Dear friends in Christ, 

Illumined by the light of the Epiphany, we continue our seasonal journey toward Lent, planning as we do so to immerse ourselves in prayer and study, fasting and reflection on all that God in Christ has shown us of love, of life, of mercy. The season of Lent is also one of reconciliation, deeper connection to God and to one another:   

NEW Curriculum to address Christian Nationalism 

During this time of widely-acknowledged division within our nation, turning and returning to the foundations of our faith helps to keep us grounded in the love of God that connects us. The House of Bishops report on Christian Nationalism names it as an urgent issue, even a crisis, that “distorts our relationship with God”, as well as being a “threat to our democracy”. 

This curriculum is designed to help us recognize how the currents of nationalism and populism that are strong in our present time can pull at the cohesion of the Body of Christ and distract our attention from the fullness of the love of God and neighbor to which we are called (Mark 12:29-31), so that, with God’s help, we can continue to proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ. 

Please be in touch with Canon Rosalind for further information or inquiries. 

Further Connections in Beloved Community 

Immigration 

Immigration advocacy resources are now available on the diocesan website. We will also gather for a conversation with Bishop Anne on February 4 at 12:30 p.m. to give these resources more context and to share questions, answers, and concerns. Join the Zoom here. 

A Conversation with Bishop Anne in the Spirit of Absalom Jones and Barbara Harris 

As we prepare to celebrate the feast days of the Blessed Absalom Jones and the Blessed Barbara Harris at Christ Church, Shaker Heights on  February 14, Bishop Anne would be honored to gather with people of color from across the Diocese of Ohio for a time of deep listening and honest conversation.  

This conversation will take place immediately following the reception after the diocesan celebration of Absalom Jones and Barbara Harris, and will last approximately one hour. This will be a closed gathering for only people of color with Bishop Anne and Canon Jessie, and will not be recorded. Allies and others are encouraged to pray for the gathering. RSVPs are helpful to our hosts; please RSVP here. See Bishop Anne’s full invitation here. 

Every One Beloved Anti-Racism Training 

Following an overwhelmingly positive reception, the one-day workshops scheduled for February (Medina) and March (Cleveland) are now full. You may join the waitlist by contacting Canon Rosalind. The next one-day workshop is scheduled May 16 in Toledo; registration will open in March. 

Save the Date – Becoming Beloved Community Retreat 

Our annual gathering with our siblings from the Diocese of Southern Ohio will take place May 1-2 at Bellwether Camp and Retreat Center. Registration opens in March.