For I resolved to live according to wisdom, and I was zealous for the good, and I shall never be disappointed.
Ecclesiasticus 51:18

As many of you know, I serve on Diocesan Council, a sort of advisory group to the bishop with similar responsibilities as those of a Vestry in a parish. The Council is made up of lay and clergy representatives from each region of the diocese plus a few members elected at Diocesan Convention to serve at-large. It tickles me to say I am a member at-large.

At our most recent meeting, Bishop Carrie introduced her vision for how our diocese can be more cohesive, more effective, and more loving. We have been calling ourselves a “Community of Love” for some time now but have never really talked about what that means or what it might look like. Bishop Carrie is addressing it directly and has asked the council members to start sharing her plan with our parishes and regions.

To build a Community of Love we need to identify our shared values, clarify our shared assumptions, and agree to behavioral norms. Over the next few weeks, I will unpack the values, assumptions, and behaviors that Bishop Carrie has identified so that we can discuss them together at our Annual Meeting on February 16.

For now, let me offer a list of values to consider as you make your New Year’s Resolution.

• Faithfulness
• Integrity
• Compassion
• Curiosity
• Transparency
• Accountability
• Informed Choice
• Humility
• Hospitality

Which of these values stands out for you? Does any surprise you? Consider these values, whether and how you live them out. What other values do you prioritize? What values will guide you into the new year.

In peace,