Episcopal Church Foundation Vestry Papers - for leading congregations

Dear Friends,

In a world deeply hurt and divided, one thing we share is stories. Our stories draw us closer together – when we share them, we laugh and celebrate our little joys and we grieve our deep sorrows. Stories can heal, revive communities and build new ones. Stories can teach, inspire and lift us up in strength. There is real power in our stories. How do we tell them through our values, our actions and priorities? In this issue, we share ideas on how stories can be expressed in so many ways with powerful and positive results.

In Episcopal circles, the word ‘Evangelism’ has long been the source of many jokes. In Evangelism – It’s Now or Never, Kenn Katona implores us to get serious about speaking our story and shares some unconventional ideas for inviting people to our communities and churches. This article is available in English and Spanish.

What does it look like to build a brand from the ground up, and what role does it play in creating community? In How Branding Can Help You Tell Your Story Better, Beth Wyndham shares the process she led at St. Nicholas Hill Country Episcopal Church in Spring Branch, Texas, focusing on identity formation, communication and connectedness.

How are we telling stories through our actions, our ministries, our assets and our congregation? In How Do We Tell Our Story?, Demi Prentiss invites us to ponder some questions about communicating as God’s people.

As church, how we raise, spend and steward our money can tell a powerful story about our values. In Growing God’s Work, Connie Rux tells the story of All Saints Episcopal Church in Tarpon Springs, Florida, and how they have adapted through their history to be stewards of God’s many gifts to their community.

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Faithfully,

Charis Bhagianathan
Editor, ECF Vital Practices