The Recognition and Investiture of the 12th Bishop of Alabama - THE EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF ALABAMA
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THE EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF ALABAMA
January/February/March 2021 • Vol. 106, No. 1
The Recognition and Investiture
of the 12th Bishop of Alabama.
See page 14 dioala.org
The Alabama Episcopalian
THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH
In the Diocese of Alabama
A community of about 32,000 baptized members in 87 parishes and worshiping
communities and 8 college campus ministries. Established in 1830.
Bishop
The Rt. Rev. Glenda S. Curry
THE MAGAZINE OF THE EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF ALABAMA
Carpenter House
IN THIS ISSUE
521 North 20th Street
Birmingham, AL 35203
205/715-2060 05 Bishop’s Address to the 190th Convention of the Diocese
In the United States
A community of about 1.9 million members in 109 dioceses in 16 nations.
of Alabama
Established in 1789. 09 190th Diocesan Convention: New Ways to Love
Presiding Bishop
The Most Rev. Michael Curry 12 An Evening of Stories Celebrating Bishop Kee
Episcopal Church Center
815 Second Avenue 14 The Recognition and Investiture of Bishop Glenda Curry
New York, NY 10017 as the 12th Bishop of Alabama
212/867-8400
12
The Anglican Communion
A community of 80 million members in 44 regional and national member
churches in more than 160 countries.
NEWS FROM OUR SHARED MINISTRIES
Archbishop of Canterbury 20 Sawyerville: Summer 2021 is Good to Go!
The Most Rev. Justin Welby
22 The Work Goes On – A New Way to Love
An Evening of
Lambeth Palace, London
England SE17JU
23 Department of Mission and Outreach Accepting
The Alabama Episcopalian
Kelley Hudlow, Editor
Stories Celebrating Applications for Parish Grants
Miles G. Parsons, Art Director Bishop Kee 24 Questions and Answers about Special Session
Georganne Perrine, Circulation Secretary
Volume 106, Number 1
January/February/March 2021 25 A Call to Mission: Becoming a World Where Love is
USPS 070-910 the Way
ISSN 1041-3316
Periodical postage paid
The Alabama Episcopalian is published four times a year (March 1, May NEWS FROM OUR PARISHES
1, August 1, and November 1). For the most current news about recent and
upcoming events, please visit our diocesan Web site, www.dioala.org.
26 Holy Trinity Auburn Group Seeks Education and Outreach
Please send stories and photographs (full color, at highest resolution possible) in Race Relations
to Editor Kelley Hudlow at khudlow@dioala.org or 521 North 20th Street,
Birmingham, AL 35203-2682; the submission deadline for each issue is February 27 On Imagination and Creation: Rethinking Stewardship
1, April 1, July 1, October 1. Postmaster, parishes, and individuals, please send
all address changes or additions to Circulation Secretary Georganne Perrine at 28 Celebrating One Year of Little Apostles
gperrine@dioala.org or Carpenter House, 521 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL
14
35203–2682.
Keep up with the latest news from around our diocese between issues of The
Alabama Episcopalian on our diocesan Web site, www.dioala.org. If you are
29 CLERGY NEWS
not already receiving our “DioAla News Update,” you can sign up to receive
31 UPCOMING EVENTS
a weekly e-mail containing headlines with links to the latest news, photos, and
videos about and from around our diocese. Simply send an e-mail with your name
and e-mail address to khudlow@dioala.org and put “Headlines” on the subject
line. You can “opt out” anytime.
The Recognition and
All address corrections or additions should be sent to Georganne Perrine at
dioala.org
Investiture of Bishop
gperrine@dioala.org or Carpenter House, 521 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL
35203-2682. The Recognition and Investiture of the Glenda Curry as
POSTMASTER: Please send address corrections to Georganne Perrine,
12th Bishop of Alabama. January 9, 2021.
Photo by Becky Luigart-Stayner, Sunny
the 12th Bishop of
Alabama
Circulation Secretary, The Alabama Episcopalian, 521 North 20th Street,
Birmingham, AL 35203-2682. House Studio.
2 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 3
Bishop’s Address to the 190th Convention
of the Diocese of Alabama
Camp McDowell, February 6, 2021
The Rt. Rev. Glenda S. Curry
G
race to you and peace from God our Father and the yet. I’m pleased to report they are all alive and managing re-
Lord Jesus Christ. I’m guessing when Paul used that ally well under the circumstances in their own ways. They’re
beautiful greeting in his letters, he wasn’t always worshipping, caring for each other, sharing the love of Jesus,
sure who would hear it. Today I really can relate. For me, and making God’s love visible, tangible and real, not only in
speaking to you when this big room is filled with a crowd, their own parishes but also in the world around them, even in
well, that is challenge enough. Speaking into the internet, to the middle of a pandemic.
be recorded and replayed, well that’s just a little too much I could not be more amazed or proud of all our parishes
attention and not what I imagined I’d ever be doing. I don’t and communities. When we learned on Friday, March 13 that
like thinking about it. I am so glad that our talented staff has for everyone’s sake, we would need to stop meeting in person
rigged a screen so I can see some of your faces. I’ve been for a time, you bolted into action. With amazing speed, many
looking at them, and I have this real urge to wave at you. were broadcasting services virtually only two days later. We
I have been your Diocesan Bishop now for 28 days, had some technical glitches and I’d love to see the outtakes.
Bishop Coadjutor for 189 days before that, so I’m new and But by the following Sunday, we were well on our way to
nothing has been like what I imagined or expected, except being televangelists. But before you think I’m making fun of
for your support and love. You’ve sent countless messages our ingenuity and creativity, let me be clear, I am totally in
of support, in prayers and encouragement with phone calls, awe of your response.
emails, notes, each landing like little envelopes of light, on Within two weeks, healing services, worship outdoors,
hard days and easy days, always reminding me that we are Sunday school, vestry meetings, church in the pines, phone
on this journey together and God is near. I am very grateful, trees, notes, cards, lawn chair church, house church, backyard
and I want to say thank you to everyone who took the time, church, readings of psalms, meditations and prayers on line,
who said a prayer, who wrote a note, who gave me a call or musical concerts, bedtime stories to children, zoom coffee
an email. Together we are living through an unprecedented hours, book studies, daily Bible study, TEXT to Give for
and extraordinary time and I know you’ve heard that a lot. offerings, and children’s Catechesis lessons were all steam-
And I am honored to be your Bishop and I could not be more ing for everyone to see. A revival of daily morning prayer,
excited about our future. noonday prayer, and compline became anchors of hope in
I told you at the Walk About last year that I don’t mind a the isolation. Most reported surprising participation in virtual
challenge and I’m acquainted with adversity. Well, God has worship. None of us expected that.
handed us a big dose of both. I also promised that I would Eventually, mask ministries, food collections and outside
speak directly and openly to you always, and I would ask for pantries, virtual choirs, beans and rice with bags of grocer-
your help, and that I was aware that our parishes are unique, ies, outside prayer stations, 3:00 daily videos, deliveries of
yet, we are all One Body in Christ Jesus, and called for min- warm cookies, fruit, vegetables to homes and cars and front
istry and mission in unity. porches, virtual vacation Bible school, soup to go with smiles
I remember learning somewhere many years ago that added to our worship and outreach. Several offered Wednes-
Bishops are signs of our unity. I hope whenever you see me, day night curbside dinner service every week. One rector told
I am a reminder of the depth and breadth of our rich common me, “I’ve seen more of my people delivering dinner to their
life, and of all of our connections to each other and to Jesus. car, than I might have seen in regular church.”
I am blessed to travel, even now, around the Diocese. It is a Through Holy Week, Easter and Christmas, we stretched
privilege to see each community up close. Since last June, our imaginations and our energy to stay connected and
so far, I’ve managed to visit 45 churches and worshipping worship together, to be together with Jesus. We hid Easter
communities. And we’ve checked on those I have not visited eggs in family’s front yards, sent palm crosses by mail, had
4 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 5
farmers markets in parking lots, put countless drive by bags construction of an outdoor pavilion that is now their principal At this point, I’d have to say I have double vision. I commitment to evaluate what happens with those
of groceries in car trunks, Sawyerville and Special session worship space, marveled at God’s perfect timing. imagine we all have double vision. We’re trying to see just dollars.
had camp in a box, Camp McDowell invented many things, Good Shepherd, Decatur, Christ Church, Fairfield, St. to the end of our headlights as we come out of the COVID 4. Strengthen communication and our ability to engage
among them Family Camp. Summer interns invited people to Simon Peter’s, Pell City, Epiphany in Guntersville and other fog. But we’re also looking out ahead at what we might or more leaders among us, on our departments and for
come for COVID testing instead of inviting them to go swim- parishes that I’m sure I don’t know about, all worked on could be in five years. It’s unpredictable and also exciting. I our councils.
ming in Greensboro. We blessed pets in cars, put Christmas renovations and COVID related physical improvements. Still need your help. The very best vision will be the one that is 5. Promote an effort to energize ministries that help us
presents in more car trunks, had Christmas carols online and others upgraded technology and equipment to support our imagined with more than just my eyes. share God’s reconciling grace, with a priority being
Christmas worship unlike any other ever attempted steaming emerging internet life. Our program quality improved over- To that end I will ask our councils, departments, com- racial reconciliation. I want to assess our existing
live and recorded and worthy of awards. time, and we did not stop, we did not retreat, we did not wait missions and committees to develop their own goals for 2021 strengths and failings, asking where we need to
Our food collections for Community Kitchens and to see what might happen, we worked even harder, to build to place along side my goals for them. We’re collecting infor- repent and seek forgiveness, where we need educa-
Grace Food Pantry tripled, and we confirmed people in God’s kingdom. mation from this convention, some of which you’ve already tion and training. This effort will include providing
driveways, on lawns, and front steps. We managed smaller The more the pandemic limited our “normal” worship/ seen. We can learn from the most recent Bishop search profile leadership to explore the development of a center of
funerals and weddings safely, and this all seemed to simply common life inside our walls, the more creative our parishes focus groups—they gathered a lot of information— from my Peace and Justice in Montgomery, in the heart and
happen. Like the Word of the Lord happened to the prophets became reaching beyond the walls of church. Proving over visits to parishes, from last year’s convention, the informa- history of the Civil rights movement. Our church
in the Old Testament, overnight our COVID community and over that the body of Christ is about relationships and tion we gathered, which helped inform this years’ budget should be a visible leader and a model for teaching
life happened to our churches like we’d done it sometime we are living that out every day. In just weeks, we redefined conversations, decisions, and directions. and learning.
before. We were experts. Church in ways the experts a year ago said was impossible. I’m hoping for a leadership retreat at Camp when
We can’t deny or forget our losses though, of good We discovered virtual congregations of people from across it’s safe. I will invite our department, committee leaders In the near future, I will be leading a “From Many, One:
friends, family and loved ones, the pain of living in fear, the country and even around the world. to organize into a planning work group. I want their help Conversations Across Difference” group. I know many of
walking on eggshells every day, endless masks and gallons Some feared and predicted a dire financial forecast, but understanding all that we have. I want to bring you a clearer you have entered into Sacred Ground Conversation groups,
hand sanitizer, the oddity of living a virtual life cut off or I’m more than grateful to report things were brighter than vision and plan for our ministry together over the next five Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace groups, book Stud-
void of human touch, a new normal that can never be normal. we could have ever imagined. At least 36 of our parishes years at our next convention. I want it to reflect our needs and ies, and many other ways of loving each other across our
It’s been hard, disorienting, exhausting, worthy of the lament received CARES/Revive State grants totaling over $669,000 directions and dreams. differences. Learning to listen and hear one another’s stories
of the psalms. But we moved through the strangest of years and many received Federal Paycheck Protection Program Our Diocese is strong, and it has weathered wars, de- helps us heal and grow. We need to know more about what
with great hope, trusting God and reaching out creating and grants to offset the impact of the pandemic. These resourc- pression, upheavals, epidemics and social strife before. But in each community is already doing. I will ask the Truth, Justice
finding new ways to love. es helped stabilize especially vulnerable ministries such this strange season, we’ve been given a once in a lifetime op- and Racial Reconciliation Commission to help us with those
We did not stumble, retreat or hide our light. We have as Camp McDowell, who got two rounds of PPP money portunity to shape our Church in new, vibrant and nourishing questions.
continued to put it out there in bold relief to a world that and that we expect will all be forgiven, that totaled over ways. Your inspiring response to our predicament this year 6. A small group to reimagine our campus ministries
revealed in some many ways just how divided we are as a $900,000, to stabilize them and put them in a good place to says we can afford to be bold. While I’m asking myself, what has already started working together. It’s really
people by race, ideas, politics and worldview, and more. A begin again when it’s safe. Our smaller communities, many is the vision for our Diocese, I hope you’re asking the same exciting. Their thinking about the future where the
summer of riots, an unbelievable capital invasion, terrible of whom never had even thought of a grant, got money about your parish. Please feel free to send me your ideas, in world is smaller, and culture is shifting. It’s only just
injustices, angry politics left us all feeling bruised and broken to help them remain solvent. I commit to you that we will chat or later in email. begun to form.
and stunned. We responded with more prayers and a call to restore Camp completely as soon as it is safe. I couldn’t have 7. Our budget group began to talk about and under-
more love. more resolve about that. This year using some of the information we already stand the role of the Diocese. I believe the Diocese
I watched as many gathered in virtual Bible and book But the greater gifts financially came from your deter- have, I’m asking you to affirm the following new directions: should be a resource, not just a regulator. A resource
studies trying to learn about prejudice and racial reconcili- mined response. Individuals, people who love the Lord, you 1. Strengthen our leadership with an assisting Bishop to encourage and nourish new and existing min-
ation with a brand-new enthusiasm. People who I imagine continued to give faithfully and even sacrificially to your par- to begin at midyear, to work specifically with small istries through the parishes. I want to strengthen
might never study together, because of zoom were striving ishes and to the Diocese to support the mission and ministry. church ministry, in addition to confirmations and connections between our communities to their sister
to remember to respect the dignity of every human being. When I say thank you, it doesn’t seem sufficient. But thank visitations. parishes, and foster partnership between smaller and
As the troubles seemed to grow, our churches seemed to you and thank God for your generous hearts. As a result of 2. To affirm changes in the Alabama Integrative Minis- larger ones. Our small churches are jewels, and our
double down on the message of Jesus. Now that is not to your faithful giving and the dedication of your lay and clergy try School program that shift our academic educa- large churches are guiding stars, and they’re all are
say we’ve done all we can about our brokenness where race leadership, many of our churches tell me their year ended with tion of bivocational deacons and priests to depend beacons of hope. But we also need a strategy for
and difference are concerned, not by a long shot, but to them being nearly financially whole. And that is absolutely upon the Alternative Clergy Training at Sewanee. growth. Our virtual experiences can help us learn
courageously admit, we have awakened to realize we have amazing. Now we don’t know what next year will bring of In the long run, I believe that such a move is more and also help us accomplish that.
so much more to do. course, but we know what we did this year, and I am hopeful. sustainable and reliable over time.
Despite the show stopping challenges of 2020, St. As I visit places, hear about your work, talk on phone 3. Increase our emphasis on mission and outreach to What has the pandemic taught us? About worship, about
Mary’s-on-the-Highlands, Holy Trinity, Auburn, and St. and Zoom, what I see is not a permanent or smoldering the aging, ministries for poor and the lost, to those education, about people and serving? I made a list and maybe
Thomas, Birmingham continued their large construction despair. People are tired, but they’re also encouraged and in need of food and shelter, to increase possibilities you can share yours in the chat.
projects uninterrupted. With great joy in November, we dedi- patiently faithful. They ask, “Bishop, what is your vision for we can be with those that Jesus loved and spent his We’ve learned we’re resilient, more flexible than we
cated St. Mary’s new space with our masks on, six feet apart. our Diocese?” That’s a big question, and I think and pray time with. I hope that help will be given out in the imagined, creative, courageous and faithful, we learned it’s
St. Luke’s, Birmingham who had only recently completed about that every day. form of matching grants to parishes, who make a more about relationships than walls, we need each other, we
6 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 7
love our communities, we like to hug, we love being togeth-
er, we like to sing, we can worship outside, but we love the
inside, we can worship virtually, church lives beyond state
work of the COVID ad hoc budget committee that helped
guide us from the very beginning, for the Diocesan Coun-
cil and Standing Committee, for our departments of Camp
190th Diocesan Convention:
borders, our church looks outward more than we thought, McDowell, Sawyerville, Outreach and Mission, Christian New Ways to Love
we have an entrepreneurial spirit, we want to heal our Formation, Parish Development, Stewardship, Youth, Recov- The Rev. Kelley Hudlow,
divisions and live in peace. That’s just part of my list, what ery Ministries, Liturgy and Music, for all of our commissions
Communications Coordinator
about your list? that worked behind the scenes and worked hard, for their
Now, I’ve shared much about my thinking about emerg- leadership and talent, for our staff who put all of this together
ing from COVID, but I’ve also been looking farther ahead. today, and last but not least a special thank you to my friend,
I am attracted to the work of Samuel Wells, the rector our Bishop Kee, who I’m hoping is not even watching this.
of St. Martin’s in the Fields in London. Before St. Martin’s, For he labored with us too. I miss his help and counsel and
he was Chaplain at Duke University. Under his leadership, hope he’s relaxing and having fun. At my investiture when
St. Martin’s is developing innovative and amazing ways to we missed our cue and delayed opening the Cathedral door, I
share the Gospel. In his book, A Future That’s Bigger Than really thought for a minute that Kee was on the other side of
the Past, Wells talks about the church’s decline and need the door playing a joke on me. Thank you Kee and blessings.
for reform. He centers his concept in John 10:10, where I do not cease to give thanks to God for each of you and your
Jesus states his purpose, “I have come to have life, and have ministry. Every one of you is essential.
it abundantly.” Wells defines ministry as building up the Sam Wells tells the story of a couple that he once pre-
church to embody abundant life. Said another way, church pared to be married. The bride’s father was battling a terminal
is about bringing heaven to earth. illness. The father’s dying wish was to walk his daughter
The church is a community of hope with the life, death down the aisle. When the man’s condition deteriorated
and resurrection of Jesus at the center. As such it seeks to suddenly, they all hurried up the wedding so Dad would be
bless the world around it, using entrepreneurial spirit and there. The big day came, and Dad, all dressed up and weak
enterprise where helpful. Living out the spirit of William but proud, joined his daughter at the front pew and walked Bishop Curry leads Compline from St. Francis Chapel. As part of this service Deacon Pearl Slay’s
Temple, “The church is the one institution that exists for the last 12 steps down the aisle and handed her arm to her vestments were dedicated to use at Camp.
T
the sake of those outside it.” In his imagined future church, groom. His face said that all of his wishes had been satisfied.
he 190th Convention of the Diocese of Alabama All Saints Birmingham Youth Ministry. Delegates also got
the anchor is relationships lived with humility. Diversity Afterwards, Wells said they all agreed that they were very sad
went virtual this year. In response to the COVID-19 to relive the drama of last summer’s “Cassock Challenge,”
is a necessary asset that teaches us about the people Jesus but that they had done something beautiful together. Later he
pandemic, clergy and lay delegates gathered using the featuring Alabama clergy Josiah Rengers, Katie Nakamura
cherished, helps us discover our gifts and prepares us for writes, for no explainable reason, I was struck by the thought
Zoom web conferencing platform on Saturday, February 6, Rengers, Jeremy Carlson, Seth Olson, Charles Youngson, and
suffering and adversity. Culture is changing but need not that on my tombstone, I want them to write, “If it can’t be
2021. Bishop Curry, together with a small number of dioce- Bishop Curry.
be our enemy. Church is also changing in ways that may happy, make it beautiful”.
san officers and staff, joined the Zoom gathering from Hall The business session opened with a short video reflect-
be better seen as a gift. The changes can ultimately help us As this Diocese of Alabama has labored this year to
Hall at Camp McDowell. Other members of diocesan staff ing on the “New Ways to Love” that the diocese learned in
share love and hope with more people. The church models love one another as Jesus has loved us in all sorts of old and
were on hand to answer questions in the Zoom chat and to the past year, and then a short service of morning prayer.
God’s future in the present. new ways we never even thought about, there were many
offer technical support for those joining the meeting. Throughout the day music was provided by Susie Youngson,
Of course, there’s plenty more to say about all this but I situations that did not go the way we planned, but in every
The night before convention, Bishop Curry led a service All Saints Birmingham, and the Rev. Corey Jones, Camp Mc-
only hoped to stimulate your imagination. We have much to case, I am secure in the knowledge that when things were not
of Compline from St. Francis Chapel. The service of music Dowell. Bishop Curry was joined at Camp McDowell by the
do in the coming months and years. How can the Diocese of happy, you did your best to make it loving, and that made it
and prayers was livestreamed on the diocesan social media Rev. Scott Arnold, diocesan Secretary; Mr. Rip Britten, Esq.,
Alabama through our parishes better bless the world? How beautiful.
and website. As part of this service, Deacon Pearl Slay’s vest- Chancellor and appointed parliamentarian; Mr. Jeff McCor-
can the Diocese be a blessing to each parish community?
ments were dedicated for use at Camp McDowell. Deacon mack, diocesan Treasurer; and Mr. Stephen Speaks, Election
What have we learned from the pandemic that really will Let us pray…
Slay died from COVID-19 in May 2020. Her family offered Chair. With 62 parishes and 95 canonical clergy present, a
carry forward? What can we release and let go? How can we
remarks in a short video played as part of the service. Willie quorum was had and business could proceed.
reflect and reveal the love of Jesus and grow and deepen in Father of All, show us your glorious unity in our marvelous
love and service? diversity, Slay, her husband, presented her garments and explained Bishop Curry recognized lay members of Diocesan
My favorite definition of leadership says that leadership Jesus, lover of souls, teach us new ways to love, that they were purchased “for the use of the ministry of the Council and the Standing Committee, non-canonical licensed
is the management of hope. This year has been a hope man- Healing Holy Spirit, energize us to make life beautiful, upbuilding of God’s kingdom, and since she has made it there clergy present, retired clergy, those in formation for ordi-
aging year, but I think this is a perfect year to be a new Bish- And may the peace of God that passes all understanding keep before us, we are giving her vestments so that the work of the nation, and those present were given seat and voice. With
op. I remain humbled and grateful for your confidence. I hope our hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and kingdom can continue. So that men, women, boys, and girls the virtual format of convention, clergy new to the diocese
you will join me in giving thanks for the careful, dedicated of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. will know that Jesus yet lives and he saves.” You can view or newly canonically resident were invited to make a short
the Slay family’s video at https://vimeo.com/509455617. video introduction. You can view this video at https://vimeo.
On Saturday morning, as delegates joined the Zoom com/509456241. Bishop Curry also designated three wor-
Endnotes
1
A Future That’s Bigger Than the Past, Catalysing Kingdom Communities, by Samuel Wells. Canterbury Press, 2019. meeting, they were treated to a selection of music from St. shipping communities: The Abbey Birmingham, St. Martin’s
2
“Make it beautiful”, by Samuel Wells, Christian Century, December 16, 2020 pg. 37 Stephen’s Birmingham Children’s Ministry and Choir and in the Pines Birmingham, and Todos Los Santos, Montgom-
8 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 9
Election Results
Diocesan Council
Southern Caucus
The Rev. Mark Waldo, St. Michael’s and All Angels,
Millbrook - Presbyter (3-year term)
The Rev. Rosa Lindahl, Holy Comforter,
Montgomery - Presbyter (1-year unexpired term)
Rip Britton, Chancellor, and Scott Arnold, Secretary, joined
Bishop Curry at Hall Hall for our virtual convention. Middle Caucus
The Rev. Jeremy Carlson, St. Mary’s on the
used to restore the maintenance and operating reserves, and Highlands, Birmingham - Presbyter (3-year term)
From Hall Hall, Bishop Curry watches the report from Leslie Manning during our virtual convention.
the remaining amount is available to address other expenses in
ery. The results of the caucus elections, which were held in ined, creative, courageous and faithful, we learned it’s more 2021. The budgets presented for 2021 reflected the priorities Northern Caucus
advance on January 29 on Zoom, were ratified. about relationships than walls, we need each other, we love identified by Bishop Curry in her address. Both budgets were The Rev. Chase Ackerman, St. John’s, Decatur -
The Rev. Aaron Raulerson, Epiphany in Guntersville, our communities, we like to hug, we love being together, we introduced and adopted by convention. Presbyter (3-year term)
reported on the work of Diocesan Council. He noted how the like to sing, we can worship outside, but we love the inside, After the lunch break, the convention gathered with the
Mrs. Rachel Morris, Epiphany, Guntersville - Lay
pandemic affected the work of council, with meetings moved we can worship virtually, church lives beyond state borders, hymn “Blest are They” sung by the choirs of St. Michael and
(1-year unexpired term)
to Zoom and the creation of a subcommittee to review the our church looks outward more than we thought, we have an All Angels in Millbrook, St. John’s and Church of the Ascen-
finances of the diocese and Camp McDowell. Even with the entrepreneurial spirit, we want to heal our divisions and live sion in Montgomery. Mr. Stephen Speaks, our Election Chair,
many changes, the work of the council continued. Council in peace.” You can read her full remarks beginning on page 5, came forward to lead the afternoon elections. Elections were Standing Committee
approved the request of six parishes to restructure mortgage or watch them at https://vimeo.com/509461212. held electronically, with delegates making nominations in the The Rev. Rich Webster, St. Luke’s, Birmingham -
debt or borrow funds for repairs and improvements, as well Following her address, Bishop Curry introduced Lisa chat box. Voting was accomplished through the Zoom polling Clergy (4-year term)
as authorized parishes seeking PPP Loans, grants under the Kimball, Ph.D., who was one of our keynote speakers at last system. While everyone missed the presence and energy of our
The Rev. Katherine Harper, St. Stephen’s,
CARES Act, and fundraising at Camp McDowell. Rauler- year’s convention. Kimball is the James Maxwell Profes- Youth that typically serve to collect ballots, many delegates
Birmingham - Clergy (2-year term)
son closed his remarks by reflecting that diocesan council sor of Lifelong Formation and Associate Dean of Lifelong appreciated the efficiency of the electronic balloting.
“continues to look to the future with confidence, keeping Learning at Virginia Theological Seminary. Currently, she The business session was closed with a short Celebration Mrs. Miriam Clark, Holy Trinity, Auburn - Lay (4-
two things in mind. First, our mission and ministry has not is directing Baptized for Life, a 5-year project supported by of Gifts and Ministries. Thanks was offered for those conclud- year term)
changed. We are doing the work of sharing the Good news of the Lilly Endowment, Inc., to mentor congregations as they ing their service: Rip Britton as Chancellor; Jayne Pool and
God’s love through the person of Jesus Christ by the power explore Christian calling and form lives of meaning and Julia Sanford, Standing Committee; and Katie Rengers and
Disciplinary Board
of the Holy Spirit. Second, we take comfort and assurance in purpose. Prior to the delegates moving into breakout groups, Aaron Raulerson, Diocesan Council. Prayers for guidance
The Rev. Robin Hinkle, St. Mary’s, Jasper (2-year
the knowledge that God is with us in this moment and will Kimball remarked that the fact that 350 people were part of were offered for those beginning or continuing in their service.
unexpired term)
surely continue to bless the work of our hands.” the convention means “you haven’t given up on new expres- The Convention was then adjourned.
Leslie Manning reported to convention about the results sions of being church and being dependent on technology in The Rev. Huey Gardner, St. Mary’s-on-the-
of the survey sent to delegates in 2021. Over 50% of respon- ways we never imagined.” She found that our diocese was Highlands, Birmingham (3-year term)
dents rated their parish’s response to the pandemic as 5 out “not only resilient, but that the gifts that God has given each Mr. Hank Poellnitz, All Saints, Birmingham (3-year
of 5, and 34.4% rated their parish 4 out of 5. Respondents of you are being used to the fullness of God’s glory.” Kimball term)
named the top three reasons for the diocese as (1) providing joined the afternoon session and facilitated a Q & A session
leadership and vision, (2) providing resources for all parishes with Bishop Curry. You can watch her full remarks and the
so they may proclaim the Good News, and (3) provide con- Q&A at https://vimeo.com/509514490.
nection to a wider church community. Respondents identified
the top three areas to focus on as (1) clarity of vision and
Before the lunch break, Mr. Jeff McCormack offered the
Treasurer’s Report. He reported that diocesan finances and
Resolutions
strong communication, (2) resources for smaller parishes, and Camp McDowell finances were in good shape. Through the Resolution 1: Diocesan Budget (Adopted)
(3) clergy support (supply priests, deacons, regional gather- hard work of the budget subcommittee, and the securing of a Resolution 2: Camp McDowell Budget (Adopted)
ings). You can watch Manning’s full report at https://vimeo. PPP loan, the losses experienced by Camp McDowell in 2020
com/509456360. were limited to $200,000. As 2021 begins, Camp McDowell For complete coverage of the 190th Diocesan
Bishop Curry addressed the convention, reflecting on the has received another PPP loan which will help restore Camp Convention, including video reports, the Bishop’s
remarkable work of our parishes to respond to the pandemic. in the coming months. While covenants were down, the dio- Address, and the complete Zoom recording, visit
“We’ve learned we’re resilient, more flexible than we imag- cese finished 2020 with a $250,000 surplus. This surplus was Following her address, Bishop Curry participates in a Q & A https://www.dioala.org/dfc/newsdetail_2/3206343.
session facilitated by Lisa Kimball, Ph.D.
10 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 11
An Evening of Stories
Celebrating Bishop Kee
O
n Sunday, December 6, Bishop Kee Sloan was celebrated in a livestreamed event from Camp McDowell. Sloan,
known widely for his storytelling, became the listener as family, friends, and colleagues shared stories about him
through short videos. You can watch the complete broadcast at https://www.dioala.org/dfc/newsdetail_2/3205674.
The Rev. David Meginniss, from Christ Church Tuscaloosa, was the emcee for the evening, weaving the storytellers
together and inviting Kee to respond to the stories shared. During the broadcast it was announced that the scholarship
fund for Special Session was being named the “Sloan Scholarship Fund.” Bishop Sloan also received a walking stick
made for him by the folks at the Church of the Nativity in Huntsville. The diocese presented Tina Sloan a stained-glass
window made by Linda Munoz (www.littleriverart.com). Folks from around the diocese sent in videos, photos, notes,
and made gifts.
Hello, friends
A Note from Kee
I
hope you’re all well, taking care of yourselves and each other. Tina seems to be putting up with me pretty well
so far; I’m enjoying having nothing on my calendar and looking forward to the day when we can all move
around more freely.
I’m writing to thank you all for your generosity through the years, and especially for the very generous
retirement purse. And thank you all for the beautiful stained-glass window! Most of the plans Tina and I imag-
ined when we thought about retiring have been put on hold because of COVID, at least for a few months until the
vaccine brings us to a less limited time, but when things are better, your kindness will go with us into whatever
adventures come along. Thank you all very much, and may our loving God continue to bless you all.
God’s Peace,
A screenshot of the storytelling broadcast that shows Bishop Sloan watching one of the more colorful storytellers,
his friend and “troubler of Israel,” Kyle Bennett.
12 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 13
The Recognition and
Investiture of Bishop
Glenda Curry as the 12th
Bishop of Alabama
O
n Saturday, January 9, 2021, on the Eve of the Baptism of Our Lord, the Rt. Rev. Glenda S. Curry,
became the twelfth Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama. Bishop Kee Sloan was the cele-
brant for the investiture service held at the Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham. Due to
the pandemic, in person attendance was limited. People from across the diocese and the country gathered
virtually, represented in person by the leadership of the diocese.
The service featured six liturgical elements that are copal Church. The Holy Spirit has gifted thousands and
unique to the Investiture of a Bishop. First is the Recog- thousands of God’s Episcopal children here to bring the
nition, when Bishop Curry gained entrance to the Ca- way of love, to bring the way of Jesus to their communi-
thedral and is recognized by the presiding Bishop. Next, ties and their neighborhood. There has been a long and
Bishop Curry reaffirmed the promises she made when impressive line of shepherds who have loved, encouraged,
consecrated a bishop. Third, in the Investiture, when she and empowered the flock to live into the fullness of the
was invested with “all the temporal and spiritual rights ministries that they have been called.” After noting Bish-
and responsibilities” of the office. Fourth is the entrusting op Curry’s experience before becoming a bishop, Prior
of the Diocesan Cozier to the new Diocesan Bishop. In said, “You are ready, my friend. The flock is ready. Under
this moment Bishop Sloan gave the pastoral staff used your shepherding the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama is
by every bishop of Alabama since 1900, to Bishop Curry. being called with you into new ways to love.”
Next, she took an oath that she will observe and fulfill the Following the sermon, Bishop Curry led the con-
responsibilities and obligations of this office and strive gregation in the Renewal of Baptismal Vows. After the
to be a faithful shepherd of God’s people. In the sixth li- Blessing of the Water, she asperged the congregation as
turgical moment, Bishop Curry was escorted by the Dean a reminder of their baptism by water and the Holy Spirit.
of the Cathedral to her “cathedra”- the seat in the Cathe- Throughout the service, music was offered by musicians
dral Church reserved for her as a symbol of the office. and singers from All Saints Birmingham and the Cathedral
It is from the “cathedra” that bishops preached and gave Church of the Advent and the Cathedral Brass. The service
formal teaching in ancient times, and it remains a symbol also included a recorded hymn performed by children
of the bishop’s authority. from across the diocese. People from around the diocese
Once these unique liturgical moments were complete, participated in the Renewal of Baptismal Vows by submit-
the service continued with the reading and hearing of ting videos answering with “I will with God’s help.”
scripture and the sermon. The Rt. Rev. Brian Prior, former The service continued with the Holy Eucharist. At the
Bishop of Minnesota and current Assisting Bishop for conclusion of the service, Bishop Sloan and Bishop Curry
the Diocese of Olympia offered the sermon. Bishop Prior were greeted with a parade of well-wishers in cars on 20th
remarked “for close to 200 years, lives in Alabama have Street North. You can view the service at https://vimeo.
been transformed by the love of Jesus through the Epis- com/498771070.
14 | The Alabama Episcopalian
Bishop Curry knocks on the West doors of the Cathedral Church of the Advent as part of the service of Recognition and Investiture. Bishop curry asperges the congregation by sprinkling them with holy water as a reminder of their baptism.
Photo by Becky Luigart-Stayner, Sunny House Studio. Photo by Becky Luigart-Stayner, Sunny House Studio.
Following the service, Bishop Curry greets participants in the drive by parade. Photo by Becky Luigart-Stayner, Sunny House Studio. People from around the diocese joined in the Renewal of Baptismal Vows by sending in videos answering, “I will with God’s help.”
Photo by Becky Luigart-Stayner, Sunny House Studio.
16 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 17
The Rev. David Hall, from St. Luke’s in Birmingham, snaps a photo of the bishops during
the parade following the service. Photo by Becky Luigart-Stayner, Sunny House Studio.
Bishop Sloan hands the Diocese of Alabama crozier to Bishop Curry as she is invested as the 12th Bishop of the Diocese of Alabama.
January 9, 2021. Photo by Becky Luigart-Stayner, Sunny House Studio.
18 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 19News from Our Shared Ministries News from Our Shared Ministries
Summer 2021 is Good to Go!
W
e are thrilled that we will be able
to host Summer Camp, Summer
Learning, and JumpStart this
year! To do this safely, we will offer Summer
Camp at half capacity and Summer Learning
and JumpStart at full capacity.
At Summer Camp, each of the three
one-week sessions will welcome 120
campers and 36 high school staff. The three
age groups (Lower Camp for 6-8 year-olds,
Middler Camp for 9-11 year-olds, and Upper
Camp for 12-13 year-olds) will each have 40
campers and 12 high school staff per session. We’ve decided not to go swimming in Marion this summer. Swimming is such an important part of the camp experience,
At Summer Learning, we will teach 40 and we’re sad that it’s not possible this year. We are working to create a fun alternative water activity for the end of each
rising first- and second-grade students. And session.
at JumpStart, we will serve 18 rising Kinder- We will need help from parishes with meals and supplies! For staff dinners, rather than having groups come to Greens-
garten students. boro to cook, we’re asking that churches sponsor a catered meal from a local restaurant. We’ll have three levels of sponsorship
During the day, campers, students, teach- to reflect different staff sizes. For supplies, we will need more cleaning supplies than usual. We’re still figuring out exactly
ers, and staff will follow social distancing guidelines, wear what our needs will be—more info is coming soon!
masks, and sanitize their hands regularly. Each morning, One thing we know for sure is that this plan will probably change in some way between now and June! Please stay flexi-
campers will have their temperature taken either when they ble with us and keep this summer’s programs in your prayers. If you have questions or concerns regarding COVID-19 and this
board the school bus or when they arrive on campus. Staff summer’s programs, please contact Crystal Jones at crystal@sawyerville.org.
will clean the facility routinely throughout the day.
After campers and students leave each day, high school
staff will continue to follow safety guidelines. Staff will
also be tested for COVID-19 when they arrive on Saturday
for staff training and again throughout the session. We hope
to create a “bubble” so that staff members feel comfortable
spending time together.
Campers will be given a spot at camp on a first-come-
first-serve basis. We will do our best to ensure that all the
children in the same household will be able to attend the
same session. We anticipate that there will be a waiting list
this year.
For staff, because we have limited space, we will
review applications carefully and work to create a staff
that is diverse in gender, age, race, and hometown. We also
anticipate a waiting list for staff this year.
20 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 21News from Our Shared Ministries News from Our Shared Ministries
The Work Goes On – A New Way to Love Department of Mission and Outreach Accepting
The Rev. Gerri Aston, Deacon and Diocesan Coordinator for Episcopal Relief and Development Applications for Parish Grants
O T
NE THOUSAND DAYS OF he Department of Mission and Outreach is excited to announce that applications for Parish Outreach Grants will
LOVE is a $3 million grassroots be accepted from now until May 31st. Grant requests of up to $2,500 can be submitted. These grants are intended
Church-wide fundraising cam- as startup funds for a new ministry that your parish hopes to begin. Each grant may be renewed twice as you work
paign dedicated to expanding the organi- towards it becoming self -sustaining. Bishop Curry in her convention address mentioned that she would like us to help the
zation’s global programs, improving the aging, the poor, the lost and those who are in need of food or shelter.
lives of children up to age six. A child Over the years the Department has funded lots of grants, most of the ministries ongoing. Multiple parishes offer
who is well nurtured during these criti- Beans and Rice. Community Gardens offer fresh produce to their neighbors. Churches offer their space for tutoring and
cal years will grow and reach their full reading programs and also for respite care for those who need a break. Launderettes are available for neighbors to wash
potential becoming productive adults in their clothes. The possibilities are endless for us to (as Bishop G said) “increase the possibilities to be with those that Jesus
their community. Thus far over $1 million loves.” You can find the application here: https://bit.ly/2OHvP3L.
has been raised.
Your Department of Mission and Outreach at Work
The work overseas has continued
during this difficult year of pandemic.
Partners and staff have found new ways to
promote loving nurture for vulnerable chil-
dren despite being unable to implement a
program designed for person to person in-
teraction. And so the work here within our
church to spread awareness of this effort
must also go on. This too was designed
for person to person interaction within
parishes to promote acts of love including
sharing of one’s talents, time and treasure.
Just as our partners in the field have had
to pivot and find new ways to do the work
so too do we look for new ways to learn,
share and give to vulnerable children.
Visit the campaign portal at www.
episcopalrelief.org/1000daysoflove. Click
the Learn button to discover many resources for congregations and families to find new ways to love. Clergy and Christian
Formation staff will find worship resources and activities for all ages designed to promote loving kindness and bring
awareness of Episcopal Relief and Development’s work around the world with vulnerable children in remote communities.
The worship resources, including a children’s chapel and an intergenerational Eucharist are incredibly poignant. Love Hunt Photo from St. Michael & All Angels, Lake Charles, Facebook page.
is a scavenger-hunt-like game that is adapted for congregations to use outdoors as well as for families to use in the home,
A
yard or neighborhood. The game is a fun way to learn about what very young children need to thrive. mong other things your diocesan Department of Mission and Outreach does besides distributing grant
As you read this we are in the midst of Lent. The ever popular Lenten Meditations are available this year exclusive- money and supporting established outreach ministries, we respond when possible to immediate needs.
ly online. It’s not too late to catch up. And for Eastertide, (or any time you choose) a family activity has been created by When Lake Charles, Louisiana was clobbered by Hurricane Sally in August, we sent $1,000 to St.
campaign staff. Called Let’s Talk: Family Conversations Starters on Gifts and Psalms it highlights the nine gifts children Michael’s and All Angels Parish there for their use in recovery efforts. We also sent $15,000 to our companion
need to thrive that are at the core of One Thousand Days of Love work with children. The cards include an adorable picture Diocese of the Virgin Islands, also for hurricane recovery support.
of the gift, such as Patience, three questions, one from the adults to the children, another from the children to the adults and These measures are part and parcel to our efforts to be more agile and responsive to national and internation-
the third for everyone and a Psalm excerpt. With so many new ways to engender love please explore all the resources on al circumstances demanding timely, compassionate help. Being Christ’s presence in the world takes on various
the One Thousand Days of Love page of the Episcopal Relief and Development web page. forms, including financial assistance when the situation dictates. As we endeavor to be that presence, we will keep
Please reach out if your Parish or group would like a virtual presentation or have any questions: gerri.aston@gmail. you updated, and trust that you will offer your own prayers and encouragement on our behalf.
com or (205)420-1962
22 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 23News from Our Shared Ministries News from Our Shared Ministries
Questions and Answers about Special Session A Call to Mission: Becoming a World Where
How has the Special Session community been
Love is the Way
impacted by the pandemic? By The Rev. Judy Quick, Deacon and Chaplain to the Standing Commission on World Mission
O
Because Special Session is a ministry to and with adults
ur 2021 Diocesan Convention theme “New Ways to
with disabilities, we serve people who were especially
Love” reinforces the message to the Church offered by
impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Many of our
the Standing Commission on World Mission: Becoming
campers are high risk because of their age, pre-existing
a World Where Love is the Way: Crossing Boundaries, Listen-
conditions or because they live in congregate settings;
ing Deeply, Living Like Jesus, Together. Jesus calls us to love
many folks in our community don’t have access to
others as he loved us. The “others” may be within our parish, in
phones or computers to join in virtual events.
our neighborhood, or across the world.
Local and global mission in our diocese and in our parishes
Did you find ways to connect in 2020?
reveal our deeply held values. We respond to Jesus’ call to love
Although we dearly missed our in-person time together, others as he loved us and to live into our baptismal covenant
we found many ways to connect. We hosted virtual to respect the dignity of every human being. Some exam-
activities, chapel services, and even a talent show. We delivered camp-in-a-bag to each of our campers. We hosted a virtual ples of our mission work include beans and rice ministries,
day of learning about disability justice, including a zoom meeting with Judy Heumann, an internationally recognized civil food pantries, community kitchens, and community dining Resources from the Office of
rights advocate for people with disabilities. At Christmas time we mailed care packages to each of our campers. programs that address food insecurity. The need has been Government Relations
especially evident during this COVID epidemic. According
Do you plan to have Special Session in 2021? to Rebecca Blachly, Director of the Office of Government The purpose of the OGR is to represent Episcopal
We are hopeful about having Special Session in 2021, and our dates on the calendar are July 25-30 (staff training July 23- Relations (OGR) of The Episcopal Church, local non-profits and Christian values, including those highlighted in
24) and Aug 2-Aug 7 (staff training July 31- Aug 1). Registration is opening on our website, specialsessionalabama.org. (including faith organizations) nationally address about 5% of resolutions of General Conventions, to policymakers
food insecurity in the US. The Federal Government addresses in Washington, DC.
What will it look like? Will there be requirements and restrictions? the remaining 95%. • Sign up to receive Action Alerts from the
We don’t know what camp in 2021 is going to look like. We are lucky to have a great team of nurses, doctors, public health World Mission Sunday on February 14, 2021 launched Episcopal Public Policy Network for legislation
experts, and lots of people who care deeply about Special Session. We are meeting regularly to check in as vaccines are the Global Mission Digital Toolkit funded by The Episcopal that may affect poverty, creation care, racial
administered and we are monitoring community spread. We are imagining creative ways that we will be able to connect Church’s Constable grant. The project is a collaboration of the reconciliation, immigration and refugees, human
with our community this year if traditional camp is not safe. We are fine-tuning our ears to listen for the guidance of the Standing Commission on World Mission, the Office of Global rights, and peacebuilding. http://bit.ly/3jWxeyP
Holy Spirit as we navigate so many unknowns. Partnership of the Episcopal Church, and the Global Episcopal
• For those who are called to mission advocacy,
Mission Network (GEMN). Its purpose is to develop resourc-
there are resource available for civic engagement,
Do you need volunteers to sign up? es for dioceses, parishes, and individuals across the Anglican
including Make Me an Instrument of Peace: A
Communion to support and enrich global mission engage-
YES! We do need volunteer counselors, support staff, and campers to Guide to Civil Discourse. This course provides
ments. The toolkit includes webinars, videos, downloadable
sign up to let us know that you are interested in being a part of camp a biblical foundation and concrete ways to
PDFs, articles, and other online resources. The resources ex-
this year. We need churches to sign up to create welcome packs and encourage deep listening and learning from
plore the biblical, theological, historical, ecclesial, and cultural
host happy hours. differing points of view. http://bit.ly/2ZnMs6o
dimensions of God’s call to global mission.
We know that each of us will all have to weigh many factors as
“The materials also highlight the sacred truth that world
we decide what this summer will look like; we will be in communi-
mission means being present with others, as Jesus became
cation with everyone who signs up for camp as we know more.
incarnate and was present with us, and that as companions in mission, we open to one another, learn from one another, and
You can sign up as a volunteer at specialsessionalabama.org.
are transformed as we reach a deeper understanding of what it means to be Christians together, even across boundaries that
might otherwise divide.”
When will you know if you are having in person camp?
May we continue to cross boundaries, throughout the Anglican Communion, with ecumenical and inter-religious
We aim to have a plan for what camp will look like by June 1st. partners, and through relationships with migrants and refugees. May we continue to listen deeply to one another and to
Scripture to honor our sacred differences and guide us in the Way of Love. May we continue to live like Jesus, proclaiming
More questions? the good news of God’s love, walking with our global partners to address racism, environmental degradation, poverty, and
If you have questions or ideas about Special Session, please email sustainable development. May we continue to work together, learning from each other, seeking mutual and interdependent
Lindsey at lmullen@dioala.org. relationships, living into God’s Beloved Community, as we become a world where love is the way.
24 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 25News from our Parishes News from our Parishes
Holy Trinity Auburn Group Seeks Education and On Imagination and Creation: Rethinking Stewardship
Outreach in Race Relations The Rev. John B. Burruss, Rector, Saint Stephen’s Birmingham
Mary Olson
Several group members recently gathered for an in-person planning meeting. Left to right Geoff Evans, Rector; Bobbi Yeo, group
facilitator; William Wood, group member; and Bob Blackwell, clergy liaison.
D
uring the summer of 2020, when the tragic deaths The group has received guidance from members of the
of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, and Breonna diocesan Commission on Truth, Justice, and Racial Recon-
Taylor sparked outrage across the country, and ciliation, beginning with a presentation by and conversa-
even the world, parishioners at Holy Trinity Auburn, along tion with the Rev. Fannie Davis, minister of the Oak Street
with our clergy, felt the need for a response from the Epis- A.M.E. Zion Church in Montgomery. The Rev. Carolyn
A
copal Church, and Holy Trinity in particular, to these events Foster, Deacon at St. Mark’s in Birmingham and one of the s I was approaching my last semester of semi- abeth Kolbert. I had already had a conversation with my
which had awakened in so many people of all ethnic groups three Alabama leaders of the Poor People’s Campaign, gave nary, I remember that moment when the course bishop and was soon to head off to be the priest-in-charge
a desire for action. Our Rector Geoff Evans, initiated the a presentation on the PPC, and the Rev. Dr. Tommie Watkins catalogue was announced and the eagerness of a small suburban parish, a congregation with almost as
Conversation Project on Gospel, Race and Politics. Under talked to the group about reparations. of opening the document online and figuring out how I many acres of land as people on a Sunday morning.
the leadership of Bobbi Yeo, facilitator, and Bob Blackwell, The Conversation Project is part of a larger vision for might spend my last few months on the Holy Hill. Would When I arrived at that congregation, it was immedi-
assisting priest and clergy liaison, the group began a process
Holy Trinity outreach that includes a book group and a Mo- I have classes on Friday? What would be fun and life ately apparent that the land was a burden. “Father John,
of reading, listening to podcasts and inviting people to speak
bile Food Truck Mission with a neighborhood identified with giving? What was still required in order to graduate? we need to find more people to mow the yard!” and “We
to the group on the topics of systemic racism, reparations,
food insecurity. The ministry has expanded to include a com- I was drawn to a six-week class for my fourth and have too much property to keep this up.” For this church,
and reconciliation. The Conversation Project meets the first
munity garden, Christmas gifts and books for children, and final quarter of school. The class was titled Ecology the land had become a liability.
and third Sundays of every month. Over fifty people receive
distribution of warm winter outer clothing and masks. Rector and Christianity and it was taught by visiting instructor I was reminded of some wisdom from Wendell Berry
group emails, and attendance at meetings varies between
Geoff Evans has joined with other local clergy to form The and former Bishop Suffragan of Alabama, the Rt. Rev. in that class:
fifteen and thirty participants.
Lee County Zaccheus Fund, a fund for the acknowledgement Marc Andrus. I thought picking this class might make To preserve our places and to be at home in them, it
In the words of Bobbi Yeo, “Our focus so far has been
and repentance of the injustices of slavery and Jim Crow. my schedule a little easier and a few of my friends were is necessary to fill them with imagination. To imagine
on the truth part of truth and reconciliation which I see as the
Moving forward, our areas of focus are first, to learn as signing up, too. Little did I know that this class, out of ev- as well as see what is in them. Not to fill them with
necessary preparation for taking meaningful actions. Jemar
much as possible about the history of The Episcopal Church’s erything in my seminary formation, would arguably have the junk of fantasy and unconsciousness, for that is no
Tisby says that racism doesn’t go away, it adapts. I especially
relation to slavery and race relations, and second, to work the deepest impact on my vocation and ministry. We were more than the industrial economy would do, but to see
like what he calls the ARC of racial reconciliation: increasing
with other churches and members of the Black community to exposed to Wendell Berry and Ellen Davis. We read Mar- them first clearly with the eyes, and then to see them
Awareness, developing meaningful and on-going Relation-
garet Barker, Thomas Berry, and Paul Hawken. We had with the imagination in their sanctity, as belonging to
ships with people who don’t look like us, and making a promote racial healing. We hope to soon find a new name that
our emotions stirred up by words and stories from Eliz- Creation.1
Commitment to changing the systems and institutions which expresses our desire to move from education and understand-
promote racism. This is our guidance as we develop the 2021 ing to include new relationships and action in our community
action plan for the Conversation Project.” and the diocese. Wendell Berry, “Notes: Unspecializing Poetry,” in Standing by Words (Emeryville, Calif.: Shoemake & Hoard, 2005), 90-91.
1
26 | The Alabama Episcopalian dioala.org | 27You can also read
