Happy New Year Friends!
The beginning of a new decade brings new spiritual energy. Our diocese has a lot of energy to tap into with our young adults. The Episcopal Church has lots of room for young adults in leadership and membership representing every race and ethnic group. Nothing is impossible for those who believe in God. This will create an attractive, high performing, inclusive and diverse diocese.
God is not concerned about the color of our skin or our nation of origin. What is most important is that we are citizens of God’s kingdom, not the divisive and artificial kingdoms we have created. In Galatians 3:28, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
This new approach to evangelism is not just a good thing. It is what we are told to do. That is how God wants us to grow the church, with everyone represented in leadership and membership. Every group should be represented for each program and each committee. Every group should feel included and we should partner with organizations that have the same goals. Belonging helps bring about positive outcomes. Hebrews 10:24 reminds us to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.
D093: Representative Planning Teams
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention direct The Episcopal Church that all liturgical and worship planning teams for church-wide programs, events and meetings, including but not limited to General Convention, be representative in membership and that worship and worship leadership reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of The Episcopal Church; and be it further
Resolved, That dioceses be encouraged to ensure that all liturgical and worship planning teams, worship, and worship leadership for diocese-wide events be representative of the racial and ethnic diversity of the diocese.
Let us pray –
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son; look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
(The Book of Common Prayer)
~ Luke Thompson, Resolution Review Committee, Diocesan Council
