Bishop Ward gives thanks for the great diversity among us and for the unity which we experience in Christ and our common commitment to God through the Church of Jesus Christ. She also highlights two upcoming events designed to help us develop ministry to reach all people.
Grace and peace, gracia y paz in the name of Jesus Christ. Glory adios, glory to God, gloria a Dios por este día, for this day.
We give thanks for the great diversity among us. We give thanks for the myriad of gifts. We give thanks for the varying hues of our skin. We give thanks for our varying backgrounds. We give thanks for the unity which we experience in Christ and our common commitment to God through the Church of Jesus Christ.
Many of you have asked for assistance and help in conversation about how we can reach out to all God’s people at this particular time in the life of our country. In response to that expressed need, two events have been planned. the first of these in collaboration with Duke Divinity School. It’s called “Loving Our Neighbor: Embodying Sanctuary” and it will be held on Saturday, Jan. 28. I hope to see you there as together we learn and grow in our capacity, in our will, and in our ability to reach all God’s people with encircling love and intangible help.
The second of these events will be the last Saturday in February, Feb. 25. This event, called simply “Envision” will help us grow in our ability to create ministry embracing all people, particularly the Hispanic community.
I hope to see you at these two leadership events and I invite your prayers for all of our life together, that we may celebrate God’s abundant Spirit which is upon us as we are called to ministry to all.