The Gift of One Another

Beloved in Christ,

This past Saturday, we confirmed seventeen people from two congregations and baptized four children at St. Paul's in Duluth. This evening, ten more people will be confirmed from four congregations at a gathering at St. Matthew's in St. Paul. I've presided over fifteen or so services like that since becoming bishop. They are loud, joyful, and the Holy Spirit is palpably present. Despite all the challenges in front of us, the joy, love, and commitment that stands behind each of them convince me beyond any doubt that God is not done with our church yet. I get to come for the party, but the hours and hours of effort you all put into caring for and building up your congregations isn't lost on me for a second. Whether you gather with a group of three on Sunday morning or a group of many hundreds, don't ever forget that your efforts matter so very much to God. I've worshipped in both contexts, and the Spirit's presence is equally known and powerful in both, and every other context besides.

The thing that strikes me most during confirmation liturgies is the unmistakable reality that the journey of faith is not one we can make alone. We renew our baptismal promises together. We commit to supporting one another along the way. That, at the end of the day, is what is so unmistakably clear to me in these visitations: the people of ECMN really do support one another and share life in Jesus in real and meaningful ways. What a gift we have been given in one another. What a gift to have been given the high calling of continuing in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, repenting and returning to Jesus, seeking Christ in all persons, striving for justice and peace, together. I thank God to count each of you as a companion on the way. 

Grace and Peace,

The Right Revered Craig Loya
X Bishop
Episcopal Church in Minnesota