January 2023
What do you hope the Episcopal Church will look like in 2050?

Editor's Letter January 2023

Dear Friends,

As we journey into 2023 together, at ECF we wanted to start the year by asking – “What do you hope the Episcopal Church will look like in 2050?” In response, we received comments, blogs, articles, videos, even an illustration! This issue and the next is dedicated to our collective and hopeful dream for the future of our beloved Church.

What does a certified futurist believe about the future of our church? In How to See the Church of the Future Today, Lorenzo Lebrija reveals how to think like a futurist – focusing on drivers and signals of change.

In God is doing a New Thing, Alicia Hager shares instances of hope springing forth in ministries around her, reminding us that God is always at work, even if it seems like we are in the wilderness.

What is your most radical dream for our church? In Embodying Hope, Ranjit Mathews describes his vision for the church for the future – one that looks, feels and truly is a sacred, inclusive, welcoming home for all.

Our gift to you this new year, is a wonderful illustration from Jay Sidebotham – The Church in 2050 – for you to ponder, laugh and hope.

As leadership teams come together to plan for a new year of ministry, I want to share with you ECF’s resources for vitality and innovation – these equip leaders to partner and bring about transformation and positive change in our communities. Click here to explore all our resources available to you.

Do you have an interesting story to share about how your church is doing ministry in a different or unusual way? We want to hear it and share it with our community. If you have a story to share, please get in touch. We would love to hear from you.

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

Have a blessed New Year!

Faithfully,

Charis Bhagianathan
Editor, ECF Vital Practices

This article is part of the January 2023 Vestry Papers issue on What do you hope the Episcopal Church will look like in 2050?