2 The 175th Convention of the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Missouri , Nov. 21 & 22, 2014 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Ms. Daphne Hedges, Grace Church,Jefferson City

From my first visit in the ‘80s to a Flower Festival, through work-shops and ordina-tion services held there, to my last “pilgrimage” visit this summer— I have appreciated our Cathe-dral for its beauty as a holy space and its importance to the diocese and the com-munity. The Cathedral’s welcome for neighborhood use is particularly appeal-ing, as are ideas being considered there now, particularly Magdalene House and the charter school. I have become invested in the mission and ministry of our Cathedral; it already has a place in my heart.

I have served in various ministries in my local parish: as Chair of our Stewardship Team, Lay Eucharistic Member, Altar Guild, Godly Play storyteller, and Vestry Member. As much as I am invested in the vitality of our parish, I also care deeply about the vitality and mission of our Cathedral as a significant voice in the life of St. Louis and of the diocese. I would be honored to serve as a mem-ber of Cathedral Chapter. I would like to share in shaping the Cathedral’s mission within the city and as a beacon to the entire diocese.

The Rev. Susan Bartlett, Deacon

Susan Bartlett would bring to the Cathedral Chapter her years of experi-ence as a 2-term Senior Warden, member of her parish vestry, leader in non-profit com-munity agencies, and her servanthood ministry as a deacon in the diocese. Ordained deacon in 2005, her ministry in the church and the community has in-cluded “Holiday of Hope” for those griev-ing during the holidays the loss of loved ones, “Waters of Hope” to raise funds for wells in Lui, and serving as Coordinator of an Alpha program in her congrega-tion. On the diocesan level, she served on the Commission on Ministry, Board of Directors for the Episcopal School for Ministry, and the Board of Examining Chaplains. She was trained in speech pathology and for almost 30 years was the Coordinator of the Parents as Teach-ers program in the public schools of Rolla. Deacon Bartlett is well-qualified to be a clergy member of the Cathedral Chapter.

The Rev. Carol WesleyPriest-in-Charge of St. John & St. James Church, Sullivan

Christ Church Cathedral has crafted this mission statement: “We seek a deeper relationship with God and each other in Jesus Christ through celebrat-ing the sacraments faithfully, proclaim-ing the Gospel boldly, embracing diversi-ty joyfully, and serving all passionately as a Cathedral.” As the priest-in-charge of St. John & St. James in the small com-munity of Sullivan, as a professor in the social work program on the suburban campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and as a resident of the Carondelet neighborhood of the City of St. Louis, I have developed skills and knowledge that I hope are of use to the Cathedral in supporting this vision, particularly in terms of spirituality and faith, diversity and service.

Cathedral Chapterelecting one clergy person & one lay member, both from outside St. Louis City/County

Mr. William Cramer, Trinity Church, St. Charles

Bill has been a member of Trinity Church in St. Charles for six years. Completing his third year on the vestry, he serves as a member of the Finance Committee, White Fund task force, and assists with special projects. With his wife Julie he ushers on Sunday mornings and as needed for other services. He belongs to the Trinity Church Men’s Group and Smart Choice Food Team.

In fall/winter 2013-14 Trinity and St. John AME churches helped pilot our diocesan Dismantling Racism program, Seeking Our Past, Creating Our Future. Bill is a key person in deepening our relationship with St. John AME: meeting weekly for Bible Study and Bowling, and participating in a recent town hall meet-ing at St. John AME with city officials and members of Trinity and St. John to discuss issues in St. Charles as revealed by events in Ferguson. Bill is thought-ful, dedicated, and articulate. Retired from GM, he has an engineer’s grasp of details, but he consistently raises large-picture implications for vestry actions in light of Christian compassion and responsibility. Married 41 years, wid-owed, now happily remarried, Bill is also a proud father and grandfather.

Nominees

• vienna sausages• soap• toothpaste

• peanut butter• tuna• canned chicken

Attending diocesan convention this November in Cape?

Consider packing one or two of these items for the Christ Church Food Pantry:

Collection basket in the exhibitor area at the Task Force for the Hungry table. Thanks to Christ Church Men’s Club for pick-up and delivery to the church.

3The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri, Offices of the Bishop, 1210 Locust St., St .Louis, MO 63103 diocesemo.org

Mr. Richard W. Braznell, Good Shepherd Church, Town and Country

Richard is a life-long Episcopa-lian, member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, who served on the Vestry there during a critical period in the redevelopment of that congre-gation. He has served many other ministries and committees for his parish as well. He has served previously on the Diocesan Council during the years 2008-2010. He has participated in several outreach programs of a inter-congregation nature, such as the Episcopal City Mission, the Peace Meal at St. John’s in Tower Grove, mission trips to Nicaragua, and the Sat-urday breakfast to the homeless at the Cathedral. In his private careers, Richard has been an IT consultant to government agencies and Fortune 500 companies, and has been a professional certified chef.

Diocesan Councilelecting two lay members

Nominees

Ms. Patricia N. Heeter, All Saints’ Church, St. Louis

Pat is a lifelong member of All Saints’ Episcopal Church in St. Louis. She is the church historian/ archivist and is writing the history of the 140 years of All Saints’. Pat served as a delegate to the 2001 Special Convention to elect George Wayne Smith as Bishop Coadjutor and as a delegate to the 162nd Diocesan Convention. She was a member of Metro II Convocation. Pat has served on the vestry as clerk (at present time as Jr. Warden) and has served on a search committee for a rector. She has been a member of the diocesan Episcopal Church Women Board. Pat served as registration chair for ECW’s Province V Annual Meeting held in St. Louis in April 2013. At the present time she is serving as the ex officio chair of the ECW Board Scholarship Com-mittee. Pat is a retired educator/school psychologist/psychological examiner.

Disciplinary Boardelecting one clergy person and one lay member

The Rev. John Kilgore, Canon,Christ Church Cathedral

While the Disciplin-ary Board is one diocesan committee that hopefully never meets, when necessary its work is vital to the life of the diocese. The occasions for its meeting have serious implications for the many lives touched by clergy of the diocese. Therefore, its mission and constitution are very important. As a more senior member (by age) of the group of diocesan clergy, I have signifi-cant life experience that gives me a deep background for same. I have served in medical administration for over twenty years and have dealt with a number of similar circumstances in the medical community. I have characteristically been perceived as balanced, fair, and just, yet able to stand up for difficult de-cisions when necessary. Also, because of my part-time and non-stipendiary basis as a priest in the diocese I have some ‘distance’ that would likely limit any potential bias. In addition, I am trained

professionally for leadership situations and diplomacy has been described as one of my strong suits.

The Rev. Dawn-Victoria Mitchell, Rector,Trinity, Church, Hannibal & St. Paul’s Church, Palmyra

I have previously served the diocese as a convocation clergy representative to Diocesan Council (once from West Convocation and once from Kemper). I currently serve as Kemper Convocation’s President. I am also involved in my com-munity as a volunteer hospital chaplain, where I serve as president of the execu-tive committee for the chaplaincy corps.The Disciplinary Board is a board that we hope never needs to meet. How-ever, if elected to serve, I will bring my dedication to the diocese and its people. I also will bring my 14 years of ordained experience and my particular skills to the Board. As a priest, I have had to navi-gate sensitive issues. In each instance

I have tried to minister in a loving way and to not jump to judgment. I strive to always listen carefully and to treat others fairly, with respect and dignity, in all situations. My ministry with the local hospital means that I am attuned to the need to listen carefully to all sides of an issue and to the importance for main-taining confidentially.

The Rev. Johnnette Shane, Rector,Trinity, Kirksville

The Rev. Johnnette Shane has been Vicar of Trinity Episcopal Church in Kirksville since 2010. She served the Church in the Dio-cese of California after her ordination. Prior to ordination, she practiced law for sixteen years in the public and private sectors, during which time she pros-ecuted child abuse and neglect cases and practiced criminal defense. Thus, she understands the issues from both sides of the law. Johnnette also practiced em-ployment law and mediation, so she un-

4 The 175th Convention of the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Missouri , Nov. 21 & 22, 2014 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri

derstands issues related to fair hearings as well as the advantage of mediation for all concerned. She also worked as an ad-vocate with families in abusive relation-ships in her earlier career in California and Minnesota. Johnnette understands the dynamics of unequal relationships and knows the law as it relates to abuse of power. She understands the complex issues related to clergy misconduct. In addition to her areas of legal expertise, she has the heart of a pastor who would seek healing in any allegations brought in the Diocese of Missouri. Her gifts well qualify her to serve on the Disciplinary Board as one who would listen thought-fully to both sides of an accusation and seek healing and reconciliation.

The Rev. Susan Skinner St. Peter's Church, Ladue

Currently Susie is President of the Disciplinary Board. Prior to serving on the Disciplinary Board, she was a member of the Ecclesi-astical Court and has had experience in diocesan disciplinary matters for over twenty years. She has served as a priest in this diocese since 1981, primarily at Emmanuel Church, Webster Groves. Since retirement, she has served as an interim pastor in several congregations and is presently an assisting priest at St. Peter’s Church, Ladue. She is a former Executive Director of Episcopal City Mis-sion. She is currently involved in provid-ing opportunities and resources for spiritual formation through Confluence: A Center for Spirituality. Her work in the diocese has included General Con-vention Deputy, Standing Committee (President), Diocesan Council, Commis-sion on Ministry (Chair), Committee on Constitution and Canons. Familiar with the national and diocesan disciplinary canons, she would strive to bring experi-ence, wisdom, prayer, compassion and justice to all parties involved in matters relating to the Disciplinary Board.

Disciplinary Board (continued)electing one clergy person and one lay member

Nominees

Ms. Lynette Ballard, Grace Church, Kirkwood

I believe I am quali-fied for the Disci-plinary Board and am willing to serve with integrity and commitment to the diocese and the Episcopal Church. I am a member of Grace Church, Kirkwood, and was a member of St. Matthew’s, Warson Woods from 1977 until the merg-er of the two parishes last year. Over time I have served my parish and the Diocese in many ways: Deputy to Gen-eral Convention, Standing Committee (twice), Diocesan Council, Commission on Ministry, and the Stewardship Com-mittee. Most recently I served on the bishop’s task force to plan the 174th Con-vention in 2013. In service to my parish I have served as a vestry member (and do so at present) and as senior warden, convention delegate, search committees, lay reader, Eucharistic minister, choir and on many other ad hoc committees and groups. I have a good understand-ing of the Canons of the Church and the Diocese of Missouri.

I hold a BA and MA , both in English lit-erature, from the University of Missouri – Columbia, and I received a Master’s degree from Aquinas Institute of Theol-ogy in 2004. My professional position is Senior Director, Learning Integration at the Catholic Health Association. I live in South St. Louis County with my husband Frank, and we delight in being part of the lives of our daughter, son-in-law, and our three granddaughters.

Ms. Ellen JefferySt. Mark’s Church, St. Louis

As a lifelong Episcopa-lian, current Senior Warden of St. Mark’s, St. Louis, and grown-up “PK” (Priest’s Kid), I seek to be of service to the Diocese as part

of the Disciplinary Board. I have been a convention delegate and member of the New Ventures in Ministry commit-tee in the Diocese of Missouri, and was involved in the Diocese of West Missouri before moving to St. Louis (Camps and Conferences, Diocesan Youth Council, Happening).

My journey has taken me from extreme-ly small rural parishes to where I am today in St. Louis, so I have perspective beyond “the city.” In over 20 years of experience in Human Resources and as a person of faith, I have developed a bal-anced, calm, and faithful approach. If elected I would be honored to use these gifts in service to the diocese.

The Honorable Shirley Padmore MensahHoly Communion Church, University City

Judge Mensah has been a U.S. Mag-istrate Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri since 2012. Prior to that, she worked in private practice as a trial lawyer beginning in 1995. After spending two summers as a summer associate for what is now Husch Blackwell, Judge Mensah joined the firm in 1995 as an associate in the Litigation Department and remained with that law firm until she was selected in 2012 to serve as a United States Magistrate Judge for the Eastern District of Mis-souri. During her time in private prac-tice, Judge Mensah concentrated herpractice in areas of commercial, con-struction, product liability and toxic tort litigation. Her professional experience also includes serving as an adjunct pro-fessor teaching trial practice andprocedure at Washington University School of Law.

Extremely active in the community, Judge Mensah has served as a member of the board of directors for Safe Con-nections, and has served organizations such as The Links Incorporated andthe African Refugee Service. In addi-tion, she serves as a mentor for college

5The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri, Offices of the Bishop, 1210 Locust St., St .Louis, MO 63103 diocesemo.org

Nominees

and elementary students and is often asked to speak to students of all ages about the legal industry. She is a graduate of the 2006-2007 class of Leadership St. Louis.

Judge Mensah received her J.D. from Washington Uni-versity School of Law and her B.A. in political science with an emphasis in international relations from the University of Pennsylvania. Originally from Monrovia, Liberia, she came to the United States with her family at the age of 10 and became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1988.

Mr. Scott Thompson St. Mark’s Church, St. Louis

I am motivated to serve as a lay member of the Disciplinary Board by a desire to serve the Church on a diocesan level once again. I participated on task forces and boards for the Diocese of Missouri for several years in the past and enjoyed those ministries, the people with whom I worked, and the new perspectives I gained. I am a licensed attorney and have been a Missouri public defender for nearly twenty years. For the past fourteen years I have specialized in criminal appellate work, making sure my clients’ rights are honored and the process fair. It is this experience with assuring due process which suits me as a lay representative to the Disciplinary Board. I would appreciate the opportunity to bring my experience and insights to the Board.

Disciplinary Board (continued)electing one clergy person and one lay member

Standing Committee electing one clergy person and two lay members

Mr. Jerre Birdsongcandidate for ordination to the diaconate

The Standing Commit-tee serves as a “council of advice” for the bishop in both fiscal matters and ministry vision. I have been ac-tive in my parish and this diocese since I moved to St. Louis in 1977, providing leadership in both arenas.

In the fiscal arena, I served as a trustee on the Diocesan Investment Trust for fifteen years with much of that time as Chair. I served as Diocesan Treasurer from 2004 to 2009. While Diocesan Treasurer, I was instrumental in in-creasing the transparency of all dioc-esan assets, clearly delineating respon-sibility for funds, and communicating procedures for requesting such funds for ministry. I do not view such efforts toward good corporate governance as legalistic formalities but rather as atten-tion necessary to make the ministries of the diocese more effective.

Regarding ministry vision, I have been active in food, homeless, and youth min-

istries, creating diverse worship experi-ences, low income housing, stewardship, national and international missions, children’s advocacy, and hospice chap-laincy. I served as the alumni repre-sentative on the Board of the Episcopal School of Ministry.

In providing a council of advice for the bishop, all views must be brought into light, and discernment should involve Spirit-led good judgment. As a newly-ordained deacon, I will ensure that the voice of the poor and oppressed not be forgotten in any business or ministry before the Standing Committee. I would consider it a privilege and honor to serve the Body of Christ by serving the Diocese of Missouri in this capacity.

The Rev. Teresa DanieleyRector, St. John’s Church, St. Louis

The Episco-pal Diocese of Missouri is more than a collection of

individual congregations, ministries, and individuals. We are in ministry together - Making Disciples & Building Congregations for the Life of the World. As a member of Standing Committee, I would encourage us as a Diocese to envision how to work more closely in ministry together, in order to increase our efficiency, our effectiveness, and the scope of our prophetic witness.

These are questions we have been asking in Metro II, questions that I would like to explore on a Diocesan level: How shall we work together to make sure that all of our hunger programs throughout the Diocese have access to the resources that they need? How do we engage in advocacy together as a Diocese for programs and policies that would help eliminate the need for hunger programs in Missouri, such as the expansion of Medicaid and an increase in the mini-mum wage? How do we encourage col-laboration between the various Service & Advocacy ministries (Dismantling Racism, Task Force for the Hungry, etc.) in the Diocese, rather than each isolated ministry or issue having its own small line item in the budget?

Racism, hunger, worker justice, sexism, the full participation of LGBTQ people in the Church and in Society, the need

6 The 175th Convention of the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Missouri , Nov. 21 & 22, 2014 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri

for accessibility and services for people with disabilities - are not separate issues. All issues of discrimination & privilege and all human needs that require service & advocacy are intercon-nected. On a more bricks and mortar level, how do we steward our buildings and ministries together, rather than in isolation? Working together as a Diocese could we get lower bids and better work for roof repairs, plumbing issues, and renovations for accessibility?

How would working more closely together transform us as Christians, as congregations, as a Diocese? What impact could we have in our cities, towns, and across the State of Missouri? I believe that we as a Diocese can use the financial and human resources we have more efficiently, more effectively, and more collaboratively to Make Disciples & Build Congregations for the Life of the World.

The Rev. Teresa Mithen Danieley is President of Metro II Convocation, member of the Commission on Ministry, Faith Co-Chair for St. Louis Area Jobs with Justice, Treasurer of Faith Aloud, and former member of Diocesan Coun-cil, Resolutions Committee, Episcopal Presbyterian Health Trust, Task Force for the Hungry, and Board of the LGBT Center of Greater St. Louis. Mother Danieley earned a BA from Yale College, an MPP from the University of Chicago, and an MDiv from General Theological Seminary.

The Rev. Annette JosephRector, Holy Cross Church, Poplar Bluff

I have known Rev. Annette Joseph since her call to be Rector of Holy Cross. Her theology is sound, her character flawless. She embodies the qualities of a church leader. She gives loving pastoral care and is an excellent administrator, preacher, and teacher to all ages.

Rev. Annette works with local church leaders. She has preached in other pul-

pits and has encouraged participation by Holy Cross members. When a local racial flare-up occurred, she was pres-ent, listening and helping diffuse the situation. An African-American pastor provided a lunch program for our VBS and joined, along with his AME Church, in our Ecumenical Lenten Services. The Black River flooded displacing hundreds of people. Annette helped set up emer-gency shelter and recruited workers. She obtained diocesan funds to provide relief through our food pantry.

Her desire for inclusion has resulted in younger people, LGBT members, and those from all economic levels rising to leadership in our church. Her own expe-rience makes her sensitive to domestic abuse. She works with the women’s shel-ter to help at-risk families. She serves as a Chaplain at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Centers. She opened our hearts to the world through her mission trip to Lui and through the Adult Sunday School Class’s sponsorship of Kiva micro-loans. She still finds the time to be a wife and mother, participating in family and school activities. What more could one ask from a person, Rector, and church leader? Respectfully, James Pinkerton, Holy Cross Church

The Rev. Suzanne WolfenbargerRector, St. Paul’s Church, Sikeston

I am honored to have been Rector of St. Paul’s Sikeston, MO since 2012. After being ordained to the diaconate in 2000, I migrated to the Diocese of Missouri in 2006 as a deacon assigned to Christ Church Cathedral. While at the cathe-dral, I served in the position of Director of Christian Formation. In 2008, after discerning a call to the priesthood, I went on to attend seminary at the School of Theology in Sewanee, Tennessee and was ordained a priest in June 2011. Be-fore entering the priesthood, I was a Li-censed Clinical Social Worker in private practice for 18 years. I have participated in various diocesan activities and have served on the Diocesan Council for the past two and a half years.

I have a passion for ministry that has been immersed in tradition, and yet continuously evolves. I was baptized, confirmed, and married in the Episcopal Church and my faith was nurtured by a small active parish for 18 years. One of the most important lessons that was ingrained in my early church upbringing is that all members should be encour-aged to participate and are truly called to be a part of the Body of Christ. I have taken that lesson and have applied it to my ordained ministry. Sitting on the councils of the church is an extension of that call and should never to be taken lightly. I seek to serve.

Mrs. Simone CampSt. Alban’s Church, Fulton

Simone Camp has a long and impressive history of faithful service and leadership at St. Alban’s Church. She’s served several times on our Bishop’s Committee, and as our Bishop’s Warden. She is currently our Treasurer. Simone is a Lector and a Lay Eucharistic Min-ister. At St. Alban’s we rely on Simone, and she always comes through. Right now, we at St. Alban’s are benefiting from her gifts and service in our Capital Campaign to finance and install a lift at the church. Simone is also an active and experienced servant of the Diocese of Missouri. She’s served repeatedly as St. Alban’s delegate to Diocesan Convention, and she’s served more than one term on Diocesan Council. She knows her way around the diocese, both literally and figuratively as it pertains to leadership and ministry.

Perhaps most important, Mrs. Camp is a practical and level-headed leader who loves God and the Church. When it comes to fiscal things, she has a “task-oriented sense” that allows her to see what needs to be done, and how to get there. Our diocese will be well served if Simone is elected to the Standing Com-mittee.Rev. Dr. Marshall CrossnoeVicar, St. Alban’s, Fulton, and St. Mark’s, Portland

Standing Committee (continued) electing one clergy person and two lay members

Nominees

7The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri, Offices of the Bishop, 1210 Locust St., St .Louis, MO 63103 diocesemo.org

Standing Committee (continued) electing one clergy person and two lay members

Mr. James P. DonovanTrinity Church, Hannibal

I am James P. Dono-van, Chief Hospital Corpsman, USN Retired. Usually known as Jim, I have been in a position of leadership for decades. I was received into the Episcopal Church in 1976 from the Roman Catholic Church.

I am organist/music director and member of Trinity Episcopal Church in beautiful Hannibal MO. Under the guidance of our rector, Dawn-Victoria Mitchell, I have seen the parish grow and thrive, and I feel I can use the same guid-ing techniques to help our diocese. The Diocese of Missouri is in very capable hands now, and I see the importance of continuing and advancing the goals even further.I am a member of the Kemper Convoca-tion and a 2013 graduate of the Episcopal School for Ministry where my particular interest was Church history and Scrip-ture with an emphasis on its application to today’s Church and ministry.It is important that diocesan commit-tees include those of outlying or distant parishes in order to include members of these more remote parts of the diocese. As a member of the Standing Commit-tee, I can fill this need for the contribu-tions of Northeast Missouri Episco-palians. For example, I can envision a specific outreach effort directed towards the non-metropolitan parishes that have much to contribute as well as accept!Thank you for your consideration.

Ms. Susan MillsChrist Church, Rolla

Greetings.My wish to be part of this body is to advance the con-cept of inclusion as demonstrated by Jesus. Jesus kept company with the marginalized, chose blue-collar workers as his dis-

ciples, healed on the Sabbath, preached and walked-the-talk of peace and reconciliation, and won over Jew and Gentile alike. Jesus had little to do with authority as authority. Jesus saw as God sees: the heart, not the outward appear-ance. Jesus acted from the heart, not necessarily away from religious taboo. My Jesus gave us a new commandment: To love one another. My Jesus may have been perturbed and frustrated, but He never hated. Others may follow a God, or even a Jesus, who hates, but I do not.

Dr. Adam PearsonHoly Communion Church, University City

I am pleased to nominate Dr. Adam Pearson for the Standing Committee as a Lay member. Dr. Pearson has a strong and enduring track record of community engagement, as evidenced by his professional and vol-unteer endeavors in St. Louis City, and would make an outstanding committee member.Dr. Pearson is an occupational therapist by trade, and has worked in several set-tings where he has specialized in serving our homeless population. As a clini-cian and educator, he started a clinical program at a large drop-in day shelter, and, along with graduate students, provided therapy services to almost 100 men, women and children. In current position, he is the first director of a permanent supportive housing program that will deliver clinical services and housing to our homeless friends with severe mental illness. He is enthusiastic about the mission to end homelessness in St. Louis. Most importantly, his faith influences his works. He recognizes that social justice and equality are not only essential to our community’s vitality, but are central to the gospel of grace. Thisfaith-based foundation has spurred much of his involvement in the church, and other volunteer leadership endeav-ors that focus on serving the under-served. Dr. Pearson would excel as a committee member. His perspective on myriad health, social and cultural issues

would add depth to the committee. His appreciation for the Episcopal mission combined with his passion of leadership is self-evident, and I would gladly sup-port him in this capacity.Sincerely,The Rev. Rebecca Ragland

Mr. Geoffrey PruittSt. John’s Church, St. Louis

Geoffrey Pruitt has seen a lot of changes in the Episcopal Church in the last fifty years, and is looking forward to our future. He has been a member of St. Barnabas’ and Trinity St. Louis, and is currently active as a member of St. John’s , St. Louis as a Eucharistic minister and lay reader, as well as being in the choir and altar guild and running the acolytes program. He is the newly elected vice-president of Metro II and a delegate to the Dioc-esan Convention. “The 2012 General Convention affirmed these priorities: to proclaim the Good News of the King-dom; to teach, baptize and nurture new believers; to respond to human need by loving service; to seek to transform un-just structures of society; and to strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth. The Presiding Bishop’s sermon of September 28 says that our task is “to rouse this community to the fully alive, risen life of Jesus’ friends and disciples, and to dream God’s dream for healing, restoration, and reconciliation.” Our community is in need of Good News, of healing and transformation. I can help with this mission, and it’s time I set my hand to the wheel.

Nominees

Heart image on page 2 used with permission, (c) denphumi / 123RF Stock Photo