This Week from Bishop Wayne Wright: 2008
August 6, 2008
I have returned safely from England and returned to the office this morning. After being away for most of July, I keep having the sense that summer is flying by. I am reminded that the summer season at Camp Arrowhead is about to end. We have been blessed with another good and safe year at camp. I am grateful for the commitment, good spirit, and hard work of the camp staff. Few ministries touch more lives.
The Presiding Bishop will be hosting a live web cast about the 2008 Lambeth Conference on Thursday, August 7, 2:00 p.m. The web cast may be accessed from the Episcopal Church website: www.episcopalchurch.org. The web cast will also be archived for viewing at a later time.
Today is the 63rd anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. About 45,000 people attended a memorial ceremony in Hiroshima. At 8:15 a.m., the time when the bomb was detonated over the city, a bell was rung followed by silent prayer for the victims. This is a heartfelt reminder for all of us to work and pray for peace.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
Lambeth Conference Notes from Bishop Wright, Tuesday, August 5, 2008
The 2008 Lambeth Conference ended on Sunday evening with a grand service in the Canterbury Cathedral. It had been a busy final day. Our bible study and Indaba discussion groups met for the last time. We all had a chance to speak about what the conference had meant to us and share “goodbyes.”
Bishop Simon Bakara from Harare, Zimbabwe was in our group. You may have read about how the Mugabe government has closed Anglican churches in Zimbabwe and is persecuting its members. Bishop Bakara returns to his home facing an uncertain future. We signed a statement of support for his ministry and gathered in a circle to pray for him, his family, and his diocese.
The entire conference gathered for a final plenary session. Archbishop Williams spoke. Copies of the 45-page Conference Reflections were distributed to each of us. Click here to see the document on the Lambeth Conference website.
The Conference Reflections are distinctly different from previous Lambeth Conference reports. They are not a formal report, an in-depth theological study, or an authoritative policy statement. They are a reflection upon the life, work, and spirit of the conference. A 15-member writing committee had the impossible task of catching on paper the sense of an incredibly rich and varied event. Most everyone will recognize that the committee did well at a very difficult task. No doubt the sections on communion issues and human sexuality will attract much attention. There is more to be found in the document.
The final days of the conference were devoted to conversations about human sexuality, the Windsor Report, and the draft Anglican Covenant. Anglicans have different understandings about the great mystery of human sexuality. Through our conversations at Lambeth, I know more about what others are thinking and believing. Understanding at this new depth is an important step.
I also found that we in the Episcopal Church are not alone. Over the last few years some have tried to say that this is a “North American problem” involving only the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Church of Canada. I now know this isn’t true. Anglicans in places like Korea, Brazil, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, and Wales are wrestling with the same issues and coming to similar conclusions.
I was grateful and proud to represent the Diocese of Delaware. We have much to offer from our experience. For over thirty years, with three successive bishops, our diocese has prayed, studied, and worked on these issues. There is room for everyone at our common table.
During the last week I took the time to attend all the hearings and presentations on the draft Anglican Covenant. I now know much more about the document, the covenant process, and its underlying assumptions. More importantly I got to know members of the covenant committee personally. I had time for significant dialogue with them. This was time well spent. It is still unclear what form a covenant might take. Some bishops favor a clear statement of beliefs and a commitment to abide by them. Others would prefer a strong statement of commitment to communion that acknowledges a diversity of pastoral practice. The covenant drafting committee will now be revising their document based on the varied comments received at the Lambeth Conference. This is another step on what will likely be a long process. I am not sure if a final draft will be ready for consideration by our 2009 General Convention. Given all that is involved, working slowly is probably a good thing.
On the final Sunday our Indaba discussion group met for the last time. Each of us was given a few minutes to speak about the conference. We spoke of what it had meant to meet bishops working in incredible ministry settings — places like Zimbabwe, the Canadian Arctic, Myanmar, and the Congo. While the press may have hoped for a more decisive, concrete outcome, the real fruit of the conference will likely be growth in friendship, spirit, and understanding. In my notes I took down what one bishop said: “Do not look at what we did or didn’t do. Don’t quickly decide what we did right, or did wrong. Look at the riches and blessing of our communion. It is right to give God thanks and praise.”
I am on my way home to Delaware. I will be back in the office on Wednesday. I am grateful to the bishop’s staff for their ministry while I have been away. Thank you all for your friendship, prayers, and faithful ministries in our churches and schools. I feel blessed to serve with you.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
- Lambeth Conference Websites:
- Official Lambeth Conference website
- Blogging Bishops: The Lambeth Journal
- Daily Accounts from the Episcopal Church USA.
- Episcopal Life On-Link
The concluding remarks of the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, USA:
“Many bishops came to this gathering in fear and trembling, expecting either a distasteful encounter between those of vastly different opinions, or the cold shoulder from those who disagree. The overwhelming reality has been just the opposite. We have prayed, cried, learned, and laughed together, and discovered something deeper about the body of Christ. We know more of the deeply faithful ministry of those in vastly differing contexts, and we have heard repeatedly of the life and death matters confronting vast swaths of the Communion: hunger, disease, lack of education and employment, climate change, war and violence. We have remembered that together we may be the largest network on the planet — able to respond to those life and death issues if we tend to the links, connections, and bonds between us. We have not resolved the differences among us, but have seen the deep need to maintain relationships, even in the face of significant disagreement and discomfort. The Anglican Communion is suffering the birth pangs of something new, which none of us can yet fully appreciate or understand, yet we know that the Spirit continues to work in our midst. At the same time patience is being urged from many quarters, that all may more fully know the leading of the Spirit. God is faithful. May we be faithful as well.”
The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori
Presiding Bishop and Primate
The Episcopal Church
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Lambeth Conference, Canterbury, England,
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
All is well here in Canterbury as the 2008 Lambeth Conference enters its final phase. More about that in a moment. First, I want to share with you some good news from congregations in our diocese. Over the last few days, three new clergy have been called to serve in our diocese.
St. Philip’s, Laurel has called the Rev. Howard Backus to serve on a part-time basis. He will be retiring as rector of St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Reidsville, North Carolina and moving to Delaware with this wife, Sue. His new ministry at St. Philip’s will begin on September 1.
The Rev. Kim Capwell has accepted the call to serve as rector of Immanuel Highlands, Wilmington. He and his wife, Sherry, are coming from the Diocese of Newark, New Jersey where Kim served as rector of St. Peter’s Church in Mt. Arlington. He will begin his ministry at Immanuel Highlands on September 16.
The Rev. Paul Gennett has been called to be the new rector of St. Thomas’ Parish, Newark. For the last 8 years Paul served as Associate Rector of St. David’s Episcopal Church, Wayne, Pennsylvania. He and his wife, Marilyn, will be moving to Delaware to begin this new ministry on November 30th.
These calls are the fruit of much faithful, hard work and collaboration by our transition committees, vestries, search consultants and interim clergy. I especially want to thank Gary Rowe for his vital role as diocesan deployment officer. We look forward to welcoming these new clergy colleagues to Delaware.
As the 2008 Lambeth Conference nears an end, spirits continue to be good. The working schedule over this week has been very full. The morning Eucharist starts at 7:15 a.m. Evening speakers often don’t conclude until 10 p.m. There is much in between.
We continue to address important issues for ministry. The discussion topic on Monday was inter-faith relations. The bishop of Jerusalem & the Middle East and the bishop of Peshawar, Pakistan spoke movingly of their experiences as Christians in predominantly Moslem settings. In small groups we discussed inter-faith relationships in our own settings. Sir Jonathan Sacks, Britain’s chief rabbi addressed us on Monday evening. He is an impressive speaker. Click here to read the text of his speech on the conference website:
Tuesday morning we had a joint meeting with the bishop’s spouses. Archbishop William’s wife, Jane, introduced the morning program devoted to the abuse of women around the world. It was a sobering and powerful presentation. Much still needs to be done
Today we received the first discussion draft of the 2008 Lambeth Conference Reflections. Our meeting will not be voting on resolutions or producing formal reports. Instead, we will share with the church reflections on our experiences as a body. The first draft was presented today for feedback. I liked what I saw in the draft. I thought that the comments were helpful. We will review the final document on Saturday.
I wrote earlier that I believed that the official Lambeth Conference website and the Episcopal Church website would be the best sources for news and information about the Lambeth Conference. I check them both regularly and am impressed by what they are reporting. My sense is that they are doing a good job telling the story of our meeting.
I will write again before returning home next Monday. I feel blessed to be here and to serve with you.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
Lambeth Conference, Canterbury, England, Monday, July 28, 2008
Memories from last Thursday will be among the most powerful from this Lambeth Conference. We were up early to board buses at 7:00 a.m. for the ride to downtown London. With the bishops, spouses, guests, and staff, we are nearly 1,200 people. One of the conference organizers told me that 38 buses were needed. Canterbury is about 65 miles from London. The rush hour traffic there is among the worst in the world. The trip took 2.5 hours.
We arrived in London and got off the buses near the Whitehall government offices and 10 Downing Street. We formed a long procession for a "walk of witness" past the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Our purpose was to urge governments to fulfill their promises and support the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The United Nations will be meeting in September to review the progress toward meeting the MDG goals.
The Episcopal Church and our own diocese support the MDGs. They are a good way to engage social issues that confront an ever smaller world. Click here to learn more about them on an Episcopal Church sponsored website or click here to see the Episcopal Relief website. Our own Diocesan Council has committed funds and urges our congregations to support the Nets for Life Program to prevent malaria around the world. Click here to learn more about Nets for Life.
Our march through London ended at the Lambeth Palace, home of the Archbishop of Canterbury. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown addressed our gathering and reminded us of the role of men and women of faith in the anti-slavery movement, in universal suffrage, in the human rights movement and the abolition of apartheid. He acknowledged that the Millennium Goals touched deeply the core of Christian mission and thanked us for our support.
There was lunch under a big tent in the Lambeth Palace garden. I sat next to Elspeth and Martin Shaw and several bishops from England. It was amazing to me that we all had friends and acquaintances in common. Our communion of over 80 million is large. But, it brings the great gift of many human connections.
After lunch we were back on the buses for a short ride over to Buckingham Palace for the traditional garden party with Queen Elizabeth. The entrance to the palace is majestic. The palace guards stand at attention. You pass through a large courtyard and up a grand staircase into formal receiving rooms, and out into the garden. There are long tents on either side of a large lawn. Tea, iced coffee, and finger sandwiches are served. At 4:00 p.m. all come to attention as a military band plays "God Save the Queen." Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, a group of ladies in waiting and gentlemen ushers are greeted by the Archbishop of Canterbury. He in turn introduces the royal couple to selected guests.
In 1998 I spoke to Prince Philip. This year I was one of the group who were introduced to Queen Elizabeth. She did not speak with me, but spoke with the bishop next to me. In case you were wondering what the Queen was wearing, Elspeth Shaw described it this way, "The Queen was wearing a white, silk dress printed with blue roses and green butterflies. She had a square white pocket book and white shoes. She wore a white straw hat decorated with a blue ribbon and green butterflies."
There was about an hour to see the palace gardens. The English have a remarkable gift for creating natural landscapes. Even so, it is hard to believe that the garden is in the middle of London. At 5:15 p.m. the royal couple returned to the entrance. The band plays a second time and the garden part ends. We boarded our buses and returned to Canterbury. It was a memorable day.
On Friday we returned to the conference working schedule. The theme for the day was "Faith and the Environment." It is sobering to hear from bishops around the world about the impact we are having. I had a long conversation with the Canadian bishop of the Arctic. He described vividly the effect that ozone depletion and climate warming are having on the polar ice. A bishop from Cameroon spoke about how large industrial companies are rapidly clearing the virgin forests in his small country. The cleared land will be planted with sugar cane used in the production of ethanol.
Friday's schedule also included the first hearing on the Windsor Report and the proposed draft Anglican Communion covenant. I plan to use opportunities like this to listen and learn what others think. It is important to keep in mind that the Lambeth Conference will not be voting on these two draft documents. Our role is to share reflections with the drafting committees.
Saturday included the traditional Lambeth Conference photograph. Click here to see it. I am standing in the second row toward the left. There is a separate photograph of the women bishops. Their presence is a reminder of how this ministry has grown over the last ten years.
Sunday was a quiet day. I went to one of the Canterbury parish churches in the morning. There was time in the afternoon for the mundane, but important, task of doing laundry.
The final week of the 2008 Lambeth Conference is about to begin. Spirits are good. I believe that this has been a good meeting. I will write again in a few days. As always you are in my prayers.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
Lambeth Conference, Canterbury, England, Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Notes from the Lambeth Conference will follow. First, here is some Delaware news. The response to the 2008 Bishop’s Mission Fund has been just terrific. It has only been a few weeks since the mission fund appeal was mailed. We have already received over $12,000. This is very good news. Remember that the fund will support three very worthwhile ministries: Primeros Pasos Early Childhood Education Center, Georgetown; Prison Ministry at the Sussex Correctional Center; and the ish-speaking Ministry at Trinity Parish, Wilmington. If you haven’t already done so, I hope you will join me in making a gift to the Mission Fund. Please remind your members about this opportunity to support three very effective ministries.
On Monday afternoon all the American bishops met. We reflected for a few minutes on how the conference is going, shared information, and were shown a video greeting from the 2008 Episcopal Youth Event. To my great surprise and pleasure Ian Miller, from St. Peter’s, Lewes, was one of the video spokespersons. Ian was on the EYE design team and a representative from our diocese to EYE. I was very proud. I understand that our delegation had a great time at EYE. I am especially grateful to the adult sponsors who accompanied our youth. Click here to see photos of Delaware Youth at the Episcopal Youth Event.
Now more about the Lambeth Conference – We are just finishing the third working day of the conference. Each day follows about the same schedule. In the morning and late afternoon a different province of the church leads worship. This morning the bishop of Cuba was celebrant and preacher. In a just few minutes I will be leaving for evening prayer. The Brazilian Episcopal Church will lead the service. Headphones are available at the door for simultaneous translation. The interesting and joyous music is contagious.
Each day starts with worship, followed by breakfast. We then break up into small groups for ninety minutes of bible study. After a break we meet until 1:00 p.m. in what are called “Indaba” groups. Indaba is a Swahili word for community discussion. The first forty-five minutes are spent in very intense conversation about a specific topic with a group of 4-5 others. These small groups reconvene as a larger group of forty. This becomes a very good way both to form deeper relationships and to learn from the experience of others. Let me give two examples. Yesterday I had a long conversation with the bishop from the Diocese of the Cape Coast, Ghana. I talked with him about the work we are doing studying the role of our church and slavery in Delaware. The Cape Coast was where many slaves were captured and began the horrible passage to America. He was very interested in our work. I learned a lot about his perspective on the history we share. Today I spoke with the bishop who serves the Montego Bay region in Jamaica. We talked about the opportunities and challenges of parishes serving resort areas. I told him about outreach program going on here this summer for students from overseas working in restaurants and hotels along the shore. He told me about their ministries to Jamaican resort workers.
Every afternoon there are a wide variety of seminars and workshops – many more than I can possibly attend. Almost every evening there is a conference speaker. Last night I heard Brian McLaren, the author of A Generous Orthodoxy. He reminded us that there is a hurricane of change happening around us in the world. He said that the need is for the church to get away from institutional maintenance and internal debate focusing instead making disciples. “Our call has to remind us it’s not simply to make converts or churchgoers but to make actual disciples of Jesus Christ, people who actually do live in the way Jesus did. We want everyone to get on the side of peace, reconciliation not just to get a ticket to heaven,” he said. Click here to see his interesting comments about the Lambeth Conference on his website.
Tomorrow we will be traveling by bus to London. The day includes the traditional garden party at Buckingham Palace. Sadly, cameras aren’t allowed. I will write to you about it when we return to Canterbury.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
Lambeth Conference, Canterbury, England, Monday, July 21, 2008
The Setting - What It’s Like To Be Here
We have arrived in Canterbury. The 2008 Lambeth Conference is underway. We are meeting at the University of Kent just as we did ten years ago. The university campus is large and modern, mostly built since the 1960s. The main campus spreads out along the ridge of a gently sloping hill that looks out on the old medieval town about a mile away. All of us live in university housing – dorm rooms. My room, in fact, isn’t that different than the one I had in college except for the beautiful view of Canterbury Cathedral off in the distance. We take our meals in one of two cafeterias. Small group meetings are held in classrooms. A large blue tent called the “Big Top” has been set up in front of the university library. We use it for plenary sessions and worship.
I cannot imagine what it must have taken to organize an event of this scale and complexity. But given our numbers, standing in line, or “queuing” as the British call it, is a fact of daily life. Under other circumstances this might be problematic, but here waiting to have supper or catch a bus becomes a good way to meet people you don’t know. There are over a 1,200 conference participants including bishops, their spouses, staff, and youth volunteers. We are only here for three weeks. It is unlikely that I will meet everyone. Still the breadth and diversity of our communion is extraordinary. Conversations long and short make faraway places seem present and real. “In Christ there is no east or west.” Regrettably, about 150 bishops from Nigeria, Uganda, and Rwanda chose not to accept the archbishop’s invitation to attend. This is a loss for all of us.
Compared to 1998, this year's Lambeth Conference has entered the electronic age. Wireless Internet blankets the campus. Conference presentations appear on large video screens. Even American cell phones now work in Britain. Conference resources that formerly were printed are now available on the web including a publication called “The Lambeth Daily.” Click here to have a look.
The Daily Rhythm of the Conference
Our day opens and closes with worship. Each province in the communion has responsibility for leading one of the services. Today, for example, the Korean church led evening prayers. A choir came from Korea for the service. They gave a concert afterward. All participants have tabbed, ring binders with the words and music for each conference service. Words to the hymns are also projected on large video screens. One of the conference musicians told me that worship planning began three years ago. I believe it.
Part of every morning is spent in bible study. The study groups have 8-10 members. We will be reading our way through John’s gospel. Many of my best memories from the last conference are experiences from the bible study. It is something I look forward to again.
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday were retreat days. This is something new for the Lambeth Conference. Each morning we traveled by bus to the Canterbury Cathedral. Archbishop Williams gave a series of addresses followed by time for prayer, conversation, and simply wandering around the beautiful, ancient cathedral close. Archbishop Williams used the addresses to speak about facets of a bishop’s ministry. He used texts from Hebrews and Paul’s epistle as a springboard. I understand that the addresses will be edited for publication. At the end of each day the Canterbury Cathedral men and boys choir joined us for evening worship. It was beautiful. As a friend said to me, “there’s nothing like hearing English choral music played on original instruments!”
On Sunday we returned to the cathedral for the Conference Eucharist. All of the bishops were vested and processed in for the two-hour service. A large congregation completely filled the building. Several languages were spoken. Melanesian dancers led a spectacular gospel procession. Bishop Duleep de Chickera (Diocese of Colombo, Sri Lanka) preached a powerful sermon on the parable of the wheat and tares. Click here to see photos of the service, a copy of the service sheet, and the text of Bishop de Chickera’s sermon are available on the website.
In the afternoon, along with a number of other bishops, including Martin Shaw from our companion diocese, I attended a Eucharist sponsored by Integrity and the British group Changing Attitudes. It was a joyous service celebrating diversity and inclusion. Bishop Gene Robinson was present for the service. It is a shame that he was not invited to participate fully in the conference. I admire his patience and generosity of spirit.
With the retreat and Sunday worship we enter a new phase of the conference on Monday morning. I will share my impressions later this week. I am doing well and feel blessed by the opportunity to be here. As always, you are in my prayers.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
On a bus to Canterbury, England, July 16, 2008
I am quite literally a “Canterbury Pilgrim” as I write to you this afternoon. I am on a bus with thirty-five other bishops and their spouses heading south from Scotland to England. Chaucer’s Canterbury pilgrims came from many places and walks of life as they made their way to the great cathedral. We also mirror the great reach and diversity of the Anglican Communion on our pilgrim’s bus.
At lunch today my tablemates were bishops from Brazil, Canada, Columbia, and Malawi. You can imagine how my conversational ish was stretched doing my best to translate. In spite of such obstacles the good spirits are obvious and evident. Contrary to what is being written in the papers, I sense a positive outlook among the bishops as we look forward to our meeting. That was certainly true this weekend as Holly and I visited the Diocese of Argyll and The Isles.
Elspeth and Martin Shaw could not have been better hosts. Wherever we went the Scottish laity and clergy were warm and outgoing. We traveled through the diocese with three other bishops and their spouses. Archbishop Turei and his wife Mihi had come the furthest. They live on the north island of New Zealand, but serve all the Maori congregations and clergy in that distant province of the church. Bishop Mhogolo and his wife Irene serve the Diocese of Central Tanganyika – the largest in Tanzania - 200 parishes, eight schools, and four hospitals. Bishop Surya and his wife Hitha were the newest. He was ordained nine months ago to serve in the Church of South India. He had studied theology in Geneva and had been teaching homiletic in an Indian seminary before his election as bishop.
Each of us spent the weekend with a host family in another part of the diocese and preached in different churches on Sunday morning. Holly and I stayed with Elspeth and Martin Shaw. The radio was on as we ate breakfast before going to St. John’s Cathedral, Oban on Sunday morning. The voice on the radio was unmistakable. Katharine Jefferts Schori was preaching in Salisbury Cathedral. Her sermon was being broadcast live across Britain. The dean of St. John’s Cathedral Norman MacCallum and his wife Barbara had us over to lunch after church. We had met them during our visit to Argyll in 2003.
On Monday we traveled by ferry to the small island of Lismore. Along with Iona it is one of the earliest Christian sites in Scotland. The Livingstone family welcomed us into their home. They have in their possession a 1,500-year-old relic of that early Celtic mission – the staff belonging to St. Moluag, a companion of Columba. In the evening Episcopalians from around the diocese gathered for a traditional Scottish “ceilidh.” It was an evening of story-telling, singing, and dancing, accompanied by a string band. The time we spent together was a powerful reminder of the friendship we share in Christ.
The bus will be arriving in Canterbury in a few hours. This part of our pilgrimage will come to an end. But, I believe we are off to a good beginning.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
Scotland, July 9, 2008
Holly and I arrived safely in Scotland on Monday morning, July 7. We were greeted at the Glasgow airport by Pat and Douglas Cameron. We are staying with them until Friday afternoon. When Douglas retired as bishop of Argyll and The Isles in 2005, the Camerons bought a home in Falkirk, a very pretty small town halfway between Glasgow and Edinburgh. Douglas occasionally assists the bishops in neighboring dioceses. He and Pat particularly enjoy looking after their two young grandsons who live nearby. The Camerons have good health and many blessings in retirement.
On Friday afternoon, July 11, we will meet Bishop Martin Shaw (the current Bishop of Argyll and the Isles) and his wife, Elspeth. The Shaws are hosting a group of five bishops from around the world for a pre-Lambeth tour of their diocese. This Sunday I will be preaching at the cathedral in Oban. It will be my first return to Oban since Delaware clergy visited Argyll and The Isles in 2003. On Tuesday morning Holly will fly home to Delaware. I will be traveling with the other bishops to Canterbury. The conference begins on Wednesday evening, July 16.
Yesterday the news arrived that the Church of England has approved the ordination of women to be bishops. This is an important moment. The decision has been a long time coming. It reflects a growing understanding of the Holy Spirit’s work and who may be called to serve. It is a good thing and will be a blessing to us all.
At the same time the Church of England decided not to provide for so-called “flying bishops” or “super bishops.” They would have been appointed to serve those who cannot accept the churche’s decision. Instead, the Church of England will take a common-sense, pastoral approach leaving room for everyone at the table. It will likely avoid deep divisions and work well. This is in keeping with the long tradition of our church. This seems good to me.
Once I arrive in Canterbury I will be writing to you from time to time to share my impressions of the conference. In the meantime, you all continue to be in my prayers.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
July 2, 2008
In just a few days our diocesan delegation will be leaving for the Episcopal Youth Event in San Antonio. We have a great group going this year from across our diocese. I believe that it is the largest ever. Special thanks go to all who have organized this event and those who will be serving as adult chaperones on the trip.
I spent most of the day Monday at Camp Arrowhead. The summer camping season is now underway. There is no joy quite like seeing the dining hall at camp filled with young people. This ministry is a very great resource and blessing.
I am happy to announce that the Rev. Russ Bohner has accepted the call to serve as associate rector at Christ Church Christiana Hundred. We all are pleased that he will continue serving in our diocese. Russ will be leaving St. Barnabas in mid-July and will begin at Christ Church on August 20. Our prayers are with him as he begins the transition to this new ministry.
We received word yesterday that the Rev. Richard Swartout died Sunday morning after a long illness. He was ordained a Priest in 1962 and served in New York and the Diocese of Easton. Richard and Karen were attending St. Paul's Church, Georgetown. The Burial Office will be Saturday morning, July 5 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul's, Georgetown. Clergy from around the diocese are encouraged to attend and vest, wearing festive stoles. As we give thanks for Richard's ministry, we mourn the loss of a friend and colleague. May he rest in peace.
We also received word last week that the Rev. Brewster Beach died in New York following a long illness. He served in this diocese in the 1950s and was well known as an educator and minister to young people. He played an important role at Camp Arrowhead in its formative years. May he rest in peace.
I am away this week taking a few days vacation before the Lambeth Conference begins. Holly and I are leaving for Scotland over the weekend.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
June 25, 2008
This week Episcopalians around Delaware will receive in the mail a request to support the 2008 Bishop’s Mission. I hope that you will join me in making a gift to the mission fund and encourage others to the do same. Gifts to the 2008 Mission Fund will support important Delaware outreach and service ministries. This year the Bishop’s Mission Fund will provide essential sponsorship for three ministries making a difference here:
- First Steps/Primeros Pasos Early Childhood Education Center (Georgetown) This new ministry for young children and their parents opened its doors last year. First Steps/Primeros Pasos offers quality, affordable day care. It prepares young children for later success in elementary education. Your gift to the 2008 Bishop’s Mission Fund will be a blessing to these children and their families.
- Latino Congregation at Trinity Parish (Wilmington) At noontime on Sundays a growing congregation fills the chapel of this downtown Wilmington church. Led by the Rev. Juan George, this ish-speaking ministry provides spiritual and pastoral care to an underserved community. Your gift to the 2008 Bishop’s Mission Fund will underwrite needed programs and services.
- Episcopal Prison Chaplain (Sussex County) Since 2002 the Rev. David Archibald has made weekly visits to the Sussex Correctional Facility. He celebrates the Holy Eucharist with prisoners and counsels these forgotten members of society. Your gift to the 2008 Bishop’s Mission Fund will provide continued support for this faithful ministry of the Episcopal Church.
Contributions to the Bishop’s Fund may be sent by mail to our office here in Wilmington or click here to make an on-line credit card donation to the Bishop's Mission Fund.
Your gifts and personal encouragement will help make the mission fund a success again this year. Thank you again for your generosity and support.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
June 18, 2008
I will be leaving for the 2008 Lambeth Conference in early July. Before going to Canterbury, I will spend several days in the Diocese of Argyll and The Isles. Bishop Shaw is hosting a tour of the diocese for six bishops from different parts of the Anglican Communion.
I feel honored and blessed to attend the Lambeth Conference for a second time as Bishop of Delaware. The Archbishop of Canterbury has asked us to come to Lambeth ready to share with others the story of our ministries. I will be going to England with many good things to tell about the faithfulness and vitality of the Episcopal Church in Delaware. Our experience here makes me feel confident that our three weeks together will be good and productive.
From time to time during the meeting, I will be writing to you about my experiences and impressions of the conference. Feel free to share what I write with others. In today’s wired world there will be many, many sources for instant wisdom, opinion and commentary about the Lambeth Conference. There are two official conference sites on the Web:
www.lambethconference.org
www.episcopalchurch.org
These sites will be updated regularly and will contain the most reliable information about the conference. I encourage you to rely upon these primary sources for communication with your congregations.
The Presiding Bishop has asked all of us to pray for Lambeth Conference. Knowing the power of prayer, I hope you will do this. I have included the Presiding Bishop’s letter below.
As I wrote to you earlier, Amy Warder died last week following a long illness. Holly and I were blessed to travel to Virginia on Saturday and participate in services at St. Paul’s Church where Oran is the rector. On Wednesday I gathered with friends and colleagues for the service remembering Fred Guyott who died suddenly late last week. Our prayers are with them and all who mourn for them. May they rest in peace.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
June 11, 2008
At the Clergy luncheons this week we distributed the Clergy Life calendar for the up-coming program year. I am also including it below. As you can see, we are looking forward to another good year. Please mark you calendars now. The times that we spend together during the year are important.
Diocesan Clergy Life Calendar for 2008-2009:
- September 23, 2008
Diocesan Clergy Day - November 22, 2008
Parish Life Day, St. Anne’s School, Middletown - January 26 - 28, 2009
Clergy Retreat, Pendle Hill, Wallingford, PA with Bishop Ann Tottenham, Retreat Leader (retired bishop suffragan, Diocese of Toronto) - March 27 & 28, 2009
224th Diocesan Convention, Christ Church Christiana Hundred - April 7, 2009
Renewal of Vows – Tuesday of Holy Week, with Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori, speaker
Thanks to our Diocesan Clergy Life Committee for sponsoring clergy events during the past year. Thanks also to Cynde Bimbi for her help with registration and organizing these events.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
June 4, 2008
This has been a year for clergy transition in our diocese. Trinity Parish, Wilmington recently called Patricia Downing as rector. She will soon be moving to Delaware. Her first Sunday at Trinity will be August 3rd. Over the next few weeks both St. Thomas’s, Newark and Immanuel Highlands will be finishing interviews and considering calls. Please keep them in your prayers.
St. Anne’s, Middletown is about to complete its parish profile. We are actively recruiting candidates for this growing congregation. Do you know someone who might be a good match for this ministry? Many of our best recommendations come from you. If you know someone, please click here to email the name to Gary Rowe, our diocesan deployment officer.
We are very grateful for the ministries of our interim and supply clergy over these months of transition. Their ministry has been a real blessing to our congregations and to this diocese.
Last call to R.S.V.P. for one of the June clergy lunches!
- Tuesday, June 10, 11 am – 1 pm, St. James’, Millcreek
- Thursday, June 12, 11 am – 1 pm, Christ Church, Dover
Decide which clergy lunch you can attend. Click here to R.S.V.P. to Cynde Bimbi by email, or call 302-656-5441, ext. 106.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
May 28, 2008
The recent tradition of cold, rainy Memorial Day weekends was gloriously broken. Crowds flocked to the shore. There were picnics and festivities in communities around the state. It was a good holiday weekend. In the midst of our celebrations the continuing war in Iraq sounds a poignant and powerful note. The need for our prayers and witness is great. And, as Bishop George Packard reminded during his visit to Delaware, we must go beyond prayer and make the commitment to care for the veterans and their families in our midst.
If you haven’t always done so, I hope you will R.S.V.P. for one of the June clergy lunches. It will be good to gather before the summer season begins.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
May 21, 2008
Since we were not able to meet earlier this month, we have scheduled two lunches for clergy in June. It will be good to re-connect as another program year comes to an end. There will be an opportunity to talk about plans for the coming year and to review summer events including the up-coming Lambeth Conference.
I have spoken with Gene Robinson. He regrets not being able to join us recently. We will be in contact to schedule another date for him to visit Delaware – most likely in the fall.
We received word this weekend that the Rev. Theodore Ludlow died following a long illness. He served as rector of St. Thomas’, Newark from 1947 – 1982. It was a remarkably productive season. During his ministry St. Thomas’s moved to its current location on College Ave. and built a new facility. He was actively involved in developing and strengthening Episcopal ministry to the University of Delaware. We give thanks for his witness and life of faithful service. May he rest in peace.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
May 14, 2008
Yesterday afternoon I attended the monthly board meeting for St. Anne’s Episcopal School. It was Harvey Zendt’s last meeting as school head. Harvey will be retiring at the end of this school term. Harvey was been a remarkable leader of this young institution. Under his leadership the vision of a new school has become a reality. He has assembled a wonderful administrative and teaching team. We thank Harvey for all he has done and wish him the very best during this time of transition.
This is also the season when the schools and colleges in our communities are finishing another year. We recognize and give thanks for all who teach and all who learn. These are good vocations. Are thoughts are especially with those who graduate this month and next.
I have spoken with Gene Robinson. He regrets not being able to join us on Tuesday. We will be in contact to schedule another date for him to visit Delaware – most likely in the fall. Thanks again to Celeste Cox, members of Christ Church, and members of the bishop’s staff for all their help as we prepared for Bishop Robinson’s visit.
<>Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
May 7, 2008
All of us have heard the new about the unfolding disaster and great loss of life following the cyclone in Myanmar (Burma). Click here to learn how Episcopal Relief (ERD) has begun to respond. Their website includes a bulletin insert that you can download and distribute with your parish newsletter or Sunday service sheet. I hope you will make and contribution to ERD and encourage your members to support ERD relief work in Myanmar.
We look forward to welcoming Bishop Gene Robinson next Tuesday, May 13. Clergy will gather in the Christ Church, Dover Parish Hall at 9:30 a.m. There will be social time, announcements, and time for conversation with Bishop Robinson. The Forum begins at 12:15 pm in the church. Lunch follows in the Parish Hall. Given Bishop Robinson’s very full travel schedule since the publication of his new book, we are grateful that he is taking the time to be with us.
Vicki Anthos, a member of Immanuel, Highlands has written with the sad news that their sister parish, St. Luke’s, New Orleans, was partially destroyed by fire last week. This is another blow to this historically black, urban parish already challenged by the effects of Hurricane Katrina. If you would like more information on how to help St. Luke’s rebuild, click here to send Vicki an email.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
April 30, 2008
At our recent Diocesan Convention we passed a resolution urging elected officials to make Thursday, May 1, an interfaith Inclusive National Day of Prayer. The resolutions states that, “It is our hope that promoting an annual interfaith Inclusive National Day of Prayer will nurture greater understanding and mutual respect among all of God’s children and help heal divisions in our society.”
Prayer is the great spiritual gift that we all have to offer. People from different beliefs and spiritual traditions gathering together in prayer is a powerful symbol – especially in a nation that continues to grow in its diversity. It is another reminder that we really are “one nation under God.”
Bishop Carol Gallagher has just published a new book entitled: Reweaving the Sacred: A Practical Guide to Change and Growth in Challenged Congregations. We congratulate Carol on this accomplishment. Copies may be ordered on-line from the Church Publishing, Inc. website or by calling 1-800-242-1918.
<>Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
April 23, 2008
The warm weather this past weekend was a reminder that the summer camping season at Camp Arrowhead is just around the corner. This Sunday afternoon, April 27, Camp Arrowhead is sponsoring an Open House. I hope that you will encourage your members to visit. It will be a good opportunity to learn more about Camp Arrowhead and its outstanding ministry to young people. There are still openings for the summer camp sessions. And, there are a few opportunities remaining for summer employment. To learn more and to download a brochure, click here to visit the Camp Arrowhead website.
Last week I announced that Trinity Parish, Wilmington has called the Rev. Patricia S. Downing to be their next rector. If you would like to send Patti Downing a note welcoming her to the Diocese of Delaware, here is her current address. She plans to begin her new ministry on August 1.
The Rev. Patricia S. Downing
Good Shepherd Parish
818 University Boulevard W
Silver Spring, MD 20901
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
April 16, 2008
Our 223rd Diocesan Convention concluded on Saturday afternoon. Thank you for your support and for taking the time to participate on such a beautiful weekend. Rita Nelson and the St. Philip’s congregation were outstanding hosts. The Bishop’s staff and a large group of volunteers organized arrangements and logistics for the convention. Special thanks go to Bishop Bud Shand and the many others who led presentations, workshops, and hearings. I was moved and humbled by kind words on Friday evening. Together we have accomplished a lot in this diocese. When I travel to England for the 2008 Lambeth Conference, there will be much good news to share.
At this convention we reported on plans to strengthen youth ministry in our diocese. You are able to meet members of the new Diocesan Youth Council and the delegation traveling to this summer’s Episcopal Youth Event. We heard a report from Jay Angerer about the growing ministry at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church. You met the six postulants preparing for ordination as deacons.
All these ministries are supported directly through the “Fair Share” giving by our congregations. Along with members of our Diocesan Council, and Larry Heinold, diocesan treasurer, I want to recognize and thank congregations for these essential gifts. Detailed information about diocesan finances was included in the Narrative Budget presented to the convention. Copies will be available soon for downloading from this website. The complete audited report of all diocesan funds is included in the Annual Report of the Diocese to be distributed later this summer.
The Diocesan Convention elected members of our governing bodies and deputies to the General Convention. Thanks to all who offered themselves for election. Click here to see the results of the balloting. We have also posted the text of a resolution adopted by convention urging all elected officials and event planners to make May 1, 2008 an inclusive, interfaith, national Day of Prayer. Click here to see the Day of Prayer resolution.
Yesterday we received the good news that Trinity Parish, Wilmington has called the Rev. Patricia Steinecke Downing. She will be coming to Trinity from Good Shepherd Parish in Silver Spring, Maryland, where she has served as Rector since 1997. Patty is married to the Reverend Richard Downing (Dickie), who has just retired as the Rector of another Episcopal church in the Diocese of Washington. We look forward to welcoming the Downings to our diocese.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
April 9, 2008
Last week our nation observed the 40th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King’s assassination. In the days following Dr. King’s tragic death, violence erupted in cities across this country. In the City of Wilmington there were seven days of chaos, burning, and sporadic violence. For nine months the Delaware National Guard patrolled city streets. In the end there were over 900 arrests, nearly 100 injuries, and dozens left homeless as fires damaged their homes.
In Sunday’s News Journal, Beatrice Ross Coker, a community civil rights activist, described the Wilmington riots as Delaware’s “family secret” – “Something nobody would talk about, like if you were at someone’s house and a cockroach walked across your arm – everyone knew it was there, but no one said a word.” Forty years is a very long time. Forty years is also a Biblical number. From that perspective it may be that we have been in the wilderness long enough.
At this weekend’s diocesan convention we will hear the first report from the newly formed committee studying the history of slavery in Delaware. One thing clearly emerges from that study. Although the Civil War may have ended slavery, it did not end racial prejudice or economic injustice. It is easy to see how the weight of these problems still bears down upon each of us even after so many years. Blessedly, progress has been made. Delaware’s Episcopal churches have helped to bring change. But, more remains to be done.
I look forward to seeing you on Friday and Saturday for our 223rd Diocesan Convention. The people of St. Philip’s, Laurel and Rita Nelson their priest are ready to extend a warm welcome to friends from around the diocese. I want to thank them, members of the bishop’s staff, and our convention presenters for all they have done to help us prepare. It should be a good convention. I personally am doing well and feel very blessed by your email, cards, and prayers. Thank you. [Click here to learn more about the convention.]
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
April 2, 2008
There is a very special opportunity coming up this weekend. Westminster Presbyterian Church, Wilmington is sponsoring a lecture series by the Reverend Doctor John Polkinghorne. Dr. Polkinghorne is a world-class scientist and an Anglican priest. He is one of the greatest living writers and thinkers on the subjects of science and religion. In 1979 he resigned his Professorship of mathematical physics at Cambridge University to train for the Anglican Priesthood. He was ordained in 1981 and served congregations in Cambridge, Bristol and Blean. He returned to Cambridge as both a physicist and theologian, and in 1989, was appointed President of Queens’ College. Dr. Polkinghorne has written numerous books and articles. Dr. Polkinghorne will speak at Westminster on Friday evening (5:30 to 7:00 p.m.), Saturday morning (9:00 a.m. to noon) and preach at Sunday morning services.
Here is the schedule of the various lectures of The Reverend Doctor John Polkinghorne:
- Friday, April 4, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Session I: "The Friendship of Science and Religion" - Saturday, April 5, 9:00 a.m. - Noon
Session II "Can a Scientist Pray?"
Session III "Can We Believe in a Destiny Beyond Death?"
These lectures are free and open to the public. We are all invited to attend. Westminster Presbyterian Church is located at 1504 West 13th Street, Wilmington. Click here to see additional information on the Westminster website.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
March 26, 2008
In just a few weeks Judi Gregory, our diocesan Business Manage will be leaving for Sudan. She will devote her sabbatical summer to helping the Sudanese Episcopal Church develop a modern business accounting system. The opportunity for this kind of personal mission work is a significant blessing. It is possible to do something like this because the Episcopal Church is a member of the Anglican Communion. We have friends in Christ around the world. Opportunities for mission arise from these friendships. As a diocese, we are pleased to support Judi during her sabbatical.
While Judi is away, we are seeking a part-time financial consultant to assist our staff with some of her day-to-day responsibilities over the summer. You may know of someone who might be interested in this position. For additional information, click here to send an email to Gary Rowe or call (302) 656-5441, ext. 107.
This week Winifred Primo will celebrate her 88th birthday. We send her our best wishes with thanks for her friendship and ministry through the years. Ron Haines, the retired bishop of Washington died on Good Friday following a long illness. Ron had many connections with Delaware and was a good friend of our diocese. Our prayers are with all who mourn his passing. May he rest in peace.
I hope that you all enjoy the blessings and renewal of this Easter season. Thank you again for your thoughts and prayers. They are very much appreciated.
<>Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
March 19, 2008
Today is Wednesday of Holy Week. It is also the fifth anniversary of the war in Iraq. At its beginning few could have envisioned the breadth, counted the cost, or predicted the length of this war. All of us have felt its impact, but none have been touched more directly than members of our own armed forces, their loved ones, and the people of Iraq. Today we pray and hope for the return of peace. We mourn the lost on all sides and pray for those who serve in our name.
At our recent meeting in Texas Bishop George Packard reminded all the bishops of the continued need for pastoral care and support of those who serve in the armed forces and their families. Thank you for making this a priority.
It was good seeing you on Tuesday of Holy for the Renewal of Ordination Vows at the Cathedral. Thanks go to the diocesan Clergy Life Committee for their leadership, Bill Lane and the Cathedral for their hospitality, and Cynde Bimbi for her help organizing this event. I am happy to announce that the Presiding Bishop will be our guest next year for Tuesday of Holy Week.
I will be participating in the Holy Week and Easter services at the Cathedral. It is always a special and blessed time. As always you are in my prayers.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
March 13, 2008
The spring meeting of the House of Bishops is just ending. I will be flying home from Texas on Thursday afternoon. It has been a good and productive gathering. I give much credit to the bishop’s mutual desire to work together even when facing challenging issues, and to the Presiding Bishop for her leadership. Her wisdom and steady faithfulness are great resources for our church.
Much of our time was spent preparing for this summer’s Lambeth Conference. The format and the agenda for the meeting will be different. There will be more time for discussion and mutual learning. There is no plan for resolutions and formal reports. This makes sense to me. Making new friends and learning about ministries around the world will be a very positive benefit.
It was announced that the Archbishop of Canterbury will not be inviting Bishop Gene Robinson to participate fully in the Lambeth Conference. This is regrettable, but not unexpected. The House of Bishops formally expressed our regret at this decision. We look forward to welcoming Gene Robinson to Delaware on Tuesday, May 13.
Today the House of Bishops voted to depose two of our colleagues from their ministries: John-David Schofield, Diocese of San Joaquin, and William Cox, retired. This was the culmination of a lengthy process. There were repeated opportunities given for reconciliation. We took this action based on the facts presented to us and following lengthy conversation and prayer. The outcome is sad, but necessary. The process of rebuilding in the Diocese of San Joaquin is beginning. There will be a special diocesan convention at the end of March to select a provisional bishop.
I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday of Holy for the Renewal of Ordination Vows at the Cathedral. Before Fredrica Thompsett makes her presentation I will take a few minutes to brief you in more detail about the House of Bishops meeting and the Lambeth Conference. It will be good being with you.
The busy days of Holy Week and Easter are close at hand. This season bears the promise of hope for all God’s people. Thank you for all you are doing to prepare.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
March 5, 2008
I always enjoy reading the newsletters I receive from congregations around the diocese. It is a great way to catch up on the many good things happening here in Delaware. Over the last few weeks parish newsletters have been filled with notices about worship and other events during Holy Week and Easter. I really admire the hard work, commitment, and creativity that go into this central season in the liturgical year. Thank you for all you are doing as we prepare for this important time.
I will be leaving on Friday morning for the House of Bishop’s meeting in Texas. Much of our time together will be spent preparing for our participation in the Lambeth Conference this coming summer. We will also be discussing our continuing relationship with the Diocese of San Joaquin and Bishop Schofield. I will be returning to Delaware just before Palm Sunday. I will look forward to telling you about the bishops meeting when we are together for Tuesday of Holy Week. (Details are just below.)
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
FEBRUARY 27, 2008
I hope all clergy are planning to join us at the Cathedral on Tuesday of Holy Week for the annual Renewal of Ordination Vows. Dr. Fredrica Harris Thompsett is our speaker this year. Dr. Thompsett is the Mary Wolfe Professor of Historical Theology at the Episcopal Divinity School, Cambridge, Mass. She is well-known across the Episcopal Church as an engaging teacher and speaker. Click here to learn more about this service. We look forward to welcoming her to the Diocese of Delaware.
Below is the schedule for the day. As in past years I hope that all Episcopalians and their friends will join us for the Holy Eucharist and lunch. Thanks go to the diocesan Clergy Life Committee, Cynde Bimbi, Bill Lane, and the Cathedral staff for all they have done to make this annual event possible.
Renewal of Ordination Vows
Tuesday of Holy Week, March 18, 2008
Cathedral Church of St. John
Concord Avenue & Market Street, Wilmington
9:30 a.m. Social Gathering
10:15 a.m. Conversation with Dr. Thompsett
11:30 a.m. Break
12:00 Noon Holy Eucharist
(Clergy will vest and process – red stoles)
1:00 p.m. Lunch
<>Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
FEBRUARY 20, 2008
An early Lent, as we all know, means there will be an early Holy Week. If you haven’t already done so, I hope that you are beginning to publicize the 2008 Good Friday Offering. Each year since 1922 the Episcopal Church has supported ministries in Jerusalem and the Middle East through the Good Friday Offering. Last year over $368,000 was raised. The needs in the region are very great. Our gifts help support hospitals, schools, orphanages, and many other programs. Good Friday is an effective way to share the compassion and generosity of Christ.
For more information about the 2008 Good Friday Offering, click here.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting St. David’s, Brandywine Hundred.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
FEBRUARY 13, 2008
I had just gotten home and was sitting down for supper when the telephone rang. “Hi, this is John Smith calling. Your seminary is having it winter phone-a-thon. We were hoping that you would be interested in making a contribution to the annual fund. . . .” We have all received calls like this. When I was in seminary, I had to make them.
Interesting how it is always a little awkward – at both ends of the telephone. Generosity doesn’t always come naturally or easily. But, generosity is at the heart of the Gospel. The opportunity to bless many good things comes when we are generous. I keep reminding myself of this even in moments when I don’t feel like being generous. There is always room to grow.
Please keep the search committee and vestry at Trinity Parish, Wilmington in your prayers during the coming weeks. They have begun interviewing candidates to be their next rector.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting St. Peter’s, Smyrna. Next Tuesday afternoon – Thursday afternoon, I will be in New York for the winter meeting of the Church Pension Fund Board.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
FEBRUARY 6, 2008:
As Lent begins, I want share some good news with you. This year Judith Gregory completes her 14th year as Business Manager for our diocese. In this capacity, she serves Delaware’s Episcopal churches and diocesan ministries by providing financial oversight, data and analytical support to our institutions, governing bodies and committees.
From May 1 – August 31, 2008, Judi will take a sabbatical leave from her day-to-day ministry as a member of the Bishop’s staff. She plans to spend her sabbatical in the African nation of Sudan. Using her skills as a financial consultant, she will work with the Episcopal Church in the Sudan. She will train staff for the implementation of a new computerized accounting system. This new system will update the current method of recording and tracking funding for relief work. This work is the first step towards providing a solid foundation to support the churches’ ministry in that war-torn country.
Planning for this sabbatical is possible through a partnership between The Office of Anglican and Global Relations of the Episcopal Church in New York, Episcopal Relief and Development, and the Episcopal Church in the Sudan. It underlines our commitment in the Diocese of Delaware to the life of the Anglican Communion. The opportunity to share gifts and skills for the benefit of others lies at the heart of our friendship with Anglicans around the world.
During her four-month sabbatical time, Judi will reside in Juba, in the southern portion of Sudan. She will return to Delaware at the end of August and resume her position on the Bishop’s staff following Labor Day. While she is away, members of the Bishop’s staff, volunteers, and a part-time consultant will share her responsibilities, in the Bishop’s office and the life of the Diocese.
We look forward to the many good things that will come from this exciting opportunity. We are grateful, as a diocese, to support this sabbatical ministry to our brothers and sisters in Sudan. To learn about Judi's ministry to the Sudan in her own words, click here to visit her website.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
JANUARY 30, 2008:
Earlier this week the board of St. Anne’s Episcopal School announced that Peter Thayer has accepted the call to serve as the school’s new head. He and his wife Francie will be moving to Middletown in the early summer.
Peter is an experienced educator with over thirty years as a teacher and school administrator. Most recently he has served as middle school head at the Lancaster Country Day School. He is also an active Episcopalian serving both as warden and vestry member at St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church, Lancaster.
I enjoyed meeting Peter and the other finalists as the search for this position progressed. All the finalists were exceptional people. It is clear that Peter will bring very significant gifts to this new ministry. He will build upon the outstanding work of Harvey Zendt, the school’s founding head. All of us look forward to welcoming Francie and Peter Thayer to the Diocese of Delaware.
Thanks to our diocesan Clergy Life Committee for sponsoring our winter Clergy Retreat at Pendle Hill. It was a blessing to be with colleagues for a good time of refreshment and prayer. Special thanks go to Carlyle Gill, our presenter; and to Cynde Bimbi for her help in organizing this event.
I will be away until Shrove Tuesday. Holly, Parker, and I will be traveling to New Orleans for Carnival. It will our first time there as a family since Hurricane Katrina.
This comes with my thanks for your ministries and prayers for a blessed and holy Lent.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
JANUARY 23, 2008:
Over the last few months both Episcopal Life and the Episcopal News Service (ENS) have been expanding their coverage and resources on the World Wide Web. This includes news and features articles about local, national, and international ministries of the Episcopal Church. You may want to check out their website. Here is the link:
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/elife/
St. Barnabas’, Wilmington was featured in a recent Episcopal Life online story. You can read it here:
www.episcopalchurch.org/81827_94099_ENG_HTM.htm
St. Thomas’ Parish, Newark is about to complete its Parish Profile. We will soon begin recruiting candidates to be the next rector. If you know someone who should be considered for this new ministry, please click here to e-mail the name along to Gary Rowe. Many of our most effective clergy have come to Delaware through your recommendations. Thanks for thinking about this.
Our winter clergy retreat at Pendle Hill begins on Monday afternoon. It will be good being with you for this time of fellowship, quiet, and prayer.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
JANUARY 16, 2008:
The Sundays after Epiphany are very, very few this year. Christmas seems barely past. We are rushing around to complete Lenten programs and sell tickets for pancake suppers. I would be tempted to complain about this. But, a quick look at the Prayer Book calendar reminds me that it will be over 80 years until Ash Wednesday is this early again.
With so few Sundays after Epiphany I will miss the opportunity for preaching in this season. I have always felt that worshippers are particularly open to the message of hope at this time of year. Given the many things happening around us, this longing for the light of Christ seems especially strong this year. The message of hope is one of the great gifts that we have to offer as Jesus’ disciples. It is the light of the world.
Thanks go to Celeste Cox and the members of Christ Church, Dover for their pastoral ministry to Michael Mayer over these last years. The service for him last Saturday morning was beautiful and memorable. I look forward to seeing you this coming Saturday at 4 p.m. for the Celebration of New Ministry at St. David’s, Brandywine Hundred. It will be a happy occasion for Brad Hinton and members of the congregation. Our winter clergy retreat begins on Monday afternoon. It will be good being with you for this time of fellowship, quiet and prayer.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
JANUARY 9, 2008:
I hope that you all enjoyed a blessed and joyous Christmas season — including some time for personal refreshment and renewal. Balancing multiple responsibilities for clergy and their families is always challenging especially during the holidays.
During the month of January we always observe two significant annual events. This year Martin Luther King Day is January 21. Because this event has now become a civic holiday, it is easy to lose sight of the fact that Martin Luther King’s life and work were built upon the rock of faith in Jesus Christ. The annual celebration is an appropriate occasion for all of us to give thanks for the presence of Christ in Dr. King’s life and ministry. It is an opportunity for each of us to re-dedicate ourselves to challenge racism and bias everywhere.
January 18-25 is the traditional Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. As Episcopalians we can be especially grateful for the spirit and commitment that led to the “Call to Common Mission,” the covenant of full communion between our church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. In our own diocese we have been especially blessed this past year by the ministries of two ordained Lutheran pastors serving here. In 2006, at the General Convention, first steps were taken that may lead to a similar relationship with the United Methodist Church. Resources to observe the Week of Christian Unity are now available online.
This past Sunday I celebrated the Feast of the Epiphany at St. Peter’s, Lewes. Next Sunday I will be visiting St. Albans. The Celebration of New Ministry for Brad Hinton at St. David’s, Brandywine Hundred is scheduled for Saturday, January 19, 4 p.m. I look forward to seeing you then.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
JANUARY 2, 2008:
Happy New Year! I hope that you and your families had a good holiday. We join with people of good will everywhere in praying for God's blessings and the return of peace in this new year.
Holly, Parker, and I have been in Florida this week taking a few days of vacation and visiting with family and friends. We will return on Friday. I will be visiting St. Peter's, Lewes on Sunday.
Being away from home affords extra time in the morning to read the papers and watch the news. Clearly, politics will be front and center in this new year. The caucus and primary season is upon us. Important decisions are about to be made.
Times like these provide opportunities for teaching, preaching, and conversation about the relationship between faith, discipleship, and public life. The Episcopal Church has a distinctive approach to these issues. Through the years Episcopalians have played important roles in national life. I hope all of us will be thinking about how to use these days as opportunities for teaching, witness, reflection, and prayer.
Services from Michael Mayer have been set for Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Church, Dover. Greg Howe, retired rector of Christ Church will be the preacher. I will be the celebrant. All are invited to attend.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware