Full Circle: Inclusive Grace, Houston, Re-establishes as Parish

Grace Episcopal, Houston, has taken an unusual path to becoming a parish.

Initially, the church formed as a parish. Grace then reverted to being a mission, and once again became a parish in 2022. During the 173rd Diocesan Council in The Woodlands in February 2022, delegates of the Diocese of Texas voted to establish Grace once again as a parish—an eventful circle spanning some 60 years.

When the Rev. Scott Painter became the church’s vicar more than four years ago, he said at that time, there were an average of 40 people attending the weekly services. Despite the COVID-19 restrictions in the past years, the church has grown to over 100 participants.

According to Painter, Grace has a commitment to deepening spirituality and holistic wellness. This also includes spiritual practices like meditation, centering prayers, worship, reading groups, and Bible study.

Painter also hopes Grace is part of a larger community. Some of the ways he hopes to accomplish this goal is by holding blood drives, vaccination clinics, and interfaith events.