Episcopal Church Foundation Vestry Papers - for leading congregations

Dear Friends,

In this issue I am thrilled to share the voices of some faithful young leaders in our Church. In these reflections they share insight about their experiences of life, work and ministry as they navigate our ever-challenging world.

Cancel-culture and the associated idea of irredeemability it carries has become common in our world. But how do we reconcile that as Christians? In Call-out Culture’s Shadow Side, Cate Anthony raises important questions on justice, othering and redemption.

Does being ‘on’ at all times make you stressed? In On Being Available Always, a short video, Nia McKinney chats with us about constant availability, constant vigilance and constant worry. She implores us to learn to respect boundaries, our own and those of others.

How does music impact our worship? In Love in Humble Service, Stephen Rumler describes how the parish where he serves as music director was impacted by the pandemic and why music continues to be “an unavoidable grace that we receive each day.”

We live in a culture that encourages us to ‘follow your heart’ constantly. But is that good advice? In To Feel or Not to Feel, Prema Vas shares a reflection on how she navigates immense and overwhelming feelings, with help from Jesus.

ECF Welcomes Three New Board Members

The Board of Directors of the Episcopal Church Foundation (ECF) recently elected three new members: Jo Ann Roberts of Chicago, IL, Charlie Schilling of New York, NY and Mason Lecky of Richmond, VA. “We’re delighted to welcome these new directors to the ECF Board,” said Donald V. Romanik, ECF President. “They bring an incredible array of experience, enthusiasm and energy. We all look forward to working with them as ECF continues to discern our call to address the changing needs of the church.” Read more about our new board members here.

To learn more about ECF and our programs, please visit our website.

Faithfully,

Charis Bhagianathan
Editor, ECF Vital Practices