From the Interim Rector - January 29, 2021

From the Interim Rector

I’ve been thinking a lot about resilience lately. Mostly because I’ve been asked to make a short video presentation about Epiphany on that theme at the upcoming Consortium of Endowed Episcopal Parishes’ (CEEP) annual conference. When folks ask me how things are going at Epiphany, I sing your praises. Truly! The ways in which the parish continually demonstrates the remarkable ability to meet every challenge and disappointment we’ve gone through with grace, unwavering faith in God, and an unyielding commitment to realizing the vision God has planted in our hearts is a testimony to the confidence we have in God. I’ve often used the word nimble to describe the parish. Now I realize that nimble is not a very theologically sounding word, yet nevertheless I think it fits Epiphany very well. With all the changes we have been through in the last two years: renovations, Covid, online worship, staff changes, and so many more, the parish has been quick to recognize the change as necessary (or in some cases, beyond our control), embrace it, and continue on our way. That lived reality speaks of not only nimbleness, but of resilience. Epiphany has demonstrated time and again its “capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.” Therefore, the question naturally arises: “What are the spiritual factors that lead to resilience within a community of faith?” Here is some of what I’ve seen during my time at Epiphany. First, and most foundational of all, the recognition that God is in control, not us. Second, that Epiphany is God’s church and we are but the stewards God has entrusted with his/her church. Third, the recognition that as brothers and sisters in Christ we are in this great adventure of faith together and together we will discover “God’s power working within us to do more than we can ask or imagine.” Fourth, and lastly, that: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, God’s mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning: great is God’s faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)

There are yet many challenges we will be called on to meet. And meet them we will with God’s help for God’s help (God’s mercies) never comes to an end. This is what makes Epiphany nimble. And resilient. And blessed.

Faithfully yours,

Roy+