Disciples, Apostles, and Saints!
This year’s diocesan convention was full of excitement and joy. We gathered in Plainfield for a robust time of learning, sharing, and doing the work of the diocese together. It felt familiar and hopeful.
I also felt how much has changed since fall of 2019. One person I turned to for counsel has moved to Chicago. Another has retired. And then there are new friends to connect with and learn from.
As the Episcopal Church in central and southern Indiana, we made two noteworthy commitments:
- We followed the lead of General Convention and committed to paying our vocational deacons who are under the age of retirement.
- We committed to adopting the anti-racism covenant that was written by the bishop of Missouri and for each vestry to consider the covenant as well.
Then at the closing Eucharist, the bishop reminded us that she always gives us a charge. And this year, her charge was to “go forth and rest!” Because the last three years have been tough. And the next few aren’t going to be any easier. “God needs us ready, not weary,” she said.
Over the next two weeks, we’ll be celebrating our annual gathering of gifts and gratitude. As we do, think about how the gift of rest fits into our work at St. Stephen’s. Offering rest to each other. Rest to a stranger. Making time to rest to restore ourselves. A true gift for those who are most hungry for it.
With love,
Drew
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[Photo by Drew Coffman on Unsplash]