nourish the unhoused and the food-insecure, to courageous conversations and actions that work to dismantle racism and white supremacy, the Diocese of Missouri is on the move. Our time together in Convention is an invitation to look beyond the current realities of our time and engage, equip, and empower each other to be ambassadors of hope and bearers of Christ's love.
Please continue to check www.diocesemo.org/2021-convention/, our weekly iSeek newsletter, and parish mailings for more information about submitting resolutions and making nominations for diocesan leadership positions. Take note: all resolutions and nominations must be submitted by September 30.
I am tremendously excited to welcome you as we gather virtually from across the Diocese to be about the work of building the Beloved Community and expanding the reign of Christ.
May God continue to bless you to be a blessing to all in need.
Yours in Christ,
The Rt. Rev. Deon K. Johnson
Eleventh Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri
| 
