Category: The Lead

A reality for all persons in the healthcare world in these days is the necessity to reach down deep and simply do what is needed during this pandemic. In my own little corner of the world it has meant chaplains working additional hours and various shifts as budget cuts have been made, requiring staffing changes.  These staffing cuts have occurred throughout the hospital (and I am sure are occurring in many healthcare systems) because of the very difficult financial realities healthcare facilities are experiencing throughout the country due to the pandemic.                

We, the leadership of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Michigan, are saddened by the news that the Roman Catholic Diocese of Marquette has called upon its clergy to withhold baptism and other sacraments from persons who are Trans, Transgender and Non-Binary

These numbers cause me to reflect on the moral responsibility of this Cathedral during this difficult time…. To protect the health of everyone in our community, we will shift all Cathedral services online through the holiday season, and the building will be closed to visitors and worshippers for all activities. – Dean Hollerith, Washington National Cathedral

School administrators don’t deny cutting the number but say it’s because they didn’t think it would be appropriate for middle school-aged and younger students in attendance.

Diocese of Chicago lifts priest’s suspension over allegations of financial misconduct as CEO of a foster care facility. The Rev. Robert Smith says the diocese violated a sacred trust in speaking with a reporter.

“As part of the agreement between the Advent and the diocese, the Advent has a seat on the Commission on Ministry but has not yet offered anyone to fill that place….  This was not the first time that someone with a theological expression different from the Advent has been ordained in our diocese and at the Advent.” – Bishop Glenda Curry, Diocese of Alabama.

Earlier today, the South Carolina Supreme Court held a hearing concerning the appeal filed by our diocese and The Episcopal Church in regard to the June 19,2020, order by Judge Edgar Dickson that essentially reinstated much of the lower court ruling that had been reversed by the high court in the Supreme Court decision from August 2017.

The three men who are now convicted of crimes were initially shielded from facing their accusers in court. Until we can bring equity to the system that initially protected them, the rest of us will not have done what we can to create the just society for which we long.

We must reimagine and advocate against systems, laws, and policies that encourage vigilantism and diminish human life, because all people should be treated with the dignity, love, and respect that is due children of God. – Presiding Bishop Michael Curry