Bishop's Weblog
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The weblog of Bishop Robert Duncan and other members of the
Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh's Leadership Team
February 26, 2008
From Bishop Henry Scriven
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Last April Bishop Bob and Nara and I drove back from the New Wineskins Conference in North Carolina with a fairly recently consecrated bishop from the Diocese of Hpa-an, Myanmar (Burma). Bishop Stephen Than Myint Oo stayed with us and I took him to Grace Church, Edgeworth where he preached. Later he visited other dioceses and parishes in the USA as he sought to learn about our church. Bishop Stephen is a Karen Christian as are many of the Burmese Anglicans and they have been marginalized and sometimes persecuted in their country. He studied in Singapore and is at the moment working on his doctorate. When the troubles erupted in the fall of last year in Myanmar I wrote to him and he replied almost immediately by email thanking me for our prayers.
In the New Year Bishop Stephen was elected as the Archbishop of the Province of Burma and he invited me to his enthronement. I was privileged to go and represent Bishop Bob, the Diocese and the Network at this historic occasion on February 17th 2008. I spent a lot of time with the delegation from Singapore, many of whom were also at the New Wineskins Conference, and we had meetings with all the bishops of the province about the situation in the Anglican Communion, led by Archbishop John Chew and Bishop Michael Scott-Joynt (Winchester, CofE).
I was also able to visit a church in a nearby town, Than Lyin, and preach at the Eucharist. The Archbishop was my translator, and this was the morning of his own enthronement! The church is poor, but the people are faithful, gentle and joyful. Please pray with me for the opening up of the country to freedom and democracy, and pray for Archbishop Stephen and his family as he faces the task of leading the Anglican Province of Myanmar.
September 12, 2007
From The Rev. Canon Mary Hays
Faithfully,
April 12, 2007
From Bishop Robert Duncan
March 29, 2007
From Bishop Henry Scriven
One of the very encouraging differences between my experience of the Church of England (and I stress that it is only my experience, and the Diocese in Europe is anything but normal!) and the Diocese of Pittsburgh is the role, status and work of our permanent deacons. Of course we do not have the position of Reader (lay preacher) as we have in the Church of England, but deacons here certainly have a very distinctive and important position.
We had our annual Deacon’s Convocation on Saturday, March 17, (St Patrick’s Day) and the vast majority of our deacons who are serving in this diocese were present. We were hosted by Shepherd’s Heart Fellowship in their building in Uptown, near Mercy Hospital. The main purpose is to check in with each other and with the Bishop; Due to the House of Bishop's Meeting, Bishop Duncan was of course not able to be there personally, but Mary and I will give him a full report. We asked the assembled group to reflect on their ministry in the light of our much touted diocesan theme of 2006, fruitfulness.
In some of the churches there is a real hunger for the Word of God and in others our deacons are working and praying to instill that in the congregations. I was impressed that there is much work going on in the community as well as in church, real servant ministries that are moving to hear about. Of course juggling full time jobs with ministry and home and family is very hard for some of our deacons, and we need to recognize that they do need to make adequate time for Sabbath rest and refreshment. We also appreciate the work they put in in hospital ministry, as we found out when Catherine (my wife) was in hospital last week and received a very helpful visit.
After Greg Malley left the diocese to go to Savannah, we need a new Archdeacon, and the group unanimously elected a candidate to be recommended to the Bishop for appointment. We’re looking forward to new and creative things happening!
March 14, 2007
From Canon Mary Maggard Hays
Last weekend was full of learning for the Diocese of Pittsburgh. We welcomed the Very Rev. Kevin Martin, Dean of the Cathedral in Dallas and former Congregational Development officer of the Diocese of Texas. Kevin spoke on Friday afternoon to a group of roughly 20 clergy. His topic, Five Keys for Church Leaders, is also the title of his new book. Kevin helped clergy understand how they might: Build the team, Pay attention to the generations, Tend the Two Doors, Keep healthy, and Raise the Stewardship level of their parishes. One rector commented, “Friday's lunch with Kevin Martin was great. Came away with some thought provoking ideas and some ideas to implement right away. He also confirmed some things that I am already doing - which was good to hear! His ideas will certainly be of benefit in moving the parish from maintenance to mission.”
On Saturday, vestry members were treated to inspiring stories and lively discussion at the “vestry workshop” portion of our annual Ministry Leadership Day. Kevin presented an abundance of helpful principles, tools and maxims, designed to help clergy and vestries become more fruitful. Several parishes used the day as vestry retreat, meeting afterwards for dinner and discussion.
Kevin had a real gift for memorable quips! Here are few I jotted down during his workshops:
“God has eternity to accomplish His purposes; Satan is watching the clock, because he knows his time is running out!”
“If it’s [that is, the conversation in the vestry] about power and control, Jesus Christ has left the room.”
“Modeling is not a way to teach people; it is the way we teach people.”
“Leaders are called to anticipate the future.”
The myth of election…we think that because we elect a person to something, that means the person has the appropriate skills. But election does not guarantee skill!
By the way, mark your calendars now for next year’s Ministry Leadership Day. Saturday, March 1, 2008!
Faithfully,
February 13, 2007
| The Rev. David Wilson and Bishop Henry Scriven at the baptism of Evan Campbell.
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GR & Amy had been with him almost continuously since before Christmas when he was admitted for a second open heart surgery. They have been a fabulous example to me, and to everyone who knows them, of totally devoted parents who loved and cared for their little boy and saw him through his every battle. So of course the shock was that much greater and the grief that much stronger when suddenly Evan was no longer with us. The staff at the hospital were magnificent and were well able to encourage the grieving process. To be there and to hold the baby was so important for the parents, especially since for so long they were not able to hold him when he was in intensive care. Expression of grief and tears were mixed with prayers and often silence was all that was needed; we were in it together.
My prayers are constantly with GR & Amy and their wonderful families as they support each other and pray for each other through the funeral on Thursday and the recovery process from then onwards. Evan will always be a major part of their lives and I thank God for a very special life.
Please visit Evan’s website for more information and pictures
December 14, 2006
From Bishop Henry Scriven
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year! I do hope we don’t miss the time of Advent which is given for waiting and preparation. I was struck by the Advent Sunday Gospel reading from Luke which, in Eugene Peterson’s “The Message” reads in part: “It will seem like all hell has broken loose – sun, moon, stars, earth, sea, in an uproar and everyone all over the world in a panic, the wind knocked out of them by the threat of doom, the powers-that-be quaking” (Luke 21:25,26).
If you think about what has happened just in our lifetimes, it is incredible how many cataclysmic events we have witnessed – that we never imagined could have happened, and we get to see it all on live TV: JFK’s assassination and Martin Luther King’s, the fall of communism and the Iron Curtain, the end of apartheid without a bloodbath, a bloodbath in Rwanda that the world ignored, now another in Darfur, 9/11, wars in the Balkans (that was Europe and on my doorstep!), Iraq, Afghanistan, Sudan, N. Uganda, AIDS pandemic etc. etc. We have lived through an incredible amount. But then so did people in the time of Jesus – occupying power, the fall of Jerusalem, world powers in crisis. So what? Well the incredible thing is that Jesus tells his disciples that this will all happen and then says, “Stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28).
In other words, these are the moments when we should look up and look to God and trust in his redeeming actions. That’s really positive for us in the midst of chaos in the world and in the church. I did say a bit more than that in my Advent Sunday sermon, but I think that’s enough for now!
December 4, 2006
From Bishop Robert Duncan
New Partnership in Beaver Falls
I received reports last week of the official and, from the sound of it, joyful launch of the new partnership between the people of Christ the King in Beaver Falls and those of St. Christopher’s in Cranberry on Nov. 26.
The people of these two congregations are certainly in my prayers as they begin to work together. Parish partnerships are great opportunities for growth in ministry and mission – and not just for the smaller of the two churches, but for everyone involved. That, of course, is a big part of the reason why Canon Mary Hays and the rest of us charged with leading the diocese, have encouraged partnership arrangements so much.
I am glad to report that those arrangements seem to be becoming more common among our churches. Christ the King and St. Christopher’s decision to work together is, I believe, the third such partnership to be formalized in the last six months. Christ Church, North Hills, renewed it’s partnership this summer with All Saints in Brighton Heights. We have also seen Fox Chapel again come alongside St. Andrew’s in New Kensington, this time for the calling of their new vicar.
It is a great trend – may it continue.
November 17, 2006
From Canon Mary Maggard Hays
Most of you that our diocese established a 5-year partnership with Uganda Christian University last year. Last Sunday, I joined parishioners from around the diocese at the Church of the Ascension to hear exciting reports from UCU leaders and from members of the UCU Link committee about the progress of this partnership.
We heard first hand from several participants of the first diocesan partnership visit to UCU in May/June. The Rev. Lang Pegram, MD of Christ Church, New Brighton, reported on the needs she saw as a physician during the May/June diocesan visit. (Other medical personnel who were part of the travel team were Dr. Brian Taylor, St. Peter’s, Uniontown, and Elsie Strauss, RN, Church of the Nativity, Crafton.
Theresa Newell, a member of the UCU committee, reported that the team prayerfully concluded, as a result of their trip, that the Pittsburgh/UCU partnership should focus on the new UCU nursing program. (The program began the very week of the visitor’s arrival at the school.) Fountain explained that nursing students must leave their jobs in order to attend the program, and expressed his deep gratitude (and that of the director and students) for our diocesan focus. The six-semester bachelor of nursing program has 14 students enrolled with ten new students beginning midwifery training in January, he said.
Already over $10,000 toward tuition scholarships have been raised for the nurses, reported Mr Sherman White, chairman of the national UCU Partners Board and a member of St Stephen’s Sewickley.
To find out more about our UCU partnership or to make a contribution to these important efforts, contact Theresa at tnewell777@comcast.net.
Faithfully,
October 5, 2006
For the first time in four years Catherine and I were able to attend the Church of the Ascension weekend retreat in Laurelville this past weekend. The speaker/facilitator was Sally Morgenthaler and she challenged us to look creatively at what each of us was doing to bring the kingdom of God to those among whom we live and work. There was one particular session when the Holy Spirit seemed to be stirring the creative juices, and ideas and stories flowed. One of the ideas was that we should be ‘seed bombers for Christ’. Seed bombers are those who throw bunches of seeds over the fences of properties in urban settings that have been fenced off to get flowers growing in barren and useless land. Should we not have a blog that would serve to share ideas like this among the congregation and wider? Well, that was set up within minutes and is going strong; now you too can be part of the conversation.
Last week I was privileged to join a small group of leaders at St. Thomas’, Oakmont. They are planning their yearly Stewardship focus using a program called New Consecration Sunday, designed by Herb Miller. The program involves a multi-week series of announcements and sermons, culminating in “New Consecration Sunday,” when parishioners express their commitment of giving on cards which are placed on the altar. After the service, the entire parish joins in a festive, celebratory lunch. Faithfully,
September 21, 2006
While I have been away much of the last few weeks, the people of Pittsburgh have not been far from my thoughts and prayers. I have also been aware of and deeply appreciated your prayers for me.
As we in the Episcopal Church continue to face very difficult decisions, please know how much I covet your continued prayers for me and all those in leadership. When I enter into these various gatherings, I have been keenly aware that I do not go alone, but am covered by your intercessions.
It has been a great source of strength to me. Keep it up. If you would like more information for how precisely to pray for the meetings ahead, the Anglican Communion Network has a helpful press release here. I look forward to seeing you at the various scheduled diocesan and parish events this fall.
May God continue to bless us all in the days ahead.
Faithfully your Bishop,
August 31, 2006
From Canon Mary Maggard Hays
One of the features of the program is the inclusion of a “Guest Leader,” someone from outside the parish (a priest of another parish or a canon missioner, for example) who works with the rector and organizing committee, speaks at a leadership dinner and preaches at and leads the New Consecration Sunday program. This year Jeff Murph invited me to be the guest leader.
I was impressed by a number of things as the committee meeting progressed. This stewardship program is designed in immense detail, yet with enough flexibility to adapt to individual situations. It gives a helpful structure for parish stewardship education, and it involves parishioners in clearly defined “do-able” tasks. Parishioners are not asked to ask for money (much to their relief!), but they do ask people to attend church and the luncheon on New Consecration Sunday. (Every person is personally invited to attend that day’s activities.) I was also impressed by the joy and confidence of the committee. This is the third year that St. Thomas’ has used the program, and there was a lively exchange of ideas and experiences. (You can order the materials online at cokesbury.com or amazon.com)
St Philip’s, Moon is addressing concerns of stewardship education by offering Financial Peace University, a 13 week course on family finances. This seminar addresses offers a Biblical perspective on issues such as Beating Debt, Building Wealth, and Giving “like never before.”
Let us know if there are particular programs or emphases that have helped you educate or be educated in the area of stewardship and finances.
August 22, 2006
From Bishop Henry Scriven
I have been genuinely amazed, humbled and grateful for the generosity and kindness of clergy and lay people from all over the diocese who have sent cards, emails and personal messages of support and condolences after the death of my mother. Thank you to everyone who has written and prayed. I have received over 58 cards so far. When my father died and we were missionaries in Salamanca, Spain, I don't think we received one message. This is truly a wonderful diocese and everyone is so kind and supportive.
We experienced a series of small miracles in the timing of this trip. My mother was taken ill at 8 am. our time and she died less than an hour later. Our daughter, Anna, was first on the scene about an hour after she died and was able to pray in the room with us on the phone. Joel was there soon after and my brother soon after that. We managed to book flights for that same afternoon and arrived in London on Thursday morning. We heard as we landed of the security scare and found Gatwick airport in chaos with people lining up on the streets who could not even get into the airport. We were able to go straight through and out to our rented car and drive to the nursing home and deal with death certificates, funeral arrangements etc. with my brother.
The funeral was a joyous affair; my mother had chosen nine hymns, four of which we sang. Top of the list was one from the Methodist Hymnal by Richard Baxter which summed up her life and witness:
While I have been away much of the last few weeks, the people of Pittsburgh have not been far from my thoughts and prayers. I have also been aware of and deeply appreciated your prayers for me. As we in the Episcopal Church continue to face very difficult decisions, please know how much I covet your continued prayers for me and all those in leadership. When I enter into these various gatherings, I have been keenly aware that I do not go alone, but am covered by your intercessions.It has been a great source of strength to me. Keep it up. If you would like more information for how precisely to pray for the meetings ahead, the Anglican Communion Network has . I look forward to seeing you at the various scheduled diocesan and parish events this fall.May God continue to bless us all in the days ahead.Faithfully your Bishop,I have been genuinely amazed, humbled and grateful for the generosity and kindness of clergy and lay people from all over the diocese who have sent cards, emails and personal messages of support and condolences after the death of my mother. Thank you to everyone who has written and prayed. I have received over 58 cards so far. When my father died and we were missionaries in Salamanca, Spain, I don't think we received one message. This is truly a wonderful diocese and everyone is so kind and supportive.We experienced a series of small miracles in the timing of this trip. My mother was taken ill at 8 am. our time and she died less than an hour later. Our daughter, Anna, was first on the scene about an hour after she died and was able to pray in the room with us on the phone. Joel was there soon after and my brother soon after that. We managed to book flights for that same afternoon and arrived in London on Thursday morning. We heard as we landed of the security scare and found Gatwick airport in chaos with people lining up on the streets who could not even get into the airport. We were able to go straight through and out to our rented car and drive to the nursing home and deal with death certificates, funeral arrangements etc. with my brother.The funeral was a joyous affair; my mother had chosen nine hymns, four of which we sang. Top of the list was one from the Methodist Hymnal by Richard Baxter which summed up her life and witness:
whether I die or live;
to love and serve thee is my share,
and this thy grace must give.
If life be long, O make me glad
the longer to obey;
if short, no labourer is sad
to end his toilsome day.
Christ leads me through no darker rooms
than he went through before;
he that unto God's kingdom comes
must enter by this door.
Come, Lord, when grace hath made me meet thy blessèd face to see:
for if thy work on earth be sweet,
what will thy glory be!
Then I shall end my sad complaints
and weary sinful days,
and join with the triumphant saints
that sing my Saviour’s praise.
My knowledge of that life is small,
the eye of faith is dim;
but 'tis enough that Christ knows all,
and I shall be with him.
Thank you all and thanks be to God!
July 28, 2006
From Canon Mary Hays
One of the more exciting developments in the diocese this summer has been the welcoming of the Rev. Christopher Klukas as the new rector of St. Martin’s, Monroeville. This is a particularly happy call for the diocese because of the role so many Pittsburgh parishes and people had in forming this young leader.
- Chris was a part of our vibrant Happening movement, a Christian formation retreat led by and for young people.
- He was a part of the youth ministry team at St. David’s, Peters Township, under the leadership of Dixon Kinser.
- Chris was a part of our first “Young Priests Initiative” (YPI) program; his experience in the program was instrumental in shaping him for his new role. YPI included instruction by a number of Pittsburgh clergy and lay leaders and a summer parish internship at Fox Chapel.
- it was during YPI that Chris met Carrie Estridge, who is now his wife. Carrie, a member of Church of the Ascension, is a postulant for the priesthood in our diocese. (Her YPI summer service took place at St. Thomas’s, Oakmont.
- Most of you will also recognize that Chris is the son of the Rev. Arnie Klukas, formerly rector of Grace Church, Mount Washington. (Arnie and his wife Carol are now both on the staff at Nashotah House, an Episcopal seminary in Wisconsin.)
- Chris has studied at Nashotah House, for the last two years, where he has been guided by former Pittsburghers, the Rev. Doug McGlynn and the Very Rev. Robert Munday.
Ideally, “it takes a diocese to form a priest.” In Chris’s case, many of you have been involved in his formation, directly or indirectly. I hope you will join me in welcoming him home and in praying for his new leadership role at St. Martin’s.
Faithfully,
June 19, 2006
I have noticed a lot of folks wandering this way looking for General Convention Coverage. The dedicated weblog for the Pittsburgh Deputation to General Convention is here.
- Peter Frank
Director of Communication
June 9, 2006
Ordinations tomorrow
God willing, I will be ordaining a large class to the sacred order of Deacons tomorrow at Trinity Cathedral.
Those to be ordained are:
Vocational Deacons
Donald Lee Bowers
James Wayne Chester
Karen Joy Geary
Diane Brooks Scott
Harry Lee Walter
Transitional Deacons
John Thomas Cruikshank
Samuel Robert Jampetro IV
Paul Martin Johnston
Christopher Martin Klukas
Ethan James Magness
Peggy Sue Means
Eddie Lee Slayton
Please keep all of them in your prayers as they begin their new ministry this weekend. One thing I have noticed is that it is when the church struggles most that it's most able leadership steps forward. There is no denying that we face many challenges, but God continues to raise up talented and gifted leaders for the journey.
Thanks be to God!
May 8, 2006
It has taken more than a decade, but as of two Sunday's ago, Shepherd’s Heart has a home. As you might imagine, for a missionary fellowship of the diocese that works primarily with and for the homeless and the poor, dedicating its own worship space at 13 Pride Street in downtown Pittsburgh was an especially joyful event.
What impressed me about the congregation of nearly 200 that came together to dedicate and celebrate was how much it looked like the church should look. Under one roof there were rich and poor, black and white, men and women, young and old, sick and well, recovered and those struggling with addiction. Everyone joined together in worship and praise, prayer and thanksgiving. It fit so well with one of the readings from Revelation 21 for the dedication of a church that we used during the service. That reading reminds us that in the end all believers, whatever their nation of origin, wealth or poverty, weaknesses and strengths will be gathered together into a single heavenly city and “God will wipe away every tear from their eyes and there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.”
I was also glad to learn from Fr. Mike Wurschmidt that many other ministries and one organization that provides services to those homeless will join Shepherd’s Heart in using their new church building. Operation Safety Net, a charity of Mercy Hospital has agreed to rent out the entire second floor. A new Sudanese congregation, lead by Deacon Michael Yemba, will worshipping at 13 Pride Street. Fr. Mike was also hopeful about the possibility of working with the VA hospital to provide emergency shelter for homeless veterans awaiting entry into a VA program in the building. Finally, Tree of Hope, which is a ministry to the families who have lost someone to gang violence has office space there.
Congratulations Shepherds Heart! May you keep, as Fr. Mike likes to say, “Giving them Jesus!”
April 24, 2006
Wow! "Surely he hath borne our griefs... All we like sheep... Hallelujah... Worthy is the Lamb..." On Sunday afternoon of II Easter I visited the rehearsal of the diocesan choir as they were preparing for Thursday's Evenson of Thanksgiving. What an extraordinary event Thursday evening in Trinity Cathedral will surely be! To God be the Glory!
April 20, 2006
Some thoughts on the clergy Renewal of Vows during Holy Week
Renewal of Vows is always a very moving service, especially for me.
When I was in Europe it was impossible for all the clergy to get together for the Renewal of Vows and the Blessing of the Oils. We did it is a different place each year and there was only ever a handful of clergy there; it’s expensive to get from the Netherlands to Rome or from Moscow to Nice. But here in Pittsburgh it is different. About 100 clergy gathered on the Tuesday of Holy Week to hear the bishop thank them in his sermon for their ministry and to recommit themselves to the service of God and his church. Then we all gathered behind the altar to concelebrate the Eucharist. Over 100 people stayed for lunch (provided by Hot Dogma) and to share and catch up. Of course some were sick and couldn’t make it; some had work they could not get out of; others preferred not to be there, but I think they missed out; it was not in any way party-political – just a good opportunity to be together in the Cathedral and worship God and enjoy each other’s company. The next chance will be the clergy conference in September. By the way, in 25 years the Diocese in Europe has had one clergy conference! We are very fortunate.
April 13, 2006
):I am writing to you, even now, with tears of joy in my eyes for what the Lord did this evening. We were unsure of how many people or students to expect, but we hoped and prayed for 30-50. We didn’t do much intentional inviting yet; news of the event was only spread by word of mouth. Attendance was an astounding 96!
Ethan Magness [a soon-to-be-ordained seminarian, who will lead the fledgling congregation] delivered a powerful sermon from the “Lost Sheep” text in Luke 15. we were then treated to a huge dinner fellowship... Monique Magness and her team were responsible for an amazing feast that left no one hungry!
What a joy! I am so thankful for the people of St. Christopher’s, Warrendale. They have a big vision: planting a church, reaching college students, building leaders, extending the gospel. And God is honoring their vision. St. Christopher’s is not one of our larger parishes. It is not a wealthy congregation. But these factors have not prevented it from saying yes to a bold call from God.
Please join me in praying for this new church plant. Let’s ask God to do mighty things through their efforts.
Faithfully,
March 21, 2006
As always, I am delighted to be back in Pittsburgh after my time at Kanuga. While the House of Bishops as a whole remains a long way from repentance and a reentry into the Christian mainstream, it seemed to me that the meeting evidenced what may be the beginning of a shift of priorities: back toward the Anglican Communion and away from the innovations that have caused such distress at home and abroad.
We can all pray that this change of direction, at least as I perceived it, becomes a tide that will sweep the next General Convention to embrace the Windsor Report. We will continue do our part toward that end. Whatever happens, we in the Diocese of Pittsburgh and the Anglican Communion Network are committed to standing where we have always stood.
March 17, 2006
Yesterday afternoon, we received the news of the death of Anna Hathaway, wife of my predecessor as Bishop of Pittsburgh, the Rt. Rev. Alden Hathaway.
I talked to Bishop Hathaway yesterday evening. The Service for Anna will be at St. John’s, Tallahassee, on Monday, March 20, at 11 am.
There will be a memorial service in Pittsburgh at a later date. Details are not yet available. Interment of ashes will be in Maine.
Bishop Hathaway and the family have been most appreciative of all the prayers and expressions of support through Anna’s long illness.
Anna, was a children’s librarian. While she was here in Pittsburgh she organized the “Little Book Room” in the library at Trinity Episcopal School for Ministry. In her memory, the family is requesting that all gifts are to be directed to the newly established Uganda Christain University Children’s Library in Mukono, Uganda.
Contributions may be made in the care of St. John’s Episcopal Church. Put “Anna Hathaway Memorial” in the memo line.
March 10, 2006
This past February we have again been doing the rounds of the Clergy District Fellowship meetings – a chance for the Bishop’s Leadership Team to meet with all the clergy of the diocese in small groups according to geographical areas. We don’t all go to all of them, but this month I was at most; and there is a sense that some of our churches have turned a corner or are coming up from having hit a low point. There are stories of new families in many of the congregations, new programs and new commitment to the gospel and to mission. Also the pledge campaigns have mostly gone really well and folk are excited about what God is doing.
I really enjoy meetings like these. I was able to share at one or two that this time for me in Pittsburgh has been a time when I have known God in a deeper way and my faith has grown. I am sure that is to do with the prayer in our churches and our faithful intercessors. Today the Intercessors’ Conference begins and I hear that 90 people have signed up – another wonderful sign of fruitfulness and new life. Praise God!
February 3, 2006
Speaking of football, I am asked now and then how one prays for a football team. As we go into this weekend, I'm glad to give some advice based on my own practice. I often do pray for the home teams, the way to do it is to recognize the things that God has on his heart…. God loves this city, God loves mountains, God loves his people and God wills that his people be well. With those facts in mind, we might say something like this when we pray.
“Lord, if it’s all the same to you, it would be great for our city, great for our region, great for our people for the Steelers to have this victory. Lord, keep all well on both teams and teach your people to enter the great contest for eternal life with the same discipline that the atheletes who will play this weekend display."
That's my prayer, you're welcome to join me in it.
Faithfully your bishop,
January 30, 2006
From Bishop Robert Duncan
Meeting with 24 of the diocese’s 29 active deacons on Saturday was a most impressive experience, The 24 deacons present represented ministries in 26 different congregations as well as three organizations of the diocese (Canterbury Place, Cursillo, and Happening), One of the things that was clear to all of us who were gathered was how the ministry of deacons has matured in our diocese. The emphasis of bridging the church's ministry to the world and bringing the world's concerns to the church was evident everwhere.
Perhaps more than any other area, it is the deacons' ministry to apply our people to social needs across the region. Here in Pittsburgh those efforts are focused on feeding the hungry, ministering to the homeless, visiting those in prison, and more than any other single matter, serving children and youth in this turbulent time.
No bishop could be happier about the deacons with whom he serves
Faithfully your bishop,
January 10, 2006
From Canon Mary Maggard Hays
Every January, the Diocesan Council meets for an all-day Saturday meeting to prepare for the year ahead. At last Saturday’s meeting (January 7) we:
- Celebrated the Eucharist together,
- Received an overview of the financial bodies of the Diocese, including their responsibilities and income streams, from acting Director of Administration Marsha Tallant.
- Learned about Natural Church Development (NCD) from NCD Coordinator Mark Wright. Mark brought us up to date regarding the parishes in the diocese who are using this proven tool for Church Health and described the concrete steps being taken by several parishes.
- Heard a presentation by Jenni Bartling, Congregational Developer for Church Plants. Jenni outlined the status of Church Plants, highlighted plans of several parishes who plan to plant in the future, and described the services developed by the Church Planting Mission Group for planters and parent parishes.
- Received a letter from our bishop (who was officiating at a family funeral) charging us to be faithful to the diocesan vision of “One Church of Miraculous Expectation and Missionary Grace.”
- Met in various “working groups” which had specific tasks: to give energy relief grants, to celebrate the ministries of women in 2006, to evaluate the Urban Outpost grant program, to oversee the budget and finances, and to pray for the work of the diocese.
- Made grants to Shepherd’s Heart and to Grace Church, Mt. Washington and Edgeworth.
This list does not capture the enthusiasm and energy of the day. Council members are excited about finding new and creative ways to build the diocese, even in the midst of difficult and turbulent times.
Faithfully,
December 20, 2005
From Bishop Henry
December is the priestly ordination season (six months after the June diaconal ordinations). Last year we had twelve ordinations in the last part of December and the beginning of January. This year there have been three (and one to the diaconate which I will come to). James Morehead’s at Shepherd’s Heart was the subject of the last comment on this blog.
The following Sunday Daryl Fenton was ordained by Bishop Duncan at his annual visitation to Nativity, Crafton. This meant that all the congregation were there to support and pray for Daryl, but, unfortunately, many of us who had other church commitments that day were unable to attend. Daryl told me that there were about ten clergy, either from the seminary or who could get away from their churches, as well as 15 or so neighbors and more than 20 family members. The basement hall of Nativity had been cleared out and everyone sat down for pot roast and mashed potatoes lunch; a wonderful celebration.
As I write one of the great servants and leaders of the diocese is waiting for the call to be with his Lord. Jack Morgan is in the last stages of a cancer which he has borne with grace and courage. We know there will be rejoicing in heaven when he is welcomed in as a faithful servant of the Lord. More on this later, I am sure.
Meanwhile all our churches are preparing special services for Christmas. Our prayer is that God will powerfully move and reveal his glory to many for the first time.
December 14, 2005
From Bishop Henry Scriven
Two Sundays ago I was at Shepherd’s Heart for the ordination of Jim Morehead to the priesthood. Jim was ordained deacon for missionary service in Rwanda, but the Lord had other plans. He and Elaine have been very active in the Shepherd’s Heart ministry. This celebration comes at a time when the community has just signed the contract to move out of the basement of St Agnes Church in Oakland to their own building in Pride Street, half a block from Mercy Hospital.
“The Lord hears the cry of the poor; blessed be the Lord” is what we sang at the offertory during the ordination. Pastor Mike (as he is known to the congregation) gave a powerful sermon reminding us all of the shortness of our life on this earth and of our need to commit our lives to Christ. He spoke of Isaiah’s vision of the holiness of God in Isaiah chapter 6 and how he was cleansed and called to a ministry of prophecy. This was often negative and uncomfortable for Isaiah but it was the truth of God’s word.
God calls the poor, the broken, the addicted and the suffering to be first in his kingdom. Shepherd’s Heart is always a powerful reminder to me of God’s love for everyone and how he can change and transform lives. Praise God.
Do pray for ‘Pastor Jim’ in his new priestly ministry.
July 13, 2005
Last week I attended a very encouraging meeting in the Bahamas. Among the many groups attending were representatives from five Anglican Provinces in the western hemisphere. Three groups came representing faithful portions of the provinces of the United States, Canada and Brazil. Two, from the Southern Cone and the West Indies, represented entire provinces. Because those of us who have participated have been asked to restrict our personal comments on the gathering, I will publish the joint press release for now.
- This week, I would ask for prayers for the youth of our diocese who are traveling with Bishop Scriven to Peru. While in Peru, they will work with local Anglicans to launch a Happening program for that diocese. Happening is a very lively and life-changing youth ministry that has been transforming teens here in Pittsburgh for more than 25 years.
I am attaching the release from the conference below:
Faithfully your bishop,
Press Statement from the Anglican Pan American Conference
Biblically Orthodox Anglicans from the Americas and Caribbean meet to promote their common ministry in the Western Hemisphere
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 10, 2005
Nassau, Bahamas. The Pan American Conference of orthodox Communion-committed Anglicans met in Nassau, Bahamas, from July 6-8 under the guidance and direction of the Holy Spirit. The meetings were chaired by Archbishop Drexel Gomez and Archbishop Gregory Venables. The group met for prayer and bible study and to find ways to promote and support our unity and common ministry in the Western Hemisphere. Submitting to one another and to our Lord Jesus Christ, we were greatly blessed by our time together and by the relationships we have established and strengthened.
Those present have committed to furthering the common ministry of the Americas and the Caribbean and to assist the global Communion with finding solutions to the crisis currently afflicting the Anglican churches in the Western Hemisphere which hinders our gospel witness in this region. We look forward to building on the work of the Conference and working with our constituencies to strengthen our ties and promote our traditional Anglican heritage in submission to the Primates and the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Given the enthusiasm for this preliminary meeting, we are confident of future participation from a broader representation of Communion-committed Anglicans in this hemisphere.
The conference was attended by representatives from the following biblically orthodox and Communion committed groups:
The Province of the West Indies
The Province of the Southern Cone
The Anglican Communion Network (ACN)
The Anglican Network in Canada (ANiC)
The American Anglican Counsel (AAC)
The Anglican Communion in Canada (ACiC)
The Anglican Communion in New Westminster (ACiNW)
Anglican Essentials Canada (AEC)
The Anglican Mission in America (AMiA)
The Anglican Province of America (APA)
Anglicans United (AU)
Christian Formation Ministries (CFM)
The Diocese of Recife
Forward in Faith America (FIFNA)
The Foundation for Christian Theology
The Reformed Episcopal Church (REC)
Sharing of Ministries Abroad (SOMA)
Ekklesia
The conference also made a further statement which follows:
Resolution on Recife
The Anglican Pan American Conference meeting in Nassau, Bahamas July 6-8, 2005, notes with profound concern and regret the lack of restraint by the Primate of Brazil, Orlando Santos de Olivera and the Province of Brazil in the precipitous actions taken against The Rt. Revd. Robinson Cavalcanti, by not allowing the Panel of Reference an opportunity to mediate the conflict.
In this way, the Province of Brazil has failed in its fiduciary and pastoral duty towards the diocese of Recife. The rush to judgment being both unwarranted and untimely has caused a fundamental lack of confidence in the findings of the court. Therefore we are constrained to maintain our relationship with Bishop Cavalcanti and the clergy and lay people who continue to recognize him as their bishop.
Further, we implore the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Primates of the Communion to call for a halt to the legal process in Brazil regarding this issue and to conduct a fair and impartial inquiry into the conflict.
June 22, 2005
Wow!
We just learned of the Anglican Consultative Council’s decisions to add the primates to their body as ex-officio members and more importantly fully endorse the primates’ request that the United States and Canada withdraw from its councils. The Anglican Consultative Council also once again reaffirmed “the standard of Christian teaching on matters of human sexuality expressed in the 1998 Lambeth Resolution 1.10.”
We are deeply thankful that the Anglican Consultative Council has stood with the primates and the Windsor Report in reinforcing the message that to make decisions outside of the overwhelming theological consensus of the Communion is to choose to walk apart from the Communion.
I know that I and all other bishops who have publicly agreed to live within the requests of the Windsor Report will do everything in our power at General Convention 2006 to convince our church to come to its senses, repent, and rejoin the Christian and Anglican mainstream.
I am including the full text of the resolutions passed today. They are also available through the Anglican Communion News Service.
Faithfully your bishop,
Resolution following the Primates' Statement at Dromantine
The Anglican Consultative Council
(1) takes note of the decisions taken by the Primates at their recent meeting in Dromantine, Northern Ireland, in connection with the recommendations of the Windsor Report 2004;
(2) notes further that the Primates there reaffirmed "the standard of Christian teaching on matters of human sexuality expressed in the 1998 Lambeth Resolution 1.10, which should command respect as the position overwhelmingly adopted by the bishops of the Anglican Communion";
(3) endorses and affirms those decisions;
(4) consequently endorses the Primates' request that "in order to recognise the integrity of all parties, the Episcopal Church (USA) and the Anglican Church of Canada voluntarily withdraw their members from the Anglican Consultative Council, for the period leading up to the next Lambeth Conference";
(5) interprets reference to the Anglican Consultative Council to include its Standing Committee and the Inter-Anglican Finance and Administration Committee.
Resolution on the Listening Process, as requested by the Primates at Dromantine
In response to the request of the bishops attending the Lambeth Conference in 1998 in Resolution 1.10 to establish "a means of monitoring the work done on the subject of human sexuality in the Communion" and to honour the process of mutual listening, including "listening to the experience of homosexual persons" and the experience of local churches around the world in reflecting on these matters in the light of Scripture, Tradition and Reason, the Anglican Consultative Council encourages such listening in each Province and requests the Secretary General:
1. To collate relevant research studies, statements, resolutions and other
material on these matters from the various Provinces and other interested bodies within those Provinces; and
2. To make such material available for study, discussion and reflection within each member Church of the Communion; and
3. To identify and allocate adequate resources for this work, and to report progress on it to the Archbishop of Canterbury, to the next Lambeth Conference and the next meeting of this Council, and to copy such reports to the Provinces.
June 16, 2005
I will be spending today with our brothers and sisters attending Anglican Essentials Canada's "Open Door" conference in Toronto. Please join me in praying for this group of fellow orthodox believers in North America.
By Revd Estevao
Said Jesus:
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”
Mathew 25.35-36
Last week, we had in Recife an enormous catastrophe! A terrible storm, the big one in recently years, produced a social problem to the poorest population. This storm destroyed 5.000 houses, killed many people and made 32.000 homeless in our region. As part of our diocese, the Secretary of Social Action is working hard to receive donations like food and clothes.
As Christians we are part of the process, this is not only the homeless’ tragedy, it is our tragedy too. We couldn’t see this reality and not help the image and similarity of God.
We are a poor diocese, a poor church; we don’t have many resources, we don’t have a lot of things, but we are trying to make difference! You can make difference too! Please, pray for this big problem and, if possible, you can help the homeless with some thing. If you want it, you can destine any donation to the diocese:
For specific information on making a donation, email my Communications Director, Peter Frank, by clicking here.
Faithfully your bishop,
May 16, 2005
It has been a busy few weeks.
On May 8, I had the privilege of presiding over the ordination of the Rev. Thomas Hendrickson to the priesthood at Christ the King Episcopal Church in Beaver Falls. This past Sunday, I ordained the Rev. David Rucker as a priest for the people of All Saints’ in Rosedale. Though both All Saints’ and Christ the King are not among the largest churches in the Diocese, they are both signs of what congregations committed to the Gospel can be. Please pray for these new priests as well as all the people at these two congregations as they bring Jesus to their communities in new ways.
Looking to the week ahead, I would ask that you keep me in your prayers as I travel to Nashotah House for that seminary’s board meeting. This weekend, I will also be joining people from all over the United States at the Church Army USA’s National Evangelism Conference. We’re blessed to have this event in our own diocese at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Sewickley. I believe that Church Army is still signing up attendees. Then, on Sunday morning, I will be visiting the clergy and people of Trinity Episcopal Church in Washington. Finally, on Sunday afternoon, I will, with members of the Leadership Team, Board of Trustees, Diocesan Council and the Standing Committee begin a overnight leadership retreat at Antiochan Village in Ligonier. We will be focusing on prayer.
Faithfully your bishop,
April 13, 2005
Below is the text of my letter to the diocese regarding Canon Nancy Norton's decision to return to Arkansas this summer. It's hard to sum up a ministry that has been as fruitful as her's. She will be missed, by me, and many many others here in the Diocese of Pittsburgh.
11th April, A.D. 2005
3rd Monday of Easter
TO ALL THE Clergy and PEOPLE:
Beloved in the Lord,
Canon Nancy Norton has shared with me her intention to leave diocesan service on June 30th. I have accepted her resignation with very mixed emotions. Nancy’s husband, Joe, a leader with ALCOA, has accepted a new position in Arkansas and Nancy will join Joe in making a new home there.
Canon Norton has served the Diocese with distinction since January of 1998. As Director of Administration Nancy has shepherded an extraordinary team whose focus has been both competence and customer service. As Chief Financial Officer Canon Norton has been the agent of my commitment to balanced budgets, retiring an inherited deficit, and transparent accounting. As Treasurer of the Diocese, none will forget the grace with which this Christian servant has presented budgets and guided us through understanding their missionary purpose in Diocesan Convention, Council and Board of Trustees. Well done…extraordinarily well done… It is no wonder that many diocesan offices around the country have looked to Pittsburgh when asking how best to do the administrative and financial tasks which modern diocesan life requires.
This week I will be appointing a search committee to begin the process of approving a position description appropriate to the work ahead and to assist me in finding a successor.
Do not hesitate to express your appreciation to Canon Norton in person or in writing. We will plan a diocesan event to say a formal “thank you”. Watch for the invitation. As always, commend Nancy and our diocesan work to God’s goodness, protection and guidance for all that is ahead.
Bishop Chew visiting: In other events this week, I'm very happy to report the visit of one of our many friends in the Anglican world to the Diocese of Pittsburgh this week. The Rt. Rev. Dr John Chew Hiang Chea, bishop of the Diocese of Singapore, will be spending time at various diocesan and Trinity Episcopal School for Ministry activities. Under his leadership, this relatively small diocese has undertaken an ambitious evangelism plan aimed at planting entire dioceses throughout seven nations in Southeast Asia.
Faithfully your bishop,
April 2, 2005
I have just learned of the death of Pope John Paul II.
Christians around the world, including myself, have been touched by the Holy Father's courage in the face of suffering, his bold witness to a culture of life, and his quest for reconciliation among divided Christian communities. Looking back over his 26 years at the head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope John Paul II's accomplishments were many. His strong witness to liberty and democracy hastened the collapse of Communism in Eastern Europe. His groundbreaking ecumenical work has led to greater Christian unity between Roman Catholics and those of us in the Reformation churches than has existed at any time we since we first parted company some 500 years ago.
Please pray with and for our Roman and Byzantine Catholic brothers and sisters in Christ in their time of loss. It is a loss we share with them.
Faithfully your bishop,
March 30, 2005
Christ is Risen!
It was wonderful to join many in the Diocese in marking the celebration of Christ’s resurrection this past weekend. On Saturday, I was especially glad to represent all Episcopalians at the annual blessing of Pittsburgh on Mount Washington. There are stories on that event located here and here.
One thing I have particularly come to enjoy about these yearly ecumenical gatherings is the many reminders I receive from other Christian leaders of their prayers and support for our diocese as we stand for mainstream Christianity in the Episcopal Church and Anglican Communion. While in Christ we are never alone, it is also true that we are supported by a great many of our fellow Christians here in western Pennsylvania.
- This Sunday I will be visiting the parish of St. Andrew's in Highland Park
Faithfully your bishop,
March 24, 2005
Great Easter traditions in our diocese include the ecumenical blessing of Pittsburgh at 10 am on Holy Saturday. All the Christian leaders (diocesan bishops and adjudicatory heads) bless the city from the Mount Washington overlook opposite St. Mary’s of the Mount Roman Catholic Church. Grace Church, Mount Washington is the host parish for the Episcopal Diocese.
The first of the Great Vigils of Easter begins in Trinity Cathedral at 7 pm on Saturday evening. The celebration is intended for the whole diocese, and especially for those congregations that have no vigil of their own. This is a spectacular cathedral service. This year both myself and Bishop Henry will be participating. Fr. Jay Geisler of St. Stephen’s, McKeesport, will be the preacher.
Churches all over the diocese offer Easter services. We gather in all eleven counties of the diocese. To search for the church nearest you, click here.
Alleluia, Christ is Risen! The Lord is Risen Indeed!
Join us as life defeats death, and joy triumphs over sorrow.
Faithfully your bishop,
March 17, 2005
I would like to thank everyone for their prayers for me and the other bishops who attended the recent House of Bishops meeting.
The just-completed gathering covered new territory in two very significant respects. First, we have finally begun to take seriously our accountability to the Anglican Communion, its teaching and its instruments. Secondly, the House of Bishops began to face openly the domestic consequences of our General Convention 2003 decisions.
We began asking: “Are the differences irreconcilable, and, if so, how do we move forward?”
This is enormous and unanticipated - though hoped for - progress. To God be the Glory!
- I will be celebrating Palm Sunday at St. Philip's in Moon Township.
- For a collection of articles relating to the meeting, visit our Anglican News page.
Faithfully your bishop,
March 8, 2005
What a wonderful ordination on Sunday of the Rev. Robert Dorow, the newest priest of the Diocese. By my count, more than 130 of us gathered at Emmanuel, North Side, to welcome him to his new role in the church. Fr. Dorow is on staff at Trinity Cathedral in Pittsburgh.
- I would deeply appreciate your prayers for myself and all of the other bishops who will be at the upcoming Episcopal House of Bishop’s meeting (March 11-16 at Camp Allen in Texas). At this moment, there are a number of signs that the mindset of House is “business as usual,” even after the clear call from the Primates for us to respond to the Windsor Report.
I, and a number of other Anglican Communion Network bishops will be attending those portions of meeting dealing with the Windsor Report and the Primates' meeting. Our hope is to help the House squarely face what the primates have said and clearly respond to it.
Faithfully your bishop,
March 2, 2005
The Rev. Geoff Chapman, Rector of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church here in the Diocese of Pittsburgh has published a very good description of the meaning and results of the Primates' communique. The Rev. Cn. Kendall Harmon has published it on his website, Titusonenine. You can read the whole thing by clicking here.
- Please pray this week for all of us who are involved sorting out what comes next for orthodox Anglicanism in North America. We have been strengthened and greatly encouraged by the leadership shown by the Primates. Still, much ground lies before us.
- Because of weather concerns, I will be delivering my "Post Primates" report a second time on March 5 at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Sewickely. The audio of my report on February 28 is available on the website here. A synopsis of my report is available here.
Faithfully your bishop,
February 25, 2005 (updated)
Welcome to my page of the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh's new website. This latest version of the site has many new features, including dedicated pages for local, and international news. I hope you have some time to look around.
- This week, I would ask for your prayers for the 38 leaders of the Anglican Communion. The primates are meeting in Northern Ireland What they say and do there will tell us much about our communion's priorities and direction. There is a wonderful list of all the primates and information about their churches here
- I have also set aside time on the night of February 28 for a "Post Primates" report and discussion here in the Diocese of Pittsburgh at St. Martin's in Monroeville. This will be a good opportunity for all of us to talk together about the meeting of the primates and what it means, both here in Pittsburgh and around the Anglican Communion. Peter Frank, my communications director, has a press release about the meeting here.
My hope is to update this online "weblog" with information about my activities and prayer requests on a weekly basis. Once again, welcome to our new website.
Update!: The Primates' Statement is out and is absolutely breathtaking in its scope and implications. The text of the statement is available here. Our local release to the clergy and people of the Diocese of Pittsburgh is here and my response as moderator of the Anglican Communion Network is here.
Faithfully your bishop,
Last modified 2008-02-26 12:32
