Remain Episcopal

Last Saturday, I was in Fresno to attend an all-California meeting of Integrity chapters and diocesan LGBT ministries. While there, we heard a report from Remain Episcopal, the group committed to maintaining a continuing Episcopal presence in the Central Valley should the Diocese of San Joaquin decide to embrace schism. At least three congregations (of 50) are committed to remaining in the Episcopal Church come what may. They need the financial and pastoral support of the wider Church as they struggle for recognition and voice in a very dysfunctional and oppressive environment.

Clergy and laity who disagree with the direction of Bishop Schofield have been ostracized by the conservative majority. Canonical processes for decision making and safeguards to ensure avenues of communication have been ignored. Faithful Episcopalians in the Central Valley need our help.

There are two things you can do right now to make a difference:

1. Join Bonnie Anderson, President of the House of Deputies of the Episcopal Church, for a day of worship and witness to the love of Christ at St. John's Episcopal Church in Lodi on Saturday, February 10, from 11 am to 4 pm. To register, email St. John's at stjohnslodi@sbcglobal.net or Remain Episcopal at contact@remainepiscopal.org. This event is free and lunch will be provided.

2. Send a tax-deductible contribution payable to "Remain Episcopal" to Remain Episcopal Membership, 2067 W. Alluvial, Fresno, CA 93711.

Please keep the diocese of San Joaquin in your prayers.