tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52360584971707997252024-03-13T10:56:51.784-07:00Diosova NewsNews & Information for the Episcopal Church in Southern VirginiaDiocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comBlogger1979125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-78047176504195555162021-04-06T05:52:00.002-07:002021-04-06T05:52:23.081-07:00Camp Chanco will be open for 2021 season!<div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fcIPBPQw1l8/YGxZegsyakI/AAAAAAAACYA/d1-DpLKK114F3EX3j-MRiLaIcjS3mu8cwCNcBGAsYHQ/s399/Bishop%2BHaynes%2BChanco%2Bwinter%2Bcamp%2B2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="341" data-original-width="399" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fcIPBPQw1l8/YGxZegsyakI/AAAAAAAACYA/d1-DpLKK114F3EX3j-MRiLaIcjS3mu8cwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Bishop%2BHaynes%2BChanco%2Bwinter%2Bcamp%2B2020.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>As
our Easter season is a time of joy and rebirth, I am pleased to
announce that Camp Chanco will be open for the 2021 season! After a time
where so many of us have felt isolated and tied to technology, our
young people will be able to gather together at Chanco away from
screens, experiencing outdoor adventures, and challenging themselves in
new ways. With our schools and churches mostly virtual over the last
year, opportunities for our young people to be active and connect with
one another in person have perhaps never been more needed than now. Our
Missioner for Camp and Retreat Ministry, Gareth Kalfas, and his team
have been working diligently to research all COVID safety camp
guidelines to prepare for a safe and exciting camp experience. Chanco
will operate at a reduced capacity this summer and registrations are
already ahead of schedule. Therefore, I recommend that all interested
families register your camper today at </span><a href="http://www.chanco.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">www.chanco.org</a><span>. I
am very much looking forward to celebrating Eucharist with our campers
during their session and to experiencing Camp Chanco alive with outdoor
activity, laughter, singing, and worship. May Chanco’s programs be
blessed with opportunities to find God in the outdoors, in each other,
and in living and learning in Christian community. Please join me in
holding the Camp Chanco staff and campers in our prayers for a healthy,
fun and faith-filled season ahead.</span>
</span></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span><div><span style="font-size: small;"><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span><div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">-- Bishop Susan</span></span></div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-9370327435147037542021-03-29T06:24:00.004-07:002021-03-29T06:24:28.036-07:00 Join the Bishop for Virtual Clergy & Vestry Event on Saturday, May 8 <p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">In
lieu of our traditional vestry training days, the Bishop invites both
clergy and vestry members to a fresh reformulation of annual vestry
training. This year, a single Clergy & Vestry Day with the Bishop
will be conducted via Zoom on Saturday, May 8, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30.
p.m. The event will include opening remarks by the Bishop, a Vestry
fundamentals session facilitated by the Rev. Canon Win Lewis, and a
keynote address by leadership consultant and practical theologian Tod
Bolsinger, who will join us to explore “Surviving the Pandemic and
Thriving After: The Church on the Other Side of the Covid
Mountain." Returning to the Diocese of Southern Virginia, Tod will share
insights and practices to guide our churches through the process of
looking past the pandemic into an unprecedented future. Plan to take
part in this three hour session to inform, enrich, and inspire parish
leadership in this pivotal season in life of the church! </span><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016-7abYM_kqdEE_kOoeK7_xCnagcGfafxtadVpm251XVI_ovjsHTokHMc89v-XSsxGimIarEWdOqEDnDvS0sNVpmXKEEKLKfwAA9Cj-KnUL1VKnhqbNwGXjrWzyOwDHC3M0ZsHmQlh5IhndqDSx98nQWIUPF5McU61pFHfrvZenrDW6fB8uKiddTDXnfvJvPVSDFwQtPKxSn7nUUnPy1CSfF5vQpV1LCGUfJqmfCef-7nfDcEMpn0Gw==&c=PHC_A19PXEM78rVbW2coPHHFOGiw6H0oPAxsGuNA_r8g8v_uveMl4w==&ch=jvDCpua4bdO77_YDZuBeyNeR46-bQ_sjWXUouIchGw9ijcW0F0_amA==&jrc=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Register here</a><span style="color: black;">.</span></span></span>
</p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-66855159245524777572021-03-29T06:23:00.004-07:002021-03-29T06:23:56.185-07:00Course on Understanding Addiction and Supporting Recovery through Pathways for Baptismal Living begins April 11<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">T<span>he
Rev. Jan M. Brown and the Rev. Lauren McDonald, co-chairs of the
diocesan Addictions & Recovery Commission, will be offering a course
on Understanding Addiction and Supporting Recovery through Pathways for
Baptismal Living at Bexley Seabury Seminary. Beginning April 11, this 8
week, online course will give clergy and congregational leaders tools t</span><span style="color: #292b2c;">o
help increase understanding about those predisposed to addictions and
to offer them a path to recovery and wholeness in the spirit of our
Baptismal Covenant. It also will</span><span style="color: black;"> prepare
participants to minister as Recovery Allies and/or Rapid Response
Teams, to prepare their churches and dioceses to be Safe Havens and/or
Recovery Ready Churches, and to share Christ’s love with those
struggling with substance use. </span><a href="https://bexleyseabury.pathwright.com/library/substance-use-awareness-and-recovery-ally-training/196265/about/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Click here for more information and to register</a><span style="color: black;">.</span></span></span>
</p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-86553144290579915342021-03-24T07:06:00.005-07:002021-03-24T07:06:59.508-07:00Sing a New Song to the Lord: A Word from the Bishop about Singing<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: black;">(and also about Books of
Common Prayer and Children’s Formation)</span></b><span style="color: black;"></span></span></span></p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Beginning with Palm Sunday,
congregational singing is now permitted for <b>OUTDOOR</b> services. Members of
the congregation must continue to socially distance and should wear their masks
even while singing. Congregational singing should be limited, when possible, to
fewer verses in hymns, antiphons only for the Psalm (while a quartet/octet may
sing the verses), and/or a brief version of the <i>Sanctus</i> or <i>Agnus Dei.</i>
<b><i>Singing is still not permitted for indoor services.</i></b> </span></span></span></p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">It is now also
acceptable to move <b>BOOKS OF COMMON PRAYER</b> back into the pews for use.
Use should be limited to one service only and if a book is used during one
service and another service is taking place that same day, that book should be
removed from the pew and replaced with a different prayer book for the next
service. However, in churches that have only one service per Sunday, the Books
of Common Prayer may remain in the pews from week to week. </span></span></span></p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;">Regarding <b>CHILDREN’S FORMATION</b>, the
Health Advisory Panel is encouraged by a recent study from the CDC that has
reduced the physical distancing requirement for children from six feet to three
feet. They still note, however, that physical distancing with adults should
remain at six feet. While Children’s Formation is currently on hiatus, the
panel will begin exploring safe ways to resume Children’s Formation hopefully
to allow for Vacation Bible School this summer. Please stay tuned. </span></span></span>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-19672752953771362912021-03-22T06:27:00.007-07:002021-03-22T06:27:58.124-07:00Dr. Catherine Meeks to speak at William & Mary virtual symposium this week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W9ZNQAB0MjA/YFibS0XHsiI/AAAAAAAACXs/1gPIHUFB6ec0bJb6t5NtUAxTJ7KXEr6SQCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/Catherine%2BMeeks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="299" data-original-width="400" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W9ZNQAB0MjA/YFibS0XHsiI/AAAAAAAACXs/1gPIHUFB6ec0bJb6t5NtUAxTJ7KXEr6SQCNcBGAsYHQ/w257-h192/Catherine%2BMeeks.jpg" width="257" /></a></div><p>Our diocese is cosponsoring the appearance of Dr. Catherine Meeks,
founder and director of the Absalom Jones Center for Racial Healing, at a
virtual symposium this week presented by The Lemon Project, William
& Mary's long-term commitment to grappling with its slave-holding
past. Dr. Meeks is doing a Friday evening keynote and Saturday afternoon
workshop, both connected to the symposium theme, "Four Centuries of
Black Women in America: Freedom, Activism and Justice for All." The week
includes other keynotes and panel presentations and concludes with a
Saturday evening event of dance, music and poetry, "For Colored Girls
Who Inspired the World." The schedule and a link to registration
(required and free) can be found <a href="https://www.wm.edu/sites/lemonproject/annual_symposium/index.php" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">here</a>, and the full symposium program is available <a href="https://www.wm.edu/sites/lemonproject/_documents/2021_symposium_program" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-66799393724138832552021-03-22T06:27:00.000-07:002021-03-22T06:27:00.297-07:00ECW scholarship applications now being accepted<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>Applications
for the ECW Elise Holiday and Beverley D. Tucker Scholarships are now
being accepted. Applications must be received by May 8, 2021, to be
considered for the fall semester. Questions? Contact Deborah Austin,
757-538-1797. </span><a href="http://images.acswebnetworks.com/1/2279/ECWEliseHolladayScholarshipFormupdate2021.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Click here for information and an application form</a><span>. </span></span></span>
</p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-13691633312937251972021-03-22T06:26:00.004-07:002021-03-22T06:26:22.308-07:00Evangelism Matters audioconference, an innovative approach to sharing, learning, and growing evangelism ministry<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">T<span style="color: #202020;">his spring’s </span><u><span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="https://episcopalchurch.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9a7ef179469128dbcd83a2931&id=cd0c412e9b&e=97f0ba244c" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Evangelism Matters</a></span></u><span style="color: #202020;">
conference invites participants to turn off the Zoom screen and “tune
in” for an audioconference featuring podcast-style talks on the
opportunity and challenge of evangelism today. </span><a href="http://iam.ec/pa2021EvangelismMatters" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Read more here</a><span style="color: #202020;"> (In English and Spanish). Conference launches on April 12, 2021.</span></span></span>
</p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-89374156340024837182021-03-16T08:31:00.007-07:002021-03-16T08:31:46.003-07:00Live conversation with authors Anne Lamott and Nadia Bolz-Weber<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TL3S3IGlPYw/YFDPUU_BQvI/AAAAAAAACXc/o1-bfNy4jD8kClAP78xQYk2NFrXdFEaBACNcBGAsYHQ/s1619/Anne%2BLamott%2BNadia%2BBolz-Weber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="765" data-original-width="1619" height="173" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TL3S3IGlPYw/YFDPUU_BQvI/AAAAAAAACXc/o1-bfNy4jD8kClAP78xQYk2NFrXdFEaBACNcBGAsYHQ/w367-h173/Anne%2BLamott%2BNadia%2BBolz-Weber.jpg" width="367" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>The
Episcopal Booksellers Association in partnership with Parish Book Store
of Eastern Shore Chapel, Virginia Beach, and its other member stores
invites you to a Live conversation with New York Times bestselling
authors Anne Lamott and Nadia Bolz-Weber to discuss Anne's new book </span><span style="font-style: italic;">Dusk Night Dawn: On Revival and Courage</span><span>. Thursday, April 8, at 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time. </span><span style="color: black;">Ann Lamott's new book will be available at the Parish Book Store and on their virtual shelves at </span><a href="http://bookshop.org/shop/parishbookstore" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">bookshop.org/shop/parishbookstore</a><span style="color: black;">. Anyone wanting to take part in the event April 8 must register with the Parish Book Store (</span><a href="mailto:books@easternshorechapel.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">books@easternshorechapel.org</a><span style="color: black;">) to get the ZOOM l<br />ink.</span></span></span>
<p></p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-23082414642246274822021-03-16T08:30:00.009-07:002021-03-16T08:30:47.496-07:00Free workshop via Zoom: Praying the Regina Coeli in Eastertide<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">The </span><a href="https://communityofthegospel.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Community of the Gospel</a><span style="color: black;">,
a non-residential monastic community of the Episcopal Church, offers
educational opportunities free of charge for members, Friends of the
Community and the public. As you plan your spiritual and study practices
for the Easter season, they invite you to join them for a special CG
Learns workshop: Praying the Regina Coeli in Eastertide on Saturday,
April 17, from 12 to 1 p.m. via Zoom. The guest monastic facilitator for
this event will be Br. Francis Jonathan Bullock, BSG, Indianapolis, IN.
Br. Francis Jonathan will discuss the history and theology of this
ancient prayer, highlighting its place in the monastic toolbox. The
presentation will conclude with Noonday Prayer and the Regina Coeli. The
workshop is open to all and is free of charge. In order to receive a
Zoom invite, please </span><a href="https://doodle.com/poll/vm7fht74344ivug2?utm_source=poll&utm_medium=link" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">sign up at this Doodle poll</a><span style="color: black;">.</span><span> If you have questions, contact Brother Guardian Daniel-Chad by email </span><a href="mailto:danhoffma@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">danhoffma@gmail.com</a><span>.</span></span></span>
</p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-41285346014601106332021-03-16T08:30:00.003-07:002021-03-16T08:30:12.720-07:00Theological education scholarships<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">The
Hampton Roads Community Foundation is currently accepting applications
for the following scholarships. The 2021-2022 theological scholarship
application is due </span><span style="color: black; font-weight: bold;">April 1, 2021</span><span style="color: black;">. Students may visit </span><a href="http://www.hamptonroadscf.org/scholarships" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">hamptonroadscf.org</a><span style="color: black;">
to view the list of available scholarships and complete an online
application. Applicants should be native or long-time residents of the
Diocese. </span></span></span>
</div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-weight: bold;">Barron F. Black Theological Scholarship</span><span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="color: black;">–
For students at Virginia Theological Seminary (Alexandria, VA) who are
candidates for the ministry. Students must be residents of the
geographic region served by the Diocese of Southern Virginia. </span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span>
</div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-weight: bold;">Hy Smith Endowment Fund </span><span style="color: black;">–
For students at Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria who are
candidates for the ministry. Students must be residents of the
geographic region served by the Diocese of Southern Virginia. </span></span></span>
</div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-71559597470335798912021-03-16T08:29:00.004-07:002021-03-16T08:29:26.546-07:00Spring edition of The Grapevine ECW newsletter <p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">The Grapevine, the diocesan ECW newsletter, for Spring 2021 is here! </span><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001piTLDlLD-2Q_FJuAqhcAisKj_RDK5V02WNOzTrYkBrPG5KlSmeIuHHgKt1I1LJUH0jX1V2HTKiNrjmHqy0LcbTPtId_ELBZSYQ9Z7SW-iv4mVeaArsjl_uYieTiBHDLkP9kC2pnpeaC69uN5cB2Sj5qaVKxElXCfo8QFZ-Qz0juqAJBoVt8jWXtvs99hFxQy54Bvrm4r-f4=&c=tLoEPzm-wh1827ReoKiXOhl8hOtvjczln5rbL7iehQJWU7e2twJqOg==&ch=ljF9yvqrszighpKbrZDnZBjc6NlNZ4ShZB6gS3a5MYApukrII12ktA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: black; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Click here for your copy</a><span style="color: black; font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="color: black;">The Grapevine is
a quarterly print-ready newsletter available for individuals and
churches to receive via email. Back issues can be found </span><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001piTLDlLD-2Q_FJuAqhcAisKj_RDK5V02WNOzTrYkBrPG5KlSmeIuHK5mQy1W3VQYVGgo47SinJeQYAL65rbnYfTPD8sabMGM0I5j7Oc6tOXagh1pDRPn3Tf9-svjskMY_4BX39prjwE5673Q2nUB18JJsSxs0n47Xi7Bl2qBNRSrJFex5rAzn1lvXf9HsMBD&c=tLoEPzm-wh1827ReoKiXOhl8hOtvjczln5rbL7iehQJWU7e2twJqOg==&ch=ljF9yvqrszighpKbrZDnZBjc6NlNZ4ShZB6gS3a5MYApukrII12ktA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="color: black;">. If you have news you would like included in The Grapevine, contact Vicky Koch, </span><a href="mailto:vkoch@stpaulsnorfolk.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">vkoch@stpaulsnorfolk.org</a><span style="color: black;">. </span></span></span>
</p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-89584982004007123772021-03-08T12:02:00.004-08:002021-03-08T12:02:15.195-08:00Two new book studies from Repairers of the Breach<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>The
Repairers of the Breach is launching two new book study
opportunities. We recognize that there are many excellent resources to
explore as we learn, study and work towards becoming the Beloved
Community. Additionally, it is important to acknowledge that individuals
are at different points on their journey of learning about and
exploring racial justice issues. You are invited to join the book study
group that best matches your needs:</span></span></span></p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Living into God's Dream: Dismantling Racism in America</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span>edited by Catherine Meeks. </span></span></span>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>This
accessible collection of essays presents a variety of voices combining
personal stories and theoretical and theological reflection. It includes
examples of the work of dismantling racism and methods for creating the
much-needed “safe space” for dialogue on race to occur. Its aim is to
demonstrate the ways in which a new conversation on race can be forged.
This book is will resonate for all, and is especially relevant for those
beginning to explore racial justice work. The book study group will
meet on Tuesday evenings, beginning March 16 (no meeting March 23) at 7
p.m. via Zoom. </span><a href="http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=sgcfnocab&oeidk=a07ehnw19th1c507019" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Click here to register for this group</a><span>. Space
is limited to 12 participants. Please note – if you want to learn about
Dr. Meeks work, the Diocese of Southern Virginia is co-sponsoring
Catherine Meeks upcoming virtual speaking engagement at the Lemon
Project Symposium at William & Mary on March 26 and 27.</span></span></span>
</div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span> </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">White Too Long: The Legacy of White Supremacy in American Christianity</span><span> by Robert P. Jones. </span></span></span>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>This
book study group will meet on Mondays, 7 to 8:00 pm, March 15 through
May 10 on Zoom (no meeting April 5). In this powerful combination of
history, social science, and heartfelt memoir, Robert P. Jones explores
the unholy relationship between American Christianity and white
supremacy. At this pivotal cultural moment, we need to confront this
painful reality, accept responsibility for the past and work toward a
more just future, reckoning with this legacy for the sake of our own
souls, our faith, and our country. As this is a challenging book, prior
participation in Sacred Ground or other antiracism training or reading
is desirable. </span><a href="http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=sgcfnocab&oeidk=a07ehnvz8aj24c1a82b" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Click here to register for this group</a><span>. </span></span></span>
</div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-27665285687126991472021-03-08T12:01:00.004-08:002021-03-08T12:01:27.703-08:00Diocesan Good Friday Service<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>The
Diocesan Liturgists are producing a virtual Good Friday service, which
will walk the Stations of the Cross. Like the Christmas video, it will
feature different parishes from across our diverse diocese. The Bishop
encourages churches to include this as part of their Holy Week
services. The video will be available on the </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY2SAKjz7cVMO77EksEU3Vg" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">diocesan YouTube channel</a><span> by 8 a.m. on Good Friday, April 2. </span></span></span>
</p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-35939751537340913242021-03-08T12:00:00.002-08:002021-03-08T12:00:30.848-08:00James Solomon Russell Celebration<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span></span></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q2o6Hs0a-Fc/YEaCTyhn8ZI/AAAAAAAACXU/Z-C8BExsxgUl-H-KcrRawAi2VG6-05qpwCNcBGAsYHQ/s399/fd6f908d-7ff7-44d0-a12c-063d63841cec.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="293" height="218" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q2o6Hs0a-Fc/YEaCTyhn8ZI/AAAAAAAACXU/Z-C8BExsxgUl-H-KcrRawAi2VG6-05qpwCNcBGAsYHQ/w160-h218/fd6f908d-7ff7-44d0-a12c-063d63841cec.jpg" width="160" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">The
James Solomon Russell Chapter of Union of Black Episcopalians invites
you to join them on Sunday, March 28 at 3 p.m. for The Venerable James
Solomon Russell Virtual Commemoration. The theme of the gathering is
James Solomon Russell: Priest, Church Planter, Educator, College
President and Man of Faith. Speaker will be Dr. Robert L. Satcher, Sr.,
the ninth president of Saint Paul’s College. You are invited to make a
gift to: <span style="color: #404040;">The Saint Paul’s Memorial Chapel. </span><span>Please send your contribution to: Dr. Angela Parker, Treasure/SPMC, P.O. Box 268, Lawrenceville, VA 23868. Visit <b><a href="http://diosova.org">diosova.org</a></b> for log in information for this gathering. </span></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"></span>
<p></p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-66194691092526864752021-03-08T10:52:00.000-08:002021-03-08T10:52:10.386-08:00Tee off with Jackson-Feild this spring!<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wsPO69Za3UI/YEZxEX-G_QI/AAAAAAAACXI/gEO44lwYKCEN3I9M4Js8xfDAtK76UQh9QCNcBGAsYHQ/s530/Jackson%2BFeild%2Bgolf%2Bball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="530" height="224" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wsPO69Za3UI/YEZxEX-G_QI/AAAAAAAACXI/gEO44lwYKCEN3I9M4Js8xfDAtK76UQh9QCNcBGAsYHQ/w299-h224/Jackson%2BFeild%2Bgolf%2Bball.jpg" width="299" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">T<span>he 26th Annual </span><span style="font-style: italic;">Go Golfing for the Kids</span><span>
tournament, sponsored by Boddie-Noell Enterprises, Inc. will be held on
Monday, May 3, at The Golf Club at The Highlands in Chesterfield, VA.
Sponsor a team of 4 for $600 or play as an individual for $150. All
players receive lunch, 3 beverage tickets, and snacks on the course.
Range balls will be provided, and the driving range will open 90 minutes
prior to tee off. </span></span>
<p></p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>Jackson-Feild
is a safe haven for children struggling with mental illness and/or
substance use disorders. Each year, this tournament raises funds to
support the needs of the residents. To date, the tournament has raised
over $550,000. This year, the proceeds from the tournament will go
towards “building a better future” and funding the construction of new
buildings on campus.</span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span> </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>If you have any questions, or would like to register now, call 703-819-2365 or email </span><a href="mailto:vfong@jacksonfeild.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">vfong@jacksonfeild.org</a><span>. Online registration will be available in the coming weeks. We hope to see you on the green this May!</span></span></span>
</div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-91426169649415701992021-03-03T11:46:00.001-08:002021-03-03T11:46:01.912-08:00Holy Land Pilgrimage with Bishop Haynes in 2022<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Bishop
Haynes will be leading a Holy Land Pilgrimage in association with
Jerusalem Tours, February 4-14, 2022. Join Bishop Haynes for this
powerful pilgrimage experience where together we will walk where Jesus
walked and visit places where he lived out his ministry. In addition,
pilgrims will renew their Baptismal Covenant at the Jordan River and
will celebrate Eucharist on the Mount of the Beatitudes.</span><span style="color: blue;"> </span><a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/2d882dc9001/443b1ebf-334b-4d37-b7b4-7a5a9f906530.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Click here to learn more</a><span style="color: black;"> about the Holy Land Pilgrimage and registration details.</span><span style="color: #0070c0;"> </span><span>Space is limited to 35 pilgrims. Contact Canon Lynn Farlin at </span><a href="mailto:lfarlin@diosova.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">lfarlin@diosova.org</a><span> if you have questions about the trip.</span></span></span>
</p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-56407934003357195672021-03-03T11:45:00.004-08:002021-03-03T11:45:31.109-08:00Repairers of the Breach Speaker Series continues on March 23<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">M<span style="color: black; font-weight: bold;">arch 23 at 6:30 via Zoom</span><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span>
</p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Imagine
working at church only to find out via genealogical research that the
family of the man who founded the church had enslaved your family’s
ancestors! During this program the Rev. Natalie Conway, will share her
story as well as the work that she and the Rev Grey Maggiano have been
engaged in over the past five years, as Memorial Episcopal Church in
Baltimore Maryland, has sought to uncover and process its racist past,
and move forward as a community that seeks atonement, reconciliation and
resurrection. The Rev. Grey Maggiano, rector, and The Rev. Natalie
Conway, deacon, will briefly summarize the work Memorial has done, and
more importantly provide a path for your congregation/community to
process its past in a healthy, holistic and sacred manner that can lead
to real change. Please join us on Tuesday, March 23 at 6:30 via Zoom for
this important conversation. </span><a href="http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=sgcfnocab&oeidk=a07ehnvvcaed23c7686" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Click here to register</a><span style="color: black;"> for this event and obtain the Zoom log-in information. </span></span></span>
</div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-88059643353923802452021-03-03T11:44:00.008-08:002021-03-03T11:44:57.231-08:00Mark your calendar! Diocese collaborates with TENS for stewardship webinar series<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS) is proud to
collaborate with the Diocese of Southern Virginia to bring a
four-webinar series on stewardship topics throughout the year.
Meeting for 90 minutes on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 p.m., this series
will bring together church leaders, stewardship volunteers, and
fundraising experts to teach and learn classic and innovative approaches
to funding ministry in your congregation.</span></span></p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Virtual Stewardship 201</span> - Wednesday, April 7, 6:30 p.m.</span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We learned so much in 2020 about online fundraising in
congregational ministries. Learn from faithful practitioners of
stewardship and gratitude about the best fundraising platforms to raise
money online in your congregation. We will explore practical tips on
formation and education opportunities that cultivate generosity
throughout the year. To see the TENS Virtual Stewardship 101 webinar
from July 2020, please visit the TENS website, <a href="http://www.tens.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">www.tens.org</a>. To register for Virtual Stewardship 201, <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/143470759905" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">click here</a>.</span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mid-Year Mission Review</span> - Wednesday, May 5, 6:30 p.m.</span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Half-way through the year is the ideal time to remind your members
about the impact of their pledges on mission in the community. Learn
some great tips for drawing the line between money and meaning in your
outreach, in-reach, and ministry budgets. Registration opens soon!</span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Year-Round Stewardship</span> - Wednesday, June 23, 6:30 p.m.</span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Generosity and Gratitude are year-round disciplines and
celebrations, not just reserved for the annual pledge campaign. Learn
best practices and tools to incorporate the theology of stewardship into
your formation, liturgy, preaching, teaching, and outreach for every
month of the year. Cultivate a more generous and grounded
church! Registration will open March 27. </span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Addressing the Pledge Plateau</span> - Wednesday, August 16, 6:30 p.m.</span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Learn from fundraising experts about how to help members dig deeper
into their theology and generosity to ensure they’re making their best
gifts to the Church. This webinar is a mix between proven tips and tools
and formation exercises you can employ in your ministry to prevent
donor fatigue. Registration will open July 10.</span></span></div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-52103315015324639502021-03-03T11:44:00.003-08:002021-03-03T11:44:17.921-08:00Safe Church Training scheduled<div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Two new Zoom-based Safe Church training opportunities have been scheduled. <a href="http://www.diosova.org/congregation_res/article462905.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Get more info and register for Safe Church training</a>.
</span></span>
<ul><li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>Universal Training: Wednesday, March 17, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.</span></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>Specialized
Training: Saturday, March 20, 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Sunday, March
21, 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. You must attend both sessions to receive
certification. </span></span></span></li></ul>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-85383449038707084252021-03-03T11:43:00.006-08:002021-03-03T11:43:40.703-08:00Celebrating the life and legacy of the Rt. Rev. Barbara C. Harris<div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7aqQSnyuJc/YD_m317X-TI/AAAAAAAACWw/u2CpUyUjHCAuKZD0QXfQcwchDSv61zxCQCNcBGAsYHQ/s354/Barbara%2BC%2BHarris%2BENS%2Bphoto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="354" data-original-width="253" height="205" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7aqQSnyuJc/YD_m317X-TI/AAAAAAAACWw/u2CpUyUjHCAuKZD0QXfQcwchDSv61zxCQCNcBGAsYHQ/w147-h205/Barbara%2BC%2BHarris%2BENS%2Bphoto.jpg" width="147" /></a></div>Join
the Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) as we remember, celebrate, and
explore the lasting impact the Rt. Rev. Barbara Harris, the Anglican
Communion’s first female bishop, has had upon The Episcopal Church and
Anglican Communion. Using excerpts from </span><span style="color: black; font-style: italic;">The Mitre Fits Just Fine!, Parting Words, and Hallelujah Anyhow</span><span style="color: black;">,
as well as personal encounters, our panelists will speak to how this
avid support of UBE continues to compel us never to forget “the least,
the lost and the left out”. </span><a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/8a37aef2101/3be36ab7-ad97-4145-b687-ef5368514218.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Click here</a><span style="color: black;"> for more information. Registration Required. </span><a href="https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcoc-2hpzgoH9Jm5-OiOOw1mJSO03JMeT7L" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Register here</a><span style="color: black;">. To learn more about Bishop Harris and for commemoration resources, </span><a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/2d882dc9001/88154903-18cb-43ff-a8ab-ab8c7bec24a9.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">click here</a><span style="color: black;">. </span></span></span>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-90289099281965372012021-03-03T11:42:00.004-08:002021-03-03T11:42:39.079-08:00Opioid Use Disorder Toolkit for Faith-Based Community Leaders and Organizations<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">By The Ven. Jan Brown, co-chair, Diocesan Addictions & Recovery Task Force</span></span></p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.provisionsforthejourney.org/uploads/1/0/7/8/107845627/opioid_response_network_toolkit_official.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Click here</a><span style="color: black;">
for the The Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) Toolkit for Faith-Based Community
Leaders and Organizations. It is uploaded on the home page the
SpiritWorks Foundation's </span><a href="http://www.provisionsforthejourney.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Provisions for the Journey</a><span style="color: black;">
website. We had the privilege of making the request for it to be
developed for our use and for use by the Episcopal Church. They were so
excited by the project that they released it for national use. There are
no hard copies of it yet. We have a request to get them once they are
in and plan to distribute them widely throughout the church. I'd love to
hear what you think of it.</span></span></span>
</div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-8113672594248515542021-03-03T11:41:00.009-08:002021-03-03T11:41:47.181-08:00Episcopal Toolkit for COVID-19 vaccination distribution<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #202020;">The
Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations has developed a
toolkit for individuals, congregations and ministries to facilitate and
promote COVID-19 vaccine distribution in the United States. This toolkit
promotes the ongoing work that parishes and dioceses have already been
doing, shares best practices, and offers ideas for ways that communities
can help U.S.- based Episcopalians to facilitate vaccination, overcome
vaccine hesitancy, and find information from state and local officials.
Churches and church leaders (lay and ordained) can serve as an important
trusted bridge between public health officials and communities. </span><a href="http://iam.ec/pa2021COVID-19vaccinationtoolkit" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Read more</a><span style="color: #202020;"> (In English and Spanish).</span></span></span>
</p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-13657443672106449722021-03-03T11:41:00.004-08:002021-03-03T11:41:20.117-08:00Presiding Bishop Michael Curry calls for Good Friday Offering to support ministry in Anglican Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East<div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #202020;">In
his Good Friday letter, Presiding Bishop Curry asks each Bishop and
congregation to consider providing assistance for the Province of
Jerusalem and the Middle East. </span><a href="http://iam.ec/pa2021GoodFridayOffering" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Read more</a><span style="color: #202020;"> (In English, Spanish, French, and Mandarin).</span></span></span>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-91014832639871145292021-03-03T11:40:00.004-08:002021-03-03T11:40:51.594-08:00Episcopal Church scholarship applications for the 2021-2022 academic year are now accepted<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #202020; font-weight: bold;">Deadline is April 11, 2021</span></span></span></p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #202020;">Applications are now being accepted for educational scholarships from The Episcopal Church for the 2021-2022 academic year. </span><a href="http://iam.ec/pa2021Scholarships" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: maroon; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Read more</a><span style="color: #202020;"> (In English and Spanish).</span></span></span>
</div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5236058497170799725.post-79917827972397629062021-02-16T07:49:00.004-08:002021-02-16T07:49:22.693-08:00Lent: A Season to Restore and Reconnect<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A<span> message from Bishop Haynes</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span> </span></span></span></p><div class="text-container galileo-ap-content-editor"><div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">In
the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens….then the LORD
God formed man from the dust of the ground, and breathed into his
nostrils the breath of life; and the man became a living being. (Genesis
2:4, 7)</span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return. (Book of Common Prayer, p. 265)</span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>Now,
as the days begin to lengthen, we enter the season of Lent wherein we
remember our mortality. God created humankind from the dust and dirt of
the Earth. At our death, we will return to that point of creation. It is
a good spiritual discipline to keep in mind our connection to the Earth
and the dirt from which we were fashioned.</span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>Normally,
Lent is a time when we “give up” something. Often Lenten disciplines
ask us to give up something meaningful in order to remind us of our
dependence on God. But we have had more than enough of “giving up,”
haven’t we? Over the past year we have given up so much – our church
buildings, our familiar forms of worship, our frequent face-to-face
contact with each other. Perhaps now, as we enter our second Lent during
this pandemic, it seems exhausting to contemplate giving up anything
else. In this state of exhaustion, we are mindful of our own deep need
and longing to be restored and reconnected.</span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>And
perhaps that’s what this Lent should be – a season of restoration and
reconnection. As we contemplate our origin from and ultimate return to
the Earth, perhaps we might be best served to use the 40 days of Lent as
a time consciously to reconnect us with that Earth. Why not spend this
Lent looking for ways to connect with creation and for ways to steward
and care for it? Become mindful of all of the living things God created –
all creatures (animals and insects, plants and trees) as well as that
gorgeous creation of our brothers and sisters. Connect with them by
caring for them – by caring for the Earth and by caring for each other.
Research ways to care for the Earth – to be a good steward of Creation.
(Incidentally, if you Google “40 Lenten observances for care of
creation, you will find some suggested Lenten disciplines along those
lines).</span></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>Continue
in your prayers and in your diligent study of Scripture. Let your
chapel be the outdoors as you wonder in God’s creation. Look for safe
ways to stay connected with your brothers and sisters in Christ, caring
for them in ways that you would enjoy receiving care. This pandemic is
not going to last forever. We WILL return from this exile. Even now, we
are seeing hopeful signs of its abatement. Hear the prophet, Jeremiah,
who reminds us, </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">For
surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your
welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah
29:11)</span><span> </span></span></span>
</div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>Yes,
let us indeed remember that we are dust. People of the dust are beloved
people, connected people – beloved of God and connected to Him and to
each other. Let us use this Lent to celebrate and restore ourselves to
that connection.</span></span></span></div>
</div></div>Diocese of Southern VAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12831541166408397682noreply@blogger.com