Meet the Deputation: Laura Bathke

Name: Laura Bathke
Faith Community: St. Matthew's, St. Paul
Where/how you serve: Head verger at St. Matthew's, Member of the Commission on Ministry, ECMN
Number of General Conventions Attended: 1
Official role(s) at General Convention: lay deputy

1) Why did you choose to serve as a deputy to General Convention and what do you hope to accomplish or experience there? 
I have been fascinated my whole life with the functioning of the Episcopal Church.  As I have learned about the church history I have come to realize we need to reconcile our past and heal to move forward.  This has to change from the top to be universal.

2) What gifts and passions do you bring to this ministry? How has serving in this way transformed you?
As a cradle Episcopalian I have witnessed the Episcopal church evolving to accept all God's people group by group . . . including women, people of color, GLBT+, and Indigenous to list a few.   This work is not done as more injustices come to light.

3) How do you see the work of General Convention connecting to the ministry of ECMN?
I see the work done at the General Convention serving as a guide for the diocese, parishes, and individuals on ways to follow Jesus.