by the Rev. Roman Roldan, Clerical Alternate, The Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana
Bishop Michael Curry is the big news of the day. A fiery preacher who is in love with Jesus and reminds the church that, above all, the church is part of the Jesus movement, and nothing will ever block the movement of God’s love on this earth. Bishop Curry, the first African-American to become The Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, will inherit a church in much need of renewal. Despite the optimism of preachers at this Convention, we are still a church in decline and only the collaborative efforts of church institutions, dioceses, churches and missions can reduce this trend. I am very happy as I really like Bishop Curry, but I caution all against triumphalism. If we don’t actually engage in the ministries that will grow this church spiritually and numerically, all our unbridled optimism will be for nothing, and we will continue to decrease. We have elected a Bishop who loves Jesus and his church. Let us now support him in spreading the gospel of our Messiah throughout this land and world. Bishop Curry will not grow this church alone. We all have a sacrificial role to play if the Episcopal church is to have a presence and a role in shaping the future faith of Christians in America.
Another big news today was the approval of 1.2 million dollars for the development of anti-racism curricula for parishes and dioceses. This is significant in light of recent events in our Nation. Please stay in touch and keep praying for us.
Blessings, Fr. Roldan+