The Texas Episcopalian is published annually by the Episcopal Diocese of Texas, 1225 Texas St., Houston, TX 77002-3504. Periodical postage paid at Houston, TX. Address changes may be emailed to: connected@ epicenter.org
Founded in 1838 by the Episcopal Church as a mission to the people of Texas, the Diocese of Texas has been guided continuously by the Holy Spirit to plant ministries and congregations to partner with and serve the wider community. Today, the Diocese of Texas spans nearly 70,000 square miles and encompasses 81 counties. Headquartered in historic downtown Houston with offices in Austin, Tyler, and Fort Worth, we are led by the Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle, ninth Bishop of Texas. We are nearly 450 clergy, 174 congregations, 70 missional communities, 27 campus missions, chaplaincies, foundations, institutions, and over 72,000 parishioners serving our neighbors. We embrace all people with mutual love and respect. We are one Church reconciled by Jesus Christ, joining God’s mission to reconcile others and build up the kingdom of God.
So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time if we do not give up.
Galatians 6:9
Leading with a inPurpose Mission
C. Andrew Doyle Bishop Diocesan
The Rt. Rev. Doyle became the ninth Bishop of Texas in 2009. The ministry of a bishop is to represent Christ and his Church, particularly as apostle, chief priest and pastor of a diocese; to guard the faith, unity and discipline of the whole church; to proclaim the word of God.
The Rt. Rev. Fisher was elected Bishop Suffragan in 2012 by the clergy and church representatives of the Diocese of Texas. As Bishop Suffragan, in addition to other significant duties and responsibilities, he helps Bishop Doyle perform confirmations and assists churches in the Eastern and Northeastern Regions of the Diocese.
Hector F. Monterroso
The Rt. Rev. Monterroso was Bishop of Costa Rica for 14 years before he came to the Diocese of Texas in 2017 to help Bishop Doyle. Monterroso visits 45 congregations during the year, primarily in the Southern Region of the Diocese of Texas. He also works to grow a multicultural presence in our
The Rt. Rev. Ryan was elected Bishop Suffragan in 2019 by the clergy and church representatives
Bishop Suffragan, in addition to other significant duties and responsibilities, she helps Bishop Doyle perform confirmations and assists churches in the Western
The Rev. Canon Faulstich was appointed Canon to the Ordinary in 2019. She mentors rectors, clergy new to the diocese, bi-vocational priests, transitional deacons, pastoral leaders, pastoral leader
A larger geographical entity within the diocese is called a convocation. It is geographic and usually includes one metropolitan area with surrounding counties. Texas has 11 convocations, the head of which, nominated by the bishop and elected by council, is called the “dean.” The dean arranges meetings of the convocational clergy to provide fellowship, continuing education, communication, planning and moral support for clergy and their families, and to gather lay members to share ideas and projects. Deans are ex-officio members of the Executive Board of the diocese.
DEANS
OF CONVOCATIONS
(Canonical requirement: Two-year term; no reappointment restrictions)
To Council of 2025
East Harris: The Rev. Victor Thomas, St. James’, Houston
Northwest: The Rev. Aaron Zimmerman, St. Alban’s, Waco
Southeast The Rev. James Pevehouse, St. Mark’s, Beaumont Vocational Deacons: The Rev. Jan Halstead, Christ Church, Cedar Park
To Council of 2026
Fort Worth: The Rev. Karen A. Calafat, St. Luke’s in the Meadow, Fort Worth Bi-Vocational Priests: The Rev. Paul Skeith, SoCo, Austin
To Council of 2027
Southwest: The Rev. Travis Smith, Holy Comforter, Angleton
West Harris: The Rev. James M. L. Grace, St. Andrew’s, Houston
Galveston: The Rev. Mike Stone, St. Thomas the Apostle, (Nassau Bay), Houston
Austin: The Rev. Eileen O’Brien, St. James’, Austin
To Council of 2028
Central:
The Rev. Daryl Hay, St. Andrew’s, Bryan
Northeast: The Rev. Bill Carroll, Trinity, Longview
San Jacinto: The Rev. Gerry Sevick, Trinity, The Woodlands
A Letter from Bishop c. andrew doyle
Dear Friends and People of the Diocese of Texas,
As I look back and consider 2023 there are many things for which I am grateful. We began the year in a big way celebrating and welcoming our parishes and missions from the north region to ring the Great Commission Bell at the 174th Diocesan Council. This was a historic moment in the life of our diocese and served as a great punctuation to our reunification.
Throughout last year, we achieved so much. We celebrated fellowship status of two new communities: San Esteban, Cleveland, and Mosaic, Pearland. We’ve remained engaged in our partnership with the Anglican Diocese of Southern Malawi (ADSM), celebrating the completion and opening of its new Mindanti Health Centre. Our church plants are flourishing and our youth are making a difference through mission.
We celebrated installations, Deacons’ Ordination, and countless milestones around our commitment to racial justice and reconciliation by helping students in need, and in many cases, ensured they were able to complete their studies through the Henrietta Bell Wells Scholarship Fund. We have tended to communities through mental wellness support. We cared for our seniors through the Episcopal Seniors Foundation and we have watched our Canterbury Ministry really minister to college students across the diocese.
From Trinity Episcopal in Fort Worth admitting five new Daughters of the King (DOK) to St. Cyprian’s in Lufkin being featured for their Story Walk, we have seen God’s hand in all of our work. As you will see, the good news doesn’t end here.
I remind you that we have a great testimony in our commitment to mission. It wasn’t terribly long ago that we sold the Episcopal Health System with a bold vision, allowing us to lean into greater health needs through grants and expertise. As a result, we have dispersed roughly $35M in grants annually to the people across the diocese and in the state of Texas. Since then, nearly $1B has been gifted by the Diocese of Texas, with assets still valued at its sale price.
We have assisted clergy with insurance, having created a $200M endowment to care for clergy and their families. We have slowed budget pressure by raising giving to our churches and we are paying full assessments to the Church. We are leading in educating clergy through Seminary of the Southwest, one of the largest seminaries in the country. We have changed the face of the diocese, looking more like the people we serve, and we’re making great strides through growth, formation, and discipleship by having established over 75 missional communities during COVID.
We began planting churches in 2012, and since then, over 24 have been established and 18 are underway. We are reimagining discipleship and have created an endowment for this work. I am grateful for all these blessings and how we now stretch from the Gulf of Mexico to the Red River. We committed to relying on the hope that God shows us every day, and we encourage you to follow our Hope series about your stories of hope. You can follow them on social media, through our e-publications, or on our website.
I am grateful that 68 churches in our diocese realized growth. This is because God is doing amazing things, reminding us that we are the church! And we need to be the church!
Fifteen years ago, I wrote a letter to myself upon becoming bishop diocesan. I vowed to not open the letter until the 15th anniversary of my ordination, and I kept that vow. I must tell you that when I wrote that letter, I could never have imagined just how much I would love being with you, working with you, praying with you, being part of you. When I read that letter, my heart was so filled with gratitude for this amazing journey we share together. My experience has exceeded any and all expectations God had revealed to me at that time.
Yet, what I am most grateful for is you. As a bishop I see you praying together, taking care of one another, having concerns for people and the world, and working hand in hand to make life easier for folks. I see you feeding each other and helping folks get on their feet. I see you sharing what you have. I see you sharing your dollars. You give to the Church, but most importantly, you give to others through the Church and its ministries.
The Texas Episcopalian captures but a fraction of thousands of stories of reconciliation, resurrection, and transformation brought about by your small and great acts of love.
The letter to the Hebrews reminds us that God loves the fruit of lips that praise God’s name, the sharing of those things that we have, and doing good works are the sacrifices that are pleasing to our God.
In this way, I believe it is not the work or our accomplishments that are the offerings that lie between these pages, rather it is you, the people of God who have been so moved by God’s compassion and love to act on God’s behalf towards one another, your neighbors, and beyond.
I look forward to our next decade together, and we have a lot of work to do. I am filled with so much emotion, so much love, and I wouldn’t dream of doing this work with anyone else, anyplace else.
As we read about 2023, let it inspire our offerings to God in word and action in 2024, as we grow deeper in mission. I encourage you to visit the infographics over the next couple of pages. Take a look back as we strive to grow even deeper in mission in the coming years.
Faithfully yours,
C. Andrew Doyle IX Bishop of Texas
Bishop Doyle’s Infographics as presented at Council 2024: A Look
Back as We Move Forward
Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2
Mission at Work: An Update from Our Bishops
AN UPDATE FROM BISHOP RYAN
The Rt. Rev. Kathryn M. Ryan
Bishop Suffragan - West Region
“the gifts he gave were… to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ…” (Ephesians 4:11-12)
2023 was a year in which Christ continued to urge and equip the saints–lay and clergy–to build up the Church in the Diocese of Texas. Everywhere I go in the diocese, I encounter eager students of the gospel, desiring that God’s love in Christ be known within the community of the Episcopal Church and shared generously with neighbors and the world.
My greatest privilege as a bishop is worshiping with a different church each week, visiting with their vestries, and praying for God’s blessings upon them. I made 40 regularly scheduled visitations in 2023, most in the west region. I confirmed, received, and prayed for those formally reaffirming their faith at nearly every visitation. As I met with the confirmation classes, young people and adults told me about how being a part of their parish church and the Episcopal Church has already impacted their lives. At the church plants, the joy at the new thing God is doing filled the worship and fellowship with energy.
I also participated in congregations’ and institutions’ special events: dedication of Church of the Cross’s new location; dedication of the Absalom Jones and Jonathan Myrick Daniels Window, All Saints’, Austin; dedication of the new Community Building at Trinity Episcopal School, Austin; St. James’ Mortgage Burning Celebration, Austin; graduation at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, Austin; and installation of the head of school, St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, Austin.
I presided at the funeral for the Rev. Chuck Huffman, rector emeritus of St. Matthew’s, Austin; at the funeral for the Rev. Michelle Halsell, an assisting priest, Calvary, Bastrop; and at the funeral of the Rev. Kit Wallingford, St. Mark’s, Houston. I served as a co-consecrator at the ordination of the Rt. Rev. David Reed, bishop coadjutor of our neighboring Diocese of West Texas, and participated in the consecration of the Rt. Rev. Ann Ritonia, bishop suffragan for the Armed Services and Federal Ministries. I spoke at the retreat of the Diocesan Altar Guild.
Any ordination or installation points to the courage and hard work of the candidate who has said “yes” to God and the Church. But no ordination or installation ever comes to be without the support, efforts, and prayers of dozens of persons, gifted in their own ways as callers and guides and teachers. Such collective effort–a desire to partner with God for the life of the Church–perhaps explains why I never cease to feel the Spirit’s movement at ordinations and installations. In early 2023, I presided at the ordinations to the priesthood of Kristin Braun, Jeremy Bradley, Josh Kulak, Mike Thomas (in Colorado Springs, CO), and Annelies Moeser. At Bishop Doyle’s invitation, I preached at the ordination of the deacons in June at Christ Church Cathedral, Houston. In addition, over the course of the year, I presided at four rector installations: The Rev. Chris Heying, St. James, La Grange; the Rev. Matt Boulter, St. George’s, Austin; the Rev. Margarita Arroyo, Christ Church, Eagle Lake; and the Rev. Heath Dewrell, St. Thomas, Rockdale.
These rectors and our other priests and deacons, serve vibrant and diverse congregations helping God’s people come to know, love, and serve Christ, each other, and God’s people in the world.
At Bishop Doyle’s direction, I serve the diocese as the Executive for Ministry, with oversight of the ordination process, post-ordination formation, and the Iona School for Ministry. The Commission on Ministry (COM) led by chair the Rev. John Newton and supported by COM Secretary Ana Gonzales is central to this work.
I am grateful for the faithful discernment of the members. The Committee for the Diaconate, led by the Rev. Jan Halstead, and the Examining Chaplains, led by the Rev. Patrick Hall, also handle aspects of the diocese’s work in shepherding aspirants, postulants, and candidates through the ordination process. The complete report of the COM is included separately in this journal. I want to highlight a couple of aspects of the COM’s work.
For those discerning God’s call to ministry, whether lay or ordained, we offer the Discovery Weekend program. Participants come to Camp Allen for a weekend and join in learning habits to identify God’s call, reflecting in small groups and alone and consulting with a member of the faculty. All adult members of the diocese are welcome to attend a Discovery Weekend. In 2023, we held two weekends, using a new team leadership model. The weekends were full of participants and energy! Our hopes to complete our first Discovery Weekend specifically for youth and young adults ages 16-22 did not come to fruition due to low registration, but we are trying again in 2024.
In January 2023, we held our second, in-person Vocations Conference at Camp Allen. The spirited event brought together the diocese’s students in the ordination process from seminaries and the Iona School. Thirty-seven students, all preparing for ordination to the priesthood or the diaconate, participated in the gathering.
Once ordained, both stipendiary and bivocational priests take part in formation designed to help build collegial relationships; provide continuing education and support development of priestly identity; and offer mentoring by senior clergy. The Curate Cohort and First Time in Charge for stipendiary clergy in curacies met at Camp Allen, as did Beginning Well, two separate programs for bivocational priests and priests new to the diocese. Each cohort provided significant relationships and encouragement to the participating clergy. Mentor-facilitators this year were: the Revs. Daryl Hay, Les Carpenter, Katie Wright, Sam Smith, Eileen O’Brien, Trawin Malone, Angela Cortiñas, Terry Pierce, and John Johnson. Post-seminary formation is coordinated by my talented executive assistant, Haley Townsend Trujillo.
Continuing to help address the diocese’s need for more clergy and lay leaders, the Iona School for Ministry (our diocesan school of local formation) forms those studying for the diaconate and bivocational priesthood and offers programs for lay formation for ministry. The Rev. Francene Young (dean of administration) and the Rev. Dr. Andrew Benko (dean of formation) are in their third year of service. This fall, the enrollment of lay students has increased. The deans are assisted by chaplain, the Rev. Trawin Malone, the faculty and instructors, as well as Iona administrator, Laura McAlister.
I serve as chair of the boards of three diocesan institutions, relying extensively on three dedicated and skillful executive chairs. At Seminary of the Southwest, Clarke Heidrick serves as executive chair and the Rev. Dr. Cynthia Kittredge serves as dean and president. In 2023, the seminary dedicated and opened the new Dena A. Harrison Library and new Learning Complex and introduced a new M.Div. curriculum. Dean Kittredge has announced her resignation as dean and president, effective this summer. The search for her replacement has begun.
El Buen Samaritano, an outreach ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas serving the Latino community of Central Texas, is committed to recognizing the dignity of all by ensuring access to healthcare, education and essential needs that lead to healthy, productive, and secure lives. Gustavo Hernandez serves as executive chair. Dr. Rosamaria Murillo, the executive director, continued to build up the staff and lead the organization toward its next strategic campaign. El Buen celebrated its 35th anniversary in April of this year.
Chris Oddo completed his term as executive chair at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, Austin, and handed off that role to Jennifer Stayton, who has made a good beginning of her term. Chris Gunnin serves as headmaster. In 2023, the initial phase of the campus building campaign gained momentum. The expansion and climate-control of the beloved chapel is a key initiative of the campaign. I serve as the honorary chair of the Capital Campaign Committee and am working specifically on the fundraising for the chapel project.
For the Episcopal Church, I am a member of the Court of Review, which hears appeals of clergy discipline (Title IV) judgments and challenges to episcopal elections. The court had a busy year. My term ends in 2024. I also serve as a member of the House of Bishops planning committee and the Task Force on LGBTQ+ Inclusion. I will serve as the chair of the HOB Committee on Constitution and Canons for the 2024 General Convention.
Outside, but related to the diocese, I began service in 2022 as a Regent for Sewanee. We installed the new Vice Chancellor Dr. Rob Pearigen last fall.
I close with a personal note of appreciation. My assistant Haley Townsend Trujillo was out on maternity leave and family medical leave for half of 2023. Laura McAlister, Ana Gonzales, Kathy Dunn, and other members of the diocesan staff extended themselves to cover Haley’s work and to support me during her absence. I am deeply grateful for their work. We are all delighted to have Haley back and to be watching the growth of her beautiful son.
What a privilege it is to serve with Bishops Doyle, Fisher, and Monterroso, and with the other members of the executive team and the diocesan staff, and the people and clergy of the diocese. Tim and I give thanks that God has called us to serve the Diocese of Texas!
AN UPDATE FROM BISHOP FISHER
The Rt. Rev. Jeff W. Fisher Bishop Suffragan - East Region
The centerpiece of 2023 was my sabbatical during the summer. All clergy in the Diocese of Texas are to take a sabbatical every seven years; my last sabbatical was in 2016. It was a joy to experience several months this year of sabbath rest and refreshment.
My sabbatical began with some time to slow down at the Abbey of Gethsemani in Trappist, Kentucky, which is a monastery made famous by the mystic Thomas Merton. In June, Susan and I went on a Rhine River cruise through Switzerland, Germany, France, and The Netherlands. We enjoyed this trip with our good friends, Betsy and Doug Fisher (no blood relation, yet Doug is the “other Bishop Fisher” in the Church, from Western Massachusetts). In July, Susan and I set out on a 15day road trip through the western United States, including Big Bend, the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Zion National Park, and Colorado. In August, we traveled to London with our two adult sons. In between these trips, I enjoyed time at home, relaxing and recharging. To you–the people of the Diocese of Texas–Susan and I give thanks for the sabbath time we experienced over the summer.
It was great to return in September, especially to be with all of you on Sundays in our churches. In addition to Sunday visitations in congregations, during the last year I had the honor of ordaining six priests: Chris DeVore, Celeste Geldreich, Joy Miller, Robert Jerger, Joanna Unangst, and Kurt Unangst. Ordaining people to the priesthood is one of the most joyful aspects of being a bishop; the occasion is filled with hope for the church.
During the year, I presided at one installation of a new rector: In December, the Rev. Wm. Blake Rider was installed as the new rector of St. Stephen’s, Huntsville.
In this diocese, we walk beside clergy and their families through all sorts of moments in their life, both sad and joyful. I am honored to coordinate this work as the executive for Pastoral Ministries.
In this pastoral work, we have a large community of retired clergy and spouses. We provide care and support to these faithful folks. Working with me and our retired clergy is an excellent team of chaplains to the retired clergy. These faithful chaplains (with the convocations that they serve) are the Rev. Janne Osborne (Austin, Northwest, Central convocations); Pam and the Rev. John Bentley (West Harris and East Harris convocations); the Rev. Nan and Sam Doerr (Galveston and Southwest convocations); the Rev. Nancy and the Rev. Bill DeForest (San Jacinto and Southeast convocations); and the Rev. Cliff Rucker (Northeast convocation). Cliff will retire from this position at the end of the year, and we give thanks for his ministry! In 2023, we added the Rev. Bill Stanford as chaplain for the Fort Worth convocation.
We have increased the offerings and impact of the Retired Clergy and Spouses Conference held each fall at Camp Allen. This past fall, the keynote speaker for our conference was the Rev. Dr. Russell Levenson, the now-retired rector of St. Martin’s, Houston, and author of Witness to Dignity: The Life and Faith of George H.W. and Barbara Bush. In his presentation, we learned about dignity in leadership. In other presentations, the Rev. Bradley Sullivan, vicar of Lord of the Streets, in Houston and author of For the Hurt, the Blessed, and the Damned, expanded upon his and our journeys of salvation. The Rev. Dr. Nandra Perry, vicar of St. Philip’s, Hearne, and director of the Iona Collaborative, led us to discover our assets, both in ministry and personally. We also shared in worship time, free time, and many activities around Camp Allen. Mark your calendars now for the next Retired Clergy and Spouses Conference: Monday evening through Wednesday at noon, Sept. 30-Oct. 2, 2024.
I presided and preached at the opening eucharist for each of the two assemblies in 2023 of the diocesan Daughters of the King (DOK). I serve as the bishop liaison to this group of women led by Tory Arnold who devote themselves to evangelism, service, and prayer. The spring assembly was hosted by Calvary, Bastrop; the fall assembly was held at Camp Allen. It is a joy to walk alongside these women in their ministry.
The diocesan Altar Guild held their annual retreat in June of 2023. Since I was away on sabbatical, Bishop Ryan was among them to present her story of ministry and to lead worship. I work with Kate Canby, diocesan Altar Guild director, to support this group. A reminder: The ministry of the altar guild is for both women and men. The last diocesan Altar Guild Retreat was at Camp Allen: Thursday-Saturday, May 30-June 1, 2024.
The Vera Gang Scott Scholarship program, which awards scholarships to young women pursuing higher education, was formerly administered by the diocesan board of the Episcopal Church Women. I chair the continuing Vera Gang Scott Scholarship Committee, and in my absence while on sabbatical the committee ably led the discernment to award scholarships to four deserving women in our diocese.
In the Diocese of Texas, we value and support our small churches. The Small Church Network is for laity and clergy in congregations with an average Sunday attendance of 50 or fewer, usually gathering twice a year at Camp Allen. The Small Church Network gathering in the spring of 2023 was titled: “Praying Shapes Believing: Worship Life in a Small Congregation.” In the fall of 2023, the topic was: “Property, Money, and Stewardship for Mission.” The Mission Amplification Team and the Finance Team of our diocesan staff contributed so much to each presentation; everyone came away with practical knowledge and inspiration for their own congregations. For our 2024 gatherings at Camp Allen, the most recent one was held on Sunday evening through Monday at noon, April 14-15. Please mark your calendar for the next one, Sept. 29-30.
I serve as chair of the board of the Episcopal Seniors Foundation (ESF); Pam Nolting serves as president. During 2023, we awarded grants to churches and organizations who share our goal of fostering healthy living for seniors. ESF continues our support of Camp Allen, to assist with their sponsorship of the successful annual Abundant Living Conference, which is offered to seniors and other interested people each spring.
The Rev. Meredith Crigler and I share leadership of the Diocese of Texas Global Partnerships in Mission (formerly known as the World Mission Board). The Global Partnerships in Mission in our diocese coordinates our global companion relationships with three dioceses: North Dakota, Costa Rica, and Southern Malawi. We also award grants to ministries of impact around the world. In 2023, we received three times as many grant requests as in 2022.
I chair the Diocesan Liturgical Commission at Bishop Doyle’s request. The commission consists of priests and lay persons, including church musicians. Throughout the year, I also field various liturgical questions from priests in our diocese. In 2023, I had a goal to reinvigorate this commission. Yet last year, that did not happen; I plan to revisit this work in 2024.
The Tyler Diocesan Office is on the campus of All Saints’ Episcopal School in Tyler, where I also serve on the school board. During 2023, I was honored to participate in the Ash Wednesday services, the all-school Easter service, and the baccalaureate service for graduating seniors. In the fall, we welcomed Dr. Mark Desjardins as the new head of school. I look forward to working with Mark, who has extensive experience in leading other Episcopal schools.
In reporting on the wider Episcopal Church, the House of Bishops met in person in March of 2023 at Camp McDowell in the Diocese of Alabama. This time together included a pilgrimage to some area sites that are important in our history and journey of racial reckoning. Due to the health concerns of our Presiding Bishop, the fall House of Bishops was conducted over Zoom in September. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry continues in his healing, and he remains in our prayers.
At the previous General Convention of The Episcopal Church in 2022, the Program, Budget, and Finance (PB&F) Committee of which I served as vice-chair was eliminated. PB&F has been replaced by a new committee: the Joint Budget Committee.
In December 2022, the Presiding Bishop appointed me to join this new budget committee, to work through a draft budget for 2024-2027. After receiving feedback, this draft budget will then be presented to the Executive Council, and then on to The General Convention in 2024. In October of 2023, at a meeting in Baltimore, our committee worked on this budget, line by line. In this work, I continue to advocate for smaller structures and leaner budgets at the wider church level so that the work of God’s mission can be better supported in our local contexts.
The Episcopal Church is divided into nine provinces: The Diocese of Texas is in Province 7. Province 7 is led by a president and vice president who is usually a bishop. In 2023, the previous vice president, Bishop Jake Owensby, resigned due to other time commitments. In October, I was elected by the Provincial Council as vice president of Province 7. In this leadership position, I serve on the Presiding Bishop’s Council of Advice as a part of the nine bishop leaders of each province. This will be rewarding work as we welcome a new Presiding Bishop this year after the election at General Convention.
During my 2023 year of sabbatical, I would not have been able to step away from my work for an extended amount of time without the support of a team around me. In my absence, Kathy Dunn, my executive assistant, kept all the plates spinning. I am also grateful that I share episcopal work with such a great team of bishops who picked up the slack while I was away: Bishop Doyle, Bishop Ryan, and Bishop Monterroso.
This year, we celebrate 175 years as a diocese. The wider Episcopal Church will work together at the General Convention this summer in Louisville, Kentucky, where we will elect the next Presiding Bishop for a nine-year term. Also, after 11 years as one of your bishops, I have experienced that along the way, the Holy Spirit will also bring us some joyful surprises!
It is my joy to serve our Lord Jesus Christ with you and among you. During my year of sabbatical, it was also my joy to rest, and to return.
“In returning and rest you shall be saved (Isaiah 30:15).”
- Jeff W. Fisher, Bishop Suffragan
AN UPDATE FROM BISHOP MONTERROSO
The Rt. Rev. Héctor Monterroso Bishop Assistant - South Region
I remain in awe of the joys of ministry within the Diocese of Texas. With each passing day, my appreciation and joy are both uniquely reinforced when it comes to your faith and work centered around all that is happening within our diocese. From visiting churches to supporting our programs in mission through my contributions to the diocese are all an invaluable gift to me.
Seeing growth and being a source of encouragement to lay and clergy is simply an honor for which I am grateful. Ensuring that seekers are fed and that the unchurched know the love of God are foundational to my mission. Serving in a community of hope and transformation is indescribable. Our journey together is a continual wellspring of inspiration, and it becomes more rewarding with each passing year.
2023 was no exception. We had much to celebrate. It is essential to underscore the remarkable resilience, creativity, and adaptability displayed by churches facing unique challenges. I’ve witnessed leaders initiating campaigns, church spaces undergoing renewal, and a plethora of amazing and symbolic commitments to an ongoing revival of God’s hope. Our diocese is transformative, actively plants new churches and missional communities that are all deeply rooted in faith. This is a significant highlight in our ministry. It is there we experience abundant acts of faith, find hope, and even shed light where there is darkness. We help the hopeless see hope, understand our faith, and see the light of God. Our journey is paved with small steps leading to substantial transformations through collective congregation efforts. Acts of service through the distribution of food, donating of blood, and praying with and visiting those who are ill all create a direct connection with the gospel narrative. We extend compassion to the vulnerable and the invisible within our communities.
I am always encouraged through my visitations across the diocese throughout the year. Baptisms, confirmations, and other celebrations around God’s promises bring new life to not only those being brought into a wonderful new life with God, but also to me. It is through you and with you that I also grow closer to you and to God. It is through service and transformation that we are all made new. We extend hands to marginalized groups such as the unemployed, those who live in loneliness, and those who are undocumented. The gospel narrative is not merely preached, but it is also lived through our churches as we embrace the responsibility of being an integral and essential part of community solutions. It brings a sense of peace to be steadfastly grounded in trust and in divine provision.
St. Vincent’s House Realizes Strides in Mission in 2023
A safe space pillar on Galveston Island, they are an essential net of security for God’s people who rely on their services. They are simply doing God’s work in a big way. As a result, they have received recognition for their great work in the community and we know their works will continue to grow exponentially. While there were many milestones celebrated in 2023, last year marked especially significant ones for St. Vincent’s House (SVH).
• Served thousands of individuals and households by distributing nourishment to the unhoused and hungry, clothes to the unclothed, and ensuring other life-sustaining necessities.
• Installed Narcan dispensers, likely saving lives for people living with drug addictions.
• Expanded fleet of vehicles used to serve even more people and families through their one-of-a-kind mission within their community.
• Celebrated collaborations they've fostered, grant applications submitted, and enhancement of medical services including mental health offerings.
SVH evolves to meet the needs of the Galveston community and cared for the sick.
Diocesan Disaster Preparedness Ministry Ensures Engagement in Times of Need
This ministry adeptly navigated extreme weather events in 2023 and through a proactive stance, including providing outreach preparedness grants, engaging in capacity building, and fostering collaborations. We express gratitude to Episcopal Relief & Development as they continue to work with an emphasis on the foundational principles for community resilience and evolve to meet the needs of our people.
Commission on Latino-Hispanic Ministries Correlates to Diocesan Growth
As I continue my work on the Commission on Latino-Hispanic Ministries, I am filled with joy as God continues to plant seeds of growth within our diocese. The Commission dedicated itself to inspiring lay leaders by organizing impactful events like the Hispanic-Latino Lay Leadership Conference. There has been advocacy for immigration projects and the fostering of a vibrant, inclusive community. I am grateful for the leadership and members and their invaluable contributions.
Hispanic Leadership Conference Realizes Exponential and Exciting Growth
Since its inception in 2013, it has evolved significantly from the modest gathering of 30 engaged participants. I remain mindful that it was the faith of those 30 participants that formed the foundation of the fruit we bear today. Ten short years later, this conference has realized remarkable growth with nearly 300 laypeople participating in the varied initiatives the Conference facilitates. More than just an annual event, the conference is an essential component of the expansive growth witnessed in the Hispanic ministry of diocese. This substantial increase reflects the collective commitment to fostering leadership within the community.
Surge in Missions and
New
Lay
Leaders:
As a direct result of the ongoing efforts invested in the conference, the diocese has seen a notable surge in missions and an emergence of new lay leaders. This impact far extends beyond the event itself, influencing the broader landscape of the diocesan Hispanic ministry. Empowerment through Vitality and Purpose: We've witnessed a flourishing spirit of partnership, empowerment, and community-building as the Conference serves as a beacon of progress and inspires the development of leadership skills and a deeper purpose in this diverse group of individuals contributing to the vitality of the Hispanic ministry.
Expanding Our Reach through Spanish-Language Worship: We recognize our churches that celebrate worship in Spanish. Our community encompasses a network of 18 churches dedicated to Spanish-language ministry.
• Christ Church Cathedral, Houston
• El Buen Pastor, Waco
• Northside, Houston
• Bryan Plantation, Bryan
• Proyecto Santiago, Austin
• San Francisco of Asís, Austin
• San Alban’s, Houston
• San Esteban, Cleveland
• San Juan, Austin
• San Mateo, Houston
• San Pablo, Houston
• San Pedro, Pasadena
• San Romero, Houston
• Santa María Virgen, Houston
• St. Mary Magdalene, Manor
• Saint Dunstan’s, Houston
• Grace, Houston
• San Isidoro, Spring
Each congregation plays a unique and necessary role in fostering a diverse and inclusive spiritual environment, both individually and collectively. They are contributing to the rich tapestry of our overall faith community.
San Romero Church’s Milestone through Consecration and Dedication of New Structure
San Romero's newly-constructed building joyously marked a significant moment in the life of the congregation and in our diocese. This momentous event is a testament to the church’s growth and unwavering commitment to its mission. Originally conceived as a missionary endeavor, supported by Mission Amplification, San Romero now stands tall, serving yet as another source of light, faith, and service in its community. Named in honor of Saint Óscar Romero, a Salvadoran bishop and martyr, the church embodies the spirit of dedication and sacrifice. Under the leadership of the Rev. Uriel López, San Romero has become a cornerstone for the community, particularly focusing on serving first-generation, Spanish-
speaking migrants. Inaugurated in 2016, San Romero has undergone a metamorphosis, become a fully sacramental church, all while gaining recognition for its impactful initiatives such as Amigos en Cristo, Ashes to Go, Spiritual Retreats, and its program “Una Familia a la Vez”, an initiative that demonstrates human compassion and is singularly-devoted to aiding one asylum-seeking family at a time.
In Service to The Church
Episcopal Relief & Development: I am delighted to actively participate in various roles at The Episcopal Church level. Serving as a member on the board of directors for Episcopal Relief & Development is particularly rewarding. Being part of the compassionate response of The Episcopal Church to human suffering in the world is a gift to me that only God could provide.
Serving the College for Bishops: My work with the College for Bishops is especially meaningful as we provide a community of formation and education for newly-consecrated, active, and retired bishops within the Church. With a devotion to God’s mission within a community of bishops is service to the Church is humbling.
Collaborating as a Coach for Bishop Juan Carlos Quiñones: Working with Bishop Juan Carolos Quiñónez, the bishop of Ecuador Central, is a groundbreaking opportunity. He is the first Afro-Ecuadorian to be elected bishop in Ecuador. Collaborating with him as a coach is both honorable and meaningful as we pour into each other.
Leading the CREDO Program for Latin America: In this work, I strive to lead clergy to a well-rounded life of wellness. CREDO provides clergy with a multifaceted experience that many have described as life-changing. It is an intentional Christ-centered community that offers an experience for the mind, body, spirit, and heart, while serving as a four-step life cycle process of identity, discernment, practice, and transformation.
These contributions are all expressions of my spiritual commitment to the broader mission, leadership development, and the well-being of clergy members within the Episcopal Church. I thank God for all our accomplishments in mission throughout 2023. In that same spirit, I can’t begin to imagine what is in store for us as we continue our work together in the future. I am grateful to serve our diocese in so many ways.
For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.
Matthew 18:20
174th Diocesan Council Wrap Up
Milestones: The Ringing of the Great Commission Bell
The 174th Diocesan Council held in Galveston last year Feb. 24-25, was a tremendous opportunity for fellowship, worship, and handling the annual business of the Diocese of Texas. With more than 900 in attendance, last year's meeting was historic in more ways than one. It was the first opportunity to fully gather in the COVID-19 endemic setting and to unite as one with our north region family. It was symbolic and emotional. Participants celebrated the full spectrum of that collective energy as family. It was a joyous occasion and a blessing to the diocese.
In Celebration of Unity:
On day two of the 174th Diocesan Council, Bishops J. Scott Mayer and Rayford High shared a report on new parishes and missions of the North Region. All delegates from those parishes and missions were invited to come forward to ring the Great Commission Bell through a historic moment.
In Celebration of Fellowship Status:
The Rev. Canon Joann Saylors shared the exciting news from Mission Amplification of two new communities reaching fellowship status–San Esteban, Cleveland, and Mosaic, Pearland–and another ringing of the Great Commission Bell was heard. It was exciting news in the work of the Diocese of Texas.
Bishops J. Scott Mayer and Rayford High
Ringing the Great Commission Bell
San Esteban, Cleveland and Mosaic, Pearland
Council
Small Church Network: 2023 Update
Small Church Network (SCN) held a noteworthy event at Camp Allen in March of last year. Bishop Jeff W. Fisher led the opening session: “Praying Shapes Believing.” The Rev. Thomas Morris and Estela Lopez led the Liturgy of the Word, a service option for small churches when clergy is not present.
Leader of the diocesan Mission Amplification Team Canon Joann Saylors presented numerous resources available for small churches. She shared requirements for lay licensing and answered questions posed by attendees. Canon Janet Waggoner helped bring the gathering to a close with a discussion on worship and intergenerational relationships. Time was allotted to reflect on the meaning of worship along with opportunity to evaluate current worship practices using Jesus as an example.
Participant Linda Patterson shared the variety of music possibilities and resources available to small churches, including resources through the Diocesan Music Commission. The meetings offered an opportunity for fellowship and learning. SCN is already looking forward to future gatherings at Camp Allen.
Last year's Annual Hispanic Lay Leadership Conference attracted 260 attendees at Camp Allen. Held in June, attendees received formation, mission, and leadership tools. Intended to help propel formation, mission, and leadership, they also experienced person spiritual journeys.
The long term goal is to plan and participate in a missionary pilgrimage. The theme was “Mission and Community Outreach.” Conference participants included those from churches that develop Hispanic ministry or have Hispanic leaders in the diocese.
Several special guests included Bishop Primate David Alvarado and keynote speaker the Rev. Nancy Frausto, director of Latinx Studies at Seminary of Southwest.
Frausto’s presentation encouraged leadership as she discussed the “mission to serve all communities” on a theological basis. Lay leaders had the opportunity to participate in six workshops where they discovered how to cultivate outreach and transformational ministries in their local communities. The conference inspired followers with an opportunity to explore vocation and ministry within local churches and to deepen the call to face missionary challenges.
During the opening eucharist, the Commission on Latino-Hispanic Ministry honored the Rev. Dr. Alejandro Montes and his wife Laura for their many years of ministry and dedication to the community. Several lay leaders from churches throughout the diocese were also recognized for their outstanding work in the Latino-Hispanic ministry. A social on Friday night was led by the musical group Mendeliz Música Para Cristo, who kept everyone dancing in an atmosphere of celebration and joy.
At the end of the conference, Bishop Hector Monterroso commissioned a group of lay and clergy leaders who will be part of a committee to work on a formation plan at the diocesan level with the “Intentional Discipleship” approach.
Clergy Conference 2023 Brings Together Seasoned, New Clergy at Camp Allen
Clergy Conference 2023 held at Camp Allen signaled success as it registered in the life of the Diocese of Texas. The coming together of both seasoned and new clergy was both a blessing and a reminder to all in attendance that the Church is alive.
The schedule during Oct. 23-26 was filled with meaningful sessions, fellowship, and the Eucharist, along with God’s palpable grace.
The list of distinguished presenters included special guest Daryl Davis, who participated in this year’s “Conversation with Bishop Doyle.” Davis, a professional musician, has been on a quest to understand racism for nearly his entire life. Featured in documentaries on CNN, PBS, and other platforms including TedX, he seeks to change what many of us desire to see.
Davis, who has identified what he believes are five common connections that all human beings desire, employs this theory by having difficult conversations with members of various hate groups, modeling humanity, and offering both a listening ear and a different perspective.
To his credit, he has encouraged many to turn toward people of diverse cultures as opposed to turning away in hatred. Through these cultivated relationships, many have given him garb and other symbols representing the vile behaviors espoused by their former respective hate groups.
I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.
John 13:34
Rounding the Globe in Mission
Committee for Global Partnerships in Mission Celebrates Opening of New Health Facility in Southern Malawi
The Diocese of Texas celebrates with the Anglican Diocese of Southern Malawi (ADSM) in the completion and recent opening of its new Mindanti Health Centre. This dream came to fruition as the result of years of generous funding through the diocese’s Committee for Global Partnerships in Mission, its donors, and numerous others. In the end, a collective dream for a sister diocese culminated in grand fashion with an official opening held Aug. 4.
The Committee for Global Partnerships in Mission gratefully acknowledges Project C.U.R.E. for its donation of $8,000 in grants towards this effort and rejoices in thanksgiving of the Diocese of Texas and its donation of $35,000 to cover additional costs necessary to support the opening of the clinic. The Rt. Rev. Jeff Fisher serves as the committee’s executive.
Through its long-standing relationship, the Diocese of Texas has been engaged with its siblings in Southern Malawi towards improving health outcomes and extending life expectancy in this area of the world. While rich in spirit and faith, Malawi is one of the most impoverished regions of Africa.
“For 18 years we have prayed, cheered, and supported our siblings in Southern Malawi in their vision of God’s mission through this clinic,” said the Rev. Meredith Crigler, chair of the committee. “With profound joy, we celebrate the opening of the Mindanti Health Centre— to God be the Glory.”
During the opening event presided by ADSM Bishop Alinafe Kalemba, Tawanda Maldovi served as the appointed representative to thank donors for their immense generosity. In summary, she acknowledged the blessing of the donors’ timely, adequate, and supportive funding while also reminding all assembled of the significance of the hands of the Malawians who constructed the facility.
Attendees included diocesan representatives, area parishioners, and special guests ranging from traditional faith leaders to government dignitaries. All were reminded of the work, vision, and support of the ADSM and that the health center is God’s creation. The wholeness of the Holy Spirit in each of those who physically built the Mindanti Health Centre was also praised. The day marked one of celebration for all who will utilize the clinic.
Previously called the Mindanti Clinic, many familiar with the older facility were overjoyed by the new Mindanti Health Centre, currently comprised of several structures with independent water and electricity sources. For years, many have prayed for its completion, and they now view this new structure as a true act of God, outfitted with far more resources than originally planned. The new Mindanti Health Centre features a maternity clinic, temporary outpatient department, staff housing, and other buildings for additional health services. In short, it was the will of God responsible for the creation of these additional facilities bringing about such a transformative outcome by all involved.
Global Partnerships 2023 Event Recap: Building Relationships
“Relationships” was the word of the day as the Global Partnerships in Mission Committee held its first meeting at the North Region Diocesan Center on July 18.
Joining the group of 15 representatives from five north region congregations were the Rev. Meredith Crigler, chair; Kathy Dunn, administrator; and Amber Zenoto. Along with committee member Rev. Cameron Spoor, All Saints’, Fort Worth, the group discussed missions outside the United States.
Crigler explained how the old colonial model of mission is gone. The work today is focusing on relationships among partners, where all are enriched by each other’s gifts. She also mentioned that mission trips organized by a congregation are expected to be shared with smaller congregations that can’t sponsor their own. Spoor spoke of his experience with the committee, urging attendees to stay in contact and share their mission and outreach work in order to lend mutual support.
Dr. Andy Babbili, St. Christopher’s, Fort Worth, shared stories of the medical mission Hopewallah which provides medical care to the lepers of Hyderabad, India. Hopewallah was founded by Babbili’s father, bishop in the Church of South India. St. Christopher’s has supported this mission for more than 14 years.
The Rev. Maddie Hill and Barbara Evans Chowning, All Saints’, Fort Worth, told of the support its congregants lend to an orphanage for girls called Amazing Grace Children’s Home in Awasi, Kenya, as well as the Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro, Belize. Others spoke about Trinity, Fort Worth, and the work it is doing to establish a master’s program in speech pathology in Zambia.
Most importantly, relationships among all those present were strengthened, and lines of communication were established between the committee and the congregations, all of which contribute to stronger efforts to help partners around the globe.
Episcopal Diocese of Texas Committee for Global Partnerships in Mission:
An Inspiring Meeting
A delegation from Iglesia Episcopal Costarricense, Costa Rica, visiting in October for the Formation Ministers’ Retreat at Camp Allen, spent time this year with Rev. Alejandro Montes and wife Laura to learn about their ministry and continued work in the diocese after retiring as rector from San Mateo, Houston. Those who attended said they “left inspired to continue to be the hands and feet of Jesus in this world.” The overwhelming feeling was that this ministry has been a blessing to the lives of many. The Committee for Global Partnerships in Mission acknowledges Marcia Quintanilla (Costa Rica committee chair) and the work of the committee for this rich collaboration and fellowship.
With the Rt. Rev. Jeff Fisher serving as executive and the Rev. Meredith Crigler committed as chair, the Committee for Global Partnerships in Mission remains committed to the diocese’s work in ministry around the world. The work of this committee is far-reaching and most meaningful to both our diocese, and those whose lives are touched by it.
Houston Canterbury Fundraises, Actualizes Mission Trip to Costa Rica
Houston Canterbury students and adult leaders fundraised, planned, then traveled to San José, Costa Rica at Spring Break. The team worked with local, young adults at the University of Costa Rica to form a campus ministry.
Recap of Mission Trip
The Rev. Charles Graves IV, Paul Mandell, and eight Houston Canterbury students went to Costa Rica last year, March 11-16. For five days, they formed partnerships with students from Costa Rica by working together to find ways to strengthen their leadership and increase youth involvement both locally and abroad. The Global Partnership Board of the diocese and Bishop Orlando Gomez from the Diocese of Costa Rica are firmly committed to growing personal relationships.
Global Mission Highlights
Committee for Global Partnerships in Mission Highlights New, Continued Connections in 2023
The Committee for Global Partnerships in Mission forged new relationships while strengthening old ones in 2023 as part of its mission to the diocese’s work in ministry around the world.
Planning in the Works
Last year committee members Marcia Quintanilla and the Rev. Cameron Spoor led a reinvigorated presence at Diocesan Council that resulted in many new connections. In July 2023, the committee hosted the first official diocesan event at the Fort Worth offices. The Global Partnerships in Mission Meet-and-Greet allowed for networking in the Fort Worth region. In 2024, the committee is hosting a meet-and-greet within the Eastern region.
Planning continued as the committee worked on details for its conference at Camp Allen in April of this year for global mission advocates across the Episcopal Church, co-hosted with the Standing Commission on World Mission, the Office of Global Partnerships, and the Global Episcopal Mission Network.
Dioceses in Companion Updates
Part of the mission of the World Mission Board is to oversee companion relationships with other dioceses in the Anglican community worldwide. These relationships take on responsibility for one another by reaching across cultural and geographic boundaries to form new friendships, prayer partners, pathways for mutual learning, and expand awareness of each other and the world.
The following is an update on our work with our three formal companion relationships: the Anglican Diocese of Southern Malawi in Africa, the Diocese of Costa Rica in the Anglican Church of Central America, and the Episcopal Diocese of North Dakota.
Highlights from Costa Rica include a visit in the spring as five leaders from the Diocese of Texas attended an exploratory trip to Costa Rica where they spent time with Bishop Orlando Gomez and Roger Pennant Grant, project manager. Excursions included a visit to Hogar Escuela locations (Barrio Cuba and Heredia), El Buen Pastor, Todos los Santos, and Iglesia San Lucas in Guacimo. Leadership explored Iglesia Santa Maria in Siquierres, San Francisco de Asis, San Marcos, and San Jose Obrero (the site of the future diocesan center).
Last summer, Christ Church Cathedral, Houston, supported a mission trip to Limón as attendees continued work at the diocesan center in Limón and gathered with Limón youth for three nights of fellowship.
In July, an Episcopal Youth Event was held with two adult leaders and two youth as they attended the national gathering of youth, a three-day event at the University of Maryland. A visit to Washington, D.C. and the National Cathedral was also accomplished.
A St. Catherine of Sienna, Missouri City, mission trip to San Jose was accomplished later in July as a vacation Bible school was hosted at Good Shepherd, Costa Rica, with over 80 children from Hogar attending. An acolyte training was also held at Good Shepherd with 16 youth involved in the training class, including Limón and San Jose area residents.
In the fall, Costa Rican youth ministers participated in the Diocesan Formation Retreat at Camp Allen where they visited Grace, Houston, with Padre Alejandro Montes, Christ Church Cathedral, Houston, and St. Catherine of Sienna, Missouri City. The University of Houston Canterbury alum Mya Little entered into the Young Adult Service Corp program in Costa Rica where she will be aide to Bishop Orlando for a year.
Highlights from the Southern Malawi Dioceses in Companion program include The Mindanti clinic opening in late summer, a program that spawned from plans beginning in 2005. There were multiple pilgrimages from the U.S. to Malawi this year, including two occurring before the clinic’s grand opening. In addition, $30,000 was contributed to Southern Malawi from the committee’s budget to assist with flood relief after Cyclone Freddy. New projects included washing and changing rooms in Malawi, plus a continued hope of micro-loan programs.
Within the North Dakota Dioceses in Companion program, work continues to support the diocesan administrator and transitioning vision team.
Partnership Through Grants
The committee also discerned a call to financial support for 10 of 18 initiatives from organizations actively participating in God’s mission around the globe. Funded projects included: women’s empowerment through pig farming (Burundi), malaria education (Nigeria), Trans support center (Brasil), village support (Zambia), roofing (Tanzania), women’s empowerment (Uganda), palliative care for youth with AIDS (Tanzania), boreholes and water (Uganda), sewing program (Rwanda), and girl’s health (South Sudan).
Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received.
1 Peter 4:10
Planting for the Future
Church Plants Unite
Jubilee, Austin, St. Joan of Arc, Pflugerville, and the Belton Church Plant came together for fun and fellowship spring of last year at the Sherwood Forest Faire. A beautiful outdoor Eucharist service was held at the Maid Marian’s Chapel. Attendees had the opportunity to dress up in Renaissance attire.
Church Planting at St. Andrew’s, Bryan
On March 26, 2023 Canon Joann Saylors commissioned the Rev. Ben Sanchez and his team for church planting at St. Andrew’s, Bryan. What a celebration of great work in the Diocese of Texas!
Jubilee, Austin, Rejoices in 2023 with New Worship Space
Jubilee, Austin, celebrated a monumental year in 2023 as it signed a lease in January in Lake Creek Square at a former dance studio now transformed into a sanctuary. Leadership and congregants thank the Great Commission Foundation and the Diocese of Texas for their generosity in establishing the space for worship.
Congregants were eager to move into the new space upon signing the lease on Jan. 20, and the move-in proceeded. Two days later, Sunday services were held. With no chairs and a slim folding table as an altar, parishioners showed up with two folding chairs, providing extras for guests. Every seat was full. Even though the walls were scarred from previous tenants and the room was bare of furniture, joy emanated from the Jubilee worshipers.
In the service, congregants celebrated with a first Eucharist in a space they called their own. Each wrote a note on a post-it note, sharing a dream for Jubilee. When the notes didn’t stick to the wall, they attached to the holes in the wall.
God’s dreams for Jubilee began to fill in what was empty as congregants began construction–both spiritually and literally.
On Good Friday, congregants gratefully received and installed a permanent flower wall as Jubilee’s altar and it was presented during Easter vigil. The congregation had a strong presence at three Pride events across the North Austin and Cedar Park areas in the summer, and Jubilee partnered with St. Joan of Arc for a fantastic second-chance prom in June.
Jubilee has welcomed over 200 first-time guests last year, and the congregation has quadrupled in size through stability in location and a robust online presence. Some sermons have reported more than 23,000 views. God has been faithful to Jubilee with worshipers grateful to reap an abundant harvest.
Good Shepherd Indian, Stafford, Continues to Deliver Diversity through the Indian Community
Good Shepherd Episcopal, Stafford, continues to grow as a church plant and as a positive impact to the Indian community in the Houston area. Good Shepherd is a welcoming space for those who are distanced or detached from the traditional Indian churches.
The church’s strength and energy are rooted in commitment to love and serve the Lord in cultural uniqueness, and to be a non-judgmental space for individuals of Indian descent in the rich tradition of the Episcopal Church. The church strives to be a beauty of diversity in the fabric of the Diocese of Texas.
During 2023, Good Shepherd positively impacted the community through its unique outreach program called “Be with the Buddies” which caters to the children in the community through free music lessons every week. It’s been successful for the last two years. As a result, there are newcomers to the congregation who began as visitors and eventually became part of the life and mission of the congregation. As the newcomers get to know more about the Episcopal Church, they are attracted to the church’s willingness and openness to welcome everyone to experience the unconditional love of God.
Good Shepherd is actively engaged in various community initiatives. Parishioners organized a “backto-school” program for children in the community and provided backpacks and school materials. Members are also engaged in a mentorship program of the Fort Bend ISD. During the Christmas season, they organized support for CPS kids by donating Christmas gifts for the children. Good Shepherd is also involved in community food distribution through “Emily’s Pantry,” a charity activity of the All Saints Episcopal Church, Stafford.
Northside, Houston, 2023 Highlights: Youth Group Growth, New Projects, Building Search
Northside Episcopal, Houston, 3303 N. Main, grew last year, with five baptisms at Easter and a search to move to a larger worship space.
Through a partnership with Houston Canterbury, the church commissioned Texas Southern University student Joy Chanslor, as its new youth and community engagement intern. Chanslor helped the church establish a collaboration with Harris County Precinct 2, leading to a back-to-school vaccination clinic late summer.
The youth group continued with monthly fellowship outings, and youth took the lead for the first time on the summer Laundry Love mission, a neighborhood listening strategy utilizing coins, soap, and old-fashioned conversation.
A meditation garden with a labyrinth was designed and installed by volunteers new to the church. The garden was made possible also through a generous investment by the church’s landlord Simon Pedroza of Simon’s Pharmacy.
To increase fellowship and healing, congregants began art church, brunch church, and a biannual healing service.
“Northside E” is grateful to support teen parents with practical needs; the church has also been awarded a $20,000 grant from the Episcopal Church to grow and better serve its neighbors in 2024.
Holy Family HTX, Houston: 2023 Highlights in Growth, Connections,
Development
God is bringing all things together in Christ at Holy Family HTX. Located in the East End, it is a church for people without a church. Holy Family keeps Jesus at the center of lives by several means.
Being with God:
More people worshiped with Holy Family in 2023 than any year. Over 250 came to two Easter services. Holy Family continues to make robust theological learning accessible because people’s questions about God matter. Two classes were wrapped up with over 50 adults attending. People were “Zooming in” from the West Coast, Mexico, and Korea for one of those classes.
Being with the Church:
Helping adults make meaningful one on one connections with one another is important. Youth are gathering with mentors and peers to discover that they belong in God’s family. The world is a better place because youth are in it; they matter to God. Kids are learning that God is love and church is safe.
Being with the East End:
The Lanecia Rouse Tinsley Gallery promotes the flourishing of the arts in the heart of the East End by standing at the fragile intersection of theology, beauty, and spirituality. The arts can be one of the most effective ways to creatively imagine a better world. Over 700 people visited the exhibits and had their imaginations enriched by artists’ talks.
Also, 3719 Navigation Blvd. hosted 26 different events from community organizations, giving their 1,500 guests a beautiful place to meet. Further, the East End Donation Drive, led by the Rev. Sarah Mast, greatly assisted the neighborhood students and children served by school wraparound services.
Preparing Future Church Leaders:
Holy Family HTX has already developed four future priests in the Episcopal Church from the congregation. One is now leading a church. Two are currently enrolled at Seminary of the Southwest. One enrolls in seminary this fall. Two lay leaders attend the Iona School for Ministry. The first curate has been sent to his post-curate role as associate rector at Trinity Episcopal Church, Fort Worth. Last fall, another aspirant was welcomed for Holy Orders.
The world is a better place because youth are in it...
St. Isidore, Spring, 2023 Highlights: Bistro Opening, Flourishing of Warrior Church
Abundant Harvest Kitchen & Bistro, an endeavor by St. Isidore, Spring, marked a year of significant milestones, including the joyous opening of the bistro in June of last year.
Amidst the celebrations, the flourishing of Warrior Church stands out as a testament to the community’s growth and unity within these welcoming walls. Warrior Church is a Missional Community that integrates worship, exercise, and fellowship. This community is designed for all capabilities physically, and is designed for anyone looking for a physical way to express their faith in a group and outdoor setting. It meets on Sunday mornings from 8-9:15 a.m. at Abundant Harvest Kitchen by St. Isidore, 24803 Oakhurst Drive, Spring.
St. Joan of Arc, Pflugerville, 2023 Highlights
In 2023, St. Joan of Arc, Pflugerville, moved to a new elementary school. Events highlighted include celebrating Candlemas and supporting Pflugerville Pride in June. In a move to grow and thrive, the church has leased a new building at 16708 Picadilly Court in Pflugerville.
San Esteban, Cleveland: Spreading Gospel throughout Community
San Esteban is spreading the gospel in its community of Cleveland. Congregants celebrated Hispanic Heritage month, and many new families visited. A music program was created, and several youth got involved.
The parish sent youth to the “Happening Retreat” and lay leaders attended the annual Hispanic Lay Leadership Conference. Thanks to the help of the Rev. Ted Smith, St. Stephen’s, Liberty, the church is celebrating baptisms. The church continues with its program of prayer and Bible reading in area homes. San Esteban is open to welcome everyone to be a light in the community.
St. Cornelius, Belton: Growth, Challenge, Change Accompany
Contemplation, Celebrations
St. Cornelius, Belton, experienced a year of growth, challenge, and change in 2023 as the church plant relocated. The church’s mission statement “a haven for all" speaks to the way its community seeks to create a safe space for healing and explore the edges of faith in an intentional and loving community.
The year began with community discernment about identity and name. The church name, St. Cornelius, was submitted to the diocese and approved.
The church plant continued to commune in the Belton community in unconventional places in order to build trust and care between the members of the growing community and be present in the wider world. These locales included communion at a park for game day, a bowling alley, and a yoga class.
On Palm Sunday in 2023, the congregation gathered with Peace Community Church, a fellow plant, for a joint Palm Sunday procession around the square of downtown Belton. St. Cornelius partnered with Peace Community again to host Dr. James Farwell from Virginia Theological Seminary for Table Talk Potluck, a conversation on the topic: “Is the Holy Spirit Up to Things Outside of Christianity?”
By summer, the congregation baptized a campus ministry student and five other young adults. Later, congregants gathered for a church Friendsgiving to welcome new members into the community.
In October, Braver Angels support group hosted a community workshop to discuss how to have difficult conversations over politics with people you love. The workshop was entitled, “Scary Conversations: How to Talk When We Disagree.”
The year was marked with an end to St. Cornelius’s year lease. The plant moved into a new location downtown, and the door was appropriately opened with a turn of the key by one of the congregation’s youngest members on Nov. 19. The community gathered for the first time on Christ the King Sunday.
Decking the halls for local foster kids living nearby the church was the first charge as congregants ushered in the holiday season. The teens received holiday baked goods and holiday decorations from a collaborative with an area school and St. Cornelius partnered with a local civil engineering firm to provide presents to the teens. Church members also organized a stocking stuffer event for the teens.
The congregation joined with Christ Episcopal Church, Temple, on Advent I and had two members received to the Episcopal Church by Bishop Fisher. The bishop also confirmed an adult and a teen.
A 3rd Annual Longest Night Service was hosted during Advent with St. Francis Episcopal, Temple. The year closed with a Holiday Open House to welcome the Belton neighborhood into the new church space with a “Carols and Cocoa” celebration on Christmas Eve.
Two Church Plant Consecrations
Held
in November
Two church plants from the Episcopal Diocese of Texas (EDOT) held consecration ceremonies in November for their new worship spaces. Bishop Ryan presided and preached at Church of the Cross, Austin, and Bishop Monterroso at San Romero, Houston.
Church of the Cross started in 2013 as an engaged pop-up church. It has the distinction of having the longest term for any church plant in the diocese. Congregants literally exhausted the use of their trailer. As their congregation continues to grow, the new church will be using rental spaces to avoid mortgage debt instead of constructing a new building.
The community of San Romero began in 2017. St. Christopher’s, Houston, graciously offered space for worship early on. As San Romero grew, leadership began to search for worship space. While the building is not fully complete, San Romero continued its celebration later in the month as congregants gathered for their first eucharist Nov. 18, followed by a gratitude party.
Festivities were held at the church’s location at 5705 Thomas Road, Houston, TX 77041.
EDOT celebrates the lives of these flourishing church plants.
St. Philip the Evangelist, Houston, Builds Understanding, Supports those Suffering from Sudan Conflict
God continues to work and help St. Philip the Evangelist, Houston, accomplish its many missions, including growing its community spiritually to love and serve God and one another.
Through a program called Lead Journey, the Sudanese church focused on “turning in” in 2023. In 2024, the focus is on “wake up”; year three will be focused on “wake out.”
“It is a process because it does not have an end and is done through workshops in four classes each year,” said Rev. Agook Kuol. St. Philip joined the process this year with help from the diocese to deepen understanding of scripture and leadership and to hear how best the church can listen to God inside and outside the church. This is important in reaching out and serving the neighborhood and community, Kuol noted.
Because members have relatives affected by the war in Sudan and South Sudan through its tribes and government officials, the church continues in peace building and conflict resolution.
Bishop Monterroso visited the congregation in 2023 and celebrated the baptisms of 10 children of God. He also provided personal prayers for healing. Throughout the year, St. Phillip received nine families as part of its hospitality mission, helping them with transportation to workshop services, appointments for employment and health, and shopping. A clothing drive assisted in providing relief for those uprooted by conflict in Sudan.
“This was a small way to show love to those who ran away with nothing,” said Kuol.
The vicar thanks the bishops, staff, congregation, and faithful parishes who support the shared ministry in Christ.
“Pray for us so that God would help us in growing our church by the power of the Holy Spirit,” he said.
Saint Cecilia’s, Round Top, Documents Year of Growth
Saint Cecilia’s, Round Top, continued its extraordinary growth in 2023. The main service was consistently filled to capacity so a second service was added early in the year. On Easter, the congregation moved outdoors and set an attendance record with 360 people joining.
Highlights of the year included hiring a new part-time youth and children’s minister. The Willie Nelson and Stevie Ray Vaughan (Recovery Sunday) services were held at the 120-year-old Round Top Dance Hall. Saint Cecilia’s continued its ongoing engagement with the community throughout the year. The Christmas Concert for Peace was held at the spacious Festival Hill Concert Hall. The formation of an exploratory committee is assisting in the long-range goal to seek space options to accommodate congregation growth.
Fort Worth Church Plant
The Fort Worth Church Plant began its ministry in the Near Southside neighborhood of the city.
A celebration of St. Francis helped neighbors get acquainted as a come-and-go pet blessing was held on South Main Street.
In early November, a first evening prayer service was held on All Souls’ Day where congregants gathered to remember lost loved ones.
St. Clare’s, Tyler, Charts Busy Year
Beginning with the ordination of a new vicar, the Rev. Rob Jerger in January 2023 was a busy year for St. Clare’s, Tyler.
St. Clare’s studied, contemplated, and discussed what it means to be missional early-on in the year. The congregation also moved into a larger space and made necessary improvements.
The congregation responded to anti-trans legislation in Texas by hosting “An Evening of Love for our Transgender Siblings.” The event was well attended by the LGBTQIA+ community in Tyler. Also, 18 clergy from the diocese attended.
In November, St. Clare’s welcomed Bishop Doyle to confirm and receive 10 new members to the church. This year, the church introduces the theme “Being the Church in 2024.”
The Rev. Joel McAlister at pet blessing
He said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.’
Luke 10:2
MissionBuildingthrough Communities
Missional Communities: Giving Voice to the Gospel
One of the ways congregations in the diocese give voice to the gospel is through communities gathered to intentionally connect with those who may not participate in traditional worship.
These missional communities take many forms and are organic and fluid. One is the “Warrior Church” of St. Isidore, Spring, which meets in a gym and incorporates worship, exercise, and fellowship. Another is "Just As I Am,” a missional community at St. Clare’s, Tyler, that creates a safe place for members and allies of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Some missional communities gather at nursing homes. One is the Columbus Oaks Assisted Living Center hosted by St. John’s, Columbus. A residential gathering led by different congregations in the Elgin area serves as a meeting place for a community meal, conversation, and mutual support. Such spaces are created for those who have experienced church trauma. Maybe the attendees have questions and are looking for a connection.
These communities are led by people who are passionate about sharing “God’s Good News in Jesus Christ” with those who are hungry for community, disconnected, hurt by the church, and sometimes on the fringes. Some come from those places of disconnection or have been hurt by the church and cannot fathom that God could love them, much less use them.
After experiencing the unconditional love of God through a loving faith community and the support and encouragement of their clergy, these untraditional worshipers are empowered to give voice to the gospel. Like missionaries, they translate the gospel to the context and language of those they are reaching and creating spaces that foster relationships.
People in these missional communities may start attending and connecting with a traditional expression of the church. Others find their church in these missional communities. Sometimes, a new church may be birthed out of a missional community, such as St. Clare’s, Tyler. Regardless, all are transformed—those being reached and those being sent or called to start these communities.
Where is God calling you to give voice to the gospel, and to whom are you being called to share God’s good news?
For more information, access “Missional Communities” at www.epicenter.org.
St. James’, Taylor: ‘Thriving Church’ Intertwines with Community
The most frequent question Rev. Terry Pierce is asked about the community of St. James’, Taylor, is, “what is it?”
As the congregation’s leader, she defines the ecosystem of the community church and missional community as a “Thriving Church.”
“We are an ecosystem of communities that intertwine and overlap,” she explained. “Within this ecosystem, we have both traditional church and space for relational and spiritual outposts for those who cannot or will not participate in a traditional expression of church, which is how the diocese defines missional community.”
Pierce refers back to Bishop Doyle’s book, “Small Batch”, in which Doyle describes the relationship between Sending Churches and Missional Communities as existing in a “posture of encouraging reciprocity…”
“At St. James’, we began by creating a missional community called Creative Recovery for creative folk who weren’t comfortable with traditional expressions of church but longed for deep community,” Pierce said. “The original Creative Recovery community was perceived to be separate from St. James’.”
What happened over time was not expected, she said.
Congregants of St. James’ began to see themselves as hosts and nurturers, eventually joining in with the Creative Recovery members.
“Because the community of St. James’ held an openness to people who didn’t fall within the normal parameters of church membership, other communities and partnerships began to develop in our midst, including a partnership with Taylor Pride,” Pierce said. “Through our work together, the church and Taylor Pride have, in the words of Taylor Pride President Denise Rodgers, ‘created a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ community to worship, gather and heal.”
Throughout 2023, the ever-growing ecosystem of St. James’ continued to take shape through:
• Traditional in-person Episcopal Eucharist on Sunday morning and a Zoom Liturgy of the Word.
• Holiday meals following a traditional service like Easter. Service attendance is not required to participate in community meals
• “Show & Tell for Grown Ups” meets monthly at a community venue. This group developed out of long-term work, using creativity and spiritual practices to create small healing communities. Each meeting is themed. People bring something to “Show & Tell” related to the theme.
• The Listening Room grew from Show & Tell and provides a listening and performance venue using the St. James’ sanctuary through the music and stories of underrepresented voices.
• Game night developed from a suggestion by community members. Attendees eat, socialize, and play games like dominoes and cards (much like a community center).
• Coffee and Conversation consists of women, mostly mothers, who are affected by growing up in families with very traditional ideas about religion and female roles. Women meet without their children to get to know each other.
• Holy Heretics Book Club meets weekly to read books and discuss spiritual topics. Originally, in Sunday School at another church, it became a part of St. James’ when their original community found discussion topics inappropriate. Recently, members read Bonhoeffer, Thich Nhat Hanh, and Ilia Delio.
• Claiming Our Space is a partnership between St. James’ and the local pride community that is using small group gatherings to develop community and healing around religious trauma.
• St. James’ Community Garden is a group that gathers in the church’s garden weekly and grows food. All ages are included in this multi-generational “family” group.
• Taylor CAN is a St. James’ ministry that started with emergency housing and a warming shelter. It expanded into a partnership with Queen Lola’s Kitchen to feed people; it draws members from across our groups to serve the community.
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”
Isaiah 6:8
Discerning and Leaning into the Call to Ministry
In 2023, the Commission on Ministry hosted two Discovery Weekends. Those weekends took place in May and September. The May 2023 session was led by Estela Lopez, one of the Diocese’s Missioners for Congregational Vitality-Connections, with 24 seekers in attendance. Neal McGowen, Associate Rector at St. John the Divine, and Debbie Dugger, St. Stephen’s Liberty, led the September 2023 session where 25 seekers attended. All attendees had a chance to discover their gifts for ministry and identify leaders, both lay and ordained, for Christ’s mission.
During each weekend, seekers are given the opportunity to slow down and learn about vocation–that is, God’s call. They’re also encouraged to listen for God’s voice, spend time in dialogue with others also in discernment, receive feedback and insight from Episcopal leaders engaged in various types of Christian ministry across the diocese, and spend time in personal reflection about future work and ministry.
Next Discovery Weekend is in September 2024 Discovery Weekend 2023 Recap
The next Discovery Weekend in 2024 will be held September 13-15 at Camp Allen.
Two Discovery Weekends were scheduled for 2024 and the first one was held in May. The next one will be held September 13-15 at Camp Allen. If you want to learn more about Discovery Weekends or are interested in attending, please contact the Discovery Weekend team at discovery@epicenter.org
If you want to learn more about Discovery Weekends or are interested in attending, please visit www.epicenter.org/discernment/discovery-weekend or contact the Discovery Weekend team at discovery@epicenter.org.
Iona School for Ministry Honors 2023 Graduates
The Iona School for Ministry held its graduation on June 11 of last year at Camp Allen and honored 12 graduates. Congratulations to Christina Allen, Joe G. Biles, Le Anna Brun, Dr. Eric Joseph Ellis, Margaret Light, Randy A. Nelson, John Roger Olier, Cynthia Parker Robertson, Charles M. Stiernberg, Steven Tomlinson, Laura L. Warner Gilmer, and Laura Claire Zeiher.
St. Alban’s in Waco Receives FTE Grant
Clergy at St. Alban’s, Waco, were awarded a $12,000 grant in 2023 to fund cohorts for young adults interested in vocational discernment. The grant was awarded through the Fund for Theological Education (FTE).
St. Alban’s Director of Formation and Connection Rachel Toombs applied for the grant, and the cohort began this year. It is the church’s hope that it will bear fruit at St. Alban’s, she related.
Two concurrent discernment committees were established and worked to have two ordination discernment packets submitted in 2023. The project is a separate endeavor from the grant award.
Four congregants at St. Alban’s have already expressed interest in discernment for Holy Orders.
2023 Installations
The Rt. Rev. Kathryn Ryan:
The Rev. Matt Boulter St. George’s, Austin (May 10)
The Rev. Margarita Arroyo Christ Church, Eagle Lake (June 25)
The Rev. Heath D. Dewrell St. Thomas’, Rockdale (Dec. 16)
The Rt. Rev. Hector Monterroso:
The Rev. David Nelson St. Andrew’s, Pearland (Nov. 29)
The Rt. Rev. Bishop Doyle
The Rev. Bonnie McCrickard Good Shepherd, Granbury (Sept. 16)
The Very Rev. Nathaniel Katz Christ Church Cathedral, Houston (Nov. 3)
The Rt. Rev. Jeff Fisher:
The Rev. Blake Rider St. Stephen’s, Huntsville (Dec. 11)
Scenes from Installations
The Rev. Matt Boulter installed at St. George’s, Austin
The Rev. Margarita Aroyo installed at Christ Church, Eagle Lake
The Rev. Bonnie McCrickard installed at Good Shepherd, Granbury
Scenes from Installations
The Rev. David Nelson installed at St. Andrew’s, Pearland
The Rev. Blake Rider installed at St. Stephen’s, Huntsville
The Very Rev. Nathaniel Katz installed at Christ Church Cathedral, Houston
The Rev. Heath Will installed at St. Thomas’, Rockdale
Scenes from 2023 Deacons’ Ordination
scenes FroM 2023
For in the one Spirit, we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12:13
andRacialEnsuringJusticeReconciliation
Statement Regarding Article in Last June’s Edition of The Texas Episcopalian - 2022 In Review
The 2022 IN REVIEW edition of The Texas Episcopalian included an article entitled “Voice of Completion from the Past: A Gift from a Diocesan Descendant.” This article contained inaccurate information about the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana and the handling of certain funds. Furthermore, The Texas Episcopalian published it without the knowledge of the diocese of Louisiana and without the opportunity for their leadership to respond to the allegations made. We immediately removed the article and issued an apology. However, both the Diocese of Texas and the Diocese of Louisiana acknowledge the importance of the work of racial healing and truth-telling and look forward to continuing to build upon the strong relationships that we have shared for many years.
The Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle Episcopal Diocese of Texas
The creation of the Racial Justice Committee (RJC) followed Bishop Doyle’s decision, and the council’s concurrence, to commit $13 million toward racial justice and reconciliation in February 2020. The funds were divided equally between the RJC and Seminary of the Southwest.
The RJC consists of 11 members, including Doyle. The members come from the historically Black churches in the diocese. The RJC typically meets four times annually.
The RJC conducts its work through three funds:
• The Henrietta Wells Scholarship Fund supports African American students attending a Texas historically Black college or university (“HBCU”). More than 100 scholarship grants have been made to date.
• The John and Joseph Talbot Fund supports projects around the diocese that tell stories around the history of slavery and other racial injustices, as well as projects that uplift the community. The fund is supporting a documentary related to “Bloody Sunday,” a racial disturbance in Longview. Trinity, Longview, is the sponsor of this project. The fund also organized a pilgrimage to Alabama to help clergy and lay people gain a better understanding of our country’s history and the work that lies ahead in healing the wounds of the past. (Two other projects of note: One is the funding of the NASA Diversity Public Artwork, a project showcasing Episcopal African
Visit edotracialjustice.org to see the recently-completed obelisk dedicated to the Rev. Thomas and Mrs. Cain. Learn more about this story on the Racial Justice website.
American astronauts through St. Thomas the Apostle, Nassau Bay, near NASA. The other project is financial support for an obelisk of the Rev. Thomas Cain in Galveston. Cain was the second priest of color in the Diocese of Texas.)
• The Rev. Thomas Cain Fund supports deferred maintenance projects at historically Black churches in our diocese. One project included replacing an air conditioner which helped a parish increase its Sunday attendance, especially during the summer months in Houston.
In addition, the RJC works with the Episcopal Health Foundation (EHF) to leverage its outreach to the 81 counties of the diocese. The work with EHF includes, but is not limited to, looking at health issues and racial disparities, and helping parishes have the necessary conversations to understand the impacts of these inequities.
Other diocesan foundations have provided additional support to help the RJC in its work since its inception. To that end, the funds of the RJC have made the following disbursements: Henrietta Wells Fund, $285,000; John and Joseph Talbot Fund, $184,550; and The Rev. Thomas Cain Fund, $950,575.
Until earlier this year, the RJC had been chaired by Samuel A. Dodson since it was established. The current chair is the Rev. Francene Young.
Historic Photo of the Rev. Thomas Cain
Recently-completed obelisk in honor of the Rev. and Mrs. Thomas Cain
Talbot Fund Grant Delivers ‘1919 Longview Remembrance Project’ through Documentary
A documentary project funded in large by the Episcopal Diocese of Texas John and Joseph Talbot Fund in 2021 will come to fruition in 2024. The grant awarded $40,000 to help fund the 1919 Longview Remembrance Project.
A story published in the Longview NewsJournal in November 2023 outlines the progress of the 1919 Longview Remembrance Project, a group working to unearth the history behind racial disparity between blacks and whites. In 2024, a state historical marker is planned for downtown along with the release of the documentary film that tells the story.
Kilgore College history professor Meredith May wants the story told about the “Red Summer,” a time over a century ago when Longview and 25 regional cities experienced tension between black and white communities. In Longview’s Gregg County, the turmoil escalated upon the beating of a black journalist. White residents believed he wrote an article about a high-profile lynching.
For the past two years, May and others on the project’s team searched for sources to interview and sifted through mountains of documents. An actor and filmmaker Chris Lamark from Houston was commissioned as producer. The film’s production began in late 2023.
“We’ve been scouring the community to find anyone who knows the story, anyone that’s had the story passed down generationally,” said Clent Holmes, a founding member of the group.
According to research, rioting in Longview spiraled and National Guard troops were sent to seize firearms to keep the rioting from escalating.
“The more that we’ve found in the records, the more we’ve dug up through research, the more we found this isn’t a story just about white supremacy, but a story about resistance,” May said. “People fought back.”
Prior to the film’s debut, the stories are being shared via podcasts, according to project organizers. (Special thanks to the Longview News-Journal for information used in this report. For the original story, search the newspaper’s archives at www.news-journal.com .)
Photo credit: Les Hasse/News-Journal Photo
‘Moving Forward in Truth’ Continues to Record Racial Justice Initiative through StorytellingBroadening Our Reach
The Racial Justice Initiative also included dollars for the future training and education of people of color. The money for the initiative has also subsequently been used to fund the Bertha Means Endowment, the David Taylor Scholarship, the Pauli Murray Scholarship at Seminary of the Southwest, and the Episcopal Health Foundation Congregational Engagement.
During his announcement of the Initiative, Doyle reminded council attendees that the Rt. Rev. Alexander Gregg, the first bishop of Texas, had household slaves. Also, the first congregation in the diocese, Christ Church, Matagorda, was built by slaves.
“The goal is to support the people of our communities who were actually injured by our past actions,” Doyle said. “This is our truth; this is the truth of our diocese,” Doyle said.
To learn more about the truth which Doyle spoke of, to embrace it, and to move towards healing, the diocese sponsored the research and publication of a monthly story series that began in 2020 called “Moving Forward in Truth.” The stories are intended to shed light on the experiences of African Americans in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas. That light would not only lead to discovery, but also create pathways for moving forward. The series came to fruition through the works of Kathy Culmer, D.Min.
Martin Luther King, Jr. once said: “People fail to get along because they fear each other. They fear each other because they don’t know each other. They don’t know each other because they have not communicated with each other.”
Stories can provide the public with a key to overcoming the barrier of not knowing one another. Stories grown out of cultural expressions and histories can at the very least prompt conversations that will deepen our understanding and appreciation of one another.
The stories are archived on the diocese’s Racial Justice website. You may find them there. Visit edotracialjustice.org/storytelling
Our Storytelling Opens Eyes, Doors Across the Church
As the author of the stories included in the “Moving Forward in Truth” series, St. James, Houston, Director of Religious Education Kathy Culmer, D.Min, shares the challenges of gathering information and telling stories during the pandemic.
Kathy Culmer, D.Min
During the height of COVID-19 when access to resources was limited, in-person visits were not allowed, hampering her interviewing efforts. Most libraries, churches, archives, and other public places were closed. The stories shared were sourced through diocesan records, individual church histories, and the voices of those who lived the experiences or who had heard the stories told.
In some instances, Culmer shared her own stories within the diocese as an African American. Those stories spanned three decades. She also shared information learned while she gathered stories from others. Her work continues and reach has expanded, in part, due to the diocese’s telling of its part. Through this medium, her work has enlightened many throughout the country.
“In May of 2021, I participated in an online Racial Reconciliation Conference, where I was asked to speak about the African American experience in the Texas Episcopal Church from slavery to present day and answer questions from participants,” she said. “Later in 2021, I was the keynote speaker for the Bailey Lecture Series, presented by All Saints’, Austin. This was a weekend event where I made several presentations over the weekend, delivered the sermon on Sunday, and ended with a question-and-answer session.”
In May, 2023, Culmer was invited to lead a session for participants in the Curate Cohort on Difficult Conversations.
“As the result of the efforts taken by the diocese to acknowledge and make amends for past actions, many churches throughout the diocese made their own efforts to uncover uncomfortable truths within their own communities and explore avenues for reconciliation,” she said.
View the Moving Forward in Truth stories online: www.edotracialjustice.org/storytelling.
Henrietta Bell Wells Scholarship Fund at Work
The Racial Justice Initiative, through its Henrietta Bell Wells Scholarship, continues to enhance the lives of its many recipients. Since the spring of 2021, 107 scholarships have been awarded to 55 students at the following Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs): Huston-Tillotson University, Prairie View A&M University, Texas Southern University (including Thurgood Marshall School of Law), and Wiley College.
Having dispersed $285,000 to date, the scholarship fund gives thanks to sponsoring congregations and college ministries, including Epiphany, Houston; Holy Comforter, Spring; Hope, Houston; Houston Canterbury; Prairie View A&M University Canterbury; St. James, Austin (Freedom Schoo), and St. James’, Houston.
The Henrietta Bell Wells Scholarship Fund is designated for awards to students attending HBCUs in the state of Texas. Today it serves its intended purpose. For instance, some recipients had to delay graduation due to unpaid tuitions prior to learning about diocesan scholarships available through this initiative. In some cases, students would not have been able to register for classes the following semester without financial relief offered by this fund.
With many students now graduated and/or enrolled in graduate programs, the diocese is encouraged by the distinguished recipients of this reconciliation process through the Racial Justice Initiative of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas. The diocese applauds Rhonda Rogers, chair of the Henrietta Wells Subcommittee, for her diligence in this work to determine scholarship eligibility and the associated processes involved in this vehicle. Moreover, the diocese acknowledges the engagement of the overarching Racial Justice Initiative Committee, chaired by Samuel A. Dodson.
Milestones for Means Family, St. James’, Austin
Sept. 15, 2023 was a big day for the Means family and St. James’, Austin. On that day, James H. Means, Jr., son to Bertha Sadler Means and James Means, was inducted into the University of Texas Athletics Hall of Honor.
His mother, a founder of St. James’, pushed to integrate UT athletics in 1963. Both mother and son were undying in the effort. To that end, James H. Means, Jr., is now being celebrated and honored by the university through the distinguished induction.
Means is also lauded by his high school classmates and acquaintances–by way of articles and comments.
On a side note, St. James’ has begun petitioning the city of Austin to name the Bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool after Joan Means Khabele who led the push for integrating Barton Springs Pool from 1960-1962.
For more information, access the following articles:
History of Longhorn Sports: www.texaslsn.org/james-means-1964-track
Hall of Honor, University of Texas: texassports.com/honors/hall-of-honor/james-h-means-jr-/962
Photo credit: Texas Athletics
Rev. Blake Rider, St. Stephen’s, Huntsville, Shares Story Behind ‘Full Court Press: The Ken Zacher Story’
The documentary of a well-respected Nowata, Oklahoma high school basketball coach who stood up for racial injustice is shared in part by the Rev. Blake Rider, rector of St. Stephen’s, Huntsville, in “Full Court Press: The Ken Zacher Story.” It was released in 2023.
In the winter of 1971, Rider was athletic trainer for his high school basketball team and head coach was Ken Zacher. The high school junior witnessed heated conversations about a team-elected black basketball captain being allowed to escort a white homecoming queen onto the court during a game.
The superintendent had told the coach to elect an honorary white captain for homecoming escort duties. Coach Zacher refused to comply because the black captain had been elected by his peers. Later, Rider became part of a federal lawsuit filed by Zacher.
Rider was interviewed for the documentary by film producer Dane Warner. Rider’s character is played in the film by an actor.
Reportedly, the coach was harassed by the stigma of taking a stand for the young captain, allowing him to escort the white teen queen. Pranks, ridicule, and threats to both he and his family ensued. After being fired from the head coach position, Zacher moved to another state with his family. However, his mental state suffered and he committed suicide.
The rector remembers long-time friend Zacher as a wellrespected, caring man. The coach had eventually helped him get a four-year scholarship to Oral Roberts University.
Rider attended the well-attended, documentary premiere in October at his high school alma mater. He is hopeful that “Full Court Press” can soon be viewed through a streaming service.
“The three areas of focus for the film are racial reconciliation, mental illness, and suicide prevention,” Rider said. “My hope is that issues of depression, bi-polar disorder, or whatever Coach (Zacher) suffered from can move from beneath the shame and embarrassment that prohibits so many from receiving effective treatment today.
“But just as with racism and mental illness, if we can speak out with kind and encouraging words, helpful attitudes, just maybe we can help stop someone from taking that final, tragic step.”
Photo courtesy of Nowata High School (Oklahoma)
Photo reprinted with permission from Leavenworth Times
Abundant Harvest Kitchen Hosts ‘Traces of the Trade’ and Opens Dialogue on Racial Justice
Last spring, Abundant Harvest Kitchen, an outreach of St. Isidore, Spring, welcomed 50 community members for a free dinner, film screening, and moderated discussion to create a more connected, meaningful dialogue about racism.
“Traces of the Trade,” official selection of the 2008 Sundance Festival, follows descendants of the DeWolf family as they grapple with the reality that their ancestors were the foremost slave traders in this country.
Dain Perry, a primary descendant of the DeWolf family, learned of his family’s history 25 years ago.
“I was rocked to the bottom of my soul,” said Perry. “Racism is a cancer that eats away the soul of our country. Our goal is to deepen that national conversation by telling the truth about our shared history.”
A three-course dinner was served by Harvest Kitchen’s in-house catering team, Exquisite Harvest Cuisine, as attendees digested the reality of racism and its connection to health.
“I was rocked to the bottom of my soul,” said Perry.
“Just look at life expectancy,” said Episcopal Health Foundation (EHF) Senior Congregational Engagement Officer Eric Moen. “Racism is a very real product of the institution all of us live in and that institution keeps people of color away from opportunities and stuck in poor living conditions. In those living conditions, life expectancy plummets.”
Rooted in faith and active in hope, EHF believes firmly that racism impacts health and that all Texans deserve to live a healthy life. That life, according to Dain Perry’s wife, Constance, can be dramatically improved.
“We live our life by moving forward, but we understand our life by looking backward,” said Perry, quoting a favorite author. “As a nation, we are
Dain and Constance Perry facilitate Traces of The Trade
EHF's Eric Moen engages attendees in discussion
polarized. We need to look at our histories with clear eyes, so we can fully understand who we are and what our lives are about.”
Dain Perry’s ancestors were active in the Episcopal Church as lay and clergy leaders. Descendants were filmed as they traveled to Ghana and Cuba, reckoning the family’s history with slavery. The screening and discussion touched those in attendance. Following the screening, attendees joined the Perry family in discussing their feelings and critical aspects of racism such as privilege, reparations and what prevents more conversations from happening.
The family featured in Traces of the Trade – ancestors and descendants – are all members of the Episcopal Church. The documentary’s creator is also a member of the Church, and a cousin of descendant Dain Perry.
(This story originally appeared in Woodlands Online and was condensed for this magazine.)
2023
Snapshot from Absalom Jones celebration, February
at St. James', Houston
Pauli Murray Scholarship Event Successfully Supports Three Seminary Students of Color, Funds Future Endowment
Last year’s Pauli Murray Scholarship event hosted Feb. 23 at St. David’s, Austin, by local Episcopal churches has provided approximately $104,000 for three scholarships towards African American ministry students and students of color at Seminary of the Southwest. The funds help with living expenses and financial academic support provided by the seminary.
The scholarship program inaugurated four years ago is named for Murray (1910-1985), a civil rights attorney who worked with Ruth Bader Ginsburg before she became a U.S. Supreme Court Justice. She was also the first African American woman ordained to the Episcopal clergy, a cofounder of the National Organization for Women, and the original author of legal arguments later used to desegregate public schools in the U.S. Supreme Court’s Brown vs. Board of Education.
The goals of the Texas Pauli Murray Scholarship are to
provide up to $25,000 in living expenses per year for a student during the three years of seminary study and to develop an endowment so that the scholarship can become self-sustaining.
Last year’s event honored Judge Lora Livingston, Rabbi Neil Bluemofe, and the Rev. Al Rodriquez for their work to create a more diverse clergy.
The Rev. Jim Harrington, co-chair of the Texas Pauli Murray Scholarship Committee, said the scholarship has helped open the doors to ministry students who might not otherwise be able to attend seminary.
“Not only does it open the doors for students, but it prepares them to serve the communities of color from which they come,” he said. “And to have the scholarship named after Pauli Murray makes the point. This began as a community effort and continues to be such, which is inspiring and important.”
The event is also sponsored by the Myra McDaniel Chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians. McDaniel was a groundbreaker as the first African American secretary of state. Until her death, she was a member of St. James’, Austin.
The event, attended by 170, opened with a greeting from the Rev. Chuck Treadwell, St. David’s rector along with a prayer by the Rt. Rev. Kai Ryan.
Mr. Fred Rouse Pilgrimage Memorializes Victims of Racial Terror, Revisits Lynching
The Saturday before Palm Sunday in 2023 became a day of memorializing for members of more than half of the congregations of the north region of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas. On April 1, more than 60 pilgrims boarded a bus to take part in the Mr. Fred Rouse Pilgrimage, visiting sites associated with the lynching of Rouse on Dec. 11, 1921.
At each site, the story of the events that occurred there were recounted. Participants prayed, not just for Mr. Rouse, but for the 4,500-plus other victims of racial terror lynchings in this country. The Rev. Sandi Michels, Episcopal priest and board member of the Tarrant County Coalition for Peace and Justice (TCCPJ) organized the pilgrimage. Speakers included Fred Rouse III, grandson of Fred Rouse and president of the board of the TCCPJ; Dr. Bradley Borougerdi, professor of history at Tarrant County College (TCC) and one of the founders of TCCPJ; and Mr. Cyrus Crosby, academic advisor at TCC and board member of TCCPJ.
The tour began at 1012 North Main Street at the Ellis Pecan Company Building, site of the headquarters of the Ku Klux Klan in Fort Worth. Plans are to transform this place of hate and violence into a sanctuary of healing and reconciliation through education and the arts. The building has been purchased and will become the home of the Fred Rouse Center for Arts and Community Healing.
After a short welcoming and prayer at this first site, the 60-plus pilgrims boarded a bus for the other three sites related to the lynching. The prayer at this site, a litany entitled, “Shake Us from Our Slumber” closed with this prayer from the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The second stop was at the former site of the Swift & Company Meat Packing Plant at the east end of Exchange Avenue in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards. This is where Rouse was working when a strike was called. Because black workers were not allowed to be members of the union, he showed up for work as usual. The striking workers were angered, calling him and other black workers scabs. When they attacked Rouse, he pulled out a gun and shot two white men. In return he was beaten and left for dead. When sheriff deputies discovered he was still alive, they transported him to the Negro Ward of the City & County Hospital at 330 E. 4th Street.
At the Swift and Co. site, the pilgrims prayed:
“God full of compassion dwelling on High, find perfect rest beneath the sheltering wings of your Presence, among the holy and the pure to shine with the light of the heavens, for the souls of our brothers and sisters, our neighbors, men, women, and children who have been killed, burned, and lynched because of racism and baseless hate. May the Garden of Eden be their resting place. Oh please, Master of Compassion, keep them in the shelter of Your wings for eternity and bind up their souls in the bond of life. The Eternal is their inheritance; may they rest in peace. And let us say, Amen.”
At the site of the former hospital in downtown Fort Worth, participants left the bus to examine the two historical markers at the building, the first installed in 1983, the second in 2021. The first is evidence of how deeply buried the memory of the lynching has been. It mentions only the Fort Worth Medical College, which was established in 1894 by “a group of prominent physicians.” It mentions that among its charter class was Frances Daisy Emery, the first woman medical school graduate in Texas. The school moved to the 4th St. location in 1905. In 1911, it affiliated with Texas Christian University. In 1918, it relocated to Dallas and became part of Baylor University’s Medical School. The marker makes no mention of the 1921 abduction and lynching of Rouse from the Negro Ward in the basement of the building when it was the City & County Hospital. That oversight was remedied with the 2021 installation of the Heritage Trails marker sponsored by the Rouse Family, the Tarrant County Coalition for Peace and Justice, and Performing Arts Fort Worth, Inc. This marker tells how at 11 p.m. on Dec. 11, 1921 a mob of more than 30 white men came into the hospital, took Rouse from his bed, forced him into a car, and drove to the site of the lynching.
At the site of the abduction, the pilgrims prayed:
“Lord, you suffered at human hands the pain of false arrest, torture, and unjust punishment, and you commanded us to comfort those in prison. Build a fire in your people, oh Savior, that we may burn with zeal for justice, proportion, and equal protection under law for all people. In the Name of the one who died condemned, Amen.”
The final stop for the pilgrims was the corner of NE 12th St. and Samuels Ave., the site of the actual lynching. The terrible story was concluded there, and pilgrims heard the plans to turn the site into a memorial park, a place of healing and reconciliation. They examined the plans for the memorial and contemplated the historic marker erected on the site in 2021 by the TCCPJ and the Equal Justice Initiative.
At this site, the pilgrims joined together in a Litany of Confession that ended:
“Forgive us, merciful God. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. We ask for your forgiveness Holy God, and for your Spirit to work within us that we might have the power, strength, and grace to change. Amen.”
The bus then returned to the pilgrimage’s beginning at the South Main site.
Public Art Collaborative at St. Thomas the Apostle, Nassau Bay, to Honor Black Contributions to NASA
St. Thomas the Apostle, Nassau Bay, continues its work with the Genesis Art Collaborative to create a piece of public art that honors Black contributions to NASA over the years. Through a two-fold purpose, it is a way of telling untold stories and helping to promote racial reconciliation, in partnership with the Talbot Fund.
An approximate 7,000-pound, carbon-steel canopy has already been plasma cut and will house a stained glass ceiling depicting a super nebula alongside former senior warden and NASA administrator Charlie Bolden. The canopy will house a seating area aimed at a capsule-shaped memorial highlighting several NASA figures. To complement the memorial, St. Thomas is producing a documentary that helps share life-and-faith stories. To date, interviewed subjects include Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche, astronauts Charlie Bolden and Bobby Satcher, and Bishop Doyle, with several more interviews to come. The glass is cut, the plans approved, and final permits are being considered and issued. This beautiful memorial is slated to be in place soon.
Photo courtesy of St. Thomas, Nassau Bay
Photos courtesy of St. Thomas, Nassau Bay
Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved; for you are my praise.
Jeremiah 17:14
Healing Communities across Texas
Well at Trinity, Baytown, Provides Mental, Emotional, Spiritual Support
The Well at Trinity is a space committed to mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness which was opened as part of Trinity’s ministries in 2023. Trinity’s rector, the Rev. Meredith H. Crigler, co-founded the ministry.
A modular building to the right of the church located at 5010 N. Main St. supplies the space for practitioners to provide affordable mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness services to the Baytown community. The vision at the Well at Trinity is accessible for all to affordable mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness in Baytown and surrounding communities.
Practitioners (counselors or instructors) who use the space manage their services and schedules independently. What is consistent is that all of the professionals ascribe to the church’s values. In exchange for using the center’s space, all tenants commit to giving back 25-35 percent of their gifts to the community. Currently, eight practitioners supply wellness services and support within the space. From January through July 2023, the Well at Trinity supplied 674 sessions for Baytown-area, vulnerable clients.
Volunteers gather to create “Courage Collage Cards” on the second Tuesday of each month at 11 a.m. at the church. For more information or to make donations to the missional ministry, visit wellattrinity.org .
Photo courtesy of Trinity Episcopal, Baytown
Photo courtesy of Trinity Episcopal, Baytown
Episcopal Health Foundation Launches Framework to Improve Health, Not Just Health Care Across Diocese of Texas
Episcopal Health Foundation announced a new strategic framework in 2023 that doubled down on its groundbreaking work to go beyond the doctor’s office to address underlying non-medical factors that impact health.
Using that mindset, CEO Dr. Ann Barnes believes that by confronting three new priorities—food/ nutrition security, maternal health, and diabetes prevention—EHF will make strides in reducing preventable differences in health outcomes across Texas.
Ann Barnes, MD featured on KPRC, Houston’s NBC affiliate (Channel 2) Houston’s Newsmakers with
“People with lower incomes and other underserved communities are more likely to be affected by these chronic health issues, and they can’t be improved by medical care alone,” Barnes said. “Moving the needle in these three areas will lead to a ripple effect of good health in Texas.”
Why is EHF focusing on three new priorities for change?
Good nutrition is essential for good health. Four million Texans experience food insecurity. One in five Latino children and one in four black children in Texas experience hunger. One-third of households who live below the poverty line lack reliable access to adequate nutrition. Lack of access to healthy food is associated with eating more fast foods and drinking sodas which directly contributes to obesity and health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Secondly, mothers should not die from pregnancy. Key studies show that up to 90% of maternal deaths are preventable. Black Texans die from pregnancy-related causes at twice the rate of white Texans and four times the rate of Latino Texans. Non-medical factors like limited access to nutritious foods and recreational activities impact rates of chronic medical conditions that negatively affect pregnancy outcomes. Healthy communities, along with health services that are equitable and accessible, are foundational to healthy pregnancies and maternal health and wellness.
Moreover, nine in 10 cases of diabetes are preventable. The rate of diabetes in Texas is higher than the national average. Latino and black Texans have a higher rate of diabetes than white Texans. Diabetes increases the risk for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease and is largely influenced by non-medical factors like access to affordable nutritious food and opportunities for physical activity. This cannot be stressed enough.
Khambrel Marshall
How will EHF do the work?
EHF remains laser-focused on changing the conversation to promoting equity by improving health, and not just health care in Texas. Opportunities to be healthy are not equal in Texas. Life expectancy in zip codes separated only by a freeway or a few miles can vary by more than 20 years. Many low-income and marginalized communities in urban and rural settings have poorer health due to poverty and discrimination resulting in limited access to quality jobs, schools, housing, food, and more. Focusing on non-medical drivers of health like reduction of asthma triggers in homes, creating and maintaining safe places to exercise, increasing access to healthy foods, and removing barriers to health care access are just some ways EHF is helping change-makers address the root causes of poor health.
In Texas, health services must be much more accessible and affordable. It is indispensable.
One in five Texans does not have health insurance. A recent EHF statewide poll showed 68% of Texans skipped medical care because of the cost. Statistics show skipping or delaying care most often leads to worsening health. Supporting equitable access to comprehensive health services is essential for a person’s health.
EHF pledges to work to strengthen health-minded policy decisions at every level. This includes policies that increase affordable access to health services, innovative initiatives that address nonmedical drivers, and decisions that lead to improved community conditions. EHF is specifically focused on improving opportunities for health for people with lower incomes and other emerging populations that are often overlooked and excluded.
Learn more at: www.episcopalhealth.org/about/strategic-framework
2023 Statewide Poll Conducted by Episcopal Health Foundation Shows Growing Health care Affordability, Access Crisis in Texas
Almost seven out of 10 Texans say they skipped or postponed medical care in the past year because of cost, including check-ups, treatments, and filling prescriptions. That’s the highest percentage of Texans who say they skipped care in the five-year history of the Episcopal Health Foundation (EHF) annual poll on health care affordability and access in Texas, and just one of the worrying results of the latest statewide survey.
“This is more than a healthcare crisis; it’s a statewide crisis,” said Dr. Ann Barnes, president and CEO of EHF. “These numbers paint a grim picture of the barriers Texans face in accessing essential medical care.”
EHF’s annual survey finds that 68% of Texans said they skipped or postponed some sort of health care because of the cost. That number is up from 59% who skipped or postponed care last year, and again, it’s the highest percentage of Texans who skipped/postponed care in the five-year history of EHF’s poll.
Texans without health insurance were even more likely to skip or postpone some sort of care. Poll numbers show that 85% of uninsured Texans under age 65 say that they skipped/postponed some sort of health care because of cost.
Overall, the poll shows that 50% of Texans say they put off getting health care they need, 42%
skipped a recommended medical test or treatment, and 35% did not get a prescription filled due to the costs.
“When people put off care or skip a treatment they need, it often leads to worsening health and even higher costs down the road,” said Barnes, a physician who previously oversaw clinic services at several safety-net health systems in Texas. “A recent national study showed that nearly 60% of people who delayed getting care during the pandemic said their existing medical conditions got worse, not better.”
When Texans did seek health care, the poll shows that more than half of those surveyed (52%) said it’s difficult for them to afford health care.
More than two-thirds of low-income Texans (68%) said they had struggles affording medical care compared to just 34% of higher earners. Hispanic (62%) and black (55%) Texans said they had more trouble affording health care than white (44%) Texans.
The survey finds that four in 10 Texans (43%) say they had difficulty paying their medical bills. That number is up from 35% last year, and it’s the highest percentage of Texans reporting trouble paying medical bills in the five years EHF has conducted the statewide poll.
Many Texans, especially the uninsured, say they don’t have a primary care provider.
In addition to affordability issues, EHF’s poll shows that more than a quarter of Texans (28%) say they do not have a primary care doctor or provider that they usually see for regular checkups when they are sick, or when they need health advice.
Again, for Texans without health insurance the numbers are even more concerning – 66% of
uninsured Texans under age 65 do not have a primary care provider. That’s compared to 21% of Texans with health insurance and under age 65 who say they don’t have a primary care doctor.
“Without regular primary care people are missing out on prevention and routine screening, especially for chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, and even some cancers,”
Barnes said. “That can lead to a delayed diagnosis, severe health complications, ER visits, and missing time at work. The results are much higher costs for Texans and the overall health system.”
EHF’s poll shows that more than one in 10 of Texans (13%) do not have a regular place where they receive medical care or rely on hospital emergency rooms. Younger adults (15%), Hispanic Texans (19%), and those with lower income levels (20%) are more likely to say they do not have a usual place where they receive care.
Most Texans say they’ve experienced a non-medical factor impacting their health. It’s not just problems getting medical care that is affecting the overall health of Texans. The poll finds that 75% of Texans say they experienced a non-medical factor impacting their health.
Those non-medical factors include issues like lack of job security (65%), living in an area with poor public transportation (58%), not being able to get affordable housing (43%), racial or ethnic discrimination (43%), problems getting quality medical care (40%), living in an area without essential resources (40%), or not having access to affordable housing and healthy food (38%).
Texans in poor health or battling chronic medical conditions are more likely to face certain nonmedical problems. More than half of Texans (53%) who report they are in poor health said they lacked access to affordable housing and healthy food compared to just 34% of those in good health. Similarly, 41% of those in poor health say they don’t have a place to exercise compared to 28% of Texans in good health.
“These numbers reveal what my patients at safety-net clinics taught me—their health concerns were predictable yet preventable outcomes of the challenging social and economic circumstances they faced,” Barnes said. “True health goes beyond the doctor’s office. We must confront the unequal and unacceptable health realities by addressing the root causes of poor health in communities.”
About two-thirds (65%) say Texans would be healthier if the state spent more money on non-medical factors that affect around 80% of an individual’s overall health outcomes. More than half (55%) say that insurance providers should cover non-medical factors that affect people’s health and 73% say it is very important or essential for doctors to ask about non-medical factors.
“If doctors and clinics ask about non-medical factors and then Medicaid and other health insurance plans start to pay for things like food prescriptions and interventions by community health workers, then we’ll begin to get better health outcomes,” Barnes said.
Finally, the poll finds that Texans have experienced a sharp decrease in their ability to afford basic necessities as inflation continues to affect household budgets. The poll shows 41% say it’s difficult to afford food, an increase of more than 10% points from 2021 when 29% said it was difficult to afford food. Similarly, 54% say it is difficult to afford gas and other transportation costs in 2022 compared to 42% in 2021.
Episcopal Health Foundation Helps Texas Legislature Take ‘Monumental Step’ in Addressing Maternal Health Crisis
A new state law went into effect in September 2023, requiring Texas Medicaid to develop a standardized, strengthened, screening tool to help determine the non-medical health needs of pregnant Texans and their babies.
The new law also allows community health workers and doulas to be reimbursed by Medicaid for their work to address those important needs through the state’s Case Management for Children and Pregnant Women program.
Research organized and funded by Episcopal Health Foundation helped provide important evidence showing the significant influence of non-medical drivers of health on high-risk pregnancies in Texas. Non-medical drivers of health are factors and conditions outside the healthcare system that significantly influence a person’s overall health and well-being.
More than half of all births across the state are covered by Medicaid. HB 1575 addresses a critical gap in maternal health care across the state by strengthening the way Medicaid helps identify and impact underlying, non-medical issues like housing, nutrition, transportation, employment, and more.
"This is a monumental step to putting the concept of improving health, not just health care, to work to address the maternal health crisis in Texas,” said Dr. Ann Barnes, president and CEO of Episcopal Health Foundation. “Identifying and addressing health-related needs beyond medical care improves birth and health outcomes. Allowing Medicaid to reimburse community health workers and doulas for the vital role they play is an important move forward in providing a crucial support system that’s been proven to boost the health of both moms and babies."
Episcopal Health Foundation’s research included a report by actuarial firm Milliman that found high-risk pregnancies are about twice as likely to have had a non-medical health need recorded on a health care claim as non-high-risk pregnancies. Researchers estimated that the health care cost in Texas for high-risk pregnancies was more than $770 million a year. The report was cited in committee hearings and in the official analysis of the bill.
Doulas and community health workers are trained professionals who play important roles in improving health outcomes for those high-risk pregnancies. Their work is particularly important in
Ann Barnes MD presents to group
underserved communities because doulas and community health workers uniquely address nonmedical drivers of health and reduce barriers to healthcare access. They work alongside medical professionals to provide culturally appropriate care and empower individuals to take control of their health.
“Whether it’s connecting mothers to community services or providing emotional support, community health workers and doulas work tirelessly to support Texas mothers,” Barnes said. “Improving opportunities for them to work with families through Medicaid really is crucial to addressing the state’s maternal health crisis, especially the alarming Black maternal health crisis.”
Passage of HB 1575 comes after the Texas Health and Human Services Commission released a groundbreaking action plan earlier last year to address non-medical drivers of health through Medicaid and CHIP by focusing on food insecurity, housing, and transportation.
Governor Greg Abbott signed HB 1575 into law on June 2, 2023. The law went into effect on Sept. 1, 2023.
Historic Grant Investment in Health Announced
Episcopal Health Foundation (EHF) has invested $22.8 million in new grants that help community-based organizations and clinics address non-medical drivers of health while providing access to comprehensive, preventive health services to low-income families across Texas. The investment announced in July 2023 is EHF’s largest single cycle of grants to date.
More than $5 million in grants is being awarded to organizations that are working to re-allocate health system resources to focus on non-medical causes of poor health. Some of these grants are also focused on finding sustainable ways for community-based clinics to pay for non-medical services through value-based payment models.
“This historic investment continues to advance the work of community clinics to go beyond their walls and
take community action to prevent poor health,” said Dr. Ann Barnes, EHF’s president and CEO. “This is what we mean by improving health, not just health care in Texas.”
In addition, $17.8 million in grants will provide funding in three other areas that are focused on making health services equitable and accessible:
• Providing comprehensive, preventive, primary care, reproductive, and behavioral health services
• Expanding health coverage and enrolling low-income Texans in affordable health insurance programs
• Increasing rural health services
Complete list of EHF new grant recipients:
• $900,000 – Access Health in Fort Bend County
• $388,491 – CommUnity Care in Travis County
• $1,078,470 – Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin
• $292,500 – Giving Austin Labor Support in Travis and Williamson counties
• $700,000 – Lone Star Circle of Care in Bastrop, Bell, Burnet, Harris, Travis and Williamson counties
• $400,000 – Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute across Texas
• $450,000 – People’s Community Clinic in Travis County
• $187,000 – Special Health Resources for Texas in Gregg and Smith counties
• $100,000 – Texas 2036 across Texas
• $200,027 – United Way for Greater Austin
• $360,000 – Waco Family Medicine
• $175,000 – Angelina County & Cities Health District
• $750,000 – Avenue 360 Health & Wellness in Ft. Bend, Harris and Montgomery counties
• $140,000 – Baylor College of Medicine’s Teen Health Clinic at Wisdom High School in Houston
• $200,000 – Bayside Healthcare Foundation in Chambers County
• $280,000 – Boat People S.O.S. in Brazoria, Ft. Bend and Harris counties
• $500,000 – Brazos Valley Community Action Agency in Brazos, Lee and Madison counties
• $136,500 – Bread of Life, Inc. across Texas
• $326,000 – Casa Marinella in Travis County
• $397,500 – Children’s Defense Fund across Texas
• $450,000 – Every Texan across Texas
• $250,000 – East Texas Food Bank in Gregg and Smith counties
• $50,000 – ECHOS in Harris County
• $750,000 – Foundation Communities in Bastrop, Bell, Burnet, Fayette, McLennan and Williamson counties
• $250,000 – Georgetown Health Foundation in Williamson County
• $166,157 – Health Alliance for Austin Musicians in Bastrop, Travis and Williamson counties
• $500,000 – Healthcare for the Homeless Houston
• $850,000 – Healthy Futures of Texas across Texas
• $350,000 – HOPE Clinic in Harris and Ft. Bend counties
• $750,000 – Heart of Texas Behavioral Health Network in Falls, Freestone and Limestone counties
• $431,015 – Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative across Texas
• $250,000 – Ibn Sina Foundation in Harris and Ft. Bend counties
• $650,000 – Lone Star Family Health Center in Montgomery County
• $350,000 – Memorial Assistance Ministries in Harris County
• $350,000 – Matagorda Episcopal Health Outreach Program in Matagorda and Wharton counties
• $450,000 – Mental Health America of Greater Houston
• $300,000 – The Montrose Center in Brazoria, Ft. Bend, Galveston, Harris, Montgomery and Waller counties
(List of grant recipients continued on next page.)
• $400,000 – Mosaic Counseling Centers of East Texas in Anderson, Cherokee, Gregg, Rusk and Smith counties
• $150,00 – Palacios Community Hub in Matagorda County
• $500,000 – People’s Community Clinic in Travis County
• $600,000 – Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast in Houston
• $915,000 – Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas in Tyler and Waco
• $100,000 – Push Birth Partners in Brazoria, Ft. Bend and Harris counties
• $41,688 – Saint Louise House in Travis County
• $451,835 – SEARCH Homeless services in Harris County
• $250,703 – Special Health Resources for Texas in Gregg and Smith counties
• $120,000 – Spring Branch Community Health Center in Harris, Galveston and Brazoria counties
• $247,750 – St. Paul Children’s Foundation in Gregg and Smith counties
• $575,000 – Stephen F. Austin Community Health Network in Brazoria, Galveston and Harris counties
• $150,000 – Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center in Travis County
• $700,000 – Tejas Health Care in Fayette County
• $550,000 – Texas Children’s Hospital in Harris County
• $54,938 – The Beacon of Downtown Houston
• $475,000 – The Rose in various counties
• $455,000 – The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
• $350,000 – The Women’s Home in Harris County
• $199,118 – UHPhealth in Chambers, Jefferson and Liberty counties
• $125,000 – VCare Clinics in Brazoria, Ft. Bend, Harris and Montgomery counties
• $351,600 – Waco Family Medicine
Congregational Engagement Cohort Encourages Congregations to Join with Community to Affect Poverty
Episcopal Health Foundation’s Congregational Engagement supported a Poverty Transformation Cohort in 2023. With a goal to enhance the impact of congregational ministries across the diocese, participating congregational teams adopted a “big picture” approach to problem-solving. The congregation teams interacted with their communities, developed partnerships, and shifted mindsets from charity-based outreach to transformative, community-centered ministry.
For St. Andrew’s, Bryan, an idea for a church-sponsored, community food pantry took shape, growing along the way as the larger community became involved. Diligently, the Bryan/College Station “Hunger Free Coalition” met with various segments of the community. Assistance was provided through the Baylor Collaborative and the Episcopal Diocese of Texas.
St. Andrew’s gained support from the Boys and Girls Club, the Brazos County Food Bank, St. Theresa Catholic Church, and the REACH Project. Through the collaboration, 200 families were initially served. That number tripled, and the ministry now serves as the catalyst for a “Hunger Free” community.
Through encouragement from EHF’s Congregational Engagement Team, an idea for a small-scale operation will leave a bigger footprint within the community.
So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to all the generations to come.
Psalm 71:18 OurHonoringSeniors
Episcopal Seniors Foundation Receives Numerous Requests for Funding in 2023, Awards 11 Grants
Episcopal Seniors Foundation (ESF) awarded 11 grants totaling $210,000 throughout the Episcopal Diocese of Texas in 2023 as part of its mission to enrich the lives of an aging population by improving quality of life.
“We were especially pleased to spread our giving to new geographic regions, including West Columbia and the Fort Worth region, while still supporting ministries we have helped in the past,” said Pamela S. Nolting, president, ESF board of directors.
Grants were awarded for feeding ministries such as food banks, Meals-on-Wheels, and other hot meal programs. Other awards included a chaplaincy program; church-sponsored social, educational, and spiritual events; support of housing for senior women; a guardianship program; as well as other social services.
Grantees and locations include Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, Angleton; Iglesia Episcopal San Mateo, Houston; Grace Episcopal Church, Alvin; St. Paul’s/San Pablo Episcopal Church, Houston; Family Eldercare, Austin; 4 Saints Episcopal Food Pantry, Fort Worth; Lord of the Streets Episcopal Church, Houston; Welcome Table/St. James, Austin; Abundant Harvest Kitchen/St. Isidore, Spring; Trinity Episcopal Church, Fort Worth; and West Columbia Meals on Wheels, West Columbia.
The foundation’s specific goals are to promote the health and wellbeing of seniors, especially those who are least served; foster the faith formation and spiritual growth of seniors; educate seniors, caregivers, congregations, and others through information sharing; and encourage missional communities and community life for seniors, wherever they live.
ESF is the smallest of the diocesan foundations, created from the assets of St. James House, Baytown, the former diocesan-owned nursing home and independent living facility. As the diocese sold St. James House and planned for future ministry to seniors, it dreamed of all that could be done by making small grants around the diocese.
“We have been thrilled with the results,” Nolting said. “Up to now, we have been able to fund almost anything for which we have been asked. The requests for our assistance, however, are now exceeding the available funds, so we are having to make some hard decisions and expect to adjust some of our policies before accepting grant requests in 2024.”
The ESF policies and procedures for grants are available on its webpage, www.epicenter.org/forleaders/esf . Grant applications are generally accepted mid-to-late summer for funding in late fall. The exact dates are posted on the webpage.
In addition to the Rt. Rev. Jeff Fisher, chair of the board, and Nolting, board members include: the Rev. Robby Vickery, the Rev. Wanda Cuniff, Lisa Kraus, Cory Macdonald, Maggie Abbott, Eric Kennedy, Aaron Smithers, Kerry Hancock, and Barbara Evans-Chowning.
Those who feel a call to volunteer through the senior ministry may contact Bishop Fisher or Pam Nolting.
Episcopal Senior Foundation Grant Benefits Aging Members of St. Paul’s/San Pablo, Houston, Post Pandemic
St. Paul’s/San Pablo Episcopal Church received a grant from the Episcopal Seniors Foundation for the fiscal year 2023. The idea to apply for the grant came from the experience of loss for many seniors during and after the pandemic. In that two-plus year period, four elderly congregants became widows; others were forced to retreat to senior living accommodations or higher levels of care.
The losses were not only for those who passed on, but also those mourning for a way of life. Friends were lost who worshiped together for decades. There was also the sense of loss of how their church used to be. Others were diagnosed with cancers and had to undergo treatments that seemed as devastating as the disease. A sadness pervaded during the last quarter of 2022 that was palpable in both the English and Spanish language-speaking congregations.
The senior grant was designed to fund excursions that built community, hope, and purpose in the lives of St. Paul’s/San Pablo seniors. The magic really happened when both congregations’ seniors gathered for fun events and outings that brought them together. Trips were taken to a winery, a ferryboat dinner cruise on Lake Conroe, an Astros baseball game, “Romeo and Juliet” ballet, the Holocaust Museum; and several other outings and events. All included a beautiful luncheon and an opportunity to simply laugh, share, and take in a moment without worries.
The outings were followed up with a gathering of the Explorers’ group, which meets every third Sunday of the month. Explorers originated as a grief group, but after a while everyone seemed to agree that rehashing losses only led to more depression and a feeling of isolation. The seniors shared their stories about losses, faith, and posed questions about aging and many other related topics that helped find common ground in their lives and faith journeys. This group was led by curate Rev. Alyssa Stebbing, who facilitated the conversation and led the group to an embracing of where they were in their lives. They were ready to have fun; live what remained of the life God gave them; and be in community with one another.
Seniors of St. Paul’s/San Pablo, Houston
Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long.
Psalm 25:4-5
CampusShowingMinistry: the Way of Love
Campus Ministries
Central Canterbury (Canterbury Episcopal Student Center - College Station) Campuses: Texas A&M and Blinn College
Northwest Canterbury (St. Lydia’s, Waco) Campuses: Baylor University, Texas State Technical College, and McLennan County Community College
The Episcopal Church at Rice University Campus: Rice University
Galveston Canterbury (Located: Trinity Episcopal, Galveston - Interim Chapel) Campuses: UTMB, Galveston Community College
Houston Canterbury Campuses: University of Houston, Texas Southern University, San Jacinto College, and Houston Community College
Southeast Canterbury Campus: Lamar University
Austin Canterbury (Episcopal Student Center - Austin) Campus: University of Texas-Austin
The Rev. Karl Griswold-Kuhn
The Rev. Enrique McCartney
The Rev. Preston Yancey
The Rev. Beth Anne Nelson
The Rev. Jimmy Abbott, Trinity, Galveston (left)
The Rev. Charles Graves IV
The Rev. Noah Stansbury
The Rev. Eric J. Ellis, St. Augustine Hippo, Galveston (right)
Northeast Canterbury (Canterbury Episcopal Student Center - Tyler) Campuses: University of Texas-Tyler and Stephen F. Austin
South Austin Canterbury (South ATX Canterbury) Campus: Austin Community College
St. Luke’s Episcopal Campus Ministry to Tarleton State University – Stephensville Campus: Tarleton State University
Trinity, Ft. Worth Campus: Texas Christian University
Grace Meals for SU – Georgetown Campus: Southwestern, Georgetown
San Jacinto Canterbury (Episcopal Student Center - Huntsville): Campus: Sam Houston, Huntsville
Campus Missions in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas are missional outposts that aspire to create fertile environments for discipleship, leadership development, service, and community engagement among and with students at various university and college campuses in the diocese.
Connect a Student with a Campus Mission
Do you know a student transitioning into their next chapter in life?
Provide us with some basic information, and we’ll do our best to connect them to an Episcopal campus mission or community.
Uriah Johnson
Mackenzie Campbell-Furtick
The Rev. Dr. Annelies Moeser
The Rev. Anne Matthews
The Rev. Blake Rider
South ATX Canterbury Commemorates ‘Firsts’
A year of firsts at South ATX (Austin) Canterbury was commemorated and accompanied by memories of fellowship and growth.
Canterbury’s first full year of ministry included Sunday evenings at St. Alban’s, Austin, where Lisa Perez, campus missioner, is also youth minister.
“Our group includes young adults attending Texas State, Western Governors, St. Edwards, and Austin Community College, and we maintain relationships with those who have moved out of state in the last year–in the Air Force, and to University of North Carolina School of the Arts,” Perez said. “Many are commuter or online-degree students and most grew up at St. Alban’s, although we do have some new folks."
Perez says students lovingly call South ATX Canterbury a third space. That’s a place that’s not their home and that’s not work or school, but where they can find connection and community.
One of the main highlights of 2023 for South ATX was a weekend retreat to San Antonio at the beginning of the fall semester.
“It was a great opportunity to build relationships, pray, and worship together, and plan for the coming year,” Perez added.
Prairie View A&M Canterbury Grows Ministry Among Collegiate Community
As the Episcopal Prairie View A&M Canterbury campus missioner, the Rev. Enrique McCartney has been leading this group of Canterbury students since January 2023. Over 40 students come regularly to meet every week for lively discussions and interesting activities. The collegiate group of students are from all around the world, with varying interests.
In spring, McCartney continued to foster the connections that were present before he arrived by making fellowship a focal point to promote spiritual growth among the students. Meals were shared and attendees engaged in discussions and had lively debates. Spirituality was supplemented with activities like game sessions, sporting games, and nights of bowling and pool.
The Prairie View Canterbury connected with another Canterbury group and is in discussion with yet another for more shared fellowship opportunities. Most importantly, the students have incorporated biblical knowledge into their lively meetings, bringing spiritual gifts to share together.
The Canterbury continues to encourage participation among students. Registration was made easier by using QR codes, and students were invited to use the hall for studying on Mondays and Thursdays between 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Students were involved in various aspects of planning. They also assisted in planning a music event for the next semester and regularly met with fellow students on Zoom.
In the fall semester, greater emphasis was placed on enhancing and improving our programs which are prominently featured on social media platforms. The Canterbury used a book, “Jesus CEO,” as a study guide to not only get closer to God but to also provide insight into the working world.
Sessions of Canterbury were involved in competition, crafts, and other projects. Additionally, a karaoke night was held, and a T-shirt craft event brought students together for a collaborative effort.
Through a philanthropic effort, a food distribution was held in Cypress, Texas by donating to the “Cy-Fair Helping Hands Organization.” This provided an opportunity for members to deepen their faith and engage in meaningful discipleship practices.
“Shukrani Zetu – Our Thanksgiving” was hosted as a major musical event that involved Canterbury students and other local choirs in offering African praise to the Lord. This event highlighted efforts in nurturing community connections, creating a sense of celebration and togetherness. The reviews and feedback received were as encouraging as the event itself.
In the future, enhanced programming activities are planned, and the Prairie View Canterbury has set these goals: expanding outreach initiatives; continuing to develop worship experiences; organizing additional engaging events; providing resources for discipleship and educational programs; fostering fellowship opportunities; and addressing miscellaneous needs.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the hard work that has been put in by the Canterbury student group prior to my arrival,” said McCarthey. “I am grateful for the efforts made by the Rev. Rogers, Mr. Roberts, Mr. Thomas, and others who have provided invaluable help and guidance to the group.” He continued, “I am personally committed to increasing connection and fellowship, encouraging participation, and providing opportunities for students to move closer to God. By doing so, we hope to create a supportive community that fosters spiritual growth and academic success among our students.”
2023 Graduates Honored at Banquet
Prairie View A&M University Canterbury hosted a banquet last spring at St. Francis of Assisi, Prairie View, to celebrate and honor graduating students. Over 40 Episcopal students who are actively engaged in various service and fellowship activities attended the event, including five exceptional graduates.
PVA&M Canterbury’s campus minister, the Rev. Enrique McCartney, issued a warm welcome followed by an opening prayer. Guest speaker Frederick Roberts, administrator of St. Francis of Assisi, delivered the keynote address. His inspiring speech centered around the importance of faith, education and service in shaping the lives of youth. Students and their guests enjoyed dinner and fellowship.
Graduates were highlighted for their hard work and dedication to Canterbury and the community. Each received a certificate and special gift.
The five exceptional graduates honored were:
Janet Ttilope Banjo, born in Lagos State, Nigeria, graduated with a Master of Science in Computer Information.
Adeola Aderinto, born in Lagos State, Nigeria, graduated with a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems.
Chioma Otteh, born in Nigeria and a U.S. citizen, graduated with a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems.
Sludare Herehiah Ogunbowale, born In Oyo State, Nigeria, graduated with a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems.
Shanelle Bwant, born in Clarendon, Jamaica, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering.
The event concluded with a prayer and message from McCartney as he thanked the graduates for their service and encouraged them to continue to use their education and faith to make a positive impact in the world.
The Canterbury at Prairie View A&M University is a campus ministry that provides opportunities for students to explore and deepen their faith, engage in service and fellowship and grow as leaders. The annual banquet is a tradition that celebrates the accomplishments of the graduating students and the community they have built at Canterbury.
Celebrating Nigerian Independence at PVAMU’s Episcopal Campus Ministry
The Episcopal Campus Ministry at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) came alive with vibrant colors, rhythmic dances, and a profound sense of patriotism in October as students from Nigeria and friends gathered to celebrate Nigerian Independence Day. This event was a testament to the rich cultural diversity and unity that defines the Nigerian community at PVAMU.
George Ekechukwu extends gratitude to Prairie View Canterbury and leaders of St. Francis of Assisi
The celebration’s highlight was the stunning display of Nigerian attire representing various tribes from the country. Students donned traditional clothing, highlighting the incredible diversity of Nigeria’s culture. It was a visual feast that reflected the essence of a nation known for its kaleidoscope of traditions and languages.
The event kicked off with an opening prayer led by George Ekechukwu (Computer Information Systems graduate student), setting a spiritual tone for the evening. It was a moment of reflection and gratitude, acknowledging the significance of Nigerian Independence Day. Attendees then joined together to sing the Nigerian national anthem. Voices synchronized, resonaated with strong national pride. This gallant effort highlighted the significance of Nigerian Independence Day.
The Nigerian Student Association (NSA) president took the stage to express gratitude to Canterbury’s leadership for organizing such a remarkable event. His words emphasized the importance of community and unity among Nigerian students at PVAMU. The evening was more than simply speeches and ceremonies; it was a cultural festival with dancing and song. Attendees were treated to a captivating performance of Nigerian dance genres spanning various parts of the country. The rhythmic beats and enthusiastic displays brought everyone to the heart of Nigeria.
The event also featured engaging games and a trivia session about Nigeria. Participants tested their knowledge and learned intriguing facts about the country, adding an educational element to the celebration. No celebration is complete without delicious food. The event featured a buffet of traditional Nigerian dishes, including jollof rice, pounded yam, and egusi soup, asu (assorted meat). Attendees relished the opportunity to savor the flavors of Nigeria.
A pictorial session allowed attendees to capture memories with the leadership of St. Francis of Assisi, Prairie View, and Canterbury members. As the evening drew to a close, the NSA president extended his gratitude and support to Rev. Rhonda Rogers, rector, and Father Enrique McCartney, college missionary. The event concluded with a heartfelt prayer by Rogers, a fitting end to a celebration filled with cultural richness and unity.
Rice University Autry House Ministry Provides Respite, Growth, Service Opportunities for Busy Rice Students
The Episcopal Church at Rice University (Autry House) is a committed group of undergraduate and graduate students who together navigate their faith journeys. When school is in session, students meet weekly for eucharist and a sacred space for dinner. Sometimes dinner is provided by a friendly face from Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church, an experience that provides a few moments for intergenerational conversation and community building.
Each week of the academic year, students meet “under the trees” outside a central location on Rice’s campus called the Brochstein Pavilion. This year, students began leading their own lunch fellowship and have grown in their ability to be at the front of their faith community.
Autry House transitioned from leadership by the Rev. Sarah Condon to the Rev. Beth Anne Nelson in 2023. Condon had focused the first half-year on building a tight knit community that emphasized Jesus’ love for all people. In the second half of 2023, Rev. Nelson began building upon this foundation to take Autry House into its next missional identity.
Rice student Ava McClung voiced her support for the Autry House ministry: “I really appreciate having this group of students to share time with and having Beth Anne and Sarah as resources to help me navigate both this new chapter of my life and my faith journey.”
Autry students have a strong desire to serve the community, whether at Autry House or outside the church walls. In 2023, they made over 300 snack bags for students taking the STAAR, served at the Houston Food Bank and in partnership with Lord of the Streets (LOTS).
“The Autry House is a community with deep formational questions,” Nelson said. “Students began learning about the mission of the Episcopal Church. This encourages an Episcopal identity focusing on the Catechism.”
Students took special outings to Galveston for a retreat weekend in the spring where they engaged in a meaningful rhythm of prayer that fits the changing world they inhabit. In the fall, students traveled back in time as they stepped onto the grounds of the Texas Renaissance Festival. Autry House students felt immersed and relaxed in both environments as they took breaks from their studies.
Southwestern University Canterbury Students Receive Meals, Fellowship from Grace Episcopal Church, Georgetown
Southwestern University (SU) does not have an active Canterbury, but Grace Episcopal, Georgetown, has continued to provide “Grace Meals” to SU students. The meal ministry, renamed “chinner” for church dinner, has become a “known quantity” on campus, as Grace served three meals in the spring to a total of 123 students. That total jumped to 217 during the fall. For the last meal of each semester the ministry also provided snack items and gave the students “goody bags” to fill. Remaining items were donated to the on-campus pantry.
The Rev. Anne Matthews (retired from Grace) and Dr. Melanie Hoag Bliss (faculty sponsor, Grace member) work with a growing number of Grace member volunteers to produce the meals and offer fellowship on each occasion.
Dr. Ron Swain, SU chaplain and director of spiritual life, sponsored SU’s first Interfaith Fair in August and launched a student-led weekly chapel service in September. The church continues to hope and plan to revive Canterbury on the SU campus.
Swain sent the following:
“Good afternoon Anne and Melanie,
This email comes to express my personal gratitude to both of you and to the members of Grace Episcopal Church for extending radical hospitality to our students with a dinner meal on the fourth Tuesday of each month. From what I am hearing, the students greatly appreciate the meal and the opportunity to share fellowship with you all. Please let me know if I can be of assistance at any time.”
Texas A&M University Canterbury Welcomes New Leadership, Growth
After a year without a priest, the Canterbury Episcopal Student Center at Texas A&M University (TAMU) welcomed the Rev. Karl E. GriswoldKuhn and his family to College Station in March 2023.
During the last year, the campus ministry has seen tremendous growth in numbers as well as in its focus on discipleship. In the fall semester Griswold-Kuhn led students through the catechism in anticipation of their November bishop’s visit.
Bishop Fisher confirmed four students, received two students into the Episcopal Church, and oversaw the reaffirmation of faith of two others. Later that month Griswold-Kuhn baptized a student.
Students served at two fundraising events. Through Ring Day Parking, students raised money for the Brazos Valley Coalition on Suicide Prevention and the Twin City Mission. With the help of two interns and parishioners from St. Thomas Episcopal, College Station, the TAMU Canterbury served over 1.000 meals to hungry students between weekly suppers on Wednesday and Sunday evenings.
Also, students distributed hundreds of breakfast tacos on campus in an effort to spread the overwhelming abundance of God and to tell people about the Episcopal ministry.
There were several fellowship events in 2023. Some favorites included movie nights, pumpkin carving, football watch parties, and a trip to Santa’s Wonderland.
“Over the course of the last year students spent many hours in our space studying, fellowshipping, praying, and worshiping God,” said Griswold-Kuhn. “We are excited to see God continue to do amazing work in our midst in the future.”
After 12 years in parish ministry, GriswoldKuhn was unsure what to expect going into full-time campus ministry, he said. Yet, he discovered he absolutely loves his new job and feels it a tremendous privilege to serve such an important ministry.
The Rev. Karl E. Griswold-Kuhn Baptizing Student
Houston Canterbury 2023 Highlights Include Working with Campuses to Promote Diversity, Inclusion Programs
The year has been monumental for Houston Canterbury, with several major accomplishments. The Houston Canterbury includes three campuses: The University of Houston Central Campus, University of Houston-Downtown, and Texas Southern University.
A mission trip to Costa Rica was accomplished with success by 10 students, later resulting in three students being confirmed and one serving Costa Rica through the Young Adult Service Corps.
During the fall, a weekly lunchtime worship service was launched at Texas Southern University and the University of Houston Downtown. Each service now includes 10-20 students attending who are new to the Episcopal Church.
“Finally, we stepped up to fill the gaps left by the closure of diversity, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ offices on our campuses, working with campus partners to relaunch similar programs as soon as possible,” said the Rev. Charles Graves IV, campus missioner. This resulted in a front-page cover story in the Houston Chronicle on Sept. 24 and additional coverage in the Texas Observer, Episcopal News Service, and other publications.
Graves continued, “We are honored to be witnesses for Christ on our campuses, introduce young people to the breadth of the Episcopal/Anglican tradition, and transform lives on and off our campuses in the process.”
St. Luke’s, Stephenville, Makes Impact at Neighboring Tarleton State University through Campus Ministries
Conveniently located across the street from St. Luke’s Episcopal, Stephenville, the campus ministry is the beneficiary of open communication and accessibility.
Meal Preparation
Mackenzie Campbell-Furtick, campus missioner, says 2023 was an active year, with a consistent group of 10-20 students and young adults participating actively in St. Luke’s ministries.
St. Luke’s and ECM provided free, home-cooked lunches to Tarleton students and staff every Thursday during the long semesters, with an average attendance of 95. The meal is a homemade labor of love, inclusive of a full salad bar. Importantly, two students helped every single week in the fall semester to prepare food, serve students, and clean up after Thursday lunches. Leftovers are used to feed students on Monday nights at “UR Loved Library” gatherings.
Closing Food Insecurity Gaps
ECM students began a service project to help fill the gaps in food insecurity in the community. Food insecurity is prevalent in 20 percent of the student population at Tarleton State. The “PopUp Pantry” ministry distributes bags of free food to students on campus who need it, especially during breaks when many stay on campus. This year students held the pop-ups at Spring Break, Easter, and Thanksgiving. A total of 151 bags were distributed to Tarleton students.
St. Luke’s Episcopal Campus Ministries (ECM) serves students at Tarleton State University
Pop-up Pantries
Students received $500 in grant funding to support the three Pop-Up Pantries. Parishioners, family members, and friends provided the mission with funds and support totalling $1,110 along with 100 canvas bags, 150 loaves of bread, 50 portions of candy, and 50 single pies. Food was given away in bags decorated with the tagline: “UR Loved.”
Friendsgiving
St. Luke’s ECM students joined a local Methodist campus ministry for “Friendsgiving” this year with 14 participants. Students prepared the dishes at St. Luke’s kitchen, providing a wide assortment of sides.
Food Pantry and Christmas Store
Students also helped with the St. Luke’s food pantry held twice a month. Volunteers showed up for the Christmas Store at St. Luke’s, an event held for pantry clients to shop for Christmas decorations and toys at a discounted rate.
Office Refurbished
The campus missioner’s office was refurbished this year for an updated, inviting space to welcome students. The makeover included $6,000 for repaint, carpet, and furniture.
Full-time Missioner
Campus missioner Campbell-Furtick began full-time hours in April.
Campbell-Furtick knows the ECM is making a difference in students’ lives by the comments they leave about the student ministry. One gave thanks for being treated with understanding and not being judged. Another was changed by becoming a Christian. Still another said if it weren’t for church ministries and leadership, they wouldn’t be a Christian.
For worship and formation, many ECM students attend Sunday services regularly and are lay readers. Evening services are also provided for students and friends on Wednesdays. One student was baptized in the spring, and the 2023 senior warden and campus missioner were asked to be Godparents. Two students are currently in confirmation classes.
Two ECM students attended Diocesan Council as delegates in 2023, a first-time participating in the new diocese, said Campbell-Furtick. The students voted on legislation which included using more inclusive language in diocesan constitutions and canons.
“The new space has been instrumental in creating an environment where students feel welcome to come hang out between or after classes or after lunches on Thursday to talk, study, or ‘just be’ in the campus office,” Campbell-Furtick said.
Episcopal Student Center, Sam Houston State University, Offers Support, Provides Safe Space for All in 2023
The Episcopal Student Center’s achievements at Sam Houston State University this year have been a testament to the transformative power of the boundless love and grace of God.
“Membership and the center’s presence at Sam Houston State grew faster than it ever has since before the beginning of the pandemic,” center representative Alison Wilkins. “We’ve witnessed profound growth in fellowship, mission, and engagement in God’s word. We have continued our commitment to combating food insecurity on our campus by opening our own food pantry, which we keep stocked with the help of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church and Holy Innocents Episcopal Church.”
Throughout the year, the student center held a range of events to both continue to fellowship with current students and connect with students who may be unfamiliar with the center or the Episcopal Church. From the back-to-school cookout to a pumpkin carving party to movie nights, the center was able to reach students who may have been hesitant to engage in any religious ministries. The center fostered relationships with students of all backgrounds.
“Through these events, we were also able to spread the word about some of the resources we provide, such as our food pantry, community fridge, and free counseling,” Wilkins said.
SHSU holds an annual ceremony called the “Sammys” for student organizations to award outstanding organizations in different categories. This year, the Episcopal Student Center was nominated for four Sammys: Outstanding Advocacy Organization, Outstanding Diversity Organization, Outstanding Religion/Spirituality Organization, and Outstanding Student Advisor. The center won the Outstanding Diversity Organization Sammy and had the opportunity to share a speech about God’s love, emphasizing that at the center, all are welcome.
For many campus LGBTQ+ students, this was the first time in their lives they had a faith community where they were fully affirmed in their queerness and could worship God as themselves without fear of judgment. Having a safe space on campus to worship, ask questions, and be in fellowship with each other is so important for students to access, Wilkins explained.
“We are glad to be able to provide that here at SHSU,” said Wilkins. “Through hosting events, doing outreach on campus, and word of mouth, we have gained a campus-wide reputation of being queer-affirming and a safe space for anyone to be a part of, no matter who they are. Beyond providing a safe space, our student-led Bible study has sparked curiosity, encouraging students to explore their faith freely, ask questions, and engage in discussions within a nurturing environment.”
Additionally, family-style, home-cooked dinners are provided by St. Stephen’s, Huntsville, after Bible studies every week, feeding the students and instilling a sense of familial support for students, especially those living in dorms away from their families for the first time.
The upcoming year looks bright for the Episcopal Student Center at Sam Houston State University. Students look forward to sharing the love of God with even more people through continued traditions and new ideas.
“We’re excited about fostering an atmosphere that nourishes spiritual growth and provides a sanctuary where students can find peace and experience the love of God through learning, worship, and fellowship with one another,” Wilkins said.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13
Manifesting Hope
Great Success at First Pilot ‘Walking with Christ’
Trinity, Baytown, hosted its inaugural Walking with Christ event, Saturday, Sept. 23. The one-day retreat for spiritual renewal and intentional discipleship is designed to form lay leaders in their spiritual growth and leadership development through prayer, study, and action.
• 76 lay leaders representing over 20 congregations were in attendance.
• 14 of them were clergy who were personally invited to be part of this pilot retreat.
• 15 Hispanic lay leaders from the Houston and Austin areas committed to replicate this retreat in Spanish.
• 17 young adults from different congregations expressed that they too loved the intergenerational conversations shared during group sessions.
Walking with Christ spiritual retreat is intended to identify potential lay leaders, including young adults across the diocese who are engaged in leadership development. Lay leaders expressed that they felt refreshed and renewed by the gathering.
Five New Daughters of the King Admitted to Trinity Chapter
Five new Daughters of the King (DOK) were admitted to the Trinity Chapter at Trinity Episcopal Church, Fort Worth, on Daughters Sunday held Jan. 22. They included Beckie Balsai, Luanne Kallas-Burton, Patricia Caddell, Robin Clayton, and Joanne Harmon. The Rev. Robert Pace, rector, administered their vows. Tory Arnold, president of the Texas Diocese DOK, was their honored guest.
Suzanne Rodriguez, Deborah Finn, Beckie
and Luanne Kallas-Burton. Not pictured: Celia Ledbetter and Tracy Miller.
Church of the Wild Holds First Worship Service
Finding a connection with God through nature was the theme of a unique cooperative worship service for members of three Huntsville community churches: First Christian Church, First United Methodist Church and St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. The “Church of the Wild” first service was held at Huntsville State Park on a Sunday afternoon in April of last year with 60 participants.
Photo credit: Paul Ridings
Pictured: Mary Holstein, Row 1 - Left to Right: Jackie Stahlecker, Tory Arnold, Suzanne Conerway, President of Trinity DOK Ann Risk, Amiso George, Row 2 - Joanne Harmon, Beth Mewis, Patricia Caddell,
Balsai, Robin Clayton,
St. Martin’s, Houston, Receives 10,000th Member on St. Martin’s Day
St. Martin’s, Houston, had 9,999 members prior to November. That number increased in November 2023 on St. Martin’s Day, making the congregation even larger once it received its 10,000th member.
Already the largest Episcopal Church in the country, the congregation celebrated St. Martin’s Day in a special way during the November service, beginning at 11:15 a.m. Now retired, the Rev. Dr. Russell “Russ” J. Levenson, Jr., rector, who began his tenure at St. Martin’s in 2007, considered the event as a chapter in the ministry of the church.
The day marked a milestone in both the life of St. Martin’s and the Diocese of Texas.
Photo credit: Chuck Nguyen (ENS)
Milestones, New Beginnings in the Life of San Romero, Houston: Sixth Anniversary and Groundbreaking Ceremony
Last spring, congregants of San Romero, Houston celebrated the sixth anniversary of the parish’s first worship service.
On March 11, 2023, the community of San Romero, gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony of a new worship space. Prayers of hope were written on the walls before construction began.
The origin of the community of San Romero initially began as the “Amigos en Cristo” Bible study and prayer group gathering in members’ homes. At the 168th Diocesan Council on Feb. 11, 2017, the community was recognized as a fellowship.
On March 1, 2017, congregants gathered on Ash Wednesday for ashes-to-go and the Eucharist— which became the first official public gathering as a fellowship. The following Sunday, March 5, congregants began their Sunday worship.
Prayers of HOPE were written on the walls before construction began.
St. Andrew’s, Bryan, Hosts Planning Meeting for Future Brazos County ‘Hunger Free Coalition’
Fifty-plus community members met in June 2023 to begin planning for the Hunger Free Coalition in Brazos County. St. Andrew’s, Bryan, in partnership with the Episcopal Health Foundation (EHF) hosted the meeting to discuss formation of the coalition in Brazos County.
Collaborators include St. Andrew’s, the Brazos Valley Food Bank, Santa Teresa Catholic Church, Bryan, and the Baylor University Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty. The nonprofits, faith communities, local government, and higher education representatives came together to name priorities and gaps in providing food in Brazos County. EHF provided translation equipment for volunteers.
The Baylor Collaborative shared information about providing six, future training sessions to help partners build the infrastructure of a sustainable coalition to end hunger in Brazos County.
(Photos provided by Rev. Daryl Hay)
Calvary Episcopal Church Hosts First ‘Wildflower Gathering’ for Inclusive Worship in 2023
Calvary Episcopal Church, Bastrop, held its inaugural Wildflower Gathering on April 29. The gathering provided an inclusive, interactive and creative worship experience, appealing to those seeking a church community that offers a shorter, less formal service.
The event was organized by two parishioners Erika Rankin and Holly Fritz. The pair have neurodivergent family members and saw a need for a less formal service in which everyone could participate.
“I realized there is a need for this type of service several years ago when my middle daughter, who is spiritual but not religious, said she just isn’t comfortable in our regular services,” said Fritz. “She grew up in the Episcopal church, loves Jesus, but doesn’t care for the formal prayers and structured format. I think if she were to come, she would resonate with the spontaneity and creativity of the wildflower gathering.”
The term “wildflower gathering” came from Rankin’s realization that Episcopal services tend to be very well structured.
“I grew up in the Episcopal church and I appreciate the beauty of the liturgy,” Rankin said. “Its structure, ritual, and attention to detail remind me of a formal garden. I suspect everyone has experienced a time where they felt like maybe they were a dandelion surrounded by roses. I wanted to grow a community that demonstrates radical inclusion for all people. So that brought me to the idea of the beauty and variety of wildflowers and God’s encompassing love for all creation.”
The Wildflower Gathering was held outside in the courtyard and included a craft activity where participants painted what they thought God looks like. The service continued with a worship circle, where participants sang, heard Bible stories, and responded creatively, followed by a procession to the parish hall, where participants feasted together, completing the worship celebration.
Last year's Wildflower Gathering attracted a group of 41 people, which provides a good core group to build on for future gatherings.
Photos of Wildflower Gathering courtesy of Calvary Episcopal, Bastrop
St. Luke’s in the Meadow, Fort Worth, and 4Saints Episcopal Food Pantry Find New Home in February 2023
St. Luke’s in the Meadow Episcopal Church, Fort Worth, and the 4Saints Episcopal Food Pantry have moved once again. Following the loss of their building in February 2021, the congregation relocated into space on the campus of Texas Wesleyan University. Now St. Luke’s and 4Saints have leased space in the Meadowbrook/Poly United Methodist Church, Fort Worth, located at 3900 Meadowbrook Dr.
The church will be located in one part of the Community Life Center (CLC) for about three years while building a new facility on Lancaster Avenue.
The food pantry operates from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Fridays. The church hosts a mobile pantry outside the CLC one Saturday a month.
St. Luke’s in the Meadow began worshiping in the CLC at 10 a.m. each Sunday, beginning Feb. 19. of last year. The CLC will continue to be available to other users as well.
In an effort to celebrate and get to know each other, the three organizations celebrated Mardi Gras 2023 together in the Fellowship Hall. Tickets included dinner from the Cajun on the Go Food Truck and a performance from the East Fort Worth Community Jazz Band.
Resurrection, Decatur, Pays Off Nearly $2 Million in Medical Debt for Neighbors
Fueled by faith and grace, the mighty-yet-tiny Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, Decatur, raised money to pay off more than $1.6M in medical bills for its community members last year.
Congregants in the small church located northwest of Fort Worth in Wise County worked with the nonprofit RIP Medical Debt. The 501 charity focuses on the elimination of personal medical debt by purchasing medical debt at a steep discount on the debt collection market. Because of the steep discount, every dollar donated may forgive tens of thousands of dollars in debt.
Resurrection’s congregation, which numbers about 25, took note and got to work this year with a goal to relieve $500,000 in debt. That goal was more than tripled as the yearly campaign ended in spring of last year.
The local newspaper Wise County Messenger recently carried a story about the church’s outreach:
In June 2022, National Public Radio (NPR), in partnership with Kaiser Health News (KHN), reported that in the past five years, more than half of U.S. adults report they’ve gone into debt because of medical or dental bills. The report stated that a “quarter of adults with health care debt owe more than $5,000. And about 1 in 5 with any amount of debt said they don’t expect to ever pay it off.”
According to the U.S. Bureau, Texas has the highest percentage of uninsured residents in the country. Additionally, even for those with insurance, medical costs, deductibles, and copays have increased.
From the NPR report: “Debt is no longer just a bug in our system. It is one of the main products,” said Dr. Rishi Manchanda, who has worked with low-income patients in California for more than a decade and served on the board of the nonprofit RIP Medical Debt. “We have a health care system almost perfectly designed to create debt.”
The report observed that this debt burden is “forcing families to cut spending on food and other essentials.” Millions are being driven from their homes or into bankruptcy, the KHN poll found. Resurrection is working to lift that burden from some of their neighbors.
Resurrection began in 2015 as a house church in the home of one of its members. The congregation determined they would pick a mission a month as a way to reach out to their community. As the local paper reported, “In the last year, members have come together to provide resources to organizations and agencies including the Wise County Animal Shelter, local fire departments, CASA, and the Children’s Advocacy Center.”
(Story compiled with contribution from the Wise County Messenger, 2023.)
Señor, tú eres mi Dios; yo te alabo y bendigo tu nombre, porque has realizado tus planes admirables, fieles y seguros desde tiempos antiguos.
Isaías 25:1
San Romero, Houston, Celebrates Patronal Feast
The Patronal Feast held at San Romero, Houston, in March 2023, celebrated and honored St. Oscar Romero. On the 43rd anniversary of his martyrdom, Monsignor Romero is considered a worldwide prophet and martyr who proclaimed the preferential option for the poor and became the voice of the voiceless.
The San Romero church members also used the occasion to celebrate Texan Day by wearing cowboy attire and celebrating the heritage and culture of the state that is now homeland to congregants.
Nacer de Nuevo: 2023 Mission Trip to El Salvador
The prayer group Nacer de Nuevo from Houston, a lay-led, clergy-supported ministry, traveled to El Salvador from Nov. 15-19 for a mission trip. They collaborated with the Diocese of El Salvador of Central America to carry out the mission called “Nacer de Nuevo” (Born Again) in four churches and communities of the El Salvadorian diocese.
Two priests and four lay leaders from Houston joined together with the El Salvador evangelism team. The team included Bishop David Alvarado, Primate of IARCA and Bishop of El Salvador, three priests, three deacons, and four lay leaders who also participated in this mission trip.
On the first day, Bishop Alvarado blessed and sent the missionary team out for a beautiful and impactful work week with an intense agenda starting at 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., and ending with compline. Everyone who participated in this mission reported feeling blessed and loved by the Holy Spirit.
During this trip, the leaders visited roughly 70 families, sharing the word of God, blessing their homes and praying for them. In some moments, they also prayed for the people who were driving their motorcycles, cars, bicycles, or walking.
Yolanda Medina, a lay leader and president of Nacer de Nuevo, took part in the logistics of the mission trip alongside Deacon Vilma Landaverde, head of evangelism of the Diocese of El Salvador for six months. Medina shared that as they visited the communities, they realized the importance of taking the word of God along with prayer to homes that are in need of spiritual nourishment. Many of them moved away from their communities due to the pandemic, and the majority did not have any information about the Episcopal Church. Landaverde, along with the team, had the opportunity to invite those visited to be part of this great family.
Medina had the opportunity to share the joy and many times the tears as they felt the presence of the Holy Spirit.
“As we sang and prayed, I thank God for having allowed us to do this great mission 2023 in El Salvador,” Medina said.
Landaverde witnessed the transformation within herself and the communities they visited.
“The mission is to bring the good news of deliverance in three fundamental points,” Landaverde said. “By faith, fasting and prayer, everything else comes according to the will of God.”
In each church and community visitation, the prayer group joined together with other families for a time of worship, discipleship training, healing prayer, dances, and testimonies of transformation.
The revival of these communities was noticeable and there is still a lot of work to be done. They plan to continue this method of evangelization and will work together for future mission trips.
The Nacer de Nuevo prayer group and the leadership of the Diocese of El Salvador are grateful to all those who prayed for them during their time together. The Holy Spirit is always guiding paths.
San Pedro, Pasadena, Builds Momentum with Second Year Mini Soccer Initiative
Building on the success of its first season of youth soccer, San Pedro, Pasadena, kicked off a second year of its youth mini soccer league last year.
In total, 70 youth were registered for the league. The continued sports initiative is helping to develop leadership skills like sportsmanship and team building among San Pedro youth, says the Rev. Pedro Lopez.
To support this ministry, contact Lopez: pedronel917@gmail.com
Photos courtesy of San Pedro, Pasadena
Latino/Hispanic Ministry Highlights at Christ Church Cathedral, Houston: Sharing Culture
Christ Church Cathedral celebrated Mes de la Herencia with food from different parts of Latin America on two occasions in October. Danza Folkloricas de Solei and La Sonora Dinamita performed. Special guests included the Rev. Al Rodríguez and the Rev. Nancy Frausto.
On a Sunday in December, both congregations from the church shared a traditional Dominican soup as John McLaughlin presented his inspirational bilingual story “The Good Stranger’s Sancocho Surprise.” The congregations commemorated the journey that Joseph and Mary made from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of a safe refuge where Mary could give birth to baby Jesus.
On Sunday. Dec. 31, 2023 during the Holy Eucharist, Pastorela was characterized by a group of children from the Latino congregation. The presentation was during the 1 p.m. service in the church. A Pastorela is a play that recreates the passage when the shepherds follow the star of Bethlehem to go find the Christ child.
Photos courtesy of Christ Church Cathedral, Houston
Hispanic Lay Conference
Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received. Whoever speaks must do so as one speaking the very words of God; whoever serves must do so with the strength that God supplies, so that God may be glorified in all things through Jesus Christ. To him belong the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 4:10-11
Paying it Forward
Abundant Harvest, Spring, Expands Community Partnerships, Creates New Bistro Arm to Generate Revenue to Serve Needy
Abundant Harvest, the charitable arm of St. Isidore, Spring, continues to think creatively as the nonprofit accomplishes its mission in providing more than 30,000 pounds of food weekly for families who are struggling financially.
Abundant Harvest began operating from a food truck in 2017, post Hurricane Harvey, and expanded to a brick-and-mortar operation in 2020.
Last Christmas, 30-plus volunteers provided more than 200 families with 10 free meals. Along with the meals, families received free toys, courtesy of longtime partner PTSD Foundation of America Houston Outreach. Abundant Harvest connects with likeminded organizations to promote community healing.
Harvest Kitchen Curate Kurt Unangst says that partner events help to serve an often overlooked and underserved cross section of the community.
In February 2023, Abundant Harvest teamed with PTSD Foundation again, launching the “Sweet Valentine’s from Santa” toy giveaway at Abundant Harvest headquarters. Local families gained eight pallets of toys left over from the PTSD toy drive.
As the year progressed, Abundant Harvest tested the culinary waters by converting its donationsbased kitchen into a for-profit bistro. The Abundant Harvest Kitchen & Bistro launched in the summer at 24803 Oakhurst Dr., in Spring.
As donations diminished to the kitchen, it became expensive to run the pantry. Organizers transformed the space into a for-profit bistro to continue funding free programs.
Executive director, the Rev. Sean Steele, said the team will continue to feed and serve hundreds of families in the community with hope and life. Profits from the bistro will help support the pantry, veterans’ outreach, mental health services, the wellness program, and more.
Bistro executive chef Joe Macri has 30 years of experience in the restaurant business and operates the local Elm & Magnolia Restaurant with his wife. He said Abundant Harvest Kitchen and Bistro will have scratch-made pasta, Italian cuisine and more. The bistro will be open Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
(Special thanks to the Houston Chronicle and Woodlands Online for stories used to create this 2023 update on Abundant Harvest philanthropic projects.)
Photos credit and courtesy of Chris Fahey
St. Mark’s, Beaumont, Raises $53,000 for Community Outreach Grants
Proceeds from the St. Mark’s Chili Supper & Bazaar and the St. Mark’s Treasure House have funded $53,000 in grants to support 20 nonprofits in southeast Texas.
St. Mark’s, Beaumont, Mission and Ministry Council used the funds to award the grants to organizations like the Southeast Texas Food Bank, CASA, Henry’s Place, The Crisis Center, and Nutrition & Services for Seniors.
St. Mark’s was featured in May of last year in a story that aired on NewsNow, a Beaumont news organization: bit.ly/3ZCJWb3
17th Annual Brotherhood of St. Andrew Golf Tournament Issues Thanks to Supporters
The Texas Assembly of Brotherhood of St. Andrew in Houston held its 17th Annual Golf Tournament Sept. 19 at Cypresswood Golf Club in Spring, Texas.
This one-and-only annual fundraiser for the Texas Assembly supports the following charities:
• Fall Boys Retreat at Camp Allen for 50+ inner city youth
• Positive Black Males Association
• $6000 in youth scholarships
• Angel Reach
• Camp Good News (for youth whose parents are incarcerated)
• Hope Center (homeless center in North Houston)
• Lord of the Streets (LOTS) (homeless center downtown Houston)
• Gary Sinise Foundation
• Camp Hope
The event drew 86 golfers in 2023. Sixty auction items were available through the successful silent auction fundraiser. Many volunteers assisted with the event. Subway sandwiches provided energy for the course, and a barbecue dinner following the tournament.
“Some of us played golf and others attempted to play golf,” said Peter Gilmour, chapter director and president of the Texas Assembly of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew. “All had fun and enjoyed the gorgeous weather.”
Gilmour said the Brotherhood would especially like to thank Bishops Monterroso and Fisher for their support of the tournament.
Christ Church, Temple, Continues Tradition of Christmas Giving Project to Low Income Housing Residents
For a third consecutive year, Christ Church, Temple, congregants have donated Christmas dinner and gifts to residents of Kyle, a downtown Temple apartment complex for low-income residents.
Last December that commitment continued as 19 church members gathered to serve the church’s holiday offering to 47 guests from the complex. Ham, turkey, and all the homemade trimmings were added to the feast.
Servers for the holiday meal included church rector, the Rev. Keith Pozzuto along with a special guest of the church: the Very Rev. Dan Mazimbo, dean of the Cathedral of Blantyre, Lalawi in the Anglican Diocese of Southern Malawi. Volunteer G.A. Whitehead coordinated the preparation and cooking.
Church deacon Becky Sparks said the event grows each year as the church hall is filled with aroma, laughter, music and a special Christmas experience.
The combination makes for a true holiday experience for attendees. Christ Church also provides pastoral care, special events like Bingo, and worship opportunities to residents throughout the year as part of its outreach mission in the community.
(Information gathered courtesy of the Killeen Daily Herald News)
St. Bartholomew’s, Hempstead, St. Francis of Assisi, Prairie View, Collaborates with Robust
ESL Pilot Project
Through a joint project, St. Bartholomew’s, Hempstead, and St Francis of Assisi, Prairie View, partnered in 2023 to initiate a pilot English as a second language (ESL) program for two semesters for Waller County adults.
Members of the both churches with education backgrounds taught the two classes and provided meals. Volunteer parishioners focused on each student’s goals and extended warm hospitality
to students and their families. A prayer box was provided each week so that the churches could keep the students and their families in prayer.
In 2024, the pilot initiative expands through partnership with the bilingual department at Hempstead ISD, Trinity Lutheran Church, Hempstead, and the Prairie View A&M Canterbury. The Episcopal churches, in partnership with the Diocese of Texas, raised funds to pay a teacher from Hempstead ISD’s bilingual department to lead the classes. The bilingual department paid for the curriculum and books, and marketed the program to parents. Trinity Lutheran will host the expansion of the program on its campus. St. Bartholomew and Prairie View’s Canterbury will provide volunteers and meals.
This collaboration between churches and denominations provides a positive impact for the learners and their families and continues to leave an imprint on the fabric of the community.
Community of Sealy Join for the Grand Reopening of the Good Samaritan Shop
Work began in 2023 to renovate the Good Samaritan Shop in Sealy through which the Ministerial Alliance raises funds to support the needs of Sealy neighbors with utilities, transportation, and food. In the second phase of the renovation, case workers will move from Immaculate Conception Catholic Church to offices in the back of the shop to meet with neighbors one-on-one and respond to their needs, including providing clothes from the shop.
Mary Emerson, a member of St. John’s, Sealy, participates as one of the case workers. St John’s retired rector, the Rev. Eric LeBrocq, was instrumental during his tenure in involving local community leaders and local foundations in this expansion effort.
Wife of Parish Musician Couple at St. Stephen’s, Liberty, Serves as Organist for 75 Years While Sharing Other Gifts with Parish and Community
Sandra Sterling, along with husband Jim are the parish musicians at St. Stephen’s in Liberty. What’s extraordinary is that self-taught Sandra began playing the organ at St. Stephen’s at the young age of 12 on an old pump organ. Today, 75 years later, her commitment has not wavered, and she remains the organist for the church, playing a much finer organ. Such a commitment and opportunity to serve one’s parish through worship in this way is rare, given the length of time Sandra has given of her musical gifts.
A member of the church for what is easily considered a lifetime, Sandra has also served St. Stephen’s through its vestry more than once, including a term as Senior Warden. She served as Church Treasurer for over 20 years, and is member of the Altar Guild, Episcopal Church Women (ECW), Friends in Deed, and she is a Daughter of the King (DOK).
Doing Good Outside of St. Stephen’s In the community, Sandra is a selfless member, having been named “Citizen of the Year” by the local Chamber of Commerce. With a clear commitment to making her community better, she was also the recipient of the Community Builder Award, a recognition by the local Masonic Lodge. The recipient of a plethora of honors, recognitions, and special accolades, Sandra was also selected as the Grand Marshal at the Trinity Valley Exposition parade in Liberty in 2022. With a desire to make lives for others better, Sandra also served as Chairman for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Liberty County for 15 years where committee fundraisers realized over $1.5 million dollars towards cancer research.
“Sandra and Jimmy Sterling are exemplars of lifelong Christian service. They have faithfully led generations of St. Stephen’s parishioners in song. Their prayerful devotion and musical giftedness would strike even the heavenly choirs with envy.”
Photo from Sterling Family archives
The Intersection
A lover of music and the arts, Sandra has been a driving force for her community’s Little Theatre, The Valley Players, for over 40 years. As its Chairman and CEO, she has starred in several productions, and has provided music for performances from the orchestra pit on a keyboard. And it was there that her life intersected with that of her now husband, Jim’s, also an organ enthusiast and lover of music.
Coming Together Through Music
Sandra’s husband Jim serves as the Choirmaster at St. Stephen’s, and shares her deep affinity for the organ and all the beauty it brings through music in worship. Organically, being the enthusiasts they are, Jim purchased a 25 Rank Reuter Pipe Organ from a Lutheran Church in Arlington, Virginia in 1993. He flew to Arlington, packed the organ, and drove it back to Texas. While Jim had built five smaller pipe organs previously, this one proved to be too much for him, so he took it to the Ballard Pipe Organ Company in San Antonio to be rebuilt. Upon completion of the organ’s refurbishment in 1994, the couple donated the organ to their church. Then, when it would not fit into Trinity, a church built in 1898, a new brick building was ultimately designed and constructed to accommodate the organ so that it could serve as the gift they envisioned to their parish. It has already brought many years of enjoyment to all who hear it. With the newer building’s oak floors and fine acoustics, this dream has been realized many times over. Having donated the 30 Rank Pipe Organ to their church, the couple found immense joy through gifting this transformative musical instrument to their church.
Outside of Music
When Sandra and Jim are not engaged in their music responsibilities for their parish or other commitments, they enjoy serving as sommeliers for the County Fair Wine Tasting each fall. They also enjoy traveling.
A Gift
Sandra is the epitome of a gift to the Diocese of Texas and a gem to her church. She is the gift that keeps on giving through her undying dedication and a drive for the most enjoyable worship experience through her continued role and tenure as its organist for 75 years. This is the story of devoting a life to God in one’s own way.
Saint James’, LaGrange, Setting Bar High in Ranch Country, Giving Back Over $15K to Local Charities, Drawing Weekenders and Retirees
Living up to its mission to be a welcoming worship community where God’s presence is felt and from which members are sent to proclaim Christ’s love and serve others, Saint James’ is steeped in traditional worship, mission, and fun!
2023 Financial Gifts to Local Charities
Amid what is becoming more of a retirement and weekend destination for many Houstonians, Saint James’ is making a positive impact through the generosity of its parishioners. Through their Holy Smokers group and Episcopal Church Women (ECW) fundraising events that benefit local charities, the parish estimates that just through those two initiatives, they gave $15K back to charities within their community last year. Having already made themselves known throughout Fayette County, the people of Saint James’ make picking up dinner as easy as driving through by way of its successful fundraisers. Between the smokers’ meat offerings and the ECW desserts, they raise over $1,000 each month, and donate the proceeds to a different charity with each event. Moreover, their reach is even broader since the Holy Smokers and ECW each select a different charity as its beneficiary for each fundraiser.
Active Volunteer Ministry
On top of parishoners giving back through financial offerings, the church also has an exceptional volunteer ministry through its work at the local food pantry as well as at the Second Chance Emporium Resale Shop. Approximately seven times annually, 10-12 parishioners give of their time volunteering to help the community’s food pantry. While this number may seem average, it is exceptional given the church’s Average Sunday Attendance (ASA). Through collaboration with other large area churches, volunteers also give of their time 6-8 times a year at the resale shop which is open Tuesday through Thursday of each week year-round.
Appealing to Retirees and Empty-Nesters through Fellowship and Church Socials
The church is comprised of many retirees and weekenders from both the greater Houston area as well as other areas near LaGrange. Socially, they boast a robust Supper Club that meets each month, most months of the year. With membership of around 50-60, the Supper Club gathers either in the parish hall of the church or in the homes of hosting parishioners. This allows for great fellowship opportunities over dinner. There is also a Men’s Club that hosts an annual Christmas party at the local country club that parishioners enjoy attending.
Tradition Through Worship
The church is especially proud of its music ministry grounded by traditional organ music throughout the liturgy. They encourage visitors to join them on Sundays, either at 8 a.m. for Rite 1 (without choir), or at 10:30 a.m. for Rite 2.
This closely-knit parish is certainly leaving its mark in many ways in Ranch Country, Texas! To learn more about Saint James in LaGrange, visit stjameslagrange.org.
Blessings for Neighborhood Garden Project at St. Paul’s, Katy
Bishop Hector Monterroso visited St. Paul’s, Katy, in June of last year and blessed the Neighborhood Garden Project, a nonprofit donation and community garden located in Katy. Half of the garden produce is donated to a women’s rehab center. The remaining half of the plots are maintained by people in the neighborhood. The community has partnered with the elementary school across the street and plans to expand the program to other churches.
2023 Golf Tournament a Success at Trinity, Fort Worth
Trinity, Fort Worth, expressed much gratitude to the Diocese of Texas and its generous sponsorship of a hole at their third annual golf tournament. In all, 62 golfers enjoyed a beautiful day of golf.
Despite having to reschedule the event from October to November due to inclement weather, the church considers the event a big success. The tournament is one of Trinity’s major fundraising events for its parish ministries. This year’s tournament was termed a success: through both generous fundraising and genuine camaraderie.
Photo:
(Bishop Mayer tees off on the diocesan-sponsored hole)
Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love.
1 John 4:7-8
AffirmingGodAcceptingand
’s
People
Houston Chronicle: LGBTQ Students at University of Houston Lose Safe Space, Faith Leaders to Help
LGBTQ students at the University of Houston lost their safe meeting space after the 2023 passage of a law banning diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) trainings and programs in higher education. Campus minister the Rev. Charles Graves IV, Houston Canterbury, is one of four affirming area priests who has taken on the cause after the LGBTQ resource center closed.
The university continues to serve individual LGBTQ students through a broader Center for Student Advocacy and Community, committed to helping all students navigate university services and resources. As LGBTQ students turn to the center for help, Graves and the other three priests will be there to offer support. The new bill officially takes effect January 2024.
Read more about the Houston Chronicle article featuring interviews provided by Graves: https://tinyurl.com/9wj88d4d .
“Caring for and protecting and looking after queer students is part of each of our respective obligations to religious people and religious leaders,” Graves said in a Houston Chronicle article published in fall 2023. “This is our religious calling, and we're willing to step up to the plate.”
The Rev. Charles Graves IV
Houston Canterbury Students Attend Human Rights Campaign Gala
Houston Canterbury students were among Episcopalians who represented the Diocese of Texas at the annual Human Rights Campaign gala in Houston in April of 2023. The evening celebrated advocates advancing equality for all people. Attendees were encouraged to not give up in the face of increased marginalization of vulnerable communities, especially LGBTQ+ youth. Active equality advocate Molly Carnes, member of St. Mary’s, Cypress, reached out to Houston Canterbury, inviting students to attend.
“They are the future of this state; many feel attacked right now and need to know their faith community supports them,” Carnes said.
Keynote speakers included U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, author and activist Karen Walrond, and actress Cassandra James. The Human Rights Campaign envisions a world strengthened by diversity, where laws and society treat all people equally.
Houston Affirming Churches Embrace Love and Inclusion at the Gay Pride Parade 2023
Houston’s affirming churches united to participate in the annual Gay Pride Parade last June, sending a powerful message of support for the LGBTQ+ community. Congregants showcased unity, love, and acceptance, affirming that spirituality and LGBTQ+ support can coexist beautifully.
The parade highlights ongoing commitment to inclusivity and dismantling barriers to foster a world where love triumphs over prejudice. Parishioners celebrated their inspiring efforts in promoting love, acceptance, and equality in unity towards a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Trinity, Houston, parishioner Harold Robertson
Photo:
…learn to do good; seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow. Isaiah 1:17
Caring for Vulnerablethe
Episcopal Migration Ministries
Each day, individuals and families seeking asylum flee their home countries to escape violence, religious persecution, and war. In an effort to respond faithfully to the needs of our neighbors, the Episcopal Diocese of Texas Episcopal Migration Ministries Network seeks to distribute factual information about the ongoing humanitarian needs at its southern border and to equip congregants with resources to welcome and embrace migrants in our communities.
EDOT Episcopal Migration Ministries strives to share the realities of the migrant experience, to provide education around immigration laws and policies, to support partner organizations serving migrants in our communities, and to help individuals and Episcopal congregations walk in love as we endeavor to follow Christ and serve our neighbors.
2023 Update
In 2023, Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM) focused on creating a diocesan-wide team that advocates, educates, and responds to migration and refugee needs in the diocese.
Rev. Dr. Josh Kulak, Co-chair Rebecca Lightsey, American Gateways
Rev. Linda Shelton Marvin Vann Griffith
Rev. Wanda Cuniff Estela Lopez, Diocese of Texas
Rev. Garrett Lane
Rev. Lizzie Robbins
Rev. Victoria Umana
Rev. Alberto Melis
• The diocese’s EMM team has been focused on working with the Rapid Response group in Houston, an ecumenical group responding to immediate needs of migrants. This is in its infancy stages, but EMM hopes to find ways to strengthen the initiative.
• The ministry is supporting the mission of the new Casa Mateo shelter in Houston for asylum seekers and displaced immigrants, opening in 2024.
• EMM held an information FAQ lunch gathering at Clergy Conference in October. The EMM team has been working on initiatives like the Migration with Dignity resolution within the EMM network across the diocese.
With a main purpose to provide education, information, and training for churches or groups interested in learning more about immigration or are interested in a ministry of welcome, there are many ways to be involved. No effort is considered too small. From learning more about immigration to greeting, providing food or necessities or sponsorship to immigrants, the EMM can help your parish discern how it can be involved in this ministry of welcome.
If you would like to join the team as an educational advocate, please email Rev. Alyssa Stebbing: rector@stchristophersaustin.org or Rev. Josh Kulak: jkulak@st-michaels.org.
The Episcopal Diocese of Texas
St. Vincent’s House Increases Services to Needy in Galveston
St. Vincent’s House, a social service mission of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas, continues its progress in providing integrated care to needy families in Galveston communities. The integrated care model includes social, medical, mental health, and immigration services as well as vision programs.
“You cannot be well if you are hungry or scared of being homeless,” says Paula Tobon, executive director. “You cannot be well if your anxiety or depression is so high that you are unable to function. You cannot be well if your blood sugar is too high that you become sick. This is the premise of what we do here at St. Vincent’s House. We offer holistic, wraparound services to individuals in need.”
In 2023, St. Vincent’s House was named “Pantry of the Year,” by the Galveston County Food Bank for being the largest distributing pantry in the county. Through outreach, 5,672 households and 97,243 duplicated individuals were served. In total, 7,599 snack packs were delivered to self-identified clients.
In addition, St. Vincent’s partnered with Galveston Diaper Bank to supply enhanced services. In 2023, two Narcan dispensers were added. Both averaged 90 doses a month with 14 percent distributed by staff and 86 percent self-served. Also, St. Vincent’s acquired a new cargo van through the Mary Moody Northen Foundation, along with a new bus with wheelchair access.
Additional 2023 Highlights:
• Hope Clinics at St. Vincent’s House provided $3.3 million of in in-kind services. Plus, 28 total clinics are part of St. Vincent’s network, including wound healing, congestive heart failure, podiatry, vascular and general surgery, and substance use disorder.
• The Family Service Center (mental health) provided $210,000 in-kind services to St. Vincent’s with assistance from two, full-time mental health counselors.
• Galveston Houston Immigration Preparation Project provided $125,000 in-kind donated services to St. Vincent’s, along with a full-time attorney who worked with 158 immigrant families in Galveston during the year.
• St. Vincent’s House Volunteer Dental Extraction Clinic served 227 clients and received a grant for preventative and restorative dentistry for unsheltered friends.
(Numbers for services provided cover Jan. 1-Nov. 30, 2023.)
During the holidays, St. Vincent’s provided food to Galveston’s needy as 1,000 individuals gathered for a Thanksgiving meal through St. Vincent’s staff and the selfless volunteers who gave their time and talents. A special thanks goes to Sandra Woodard and an area chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, along with Ivy Isles Foundation for donating turkeys. Trinity Episcopal School students volunteered through the Expanded Food & Hygiene Pantry.
Finally, the year ended as the Christmas Hope Tree garnered gifts for 200 children through the generosity of Trinity Episcopal Church, Galveston.
Episcopalians, Ecumenical Partners Form Hunger Reduction Coalition in Texas Feeding Roughly 400 Families Monthly
Episcopalians from the Diocese of Texas, ecumenical partners, and food pantries have teamed up with the Baylor Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty to form a data-based coalition to reduce hunger in Bryan, the county seat of Brazos County.
The coalition’s goal is to not only eliminate hunger in the moment, but also in the long term.
“We need to be generous in providing food immediately to people who are hungry, but we also need to be working for justice in the sense that we won’t need food pantries in the future, because it’d mean that [everyone has] the means and resources to purchase food on their own,” said the Rev. Daryl Hay, rector of St. Andrew’s, Bryan.
Formed in June 2023, the coalition consists of secular and religious-affiliated organizations and churches, including St. Andrew’s, local protestant churches, Brazos Valley Food Bank and Santa Teresa Catholic Church, all located in Bryan. St. Thomas Episcopal Church, St. Francis Episcopal Church, and the Canterbury Episcopal Student Center at Texas A&M University and Blinn College, all located in College Station, have also joined the anti-hunger coalition.
While the coalition is still in its infancy and members brainstorm how to approach long-term hunger alleviation, a team of volunteers from St. Andrew’s and partner churches operate the monthly Brazos County Mobile Food Pantry out of the local Boys & Girls Club of Brazos Valley’s parking lot in Bryan. The pantry feeds about 400 families monthly, most of whom are Latino,
Photo credit: Rob Johnson (ENS)
according to pantry site coordinator Mary Johnson, a founding member of the food coalition and parishioner of St. Andrew’s. Approximately 70 volunteers from all of the churches and organizations involved with the coalition help run the pantry each month, which is operating on a temporary two-year budget and expected to close before summer 2024.
The team of volunteers from St. Andrew’s and partner churches established the mobile food pantry after some lay leaders, including Johnson, participated in a “transformation cohort” program hosted by the Houston-based Episcopal Health Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by the diocese to collaborate with community partners and congregations to provide research solutions to improve the overall health of people residing within the diocese’s radius. The foundation seeks to help local communities find local solutions to address health-care related problems.
“We’re challenging our congregations to move beyond transactional action and instead, working with formational action,” said Willie Bennett, the foundation’s congregational engagement officer. “Often [addressing health] stops at charity work, and it becomes just a transaction, but the usefulness cannot be one-to-one or be born out of a need that doesn’t exist anymore.”
The Episcopal Health Foundation’s “transformation cohort” program helps lay leaders build relationships in their communities by encouraging them to observe everything happening around their church. The foundation then matches congregations with consultants to help them navigate new ministries. The lay leaders at St. Andrew’s, which partnered with the Baylor Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty—an organization that researches and teaches evidence-based solutions to end hunger and is housed within Baylor University in Waco—noticed that the Latino population in the Bryan-College Station metropolitan area is growing, and many of them are undocumented and therefore, do not show up in the U.S. Census data.
In Brazos County, 14.2 percent of the population is food-insecure, which is higher than Texas’ overall rate of 13.7 percent, according to data from Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap. The percentages are higher for people of color.
The first meeting introduced the Baylor Collaborative to the Bryan-College Station community and provided an overview of the collaborative’s work with other anti-hunger coalitions. The second meeting discussed gaps noticed in the food systems locally in Brazos County. St. Andrew’s hosted both meetings. Some of the people who’ve attended the coalition meetings and offered to volunteer are food donation recipients themselves, according to Johnson.
(The Brazos County Mobile Food Pantry was featured Dec. 4 on KBTX News, a local news channel in Bryan, Texas. St. Andrew’s parishioners Rob and Mary Johnson, pantry coordinators, are interviewed in the story. View the KBTX story online: http://tinyurl.com/4hpe6mp2 )
Special thanks to the Episcopal News Service for contributing to this article.
Epiphany, Houston, Organization
‘ECHOS’ Serves Abundance of Needy Families in 2023
Episcopal Church of the Epiphany, Houston, looks back on 2023 with gratitude for its ability to serve families through ECHOS. The ECHOS program serves families by offering equitable access to healthcare and delivering social services those families require to improve their lives.
Numerous success stories were shared through this philanthropic program. Families who were living in their cars now have moved into their own apartments. With help from the program’s comprehensive case management, coaching and encouragement, families increased their income and became self-sufficient. ECHOS board members even helped to fill homes with furniture.
At year’s end, 93 percent of the families helped through the program remained safely housed for at least three months after completing the ECHOS programs.
Partner Texas Children’s Hospital offers medical care for children enrolled in ECHOS, and more than 500 have received treatment through the mobile unit that collaborates directly with ECHOS. In 2024, ECHOS continues to serve the community from a new location at 9894 Bissonnet.
Epiphany and ECHOS thank all who devoted time, talent and resources to ensure clients get stable, safe housing; facilitate their access to healthcare and SNAP benefits; and connect them to primary healthcare through medical providers.
One heartwarming example of community involvement is the Christmas Eve party that Pluckers Restaurant hosted for clients. The restaurant welcomed 75 clients, mostly children. “Seeing the gratitude on the families’ faces was genuinely touching,” said ECHOS staff member Cathy Moore.
Moore thanks all who have devoted time, talent, and resources to ensure their clients thrive.
“We hope you will cherish the moments when you helped our families secure stable and safe housing, facilitated their access to healthcare and SNAP benefits, and connected them to primary healthcare through our partner medical providers,” she said.
Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.
Proverbs 16:3
OurEmpowering Work Partnershipsthrough Collaborationsand
$1.25 Million Grant Funds Compelling Preaching Initiative
A $1.25 million grant from the private foundation Lilly Endowment will help establish the “Community for Compelling Preaching Initiative,” a partnership between the Episcopal Diocese of Texas and Backstory Preaching. The grant was announced Oct. 12, 2023.
Lilly’s Compelling Preaching Initiative is aimed at fostering and supporting preaching that inspires, encourages and guides people to come to know and love God and to live out their Christian faith more fully.
Through the Diocese of Texas, the Community for Compelling Preaching Initiative aims to enhance and expand Backstory Preaching’s Collectives, a first-of-its-kind, online community for continuous preaching education and formation. The vision for the collectives is to grow preachers in the craft, process, and spirituality of compelling preaching over the long-term so preachers more effectively offer good news to their listeners. Through this collaboration, the partnership evaluates and enhances existing offerings, develops new tools and resources, and establishes personalized learning models so preachers receive targeted support for timely impact.
“Backstory Preaching has been an incredible resource for clergy,” Bishop Andy Doyle said. “The Lilly Endowment grant reveals the value of this ministry for the church and its mission.” Bishop Kai Ryan fervently agreed with the bishop’s sentiments.
The Episcopal Diocese of Texas is one of 81 organizations receiving grants through this competitive round of the Compelling Preaching Initiative. Reflecting the diversity of Christianity in the United States, the organizations are affiliated with mainline Protestant, evangelical, Catholic, Orthodox, Anabaptist, and Pentecostal faith communities. Many of the organizations are rooted in the Black Church and in Hispanic and Asian American Christian traditions.
“Throughout history, preachers often have needed to adapt their preaching practices to engage new generations of hearers more effectively,” said Christopher L. Coble, Lilly Endowment’s vice president for religion. “We are pleased that the organizations receiving grants in this initiative will help pastors and others in ministry engage in the kinds of preaching needed today to ensure that the gospel message is heard and accessible for all audiences.”
Lilly Endowment launched the Compelling Preaching Initiative in 2022 because of its interest in supporting projects that help to nurture the religious lives of individuals and families, and foster the growth and vitality of Christian congregations in the United States.
The Lilly Endowment, Inc. was created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. While those gifts remain the financial bedrock of the endowment, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location.
Houston’s St. James’ and St. Martin’s Collaborate in Thanksgiving Dinner Giveaway Serving Nearly 500 Families
In November, St. James’ Episcopal (in historic Third Ward) and St. Martin’s, Houston, partnered once again in mission for Thanksgiving in the community St. James’ serves. The goal was to distribute all the staples necessary for a complete Thanksgiving meal to 500 families. Up from 300 families served the previous year, this Thanksgiving commitment is just one of several successful endeavors achieved over the past few years.
Spearheaded by St. James’, its parishioners donated a parish hall filled with nonperishable food items. Parishioners also donated gift cards. Instead of purchasing turkeys due to the inability to store them, the parish began giving away gift cards in previous years in an amount allowing recipients to purchase their meat of choice. St. Martin’s Episcopal generously donated the funds for the lion’s share of the balance of the gift cards needed to meet the 500-giveaway meal goal.
In years past, St. Martin’s volunteers joined in the sorting of food items in advance, as well as the distribution of the meals to families on the day of the drive-through event. Last year was no exception as staff from St. Martin’s joined to help sort the already-organized items in what has become a near turnkey operation. Nearly 500 food boxes that included fresh food items and grocery store gift cards were distributed. The effort was also supported by the Janie Evans Brown Chapter of the Episcopal Church Women (ECW), the Joseph Joubert Chapter of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, the John D. Epps Chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians, and Boy Scouts Troup 212. All are affiliated with St. James’. Local celebrity disc jockey Michele McKnight, also a member of St. James’, donated her services, adding the element of music as volunteers served the community and making the food distribution even more festive.
The parishes were blessed to be a blessing to a community in need. The gift from St. Martin’s came on the heels of it receiving its 10,000th member.
All involved personified what mission is about, and all who received were grateful to both churches for their generosity. With this project being cemented for years to come, these two congregations will continue to collaborate to serve communities in need in even more ways.
Cooking Matters Collaborative Launched at St. Luke’s in the Meadow, Fort Worth
Fort Worth area school-aged children and their families are coming together to learn about healthy eating. Through the all-encompassing program initiated in 2023 at St. Luke’s in the Meadow, the 4Saints Episcopal Food Pantry makes this possible. The partnership with Tarrant Area Food Bank covers meal preparation, grocery shopping, food budgeting and nutrition. Participants learn cooking skills, how to read labels, and techniques that lessen food waste when chopping vegetables.
Food used in the workshop called “Cooking Matters for Families” is provided by the food bank. The curriculum comes from a nonprofit called Cooking Matters. At the end of each class, children and their families receive a bag of ingredients to replicate the dish back home.
St. Luke’s in the Meadow is located in a low-income area recognized as having low access to fresh, healthy food by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Access Research Atlas. The 4Saints Episcopal Food Pantry is supported by five area churches.
Patti Callahan, in charge of 4Saints Episcopal Food Pantry, coordinates the workshops. Hosting the cooking classes is another way the nonprofit can serve people who come to the food pantry, she explained.
“The kids have been really good, they were all very attentive,” Callahan said. “It’s along the lines of what Jesus told us to do.”
Tatiana Casillas, mother to young participant Nathan Casillas, signed him up for the cooking classes because she saw his interest in helping her out in the kitchen at home.
The cooking classes are a way for Nathan to learn how to cook healthy meals for himself and his four younger siblings, she said.
(Special thanks to Fort Worth Report for information used in this story.)
Photo credit: Marissa Greene
Photo credit: Marissa Greene/Fort Worth Report
St. George’s, Austin, Continues and Grows Outreach ProgramsA Look Back at 2023
With goals to grow its own church community and to better serve the greater community at-large, St. George’s, Austin, launched 2023 with prayer and intention.
The congregation celebrated Dr. Matt Boulter as its new rector. The Rev. Boulter began the year with a goal to add 25 new households to the congregation; by June of last year, new households were attending St. George’s. In addition, new community outreach programs began: a book club, a men’s Bible club, and a St. George’s Pub Club. The rector also collaborated to start a podcast called “Slain by Love,” targeting new households to the congregation.
An outreach retreat was planned in February 2023 to find ways to get involved with organizations that have ties to St. George’s. Among the organizations were St. George’s Court (retirement for needy seniors), Casa Marianella, Down Home Ranch, El Buen Samaritano, and Christopher House (hospice).
Last year, the church’s women’s retreat was held in April with the goal of forming relationships at the Well Spring Retreat Center–Wessendorf Ranch in Blanco, Texas. Then, in May, congregants raised funds for a rural Christian elementary school in Guatemala, where 60 percent of the indigenous population cannot read or write.
Two-hundred SAFE (Stop Abuse For Everyone) bags were delivered in June to an Austin safe house for survivors of sexual violence and assault. Parishioners from St. George’s sewed the bags and filled them with items of comfort and practicality. Included were uplifting personal notes of love for the abuse survivors. It is the ninth year congregants have participated in the project.
At St. George’s Court for seniors, congregants continued a tradition of supplying monthly birthday parties for seniors at the facility. During the visits with the seniors, snacks are provided. They also facilitate activiites for the seniors.
Continued growth was seen at St. George’s School within the parish, with 115 children ages three months through four years served throughout nine classrooms.
September supplied parishioners with information about how they can become involved with ministries at St. George’s through Rally Day on Sept. 10.
Momentum continued during the holidays. St. George’s members participated in outreach for seniors and refugees with $20 HEB gift cards. A program called Hands for Hope helped raise $1,875 within the congregation in order to supply holiday meals for the needy. Members also volunteered at a local Thanksgiving feast in Austin.
Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13:16
Houston Episcopal Minister Challenges Notion of ‘Believe
Jesus or Go to Hell’ through Book: Interview Featured on KUHF Radio
The Rev. Brad Sullivan, vicar of Lord of the Streets Episcopal Church, Houston, was featured last July on KUHF’s “Houston Matters” with Craig Cohen to talk about Sullivan’s book: “For the Hurt, the Blessed, and the Damned.”
In 2017, Sullivan’s church was flooded during Hurricane Harvey and congregants moved to worship at Temple Sinai, a reform Jewish synagogue in West Houston. Discussions ensued with Sullivan and the Rabbi regarding both their journeys of faith. This led to Sullivan’s idea to write a book about conversations he has had with Houstonians of multiple faiths.
Listen to the radio interview on KUHF: tinyurl.com/2vtzt5rt
St. Cyprian’s, Lufkin, ‘Story Walk’ Spotlighted in KTRE-TV News Feature
In April 2023, an Easter Story Walk held at St. Cyprian’s, Lufkin, was featured on KTRE-TV.
The event allowed children and families to experience the real meaning of Easter along with fellowship through a walk of 14 stations.
Based on the storybook “Twas the Morning of Easter,” the activity took children to stations representing each page of the book to examine the story of Easter. At each station, a child also gained an Easter egg.
View the story by reporter Mariela Gonzalez as she interviewed St. Cyprian’s Lia Frost, family minister: bit.ly/3REk5xx .
Palmer Episcopal, Houston, and Curate the Rev. Ryan Hawthorne
Featured in Houston Chronicle
There are a number of reasons congregants opt for ashes “to go” on Ash Wednesday the Rev. Ryan Hawthorne of Palmer Memorial, Houston, said in an article in the Houston Chronicle last year.
Busy schedules, ranging from work at the area Texas Medical Center, classes at nearby Rice University, or leisure visits at the zoo are a few reasons passersby made a sidewalk stop outside the church. Read more through an article featured in the Houston Chronicle: bit.ly/48rwQRY
Photos courtesy of Michael Wyke/Contributor (Houston Chronicle)
Wellspring on Main Envisioned as Inclusive Community Hub, Partners include Diocese of Texas, All Souls Episcopal, Arlington
Wellspring on Main, a community-organized oasis for diverse people to engage and foster physical, emotional, and spiritual health, signed a contract with the Arlington Museum of Art (AMA) in May 2023 to purchase the AMA building.
Wellspring on Main is organized by the Arlington Center for Community Engagement (ACCE), a nonprofit partnership of local churches and business owners who want to facilitate health in the diverse city. Organizations that comprise the ACCE partnership include the All Souls Episcopal Church, Arlington; Duvall-Decker Architects; Brookings Institution’s Bass Center for Transformative Placemaking; and the Episcopal Diocese of Texas.
Preliminary building plans for Wellspring depict a water fountain, green space, and circular gathering spaces that include space for a choir. The building will be across from the clock tower under construction between Arlington City Council chambers and the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library. A complex financial stack involving foundations, a capital campaign, generous benefactors, and innovative lending partners have come together to fund the community endeavor.
“Just as water wells have served as a common gathering place for millennia to bring health to the community, Wellspring on Main gathers people together for the betterment of everyone in our community,” says the Wellspring organizational website.
“Wellspring on Main will be a community oasis, a place where diverse people engage with one another in ways that foster the physical, emotional, and spiritual health of our community by celebrating the dignity of every human being.”
Photo credit: Jacob Wells/KERA News
AMA moved out of its building into a new facility in the Entertainment District in February 2024. Wellspring on Main will begin work on renovating the building, ingrained in the community as a J.C. Penney department store built in the 1950s. Wellspring’s goal is to move into the renovated building by the spring of 2025.
When the renovation is completed, Wellspring will serve as a downtown landmark anchoring the corner of West Main and Pecan. The intersection is a place where people can gather to celebrate, learn from each other, and work together to enhance the well-being of the community.
Wellspring plans to use the building as a space in which to facilitate the following:
• Community conversations that will bring different people together who don’t normally cross paths to learn from each other;
• Community projects that address the seven factors of wellness: mental, physical, social, financial, spiritual, environmental, and vocational; and
• The work of similar mission organizations through the provision of office and gathering spaces.
EDOT Communicators Take Home Polly Bond Awards 2023
Episcopal Communicators gathered at Camp Allen in Navasota for the annual Episcopal Communicators Conference last year. Four churches won a total of eight Polly Bond Awards, awards which acknowledge excellence and achievement in the ministry of church communication. The congregations are St. David’s, Austin; Christ Church Cathedral, Houston; Good Shepherd, Austin; and St. Paul’s, Waco.
Episcopal Communicators is a self-supporting organization of communication professionals working in the Episcopal Church for dioceses, congregations, organizations, or as independent or freelance workers. The mission is to foster community that inspires and supports excellence in church communications.
The Polly Bond Awards recognize excellence in church communications across a variety of categories. Independently judged by well-respected and experienced communications professionals outside of membership, submissions in each category are considered for awards. All submissions receive valuable written feedback by judges.
St. Mary’s, Hillsboro, Featured in ‘The Living Church’ News
In May of last year, an article published in “The Living Church” offered more insight into St. Mary’s history. Here are some bullet points, followed by a link to the story in “The Living Church,” a periodical of the nonprofit Living Church Foundation, Inc.
The congregation has grown from 11 to 23 members in the last three years. It has given away 40 percent of its offerings since 2009. Members also freely give their time and talents to the community as they provide for the needy.
Read the full article written by Christine Havens, a writer and a graduate of Seminary of the Southwest, “The Living Church” online: http://tinyurl.com/yyhxy9c3
Photo credit: David Skelton Bishop James Scott Mayer visits St. Mary’s for its 150th anniversary celebration.
St. David’s, Austin, Represented at the 2023 Episcopal Parish Network Conference in Jacksonville, Florida
Members of St. David’s, Austin, traveled to Jacksonville, Florida to connect and engage with others across the nation at the Episcopal Parish Network Conference.
The Episcopal Parish Network is a national and collaborative movement of clergy and lay leaders of the Episcopal Church gifted with diverse parish resources coming together for dialogue, discernment, and education.
El Buen Samaritano, Austin, CEO Murillo Gains 2023 Women of Distinction Award
El Buen Samaritano, Austin, Chief Executive Officer Rosamaria Murillo was honored last year with the Women of Distinction 2023 award by the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC).
The ceremony took place at a luncheon at the ninth annual Women of Distinction awards in Austin, held in June.
The luncheon is a platform created by TAMACC to honor remarkable contributions of Hispanic women to the economic, political, and social fabric of the state of Texas. Thirteen women were selected from regions across Texas; they represent diverse backgrounds and disciplines, said the organization.
Through a selection committee consisting of Latina peers and previous awardees, nominee applications were reviewed and selected.
As CEO of El Buen Samaritano, an outreach ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas, Murillo is charged with leading the organization’s outreach to the needy to provide access to health care and food, youth programs, adult education and financial and benefits assistance.
Murillo says education is essential to the disadvantaged. As a first-generation college graduate and first-generation immigrant, Murillo cited education as the only chance she had to make the break from poverty.
“I think that’s still true for many Latino families and children,” she said.
The following 13 women were recognized:
• Dr. Ashley Bose, Medical Director, Ashley Pediatrics and Industrial Health Works, Edinburg
• Evelyn Cano, President & Co-Founder, Disability Chamber of Commerce RGV; Co-Owner, Grande Produce, Pharr
• Laura Lopez Cano, Visual Artist, Laura Lopez Cano Art Studio, El Lago
• Dr. Michelle Cohen, Hays County Commissioner Precinct 2, Kyle
• Marie Salazar Garcia, Business Development Representative, Sames, Inc., Edinburg
• Luz Lopez-Guerrero, Director of Growth & Broker Relations, WellMed Medical Management, Austin
Rosamaria Murillo, PhD
• Dr. Alicia Mercado-Castro, Retired Educator, Pflugerville
• Dr. Luisa Montoya, Chief Executive Officer, Diversity Matters, Kingwood
• Dr. Rosamaria Murillo, Chief Executive Officer, El Buen Samaritano, Austin
• Venus V. Pineyro de Hoyos, Founder & CEO, The Inclusion Plus Institute & Vescot U, Austin
• Yvette Reyna, Executive Director, Boerne Education Foundation and Boerne Independent School District Community Partnerships, San Antonio
• Angelica Rosales, Project Director, Sundt Construction, El Paso
The Episcopal Diocese of Texas extends heartfelt congratulations to Rosamaria Murillo for being recognized as one of TAMACC’s Women of Distinction! tamacc.org/women-of-distinction-awards/
The Rev. Minerva Camarena Skeith
Meets the Pope Last September
Central Texas Interfaith (CTI) leader, the Rev. Minerva Camarena Skeith, rector of St. John’s, Austin, represented CTI and the Texas Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF) Network as part of the West/ Southwest delegation that met with Pope Francis on Sept. 14.
During the meeting they discussed the West/Southwest IAF “Recognizing the Stranger,” an interfaith training strategy in which CTI partnered with the Catholic Diocese of Austin.
Read more about delegation’s visit with the Pope: tinyurl.com/yckf5wuw
Photo : Courtesy of West/Southwest Industrial Areas Foundation
Kelly Puckett: Author Behind ‘Lectionary Page’
Described
as Humble, Faithful Servant With a Fervent Commitment
Often there is a story behind the constants in our lives–people or things that we depend upon but never question their histories or origins. This is the case of the Lectionary Page, a long-time staple for Episcopalians which is housed online at lectionarypage.net
Erin Puckett says the “Lectionary Page” project was initiated by her father Kelly Puckett in the 1990s. She and brother Matt Puckett share childhood recollections regarding the passion their father had for the website as its creator and author.
Erin was 7 when her dad Kelly began authoring the pages.
“It was always in the background of our childhood,” Erin said. “Dad would go to work, and after dinner he would sit down at his computer. Dad was an early adopter of technology and taught himself to code so that he could create this resource. This was back when you had to be able to write HTML in order to create a webpage. He always had a modern understanding of how new tools and technology could be used in the work of the church.”
In the early days of the website, Erin says the Bible had not been digitized. She has many memories of her dad sitting in his office late at night, transcribing from his worn, International Version Bible (NIV).
“In those first years, he was working just a few weekends ahead, and felt a real responsibility to have the lessons up in time for people who might be writing sermons or planning lessons,” Erin said. “Sometimes people would email him and say that he had missed a comma or something in his transcription, and he would laugh and thank them for noticing. He has always been very egoless about the whole project.”
After completing the Sunday lectionary cycle, Kelly began adding the “Daily Office” entries and later the “Lesser Feasts and Fasts”, Erin related.
“At some point, he had to switch everything from NIV to the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV). though thankfully by this time he was able to purchase the digitized Bible as a huge set of CDROMs,” Erin said. “He has always approached this project with a sense of humility. ‘This is just my service to the church,’ he might say. People will sometimes email him with very complex or niche questions about the lectionary, and he always does his best to answer them.”
Photo credit: Rick Patrick
The faithful users and readers of the Lectionary Page are often surprised that Kelly is not a professor, member of clergy, or associated with a national church organization, his daughter says. His faith runs deep and drives him in the project.
The parishioner at St. George’s, Austin, is one of the most unassuming, kind and gifted people one could ever meet, says Rev. Matt Boulter, rector at the church.
“With his professional and artistic background in print media and his keen interest in scripture and theology, he is truly a renaissance man,” Boulter said.
When Boulter joined St. George’s as the new rector, he was surprised to learn that his congregant was the person responsible for the website which Boulter and fellow Episcopalians had been using for years.
Daughter Erin calls her dad just a guy in his home office, quietly fulfilling his calling to help make the lectionary more accessible to all people.
“Dad has a deep belief that you can be a faithful servant in the church and an impactful leader without being clergy or even employed by the church,” she said.
St. Cyprian’s, Lufkin, Rejoices in Premiere of ‘An Organ for St. Cyprian’s’ Documentary
The story of the new St. Cyprian’s, Lufkin, organ is one that will forever be embedded in history, including the chronicles of the coronavirus. Featured in the Lufkin Daily News in 2023, it is now committed to his story in a significant way.
The origins of the organ and its timeline are shared through a 30-minute documentary told by the congregation, the community, and the organ’s builder in “An Organ for St. Cyprian’s.” The documentary is the creation of producer Ellen Temple of Lufkin and co-produced by Nancy Schiesari and Greg Simmons, St. Cyprian’s music director and organist, 2015-2023. The documentary premiered at the Pines Theater in Lufkin in December.
The pipe organ’s visual magnificence is detailed in the documentary, as well as its spiritual effect on the congregants who experience it. Sixty craftspeople from organ builder Casavant had a hand in its creation. The organ features 2,057 pipes. The tallest is 19 feet and the shortest is 2 inches; it is 4.6 tons of pipe.
The organ arrived at the church in February 2019, and Casavant employees assembled it over the next four weeks.
Before the new Casavant arrived, the church’s previous organ of 40 years had carried the load. In the documentary, the Rev. David Faulkner discusses the congregation’s decision process via focal groups to choose the pipe organ versus a digital version. The resonation and emotions sounding through the pipe organ and its visual manifestation swayed the decision to fundraise for the organ.
A year after it arrived, so did COVID-19. Organist Simmons played the organ on YouTube to share songs of hope. Like in many congregations, services were virtual.
As with the spoken word, the organ is an instrument of evangelism, drawing visitors to St. Cyprian’s to experience it for years to come. The story of “An Organ for St. Cyprian’s” is well worth seeing–and listening to.
(Thanks to the Lufkin Daily News for information included in this story. Photo supplied by Casavant Freres, organ builder.)
By
Jazz Houston Youth Orchestra Celebrates Duke Ellington’s Birthday through Collaboration with St. Mark’s, Houston, and Fallbrook Church
The life of the great Duke Ellington was celebrated at St. Mark’s, Houston, as the Jazz Houston Youth Orchestra brought a free performance of “Duke Ellington’s Sacred Concert” to the church in April 2023. Choir members from St. Mark’s joined in the commemorative performance.
Congregants and visitors filled the church on the legendary composer’s birthday weekend to enjoy the concert, one considered by the late composer himself as some of the most influential music he composed.
Under the direction of artistic director and renowned trombonist Vincent Gardner and saxophonist David Caceres, the orchestra brought the masterpiece to life with a 40-voice choir comprised of singers from both St. Mark’s and Fallbrook Church, under the direction of Reneé Rybolt and George Powell, respectively.
An additional concert was held that same weekend at Fallbrook Church. Audiences witnessed riveting performances by featured soloists Kenneth Gayle, Belinda Munro, and tap dancer phenom Alde Lewis.
The Jazz Houston Youth Orchestra, made up of talented students from area high schools, aimed to showcase the skill of its members through the performance of Ellington’s challenging work. The Sacred Concerts originated at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco as part of its “Festival of Grace” in 1965 and have since been released on CD and DVD.
Before the concert, the Rev. Patrick J. Miller of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church expressed his enthusiasm: Jazz music, with its rich history and diverse roots, has the unique ability to bring people together from different backgrounds and traditions. I am excited to partner with our brothers and sisters at Fallbrook Church as we explore Ellington’s witness to faith through the spirituality of jazz.
Fallbrook Church Pastor Michael Pender, Sr., also voiced support and gratitude for the event. The concerts were free and open to the public, providing an opportunity for all to enjoy and appreciate the talent and dedication of the Jazz Houston Youth Orchestra as members paid tribute to the legendary Duke Ellington.
Jazz Artist Duke Ellington
Photo credit: IMDb.com
We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
Junior Daughters of the King Weekend Jan. 13-15
Themed
‘God’s
Avenger: Imago Dei’
The Junior Daughters of the King held a retreat at Camp Allen, Navasota, January 2023.
Last year’s theme was God’s Avenger: Imago Dei. Girls explored their own spiritual superpowers through various activities such as prayer walks, learning about the Judah Brown Project, Bible journaling and more. Approximately 40 girls and 22 women from 12 churches attended the retreat.
The Order of the Daughters of the King is an order for women ages 7 and beyond who are communicants of the Episcopal Church, churches in communion with it, or churches in the historic episcopate but not in communion with it. Membership currently includes women in the Anglican, Episcopal, Lutheran, and Roman Catholic churches. The mission of The Order of the Daughters of the King is the extension of Christ’s kingdom through prayer, service, and evangelism. The Order shares a rich, 138-year history.
Teens in Training Campers from Trinity, The Woodlands, Launch into Action Summer 2023
Multiple Teens in Training (TnT) campers at Trinity, The Woodlands, gathered last June to serve their community.
On day one, campers went to The Woodlands Community Center to serve lunch to seniors then arrived at Abundant Harvest Kitchen food pantry in Spring to sort and distribute food. That day ended with a swim, a respite from the summer.
Service continued on Wednesday morning as the teens volunteered at Interfaith of The Woodlands for a senior craft prep project. The TnT campers gathered and donated 85 pounds of food to the nonprofit’s food pantry.
Episcopal Youth Event 2023 Gathers 1,000-plus
The Episcopal Youth Event 2023 (EYE) was held at the University of Maryland July 4-8, gathering over 1,000 youth, their chaperones, and clergy, including bishops. The Diocese of Texas was well represented by 11 young people sponsored by the diocese, four representatives from Costa Rica, and a large youth group from Iglesia Episcopal San Mateo, Houston. The San Mateo group worked hard to raise the funds to attend this important youth event.
EYE is the largest nationwide youth event in the Episcopal Church, occurring every three years. This year’s theme was “Regreso a Casa” (Return Home) because it was the first EYE since the pandemic. The liturgy and the worship were fully bilingual in English and Spanish. It was a powerful, spirited, and moving experience that included a healing service, a “Delegation Feud” with church topics in the style of Family Feud, followed by a dance party.
All reflections presented by the plenary speakers were focused on the book of Esther.
“Folks lived because of Esther,” said the Most Rev. Michael Curry, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church. “Justice was done because of Esther. Folks were freed because of Esther. We need some new Esthers for our world today. Young people, we’re counting on you.”
Youth Christmas Gathering among the Latino Churches in the Diocese of Texas
Youth leaders came together for a Christmas gathering from San Esteban, Cleveland; San Romero, Houston; San Mateo, Houston; and San Pedro, Pasadena. The group of 55 participants met at San Mateo for the inaugural event on Dec. 9.
The intent of the event is to allow youth from Latino churches to share spiritual experiences. The gathering was so successful that three additional reunions are planned in the future.
Youth shared these testimonials:
“The event was amazing. All the churches are coming together, meeting new people, listening to the testimonies and praising the Lord. I can’t wait for the future events we will hold together.”
Jasmin Rodriguez, San Pedro, Pasadena
“This youth event meant a lot to me, because I got to pray for a couple of people that were going through some difficult times, and I helped them feel closer to God; as a result, this experience helped me come closer to God too.”
Isaac Vargas, San Esteban, Cleveland
“This event strengthened the youth, it gave us a sense of community, the love and support with one another; while strengthening our relationship with Christ.”
Nasaryn Aliya López Hernández, San Mateo, Houston
“This event serves as an inspiration to grow our communities and most importantly to serve our youth. It’s in our prayers to create more events in order to grow closer with Christ.”
David Jimenez, San Mateo, Houston
“This event was able to bring the youth from different churches around the Diocese. We gathered together to share with one another God’s love by listening to each other’s stories and by witnessing how our lives have been impacted by our faith.”
Carolina Castaneda, San Pedro, Pasadena
In Summary
“We had an amazing youth event organized by a collaboration of all Hispanic churches that proved highly impactful, especially for youth who had never
participated in such an event before. The gathering facilitated a unique opportunity for these individuals to come together, meet new people, and collectively explore their faith in a very supportive community atmosphere. The event not only fostered a sense of unity but also provided a meaningful platform for spiritual growth, leaving a lasting and positive impact on the participating youth.”
Marcia Omar, San Mateo,
Houston
“We saw the youth who gathered, laughing and connecting with one another. We also saw the starting points of every youth faith’s journey. This event was beneficial for the youth in a way they will always remember, because of how we all gathered in prayer. Events such as this, is a luxury that many do not have in our small congregations, the opportunity to share and feel connected to a bigger community. We are blessed and grateful to have this event in our memories and an inspiration to plan for more events.”
David Medrano, San Mateo, Houston
St. James’, Houston, Kicks off VBS with Over 60 in Attendance
St. James’ Episcopal Church, Houston, in historic Third Ward hosted its annual Vacation Bible School June 2023 with 60 eager youth and their families signing up.
Held each evening during the week, VBS allowed for increased participation as attendees and volunteers enjoyed opportunities to share worship, fellowship, and light meals. Throughout the week, the number of congregants and guests increased.
Missionpalooza 2023 Joins Youth from 10 Texas Churches to Serve Galveston Community
Missionpalooza is an annual, diocesan-wide youth mission trip focusing on disaster relief. Last year, a group of 58 youth and adults from 10 Texas churches made a trip to Galveston to participate in multiple projects throughout the week. Churches included Calvary, Bastrop; Calvary, Richmond; Holy Spirit, Houston; St. Alban’s, Waco; St. Cuthbert’s, Houston; St. Thomas, Houston; St. Thomas the Apostle, Nassau Bay; Trinity, Galveston; and Trinity, Houston.
The youth mission collaborated with Mosaic in Action in Pearland, St. Vincent’s House, Galveston Bay Foundation, and St. Augustine of Hippo in Galveston, to help serve the Galveston-area community. It was a life-shaping experience for the youth to collaborate and work with each other in mission.
St. Paul’s/San Pablo, Houston, 2023 Youth Service Day Delivers Spring Garden
The youth group from St. Paul’s/San Pablo, Houston, gathered, donned gloves, and got to work planting a beautiful garden in the church’s courtyard during Youth Service Day.
St. Mark’s, Houston, Celebrates Eagle Scouts through 2023 Court of Honor Ceremony
Troop 211 of the Boy Scouts, supported by St. Mark’s, Houston, celebrated 13 teens this year as they joined the distinguished rank of Eagle Scouts. Eagle Courts of Honor are fully developed celebrations recognizing scouts who have attained scouting’s highest rank. They often feature a variety of very special ceremonies commensurate with the high honor being bestowed. The troop has been supported by St. Mark’s since 1940.
Photos: Courtesy of St. Mark's, Houston
San Mateo, Houston, Leaders Gathered for Retreat at Camp Allen
San Mateo, Houston, hosted a leadership retreat last summer at Camp Allen which supplied tools for personal and ministerial development for attendees.
The four workshops provided by San Mateo facilitators included “Emotional Intelligence,” “Four Steps to Increase Empathy,” “Persist Don’t Give Up,” and “Tips for Thinking Outside the Box.” Workshop leaders shared personal experiences and knowledge, alongside nature, with their fellow ministers.
One workshop leader shared this observation: “The warmth of God’s love was palpable through the fellowship among friends of Jesus.”
St. James’, Houston: A Day of Celebration in September 2023
Bishop Hector Monterroso celebrated at St. James’ Episcopal Church in September, receiving eight confirmands. In addition to its traditional purpose, the confirmation seemingly symbolized the unity of family. Of the eight confirmed, there were two sets of sibling groups; a mother and daughter; the wife of a parish lay minister; and another whose husband was confirmed last year. Monterroso reminded the confirmands that they were becoming members of a much larger family–something much larger than themselves, their biological families, and the parish.
Another celebration involved Lionel Jellins, longtime scoutmaster to Troop 212. Jellins resigned from his post after nearly 20 years of dedicated service to young men in the community-at-large, but especially through the parish’s Boy Scouts troop. Jellins, responsible for at least the formation of 45 Eagle Scouts, received a standing ovation as he was presented with commendations from the Diocese of Texas. While the scoutmaster will be greatly missed, the parish is excited about the work left for his successor to execute. Jellins was thanked profusely and expressed his gratefulness for his ministry within St. James’, with former members of Troop 212 present who returned for the occasion to express their gratitude.
Additionally, the Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) recognized UBE Sunday in what they deemed as an African Regalia Day. Several parishioners participated by wearing traditional African attire, celebrating their heritage as well as the contributions of Black Episcopalians throughout the history of the Episcopal Church.
Following the service, the great day in the parish was celebrated with a potluck feast, including an abundance of assorted dishes.
Bishop Monterroso and the Rev. Thomas shown with confirmands
Bishop Monterroso with the Rev. Thomas and members of St. James’ Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) on African Regalia Day
The Rev. Victor Thomas and the Rt. Rev. Hector Monterroso presenting long time Boy Scout troop leader Lionel Jellins (shown with wife) tokens of appreciation for nearly 20 years of service as he resigned from the post
O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.
1 Chronicles 16:34
Opening of Bishop Dena A. Harrison Library and Learning Complex Celebrated
with Fall Ribbon Cutting
Seminary of the Southwest held a grand opening and ribbon cutting for the Bishop Dena A. Harrison Library and Learning Complex Sept. 13. The facility is located at 501 E. 32nd St. in Austin.
The new library and classroom buildings were the culmination of work that began in 2016 with the creation of a comprehensive campus master plan. Work informed a feasibility study and subsequent capital campaign that raised the funds to build the $22.3 million dollar project.
Supporters and leadership from the Forming Leaders at The Frontier: Campaign for Southwest were in attendance. Attending were Rt. Rev. Dena Harrison for whom the library was named; the Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle; and the Rt. Rev. Kathryn Ryan.
The building’s namesake Harrison graduated from Southwest with a Master of Divinity in 1987; joined its board of trustees in 2005; and served as chair from 2009 to 2018. Under her leadership, Seminary of the Southwest enjoyed tremendous growth in areas of leadership, facility, faculty, and reputation.
The naming of the library portion of the construction project was announced in early March 2023, following a leadership gift to the building campaign from the Episcopal Foundation of Texas and an unanimous recommendation.
The Most Rev. Michael Curry, who served as the campaign’s honorary chairman, had been scheduled to attend and preach but was unable due to surgery. The Very Rev. Cynthia Briggs Kittredge, dean and president of Seminary of the Southwest preached in his stead, representing Curry. “I am so proud of our seminary community for hosting a celebration of such grace and style,” said Kittredge. “This is a day we will remember for a long time.”
In addition to the ribbon cutting and service, a portrait of Harrison that hangs in the foyer of the new library was unveiled; self-guided tours of the building were available.
“The library dedication was such a thrilling and inspiring event,” said Harrison. “It is a great honor to have the library named for me, and the new facilities are truly beautiful and functional. These significant improvements to our campus will shape the seminary’s ministry of formation in amazing ways. The buildings represent the deep commitment of the Southwest community and embody our shared faith and our hope for the future.”
View the ribbon cutting on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STXNxoPKvIY&t=100s
Photo courtesy of Seminary of the Southwest (SSW)
Bishop Dena Harrison cutting ribbon alongside husband Larry Harrison, Bishop Suffragan Kathryn M. Ryan, and Bishop Diocesan C. Andrew Doyle
St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, Austin, Receives Generous $17 Million Gift from Still Water Foundation, Largest in School’s History
In April of last year, St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, Austin, received the largest single donation in the school’s 75-year history as the Still Water Foundation gifted $17 million to St. Stephen’s to construct a state-of-the-art natatorium.
Still Water is a private family foundation based in Austin that primarily funds organizations in Texas focused on the arts, education, the environment, spirituality, and social services. St. Stephen’s is a co-ed boarding school for grades 8-12 and day school for grades 6-12.
“This transformational gift–the largest in the history of our school and among the largest gifts to any independent school in Texas–will strengthen St. Stephen’s ability to continue building on our reputation of educating the holistic mind, body, and spirit of each student,” said Chris Gunnin, head of school. “We are profoundly grateful.”
Slated to open in fall of 2025 and housing a Myrtha 50-meter by 25-yard pool, the natatorium will dramatically enhance St. Stephen’s aquatic programming. The natatorium’s planned location is adjacent to the school’s Tennis Academy, boasting stunning hill country views.
The gift will allow St. Stephen’s to host year-round, short and long-course meets, expand water polo practice and game space, and explore partnerships with community club programs. As the popularity of water polo and competitive swimming continues to increase, Gunnin notes that this world-class swim center will differentiate St. Stephen’s, as it will be among a handful of independent schools in the country with a 50-meter natatorium and the only school in the Southwest Preparatory Conference with such a space.
Ellen Osborne Ray ’86, P ’16,’20, executive director of Still Water Foundation and former St. Stephen’s Board of Trustees executive chair, said this about the donation:
“As St. Stephen’s prepares for its 75th anniversary and embarks on the most ambitious comprehensive campaign in its history, it is Still Water’s great pleasure to make a gift of this significance. As an institution that has often needed to ‘make due’ over the years regarding facilities, St. Stephen’s made a compelling case for what a swim center of this caliber would mean for the entire school community–from recruitment and retention of students from around the world, potential local partnerships, to an enhanced space for community gatherings. We hope this gift will be used as a challenge to inspire and encourage alumni, parents, and friends to join us in investing in St. Stephen’s to ensure the future of this special place.”
“For over 40 years, Still Water Foundation’s generosity has strengthened every aspect of our school, from capital investments and faculty support to consistent annual and endowment gifts,” said the Rt. Rev. Kai Ryan, bishop suffragan of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas and St. Stephen’s board chair.
Camp Allen Starry Nights 2023 Fundraiser at County Line on Lake, Austin Nets $117,000
Camp Allen held an annual Starry Nights fundraising event last April at County Line on the Lake in Austin. Many were in attendance to celebrate Camp Allen and honorees Kelly and Kenton Heinze. Over $117,000 was raised, including a record of $23,000 in camp scholarships.
Officials are grateful for the continued faithful support towards Camp Allen’s mission to create a space for people to come and find respite and experience God in a new, illuminating way.
Photos credit: Michael Brode
Residents Gain Rental Assistance through Episcopal’s El Buen, City of Austin Partnership
Through a partnership with El Buen Samaritano, Austin, and the City of Austin, needy residents began receiving $8 million in rental assistance through a program approved and launched in December 2023 and benefitting residents throughout 2024. The innovative program targets tenants threatened by soaring rents and eviction filings.
The diocese's El Buen Samaritano located in Austin has been at the forefront of responding to the many social-environmental factors leading to lack of access to health care, social services, education, housing, and nutrition.
The rental assistance program benefits those making about $65,000 or less and is administered by El Buen. Applications are hosted on the El Buen website; selection is random, based on a median family income, and residency in the city of Austin.
Payments for rent are made directly to the landlord and other vendors, and applicants qualify for up to $6,000, based on need. The payments may also cover moving and storage costs for those facing eviction.
This program is the second partnership between El Buen Samaritano and the City of Austin. The first was the Relief of Emergency Needs for Tenants (RENTS).
See the original story in the Austin Statesman Newspaper: tinyurl.com/mc96r9nb
Photo credit: John Anderson
Episcopal High Warriors Boys’ Basketball Gain Victory at VYPE Invitational in December
In a highly anticipated, high school basketball December competition, the Episcopal boys’ basketball team won the annual VYPE Holiday Invitational in December.
The invitational is a championship game which vets a powerhouse private and public school team in a competition sponsored by Daspit Law Firm. This year those teams included the Episcopal High Warriors and the Katy Jordan Knights.
Episcopal edged past Katy in a final score of 66-64 at the game held at M.O. Campbell Center in Aldine ISD.
The game left everyone on the edge of their seats as the first half score was 34-32 favoring Episcopal. The back-and-forth made the experience exhilarating to both students, alumni, and friends as every point was earned on both sides until the final minutes of the game.
Previously, Episcopal had bested Cy Springs 71-57 in another match between private-public school basketball.
The game’s MVP Justin Begg scored 22 points in the contest. Jakeel Registe gained 20 points and Brandon Thomas, 8. Register was named to the All Tournament Team 2023.
Photo credit: Bradley C. Collier
Episcopal High School Highlights for 2023: Building the Future as Knights
From philanthropic projects to a memorable musical performance to sporting records and accomplishments, Episcopal High School (EHS), Houston, students and staff documented a year for the history books.
Choir Performs at Carnegie Hall
Students traveled in the spring to perform at the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York City. Nineteen choir students performed John Rutter’s Requiem. They were joined by professional singers on stage. Upon returning home, the choir performed the Requiem during the annual Masterworks Concert in April.
SPC History Maker
In May, Southwest Preparatory Conference (SPC) announced the Knights secured both the boys and co-ed Athletic Director’s Cup. It is a first-time distinction for securing both prestigious awards. The three Athletic Directors Cups (girls, boys, co-ed) are awarded to the top overall athletic programs based on the finishes of each team in the SPC tournaments. EHS earned titles in girls’ cross country and volleyball as well as boys’ soccer, softball, baseball, and track. In addition to those six SPC championships, these teams finished as runners up: football, boys’ volleyball, girls’ basketball, boys’ basketball, and girls’ track.
Diversity In Action Mix and Mingle
Diversity In Action (DIA) held its annual Mix and Mingle event in September. More than 90 participants came to the Underwood Student Center to build connections and share in fellowship, according to Jess Adams, associate director of Diversity, Community, and Inclusion.
DIA Director of Programming Ethan Lahoti, class of 2025, encouraged fellow students to join the organization and shared what makes DIA unique.
“When we share our thoughts, we become vulnerable, allowing others to empathize with us and therefore develop a tight-knit community of family, which makes DIA unique,” Lahoti said.
The bulk of the event involved participants connecting with someone they did not know well, engaging in a series of ice breakers to help ease conversation. Students, parents, teachers, administrators, and trustees participated.
Students Donate 1,000-plus Pairs of Socks to Homeless
The EHS chapter of the National Honor Society held its 6th annual Sole Saving Sock Sale benefiting clients at the Beacon during the Christmas holidays. The nonprofit provides services to benefit homeless in Houston. NHS organized the event which was a competition between EHS class members. Freshman donated 120 pairs, sophomores donated 222, juniors offered up 368 and seniors provided 355. The class contributing the most socks was dismissed first from chapel and awarded cookies. The NHS supports the Beacon through other service projects throughout the year including an ongoing toiletries project.
Breaking Ground on the Arts Center
A new visual and performing arts center is on the horizon after EHS broke ground in December on a 20,000 square-foot classroom, performance, and studio space. It will include the latest digital animation, theatrical, music and broadcast technology, and provide purposedesigned spaces for each arts discipline, as well as cross-curricular collaboration.
As one of four pillars at EHS, the Arts Pillar boasts nationally recognized visual and performing arts faculty supporting 47 individual arts courses and a robust extracurricular component.
Renown Coach Transitions Role
Coach Steve Leisz has been the face of the Knights football and wrestling programs for decades, having joined the staff in 1992.
Last year, he led the football team to the SPC championship. An interview with Leisz was featured on VYPE through an interview with reporter Matt Malatesta and is available for viewing at youtu.be/K6_mdrbo268 .
In addition to championing award-winning sports programs, Leisz has been the positive face of EHS in the hallways as well as the locker and weight rooms for decades.
Leisz has announced he will now transition out of his coaching role but will continue to spread the good news about the school in a new position as director of Parent Programs and School Legacy. His duties include organizing activities such as homecoming and senior traditions. He believes the transition will be smooth as he already has close relationships with the students.
He will also take on the important responsibility of communicating with parents and assisting as ambassador for the football and wrestling programs.
“I look forward to this next chapter in my life,” Leisz said.
Photos credit: EHS students, faculty, and staff
O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.
1 Chronicles 16:34
With a Heart Thanksgivingof
St. Dunstan’s, Houston, Celebrates Anniversary of Spanish-Speaking Ministry
IN THANKSGIVING OF SPANISH-SPEAKING MILESTONE
St. Dunstan’s, Houston, rejoiced in the first anniversary of the parish’s Spanish-speaking ministry on Aug. 27, 2023. Approximately 90 community members were in attendance. During the service, three members were baptized and one received the first communion. The Nacer de Nuevo prayer group showcased a beautiful praise dance. After the service, fellowship ensued, with music provided by Jaime Muñoz.
During the first year, the ministry had many spiritual retreats. Parishioners held several food distributions, engaged in Friday night healing services, hosted different programs surrounding mental health, and participated in a Tuesday radio outreach segment through Aliento de Dios radio.
St. Thomas the Apostle, Nassau Bay, Receives New Stained Glass Windows
IN THANKSGIVING
The Whirley family gifted stained glass windows to St. Thomas the Apostle, Nassau Bay, in October as testament of their love and faith and as a memorial to their daughter Ella. The windows were designed by Chris Alexander, built with the assistance of her Harmony Stained Glass colleagues, and installed by Freebird Glass.
The main theme of the windows is the creation story from Genesis.
The cycle of each day and night is represented as chapters proceed. The beauty of the world is paramount in the design. Each of the trees on the right and left sides of the window represent a different season, and the sun and moon speak to the passage of time. Roses represent the flowers of the earth but also depict Christ’s sacrifice. They are portrayed in the varying colors of the liturgical calendar.
The small butterfly playing with the lion represents daughter Ella and how she is loved. The concept of the butterfly has a larger meaning as well, representing spiritual growth through walking with God. In the very center of the windows is an area of darker glass that represents the chaos before God created order, but the shape of a chrysalis speaks to the transformative power of God’s love. The butterflies become sculptural, flying down the hallway and traveling with parishioners as they walk towards worship.
Stories of Liberations, Resilience, Justice
IN THANKSGIVING
Lord of the Streets, Houston, was gifted a mural from renowned Houston local artist Reginald C. Adams to celebrate Juneteenth and the liberation, resilience, and social justice the day represents. The mural was dedicated and installed June 23, 2023. Volunteer Houston chose Lord of the Streets as one of four organizations to receive Adams’ murals because of the work it does to help the homeless, the resilience it shows, and the liberation it works towards.
Photo: Courtesy of St. Thomas the Apostle, Nassau Bay
The Stations of the Cross Through Art
IN THANKSGIVING
St. Mark’s, Austin, commissioned local artist Jim Janknegt to paint a new set of stations of the cross for the permanent collection of its parish. Janknegt’s powerful, technicolored stations portray Jesus in modern day. They are set in scenes familiar not only to those who live in Austin, but also across Texas. All 14 stations were displayed together publicly for the first time at St. Mark’s on Good Friday, 2023.
Dedication of a New Panel in the Saints of the Church Window
DEDICATION
All Saints’, Austin, commemorated the feast of Absalom Jones on Feb. 15, 2023 with Holy Eucharist and the dedication of a new panel in the Saints of the Church window. The panel honors Absalom Jones, the first Black Episcopal priest and prominent 18th century abolitionist, and Jonathan Myrick Daniels, a martyred Episcopal seminarian and civil rights activist. In attendance were Bishop Kathryn M. Ryan and guest preacher Rev. Stephen Ray.
Trinity, Baytown, Celebrates 100 Years
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
Trinity Episcopal Church, Baytown, celebrated 100 years of worship and mission in the Baytown community in June of last year. Bishop Hector Monterroso celebrated at a combined 10 a.m. service on Trinity Sunday with the Rev. Meredith Crigle baptizing, confirming, and reaffirming the faith of 15 parishioners.
Centennial Celebration festivities continued with a pit barbeque lunch, decorated cookies that marked the occasion and potluck sides. Parishioners, families, and neighbors gathered to celebrate this milestone in the life of Trinity.
St. Paul’s/San Pablo, Houston, Hosts Centennial Celebration in April 2023
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
St. Paul’s/San Pablo, Houston, hosted its centennial celebration last April and acknowledged the many stories of its faithful parishioners and clergy who both preached the word of God and worked towards building God’s kingdom of followers since 1919.
Bishop Hector Monterroso received and confirmed 27 congregants at the service brim-filled with community.
The church was born in the southeast Houston area home of an Episcopalian named Langhammer in a neighborhood called Park Place in summer 1919 with 15 members. Until 1923, the church held services at Park Place Elementary School. The first church building was completed at 8031 Park Place in 1937 but was later moved to its current site at 7843 Park Place to make way for the Gulf Freeway construction.
Peggy Fleissner, 91, congregant and member of the church’s founding family, was honored and commemorated at the service. She is the last living daughter to the founding family and was baptized, confirmed, and married at St. Paul’s, as were her children.
Peggy was 3 when the new church was completed. She remembers the cement still being wet as 40 Episcopalians walked from the church’s original location at a local home. Once they realized the cement was still fresh, they took off their shoes and stood on the wet cement to leave their commemorative footprints.
Those original congregant footprints, which include Peggy’s, are buried beneath the carpeted surfaces of the church.
Many more stories of the evolution of the church were shared at the centennial celebration.
In 1995, the first service in the Spanish language was held and St. Paul’s/San Pablo Episcopal church was reborn. Since then, the church has grown and expanded its mission field in this area of southeast Houston.
St. Paul’s/San Pablo continues to work towards its motto and mission statement: “Open hearts and open doors – receiving everyone who is seeking to know Christ.”
St. Luke the Evangelist, Houston, Celebrates 103 Year Anniversary Milestone Brunch, Parish Hall Dedication, and Rally Day in 2023
St. James the Apostle, Conroe, Celebrates Two Anniversaries
Simultaneously
30/90 LEGACY CELEBRATION
St. James the Apostle, Conroe, marked two milestones in the life of the parish on Sunday, Oct. 2. The first recognized 90 years since Mrs. Fred Pybus placed a classified ad in the Conroe Courier “looking for any Episcopalians” in the area. The second celebrated 30 years since St. James the Apostle parish moved from its original location near downtown to its current, 14-acre campus.
“Neither anniversary by itself might have caught anyone’s attention, but together they add up to a good, legitimate excuse to throw a big party,” said the Rev. Jerald Hyche, parish rector. “We have much to celebrate, especially considering all we’ve been through over the past couple of years with the pandemic. This party will be a vivid reminder of God’s faithfulness to this parish through times good and bad, and for generations.”
The parish’s 30-90 Legacy of Love celebration welcomed back former members and clergy, including the Rev. Mike Chalk, who led the congregation during its move west toward Lake Conroe in 1993. Other former clergy assisted during worship. Video greetings from Bishops Andy Doyle and Jeff Fisher were also presented..
Following worship, a “family photo” of the congregation was taken outside. A collection of food trucks provided dinner on the grounds for all. Children enjoyed a bounce house and slide, among other games and activities.
In the weeks leading up to the party, photos capturing the life of the parish through the decades were displayed in the church.
“This already has been a great experience for the whole congregation,” Hyche said. “We’ve had a lot of fun sharing stories about the parish and people from the past. It’s been good for our newest members to learn about that history – and good for us all to ‘ponder anew what the Almighty can do’ in the future.”
For more information about St. James the Apostle, visit www.stjamesconroe.org .
St. James’ Episcopal Church, Houston, Celebrates 15 years of Ministry with the Rev. Victor Thomas
IN CELEBRATION OF 15 YEARS OF MINISTRY WITH RECTOR
The last day of 2023 ended on a high note for parishioners of St. James’, Houston. They surprised their rector, the Rev. Victor Thomas, in celebration of his 15 years of ministry at the church, and within the community-at-large. He was showered with a video tribute from his former and current bishops, his spiritual director, and a parish lay preacher. With family seated on the first pew of the church, Thomas was speechless as he was gifted with an overflowing and supersized coffee mug filled with gift cards valid at his favorite popular coffee chain. Other gifts from parishioners included a certificate of commendation and a baseball cap and apron with the insignia of the coffee chain that he donned for a moment during the presentation. He thanked both his wife and the parish for their undying support of his ministry, commitment, and aspirations for St. James’. Closing his remarks, he was filled with immense gratitude and happiness as he looked forward to many more years of service to God, and the parish and community. His desire is to create a space where people can learn to be more Christ-like.
Since Thomas arrived at St. James’, the parish has more deeply engaged in community outreach; celebrated numerous milestones in the life of the church; and most importantly, increased its giving to the community by the year. The parish has even established partnerships to expand its ability to serve its neighbors with both St. Martin’s, Houston, (referred to as its “brother church”) as well as St. John the Divine, Houston.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused isolation in the historic Third Ward community where St. James’ resides and fervently serves. The parish became creative in safely helping its neighbors with a variety of ways to give and maintain a sense of unity through community. The neighborhood is currently in transition with a mix of young families moving in, along with aging residents who helped make Third Ward the rich treasure that it is today. Yet St. James’ Episcopal, Houston, remains a pillar that serves as a refuge and sanctuary of peace, and plans to be always.
The Rev. Victor Thomas
The Rev. Thomas shown with an abundance of Starbucks gift cards from well-wishing parishoners
St. Mary’s, Hillsboro: 151 Years of Faithfulness
CELEBRATING IN THANKSGIVING
St. Mary’s, Hillsboro, is the oldest congregation in continuous existence in the north region of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas. When Bishop Suffragan Kathryn M. Ryan visited St. Mary’s on Sunday, April 16, 2023, she was the first female bishop to visit the Church in 151 years. Her visit also was the first from a bishop of the Diocese of Texas since Bishop Alexander Gregg visited in 1873.
In St. Mary’s 151-year journey, it has been part of the diocese, the Missionary District of North Texas, the Diocese of Dallas, the Diocese of Fort Worth, and the Episcopal Church in North Texas. The church is a testament to a small but mighty group of faithful Episcopalians.
In 1849, the Diocese of Texas was organized out of the Mission Territory of Texas. Gregg was elected as its first bishop. He made three visits to Hillsboro related to the founding of St. Mary’s: September 1860, November 1871, and October 1873.
In 1872, Sarah Margaret Sturgis (1824-1895) started a Sunday school in her front parlor. It became St. Mary’s Mission when church services were added soon after.
In 1874, the Missionary District of North Texas was created out of EDOT and Bishop Alexander Charles Garrett was consecrated as its first bishop. His see was at St. Matthew’s, Dallas. Six parishes were recorded in his district at that time, including St. Mary’s. After his first visit to “Hillsborough,” he described it as “a poor town of about three or four hundred located in a beautiful country.” (Today it’s a town of more than 8,000 with a median income of more than $50,000.)
On July 14, l883, property to build a church was purchased. Garrett laid the cornerstone of the original church on July 30, l886. The first service in that building was held on March 30, 1887. Seven years later, the building was destroyed by a tornado.
“Tarleton Morrow, then a small boy, crawled under the rubble and brought out the wooden cross which had rested on the altar,” according to a history of the parish. Services were then held in a temporary building beginning March 24, 1895.
In 1895, the Diocese of Dallas was created out of the Missionary District of North Texas with Garrett as the diocesan bishop. St. Mary’s became part of that diocese.
The cornerstone of a brick Gothic Revival building was laid by Garrett on Dec. 16, 1910. The building was completed in 1911, and the congregation moved into their new building.
In 1983 the Diocese of Fort Worth was created out of the western part of the Diocese of Dallas, with Donald Davies as its founding bishop. St. Mary’s became part of the new diocese.
In November 2008, the Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth suffered a schism, the congregation was split, and ultimaely, after 12 years of litigation, their structure was lost.
In summer 2022, the diocese formerly known as Fort Worth reunited with the Diocese of Texas. St. Mary’s has come full circle with a prevailing faith and an understanding of hope.
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church has relied on lay leadership with a succession of traveling supply priests who might be in town once a month. It was founded by lay members, Littleton J. and Sarah Margaret Sturgis.
In 150 years, only three vicars have ministered to the congregations of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church for longer than four years. The Rev. Walter Meyers served 1920-1927, from December 1931 to January 1934, and again from December 1931 to January 1934. The Rev. Wentworth A. Reiman served from September 1964 to March l971. The Rev. Henry Mayer served St. Mary’s from 1985 to 1991. Interestingly, Henry Mayer was the uncle of Scott Mayer, who became provisional bishop of the Diocese of Fort Worth in 2015.
After many relocations and worship in non-traditional spaces, today they are growing with dreams of a new building.
As with all the north region, this congregation knows well that the church is not a building. The people are the church.
As the congregation says on its website: “The church is wherever we are, just as God is with us wherever we are. In good times and in bad, through tornadoes and human-made destruction, the church, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, continues to celebrate God’s love and to be Christ’s voice, hands, and feet in the world today.”
For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Do
The Episcopal Diocese of Texas Disaster Preparedness ministry experienced a “year of extremes.” Although the state was spared hurricanes in the summer of 2023, other disruptive, severe weather events occurred. Record-breaking high and low temperatures and new meteorological phenomena such as “bomb cyclones” and “heat domes” affected congregations and their communities.
Outreach preparedness grants were awarded to mission-minded congregations to support and equip nearby vulnerable populations with various forms of disaster readiness and recovery resources. Through consultations and workshops, our disaster preparedness best practices and tools were sharpened through lessons from our congregations and external preparedness partners. In turn, these resources were shared with Episcopal Relief & Development and its global partners, Bishop Doyle’s Creation Care Task Force, and other dioceses.
Gratitude is extended to Episcopal Relief & Development for a seventh consecutive year of partnership in this mission field. In disaster preparedness, a foundational building block is to be a good partner. Another is knowing one’s neighbors in order to cultivate relationships which strengthen community cohesion. The disaster preparedness ministry is the type of stewardship which builds resilience in congregations and their communities.
About Episcopal Relief & Development
Episcopal Relief & Development is the compassionate response of The Episcopal Church to human suffering in the world. Hearing God’s call to seek and serve Christ in all persons and to respect the dignity of every human being, Episcopal Relief & Development serves to bring together the generosity of Episcopalians and others with the needs of the world.
Episcopal Relief & Development faithfully administers the funds that it receives from the church and raises from other sources. It provides relief in times of disaster and promotes sustainable development by identifying and addressing the root causes of suffering.
Episcopal Relief & Development cherishes its partnerships within the Anglican Communion, with ecumenical bodies and with others who share a common vision for justice and peace among all people.
2023 Diocesan Disaster and Crisis Assistance Snapshot
The Diocese of Texas assists communities around the globe during times of need. Last year, the diocese supported numerous endeavors to help our global neighbors. We thank you for your support as we offered aid to sister dioceses by way of our varied call to actions. Thanks to you, we were able to support the following dioceses and other neighbors as a result of your generosity, that of Episcopal Diocese of Texas, and Episcopal Relief & Development.
Diocese of Hawaii
During and in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires on Maui, we assisted the island through generous donations. On August 8 of last year, weather conditions caused horrific wildfires in Lāhainā, Upper Kula, Pūlehu/Kihei and Ka‘anapali on the island of Maui. These wildfires were among the deadliest of U.S. wildfires in at least the past 100 years.
Diocese of Jeruselum
In the midst of the conflict in Jerusalem and the Middle East last fall, the people of the diocese, the Episcopal Diocese of Texas, and Episcopal Relief & Development helped to sustain outreach ministries in the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, which operates across several countries or territories, including churches, schools, medical facilities, and other ministries.
Syria and Turkey
In February 2023, earthquakes in Turkey and Syria killed over 55,000 people, and injured hundreds of thousands more. Through your generosity, by way of our partnerships in that region through Episcopal Relief & Development, we were able to provide emergency assistance for temporary shelters, food, and other life necessities.
Our aid to others in need doesn’t end once a disaster ends because we understand that communities aren’t restored or rebuilt overnight and that the overall toll on a society can be insurmountable.
The Episcopal Diocese of Texas remains engaged with many communities across the globe whether or not they are in the midst of a disaster or crisis. The diocese regularly concerns itself with the state of humanity at a global level, realizing that we are BETTER TOGETHER when we help our brothers and sisters in need. We are doing God’s work through mission.
Be strong and bold; have no fear or dread of them, because it is the Lord your God who goes with you; he will not fail you or forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31:6
Embracing Change Through Transition
The Rev. Nathaniel Katz Named Dean of Christ Church Cathedral
The Rev. Canon Nathaniel Katz was named the dean of Christ Church Cathedral on June 9, 2023 as BIshop Doyle issued a call for Katz to become the church’s next dean.
Christ Church Cathedral’s search committee of 15 was led by Linnet Deily, chair, and supported Guy Hagstette, non-voting senior warden, who was charged with keeping parishioners updated throughout the search. The committee was commissioned in October of 2022 for the months-long search.
“It is with great joy and anticipation that we announce that our vestry has called the Rev. Canon Nathaniel Katz to be the ninth dean of Christ Church Cathedral,” said Deily. “Katz has enthusiastically accepted the call.”
Katz and wife Shelly are joining the congregation from Paris, France, where Katz served as canon at the American Cathedral in Paris. Prior to the assignment, he served as associate rector at All Saints in Beverly Hills, California. He studied at Harvard Divinity School and began his work in ministry at Harvard’s Memorial Church.
The search committee unanimously recommended Katz for the position.
“He is inspiring and challenging as a teacher and preacher and has a passion for urban ministry,” said Hagstette. “He possesses a heart for ministering to migrants and underserved communities and has shown a demonstrated ability to find creative ways to draw his parishioners into deeper spiritual formation and worship.”
Deily said Katz was drawn to Christ Church Cathedral because of the congregant values and focus which were well-aligned with his own. The Katzes joined the church in late September to assist in fall 2023 programs.
“We are immensely grateful to the congregation for its encouragement, prayers, and patience throughout the search process,” said Deily. With gratitude, he added, “We thank the Very Rev. Gary Jones for his leadership.”
Last Worship Service at St. Catherine’s/St. Mary’s, Hamilton Marked with Tears, Laughter
In a poignant service marked with tears and laughter in early summer, St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church held its last worship service.
On May 14, 2023 the Sixth Sunday of Easter and Mother’s Day, St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church, formerly St. Mary’s Episcopal Church and the Episcopal Church in Hamilton County, held a bittersweet service. The Rev. Canon Janet Waggoner preached and the Rev. Canon Joann Saylors celebrated. During announcements, longtime member Nancy Yates, citing the tradition of giving people a piece of scripture at their baptisms, handed out strips of paper with verses from scripture.
As the congregation took communion, there was a palpable sense of the presence of past congregants who wove the church’s rich history.
Following the service, the members voted on how to distribute the funds remaining in their church account. They voted to give 25 percent to Episcopal Relief & Development; 25 percent to the Episcopal Diocese of Texas to support church plants in the North Region; 25 percent to the local Community Center that serves senior citizens in Hamilton; and to split the remaining 25 percent between the Hamilton Library, the local Boy Scouts, the local hospital, and Friends of the Hamilton Independent School District.
Congregants also agreed it would be good to meet for lunch regularly so they can stay in touch with one another.
St. Mary’s was the first Episcopal church in Hamilton County. Services began in 1868 in the home of Mrs. E.D. Bell, with the Rt. Rev. Alexander Gregg, presiding. Gregg rode on horseback to Hamilton from Galveston.
St. Mary’s first building was consecrated in 1896 by Bishop A.C. Garrett. The Rev. W.W. Patrick was the first rector. It became a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1966.
In 2008, after the schism in the Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth, members who chose to remain in The Episcopal Church were forced to leave their historic building. The Episcopalians began worshiping in a house owned by members Nancy and Randy Yates after a long legal battle in which the church lost its structure.
They bought a building and on May 11, 2014, St. Mary’s dedicated their new building at 1101 S. Rice Street (Hwy. 281 S.). The Rev. Canon Janet Waggoner celebrated and preached,
assisted by the Rev. Bob Tarbet.
The story on the diocesan website read: “The new building is a milestone in the growth of the Episcopal Church in Hamilton County. . . All are welcome to come celebrate with the St. Mary’s community.”
Congregants were served beginning in 2009 by the Rev. Stan Sullivan, who died March 28, 2011, followed by the Rev. Bob Tarbet, who died April 21, 2016 in a diving accident. They then were served for a short time by the Rev. Hope Benko, until she was called to a position at Southwest Theological Seminary in Austin. She was followed briefly by the Rev. Noy Sparks, who left The Episcopal Church. Since then, they were served by supply priests and by Lutheran pastor Teresa Davis.
As so often happens, the Lectionary provided a perfect Gospel for the last Sunday for St. Catherine’s through John 14:15-21 which references Jesus never leaving his believers orphaned.
The faithful Episcopalians of St. Catherine’s left the service knowing they are beloved children of God. Even as they mourn the loss of their worshiping community, they live in hope.
The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters.
Psalm 24: 1-2
Our Work in Creation Care
Diocesan Creation Care Task Force Doing Our Part:
DECEMBER 2023 UPDATE
The Creation Care Task Force has been hard at work researching the most recent and effective solutions for the diocese and its parishes. The goals include lowering carbon emissions; preparing for more frequent and more extreme natural disasters; mitigating sea level rise; preparing for more interruptions to clean drinking water; providing eco-formation and training; and supplying incentives to assist this endeavor.
Lower Carbon Emissions
A comprehensive list of potential parish projects cataloged by cost, time, effort, expense, and importance is being compiled. Actions range from one-time projects in a parish to replacement of existing fixtures, appliances, and systems to allow greener alternatives. The task force is actively looking for best avenues for parishes to finance and install solar arrays.
Natural Disasters
The task force is focusing primarily on FEMA categories of hurricanes, tornadoes, windstorms, flash flooding, freezing weather, ice storms, heat waves, drought, wildfire, hail, lightning, earthquakes, and grid failure. A compendium of best practices is being compiled for all of these scenarios. A document is underway that will show the likelihood of each parish at risk for each kind of disaster with corresponding recommendations that each parish “must,” “should,” and “could” take in response.
Mitigate Sea Level Rise
The regional water plans created by the state of Texas are being reviewed alongside maps of regional flood plans with an overlay of locations of each parish in order to identify the risks to those individual parishes. Advocacy at the state, county, and municipal levels will play a crucial role in meaningful changes that can be made to combat these projected risks.
Interruptions to Water
A major hurdle for this issue is that water is managed on a regional basis with complicated water rights and transportation issues, making it almost impossible to implement a comprehensive solution to interruptions to the water supply. The task force is reviewing the regional water plans created by the state of Texas to identify programs parishes may participate to help mitigate demands on limited water supply during times of long-term disruption. A few examples of programs being researched are water-efficient landscaping, high-efficiency toilets, showerhead accelerator kits, and home water reports. In response to short-term disruptions, it is being researched how pre-existing relationships with local emergency response agencies can be advantageous, and partnerships like making parishes an official emergency water distribution site can benefit the parish and its surrounding community.
Eco-formation and training
A new curriculum is being authored by the task force. Much care and thought is being put into this curriculum in order for it to be accessible to a diverse group of people throughout the diocese, with a wide range of beliefs and convictions around the subject of creation care. The hope is to drill down to the essence of what makes this work important and how parishes can make changes to their parishes and and how clergy and lay can within their homes. Those changes not only benefit creation, but also people’s spirits and bottom lines. This will not, however, water down what is being taught. The curriculum will be steeped in scientific understanding and practical
theological truth that affects our daily lives. It also invites consideration of our emotions. The question that will be posed is “how can we build hope in this time we find ourselves in?”
Incentives
The task force has a vision of what it might look like for incentivizing parishes of all sizes, both through diocesan means and federal/state means. In reviewing governmental options for incentives, it seems that these programs often require expensive upfront expenditures that could pose a challenge for most parishes within the diocese. Conversations with experts in this field are being engaged with the hope that creative solutions can be produced so that even parishes with lower or decreasing average Sunday attendance can leverage and capitalize on their facilities.
The task force has also sent out an initial survey that uncovered a good amount of data on a small swath of the diocese. The hope is that the survey can be updated and sent to a larger portion of the diocese later in 2024 to continue to be in conversation with leaders throughout the diocese in this work. The task force is on track to make insightful recommendations to the diocese in the coming year.
Diocesan Offices Committed
DocuSign Boosts Diocesan Environmental Savings
Since the diocese implemented the DocuSign signature platform, it has contributed to environmental savings. Through regular use of this electronic means within our diocesan centers for business transactions, we have realized the following:
• Reduction of 13,528 pounds of carbon emissions
• Conservation of 16,970 gallons of water
• Conservation of 5,763 pounds of wood
• Eliminated 936 pounds of waste This is equivalent to:
• Removing 1 car from the road
• Conserving 17 trees
• Saving 54,345 pages of paper
Thanks to DocuSign’s savings reports, we are able to track the impact of our environmental savings.
Decrease in Production of The Texas Episcopalian Magazine Copies
The new USHER portal on the Episcopal Diocese of Texas website (URL: epicenter.org) allows parishioners to determine how they wish to communicate or receive communication from the diocese. This means that future issues of The Texas Episcopalian can be received electronically by those who wish to not receive a hard copy of the magazine. You are encouraged to visit the USHER portal on the website to manage your Communication Preferences. Doing so may result in even more environmental savings.
Diocesan Centers to Eliminate Paper Coffee Cups
In 2024, the Episcopal Diocese of Texas is transitioning to coffee mugs, thus eliminating paper coffee cups. This change will further reduce our carbon footprint.
These initiatives are in addition to other efficiences currently in place across our diocesan centers.
Creation Care: 3D Technology Pairs with Humanitarianism as Bishop Doyle Helps Young CEO Ballard
STORY FEATURED ON 60 MINUTES
Five years ago, college graduate Jason Ballard found himself at a crossroads in life. After working with the homeless post-college, he had a dream of using 3D robotics to produce affordable, 3D-printed homes. During that same time, he had been accepted into seminary with the Episcopal Diocese of Texas. He turned to Bishop Doyle to help him decide which path to take.
Ballard’s success story as a technologist, futurist and humanitarian was featured last fall on 60 Minutes. He is co-founder and CEO of ICON, a construction technologies company leading the way into affordable housing and NASA space projects,
“I was almost a priest,” Ballard said, recounting his days of indecision. After meeting with Doyle, Ballard’s humanitarian dream for producing affordable housing was validated.
“He (Doyle) said: I want you to treat the problems of housing like that is your life—your vocation,” Ballard said.
The pair prayed, he said, and Doyle blessed him.
“I’ve been at it ever since,” Ballard said.
The national and worldwide lack of affordable housing is very personal to Ballard, who helped his father rebuild their family home several times after hurricane damage. As the world population continues to grow and housing shrinks, he believes 3D-printed homes are a solution. Today he is also working with NASA to use 3D construction on the Moon.
To learn more about Ballard’s powerful story, view 60 Minutes: www.cbsnews.com/news/3d-printing-on-earth-and-moon-60-minutes
Image from clip in 60 Minutes feature.
Photo credit: Image referencing Episode 4, Season 56, of 60 Minutes of CBS with Leslie Stahl featuring ICON, October 8, 2023
Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established.
Proverbs 16:3
Fulfilling the Mission: Working for You and New Initiatives
NEW DIOCESAN STAFF Working for You
Felicia Moodie
Benefits Specialist
Houston
We welcome Felicia Moodie to the Episcopal Diocese of Texas in the Finance Team (within Human Resources).
Felicia is an experienced benefits professional with robust experience across the diverse landscape of benefits administration.
With a master’s degree in Human Resources Management and an undergraduate degree in Sociology, she has over seven years of experience in the human resources and benefits arenas.
Prior to joining the diocese, Felicia was employed by Amazon in the role of Quality Analyst.
Brad Elgin
Controller
Houston
We welcome Brad Elgin to the Episcopal Diocese of Texas in the Finance Services Corporation team as Controller.
Brad has a deep background in accounting, control, and audit. Most recently, he was the chief financial officer of the Easter Seals of Greater Houston. From 2015 to 2020, he was the controller of the United Way of Greater Houston. Before that he was in finance in the airline industry.
Previously, he was with Harper and Pearson. He began his career as an auditor with Deloitte. Brad, a Certified Public Accountant, is a graduate of Texas A&M University.
2023: A Year of Settling in at the North Region Diocesan Center Working for You
The staff at the North Region Diocesan Center, south of downtown Fort Worth, has continued to settle into its urban office space, doing its best to embody values of joy, compassion, humility, creativity, holy ambition, and resilience.
Window Evangelism
Staff in the region continue window evangelism campaigns, taking advantage of the office's large windows that afford exceptional visibility to pedestrians along the busy sidewalk. The campigns introduce unchurched neighbors to the liturgical seasons and various feast days using big posters and QR Codes that provide more information on the diocesan website.
Community Involvement
The diocese, through the north region, remains an active member in the business association Near Southside, Inc., to learn more from their neighbors, and to support them in their work. Office administrator Joseph Roberts attends their meetings, with other staff joining when possible.
Furthering Diocesan Initiatives
In February, staff hosted the Rev. Leslie Stewart, missioner for Congregational Vitality-New Communities, for a presentation on church planting in the diocese. Attendees learned about the process and discussed possible locations for new church plants.
New Faces and Improved Spaces
In July of last year, the north region staff welcomed the Rev. Joel McAlister, Fort Worth Church Planter, and Laura McAlister, Iona School Administrator, as new office mates. Their arrival was the opportune time to consider and refine how space was being used.
Refined Use of Office Space
The office for the future bishop for the region is now furnished and a security system has been installed.
A Meeting Place
Staff has welcomed friends and visitors, hosting north region congregations for vestry retreats and staff meetings. These include Trinity, Fort Worth; St. Christopher’s, Fort Worth; St. Luke’s in the Meadow, Fort Worth; St. Martin’s, Keller; and Resurrection, Decatur.
In the fall, north region staff also hosted the Executive Team and Directors’ Breakfast.
Meetings of the Tarrant County Coalition for Peace and Justice are held in the office and the local group works with the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) project and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice (Montgomery, Alabama) on a memorial at the site of the 1921 lynching of Fred Rouse in Fort Worth. Members, which include Episcopal clergy, have created a nonprofit that is dedicated to promoting conversations about race and culture in Tarrant County.
Affirming Neighbors
Last June, staff participated in Pride Month which is widely observed in the neighborhood. Both a Diocese of Texas poster and a Pride flag were placed in the window. The observation was wellreceived by neighbors.
Serving as a Bridge
Last July, the region's staff hosted a meeting with Global Partnerships in Mission, welcoming all congregations to engage more deeply and connect others to diocesan resources.
Located in the midst of one of Fort Worth’s urban villages, the North Region Diocesan Center has made being a good neighbor a priority. Neighbors are comfortable and diocesan staff strive to support area congregations, launch a church plant, develop ongoing relationships, and create a safe space for love to grow.
WHAT’S NEW FOR YOU...
New Website and New User Portal
The Episcopal Diocese of Texas launched its new website and USHER portal — a customer relationship management (CRM) system in March of this year. We encourage you to visit the intuitive and easy to navigate website designed for many audiences. It’s ideal for those seeking to learn more about the Church as well as clergy seeking pertinent resources to assist with their work. It is perfect for laypersons wishing to know more about our ministries or anyone wishing to know more about our diocese. Churches and schools are easily locatable, and with the new sitemap, you’re rarely more than a click away from home.
The USHER platform is a gateway to view your profile, set your communication preferences, and also view bishops’ visitations. Extremely useful to clergy, the USHER platform enables them to upload Continuing Education Unit (CEU) information and also track the recording of their CEUs. USHER is centralizing and streamlining many diocesan functions. This dynamic solution empowers users with direct access to a plethora of essential imformation.
Both innovative platforms are part of the diocese’s ongoing commitment to enhance your diocesan experience. We are excited about the full functionality of USHER and how it will become an integral part of the diocesan experience from conference and Council registration and a whole lot more.
Visit www.epicenter.org to take a tour of the new website and to also see how USHER can assist you. In the upper right corner of the website’s homepage, USHER is accessible with one click.
WHAT’S COMING FOR DIOCESAN
STAFF...
The Office of Financial Services will transition from PayCom to ADP for payroll processing in the coming months. Business Services is excited about yet another great stride forward in efficiency in business and human resource related functions.
