This Week from Bishop Wayne Wright: 2010
- Other Years: 2009 | 2008 | 2007
- A short biography
- Bishop's letter to clergy interested in Delaware
- Program Year for the Diocese
- Committees, Councils and Appointees
- Episcopal Bishops of Delaware: A list with short histories.
- Bishop's Mission Fund: Click here to make a donation.
September 1, 2010
We received word recently about an interesting continuing education opportunity. Dr. Thomas Troeger will be at Grace United Methodist Church, downtown Wilmington on Monday, September 20, for a day-long preaching workshop. Tom Troeger is a remarkably gifted teacher and preacher. He currently serves as Professor of Christian Communication at Yale Divinity School. He is also known as a musician, hymn writer, artist, and an Episcopal priest. The theme for the workshop will be “All of Us for All of God.” The day will include two learning sessions, lunch, and a workshop with Dr. Troeger preaching. This is an exceptional opportunity for anyone who preaches. I hope you will consider attending.
The event is sponsored by the Peninsula Conference of the United Methodist Church. The cost will be $25 for the day. If you would like to register or learn more about the workshop please contact the Rev. Doug Ridley, 103 High St., Cambridge, MD or call 443-521-0039.
I hope that everyone enjoys some time for recreation and refreshment during the Labor Day weekend. I am looking forward to seeing the clergy of the diocese on Tuesday, September 28, at Christ Church, Dover for our first clergy gathering of the new program year.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
August 25, 2010
Earlier this month Camp Arrowhead finished another safe and successful summer camping season. This year was one of the best ever for such an important ministry of our diocese. The vitality of Camp Arrowhead depends upon the contributions and support of many people. Thanks go to Walt LaFontaine, camp director, Rufus Miller, director of diocesan institutions, and all the camp staff for their leadership. The spirit of Camp Arrowhead depends upon their dedication and faithfulness.
Thanks also goes to our congregations and clergy. This past summer, 898 young people attended Camp Arrowhead – an increase of almost 10% over 2009. Your role in promoting and recruiting for camp is very important. We are grateful for the support received every year for the Camp Arrowhead Scholarship Fund. According to our records the following churches have contributed a total of $43,373 for camp scholarships in 2010. Because of such generous gifts and direct financial support from the diocesan budget, Camp Arrowhead continues to an affordable choice for families. Thank you.
2010 Camp Arrowhead Scholarship Fund, Contributions from Churches: All Saints’ Delmar • All Saints Rehoboth/St. Georges • Christ Church, Delaware City • Christ Church, Dover • Christ Church, Milford • Christ Church Christiana Hundred • Immanuel Highlands • Immanuel on the Green • St. Anne’s, Middletown • St. Barnabas, Wilmington • St. James’, Millcreek • St. James, Newport • St. Martha’s, Bethany Beach • St. Mary’s, Bridgeville • St. Nicholas, Newark • St. Paul’s, Georgetown • St. Peter’s, Lewes • St. Philip’s, Laurel • St. Stephen’s, Harringon • St. Thomas’s, Newark • Trinity/Old Swedes, Wilmington
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
August 18, 2010
I made the mistake of stopping by one of the big office supply chain stores earlier this week. The lines at the cash registers were 8 and 10 deep. Parents and children were stocking up in preparation for another school year. The time has come again. School is about to open.
Teachers and schools play such an important role in all our lives. Even after so many years I continue to grow in appreciation for the wisdom and care of my teachers and for the insights and experiences I gained through the joys and rigors of being a student. Schools are centrally important institutions for every vital community and nation. They deserve our personal commitment and sacrificial support.
The Book of Common Prayer has a beautiful “Collect for Schools and Colleges.” I hope that you will join me in praying for students, schools, and teachers as another school year begins.
“O Eternal God, bless all schools, colleges, and universities, that they may be lively centers for sound learning, new discovery, and the pursuit of wisdom; and grant that those who teach and those who learn may find you to be the source of all truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”
Apply Now for Scholarships from The Episcopal Church. Deadline is October 15 for more than 60 scholarships. Click here for details.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
August 11, 2010
For over 20 years, the Seaman’s Center of Wilmington has effectively served the needs of the forgotten women and men who transport so many daily necessities of life. Few realize that Wilmington is a major East Coast port of entry for automobiles and tropical fruit. Since 2001, changes in port security nationwide have made it very difficult for most of us to connect with lives of seafarers. Their work is hard. Their daily lives are challenging.
By supporting the Seaman’s Center of Wilmington as volunteers or with financial gifts, we can make a significant, needed difference. If you would like to know more or are interested in becoming more involved, please contact the Center’s Executive Director, Joan Lyons at 302-575-1300. To learn more about the Seamen's Center, click here.
I am pleased to announce the Rev. Tammy Wooliver has accepted the call to serve Christ Church, Delaware City. Tammy also serves as a chaplain and CPE Supervisor at Christiana Care. Our prayers are with Tammy and the Christ Church congregation as this new ministry begins.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
July 21, 2010
I recently received a copy of Holy Women, Holy Men: Celebrating the Saints. This major revision to the Book of Lesser Feasts and Fasts was approved by the 2009 General Convention. It is a remarkable work and a significant addition to the life of our church.
In the new book’s Foreword, former Presiding Bishop Frank Griswold writes: ”Holy Women, Holy Men: Celebrating the Saints seeks to expand the worshipping communities awareness of the communion of the saints, and to give increased expression to the many and diverse ways in which Christ, through the agency of the Holy Spirit, has been present in the lives of men and women through the ages, just as Christ continues to be present in our own day."
Holy Women, Holy Men greatly expands upon the witness to the Holy Spirit’s working. The example of these holy lives is inspiring and impressive. The book will be a valuable addition to worship. It will also be a great aid to teaching.
The Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music (SCLM) is soliciting views, opinions and feedback on Holy Women, Holy Men. There is a blog and an online survey. Click here to visit the website. I hope that you and your congregations will consider participating.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
July 14, 2010
Over the last year, Good Shepherd Church has been sharing a home with St. Nicholas’, Newark. Elizabeth Masterson has served as priest for both congregations. Last summer a Discernment Working Group formed to identify clear steps and develop a plan for the future of Good Shepherd. This included members of both congregations and representatives from other congregations in the diocese.
The Discernment Working Group made its report to the Council on June 28. The Council, by a significant majority, supports the path forward for Good Shepherd as outlined by the Working Group. The members of Good Shepherd are ready to continue their mission to “build a new, inclusive church community in Glasgow.”The congregation will begin worshipping in the Bear/Glasgow area later this summer.Their new worship location will be the Regal Cinema at the People’s Plaza Shopping Center. The Rev. George Karney (in photo) will serve as priest in charge while the congregation makes this move. George was an original member of the New Church Commission that planned for Good Shepherd. Lay members of the congregation will take active roles in all aspects of parish life with a particular emphasis on evangelism. Progress will be reviewed regularly by the Working Group and the Council.
Thanks go to the membership of Good Shepherd and the membership of St. Nicholas for their faithfulness and cooperation during this season of sharing space. We all recognize and appreciate the leadership and service of Elizabeth Masterson (in photo) to both congregations. Their hard work and the contributions of the Discernment Working Group have resulted in this positive outcome. I admire what they have accomplished. I will be joining with them in praying for God’s blessing on the life and ministry of Good Shepherd Church and for the good things that so many have done to bring us to this point.
Earl Beshears has accepted a call to be associate rector of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Venice, Florida. Earl and Jean came to Delaware eight years ago from the Diocese of Easton. They have shared a vital and effective ministry at St. Paul’s, in the Georgetown community, and in our diocese. They plan to leave at the end of August. While we will miss their presence here, we wish them Godspeed as they prepare for this new ministry.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
July 7, 2010
I hope that everyone enjoyed a good July 4th holiday. Today we emailed an overview of events and activities in our diocese during the coming program year. Click here to see what we expect to be a good year. Thanks to all who are working together to make so many things possible.
With the beginning of a new month there are several clergy transitions to announce. Emily Gibson began her new ministry as interim rector of Grace Church, Concord Pike on July 1st. She is an experienced interim priest serving most recently in the Diocese of Maine. Her husband, David Andrews, is the rector of the Episcopal Church of Sts. Andrew & Matthew. We look forward to welcoming Emily into our diocese.
Margie Pumphrey also began her new ministry at St. Alban’s, Brandywine Hundred. Margie was ordained here in Delaware and most recently served in the Diocese of West Missouri. We are happy to welcome her back to Delaware.
On July 31st, Bill Wickham will be retiring after six years as rector of St. Martha’s, Bethany Beach. Bill has played an important role in developing and strengthening the ministry of that growing parish. Both Bill and his wife, Joyce, will be in our prayers as they enter this new season. The St. Martha’s Vestry has called Mark Cyr (shown at right) to serve as interim rector following Bill Wickham’s retirement. Mark served previously in the Diocese of New York.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
June 30, 2010
There are two opportunities coming up for the next program year. You may want to include them in your planning.
Jo Ann Barker has recently agreed to become the diocesan coordinator for the Education for Ministry (EfM) program. For many years EfM has been a valuable resource for learning more about Christian faith, studying the Bible, Church history, and theological reflection for connecting faith with daily life experiences. If you are interested in starting an EfM group or know someone who might want to join an existing group, call Jo Ann at St. Anne’s Church, Middletown at 378-2401 or click here to send Jo Ann an email. To learn more about EfM, and the courses already scheduled, click here to see the EfM page of this website.
October 1 and 2, The Magnetic Church Conference by Andrew Weeks. This conference, sponsored by St. Anne’s Episcopal Church in Middletown, will equip your church to help attract, welcome, and retain new members. Andrew Weeks, a nationally known and gifted lay evangelist, will teach about models of evangelism that are appropriate for you, help you discover your gifts, and reap the joy of being God’s instrument in changing other people’s lives. Registration fees are $35 per person ($30 if prepaid in groups of 4). Click here to see the Magnetic Church Conference registration form, which you can print out and mail in. Please register as soon as possible.
I usually end my weekly comments with a note about which congregation I will be visiting on Sunday. This past weekend I completed another annual cycle of parish visits. Thank you for all you have done to welcome me into your congregations. This is something I appreciate very much. During this past year I have confirmed 124 and received 36 into our church. Few things give me more joy in ministry.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
June 23, 2010
At the beginning of this month the 2010 Bishop’s Mission Fund appeal went into the mail. Thank you for your help “getting the word out” again this year.
All contributions we receive from the appeal will support Diocesan Youth Ministries.
In June 2008 we hired Teri Valente as our Youth Ministry Coordinator. Teri has begun organizing both local and regional events for our youth. She has played an important role in forming our new Diocesan Youth Council. You may want to visit our website to learn more about our youth program: www.diodelyouth.com
Next summer youth representatives from around the Episcopal Church will attend the international Episcopal Youth Event (EYE). In 2008 our Diocese was fortunate enough to send 14 youth delegates – the largest representation ever from Delaware. Teri and the Youth Council are hoping to send a larger group from Delaware to the 2011 EYE to be held at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota. Gifts to the 2010 Bishop's Mission Fund will help make this opportunity a reality for young people from Delaware. It will also help underwrite the cost of other youth programs here in Delaware during the coming year.
This past Sunday Camp Arrowhead opened for its 56th season. In 2009 contributions to the Bishop’s Mission Fund provided scholarships for young people to camp. Last summer 900 young people spent part of their summer at Camp Arrowhead, of which 273 received scholarship assistance. This was an increase of 73 children who were able to attend because of your generosity. Gifts to the 2010 Bishop’s Mission Fund can have the same positive impact on our Diocesan Youth Ministries. Don’t forget that gifts to the Mission Fund can be made by mail or...
click here to make a secure donation to the Bishop's Mission Fund.
Thank you for your prayers and generous support.
Last week the Vestry at Grace Church, Wilmington announced that they have called the Rev. Emily Gibson to be their interim rector. She is an experienced interim priest serving most recently in the Diocese of Maine. Her husband David Andrews is the rector of the Episcopal Church of Sts. Andrew & Matthew. We look forward to welcoming Emily into our diocese. She will begin this new ministry on July 1st.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting St. Stephen’s, Harrington.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
June 16, 2010
I am in New York today attending a meeting of the Church Pension Fund Board. Last week Dennis Sullivan announced his retirement as president and CEO of the Fund. He will, however, stay on in the position until his successor is chosen. He has been a very able and effective leader and has steadily guided the Fund through recent turbulent economic times. Under his leadership the Episcopal Church adopted a denominational health insurance plan and expanded pension benefits for lay church employees. These are very significant accomplishments. We wish him well and are grateful for his service.
While in New York I had an opportunity to speak with two friends who live along the Gulf Coast. They spoke vividly and movingly about the impact of the Gulf oil spill on the natural world and their communities along the coast. The proportions of this disaster are very hard to comprehend. While individual or institutional decisions may have led to such destructive consequences, we are all responsible for what is happening. This is a time for us to pray. It is also a time to reflect on the oil-dependent lives we lead and to wonder what repentance might mean – both personally and collectively.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
June 9, 2010
The Episcopal Church and our longstanding relationships with other Anglican churches are highlighted in the news from time to time. There is a natural tendency for the media to focus on disagreements and controversies. To do this alone is to lose sight of the very real blessings that come from our friendships with other Anglican Christians around the world.
For many years I have included the “Anglican Cycle of Prayer” as one of my daily disciplines. I always enjoy this opportunity to think and pray about the churches’ worldwide mission. This past Saturday was the day the Diocese of Delaware is included in the annual intercessory cycle. Over the weekend I received emails from bishops and dioceses around the world. In the mail I have received similar notes and cards. Some have come from friends, others from bishops I will likely never meet face to face. What a real blessing this is.
We also share many common opportunities for mission, outreach, and service. Last week I wrote to you about the nearly $30,000 raised here in Delaware to support recovery work in the Diocese of Haiti led by Episcopal Relief & Development (ERD). This is only one of many good things that happen because of our work together.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting Immanuel on the Green, New Castle. On Monday I will be in Easton, Maryland to attend funeral services for Bishop Harry Bainbridge.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
June 2, 2010
Earlier this year we made a special appeal for gifts to support recovery work in Haiti by Episcopal Relief & Development (ERD). The final tally for the appeal is now complete. Delawareans have contributed $24,764.62 to help the people of Haiti recover and rebuild from the devastating earthquake. The Church Pension has matched the first $5,000 of the money raised here. That brings our total to nearly $30,000. This is a very significant accomplishment and will make a real difference. Thanks go to Episcopal congregations, schools, and individuals across our diocese for making this happen. Don’t forget that Robert Radtke, president of ERD will be in Delaware on November 3-4. Later this summer we will be sharing more details about his visit.
I hope that everyone enjoyed this beautiful Memorial Day weekend. This coming Sunday I will be visiting St. Barnabas Church, Wilmington.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
May 26, 2010
This coming Monday is Memorial Day. It is a day we now observe as the beginning of the summer season. This national holiday has much deeper roots. The first Memorial Day was observed by formerly enslaved black people in Charleston, South Carolina. Immediately following the end of the Civil War these freed slaves exhumed the bodies of fallen Union soldiers from a large, unkempt mass grave outside a Confederate prison camp. They reburied the fallen dead, honored the graveyard with an entry arch, and declared it to be sacred ground. Their work was completed in only ten days. On May 1, 1865, a Charleston newspaper reported that a crowd of nearly ten thousand, including 2,800 children, processed to the location for a ceremony including sermons, singing, and prayers.
For many years, what we now know as Memorial Day, was called Decoration Day. Tombs of fallen Union soldiers were decorated in remembrance of their service and sacrifice. It also became a day for this nation to give heartfelt thanks for the return of peace following the grievous violence of the Civil War.
On Saturday, October 30, at 11:00 a.m., we will gather at our Cathedral for a Diocesan Service of Apology and Repentance for our churches’ role in the institution of slavery. On this Memorial Day weekend we need to give thanks once again for the uncounted sacrifices of those who fought to bring slavery to an end. We should also pray for those still in harm’s way and for the return of peace on earth.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
May 19, 2010
Thanks go to the Diocesan Clergy Life Committee for sponsoring our clergy life events this year. During the year we welcomed Dr. Owen Lathrop who lead us in a Continuing Education Day. Eric Law returned to facilitate our Winter Clergy Conference at Pendle Hill. And, Frank Wade was our presenter and preacher for the Tuesday of Holy Week Renewal of Ordination Vows. This was a good year. We are grateful to the committee for their leadership and ministry to strengthen our common life.
The end of this program year will also be a time of transition for four of our colleagues. At the end of June, Anna Waid will be retiring as rector of Grace Church, Wilmington. Also in June, Joy Walton will retire as chaplain at St. Andrew’s School; and Keith Hudson will retire as the Interim Rector of Calvary Church, Hillcrest. And, later this summer, Al Holland will retire as rector of Church of the Ascension, Claymont. Their friendship and ministries and have been real blessings over these years. We wish them Godspeed and many blessings in the coming season.
The Vestry of St. Alban’s Church, Brandywine Hundred has announced that Margie Pumphrey has accepted their call and will begin her new ministry on July 1. Margie was ordained here in the Diocese of Delaware and served both at Church of the Nativity, Manor Park and as a chaplain for Christiana Care. She recently served in the Diocese of West Missouri. We look forward to welcoming her back to Delaware. Click here to learn more about Margie's return to Delaware.
The Celebration of New Ministry for David Andrews and the Episcopal Church of Sts. Andrew & Matthew is scheduled for this coming Sunday at 4:00 p.m. Earlier that day I will be visiting Christ Church, Christiana Hundred.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
St. Thomas's, Newark: Bishop Wright visited St. Thomas's, Newark on May 16, 2010. As usual, his visit was the opportunity for new Episcopalians to be confirmed. Unusual was the size of this large group. What a blessing! Click the photo (by Bob Gilley) to see it larger.
May 12, 2010: Ascension Day, Bill Frampton, Clergy Day, Celebration of New Ministry
Tomorrow is Ascension Day. I have always enjoyed thinking about disciples standing there in amazement as the resurrected Christ ascends into heaven. Amazement is likely an understatement. Today Biblical stories like this one are regarded by many as fantasies or even worse. I don’t see it that way. Through the years I have learned to find comfort in the Ascension. I can’t say that I understand it. But then, there are many things that I don’t understand. I find comfort in the Bible’s confidence that Christ does reign over all. For me it’s not that different than Dame Julian’s assurance that “all will be well.” It is one of those simple gifts that help strengthen my faith.
The Reverend C. William Frampton, III died at home on Monday following a long illness. Services will be held at the Cathedral Church of St. John on Saturday, May 15 at 11:00 a.m. All are invited to attend. Our prayers are with Bill's parents and family as they mourn for him.
Don’t forget that the final Diocesan Clergy Day of this program year will be next Tuesday, May 18 at St. Anne’s, Middletown. Be sure to mark your calendars.
The Celebration of New Ministry for David Andrews and the Episcopal Church of Sts. Andrew & Matthew is scheduled for the Day of Pentecost, May 23 at 5:00 p.m. The preacher will be the Rev. Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows, rector of Grace Episcopal Church, Syracuse, New York and Episcopal Chaplain to Syracuse University.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
May 5, 2010: Summer Camp, Clergy Day, New Ministry
As the weather turns warm, preparations are well underway for the summer season at Camp Arrowhead. Summer camp can be a wonderful way to awaken faith, build friendships, and make a lifetime of memories. There are still spaces available. I hope that every congregation in the diocese will send campers to Arrowhead this summer. You can learn more about Camp Arrowhead and even register online. Visit the updated website at www.camparrowhead.net. You can also support Camp Arrowhead by contributing to the Camp Scholarship Fund.
Our most recent Diocesan Convention called upon every congregation in the diocese to provide a scholarship for at least one camper every year. Your gift can help make this possible. Please contact Judith Gregory at 302-656-5441 ext. 108 or by email at judigregory@dioceseofdelaware.net for more information on how to make a gift to the Camp Arrowhead Scholarship Fund.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting Church of the Ascension, Claymont.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
April 28, 2010:
No message this week.
April 21, 2010: Pre-School Ministries, Trial, Clergy Day, New Ministry
Late last week I had an opportunity to visit two of the pre-school ministries sponsored by Episcopal churches here in Delaware. On Thursday morning I participated in the weekly chapel at St. David’s Pre-School in Brandywine Hundred. St. David’s is one of the oldest pre-school programs in the diocese. For over 50 years the pre-school has been part of St. David’s ministry to the Brandywine Hundred community. On Thursday afternoon I took part in the dedication of an outdoor classroom and play area at Christ Episcopal Pre-School in Greenville. This growing ministry is about to celebrate its fifth anniversary. Both these programs are facets of our longstanding commitment to serve children and families here in Delaware. Along with St. Michael’s School, Wilmington and First Steps/Primeros Pasos, Georgetown, many other congregations in our diocese either sponsor or host similar ministries. They are an important part of our ministry.
In early May the Title IV Court of Review for the Trial of a Bishop will be meeting at Trinity Parish, Wilmington. The court will meet to hear an appeal in the matter involving Bishop Charles Bennison. Our diocese is providing hospitality for this meeting. This is in keeping with the longstanding Delaware tradition of support for the Episcopal Church. We are grateful to Trinity Parish for their generosity and assistance in making this possible.
The final Diocesan Clergy Day of this program year will be Tuesday, May 18 at St. Anne’s, Middletown. Be sure to mark your calendars. Thanks, as always, to the Clergy Life Committee for organizing our gatherings.
Celebration of New Ministry for David Andrews and the Episcopal Church of Saints Andrew & Matthew is scheduled for the Day of Pentecost, May 23 at 5:00 p.m. Preacher will be the Rev. Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows, rector of Grace Episcopal Church, Syracuse, New York and Episcopal chaplain to Syracuse University.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
April 14, 2010: Speaker, Knickerbocker Memorial
During the coming weeks there are several events scheduled.
The Diocese of Easton is hosting the well known writer and speaker, Brian McClaren, on April 23-24. Members of the Diocese of Delaware are welcome to attend. I have twice enjoyed the opportunity to hear Brian McClaren speak. This is a special opportunity.
I plan to be present on Thursday afternoon at Christ Church, Dover for the memorial service for the Rev. Driss Knickerbocker. Driss was a good friend and served faithfully as an interim rector of three Delaware Episcopal congregations. We will always be grateful for this ministry here.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting St. Peter’s Church, Lewes.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
April 7, 2010: Headlines
I was standing in the grocery check out line on Easter Monday. The tabloids carried the usual shocking headlines:
“UFO Laser Beam Sank Titanic. The Truth Finally Revealed”
“Father, Son Dragged 2 Miles by Runaway Kite”
“Picture Proves O.J.’s Innocence.”
I wondered what it would have been like if the four evangelists had written for the tabloids. The headline for this coming Sunday would read something like this:
“Man is Crucified, Dead, and Buried –
Then Returns to Spend Time with His Friends.”
The Resurrection of Jesus isn’t believable in the usual sense of the word. We don’t know exactly what happened. But, we do know that many who first dismissed it as an “idle tale” later gave their lives to it truth and power. To me this is very good news and a faith that I daily pray to share.
I hope you, your families, and congregations enjoyed a very blessed and happy Easter.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
April 1, 2010: Matching Funds Raised
Over $5,000 has been raised in the Diocese of Delaware for earthquake relief in Haiti. As you may remember, the first $5,000 raised would be matched, meaning we've raised over $10,000! Click here to make further donations to Episcopal Relief & Development for Haiti earthquake relief.
March 31, 2010: Clergy Renewal of Vows Yesterday
It is easy enough to despair over things like the seeming national political paralysis, economic uncertainty at home and abroad, and even more mundane things like the weather. Yet when it comes to even our deepest challenges, despair is not an option. This is the Easter message. This is the good news of the Gospel. This is the life we have vowed to live as Frank Wade so eloquently reminded us yesterday.
Thanks to Dean Lane, the Cathedral congregation and staff for serving as our host for the Tuesday of Holy Week service. We are grateful to Cynde Bimbi, members of the Bishop’s staff, Ruth Kirk, and the diocesan Clergy Life Committee for their help in planning and leading the day.
Thank you for your faithful, thoughtful leadership and ministry especially during these Holy Days. The experience of Holy Week and the message of Easter are so central to our lives as disciples. All that you do is recognized and appreciated. I also hope that you will take the time for some personal refreshment and renewal in the days following.
As always you are in my daily prayers. This comes with my best for a blessed and joyous Easter.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
March 24, 2010: from the House of Bishops
I am writing to you on the final day of the Spring House of Bishops Meeting. We have had a very good meeting. I have enjoyed the spirit and collegiality of the gathering. Besides our regular business we welcomed Phyllis Tickle and Diana Butler Bass. They both gave interesting and engaging presentations on the emergent church movement. Diana Butler Bass visited Delaware for a clergy day several years ago. It was the first time I had heard Phyllis Tickle. She is a fascinating person.
Since our last meeting a significant number of new bishops have been elected. It has been good to meet them and learn more about their dioceses and new ministries.
I look forward to returning home to Delaware on Thursday afternoon and being with you for Tuesday of Holy Week. You and your congregations are in my prayers as we begin our observance of the Holy Days. On Palm Sunday I will be visiting St. George’s Church.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
March 17, 2010: after Diocesan Convention
Our 225th Diocesan Convention concluded on Saturday afternoon. Thank you for your support and for taking the time to participate in such a good event. The good spirit was obvious. Jeff Ross and the congregation from St. Peter’s Church, Lewes, were outstanding hosts. In his welcome, Jeff reminded us that it had been 72 years since the convention met in Lewes. We will not wait so long in returning!
The Bishop’s staff and a large group of volunteers from St Peter’s organized hospitality, arrangements, and logistics for the convention. Many others led presentations, workshops, and hearings. We were blessed to welcome Bishop Martin and Elspeth Shaw back to Delaware. It was also great to welcome our six new deacons.
The Diocesan Convention elected members of our governing bodies and approved three resolutions. Thanks to all who offered themselves for election and who worked to formulate resolutions. Click here to see the results of balloting and the resolutions.
Click here to read my Convention Address, “That We All May Be One”.
At convention I announced two significant events coming up next fall:
The Delaware Service of Apology and Repentance for our role in the institution of slavery is scheduled for Saturday, October 30, 11:00 a.m. at the Cathedral Church of St. John. I hope that clergy and lay leaders from every congregation will be present. We want this to be a truly diocesan event.
Robert Radtke, president of Episcopal Relief & Development, will be coming to Delaware during the first week in November. We will look forward to learning more about the work of Episcopal Relief around the world. We will share the details of opportunities to meet him when plans for his visit are finalized.
Walt Cheatham, our new Diocesan Treasurer, presented a balanced budget to the convention. So many worked together in order to make this possible. Fundamentally, it is a reflection of our long term commitment that the Diocese of Delaware should be a source of stability and strength for the mission of the church. It conveys a sense of cautious confidence as we face the future together.
We are grateful to wardens, treasurers, and vestries for such generous support. This is recognized and appreciated. I am also grateful to staff, trustees, and members of the Finance Committee for much hard work in shaping budgets and reducing expenses. Click here to see detailed information about diocesan finances included in the Narrative Budget. The complete audited report of all diocesan funds will be included in the Annual Report of the Diocese, to be distributed in the summer of 2010.
On Sunday I visited St. Alban’s Church, Brandywine Hundred. George Karney was present. We joined in celebrating the happy occasion of his 50th anniversary of ordination.
On Friday morning I will be leaving for the Spring House of Bishops meeting in Texas. I will look forward to seeing you at the Renewal of Ordination Vows on Tuesday of Holy Week.
As I said at convention, I feel very blessed to serve with you here in the Diocese of Delaware
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
March 10, 2010: First Steps, Absalom Jones, Haiti Earthquake Relief
Yesterday’s Wilmington News Journal included a cover story about the great things happening with the First Steps Primeros Pasos child care program. This growing ministry is hosted by St. Paul’s Church, Georgetown. Earl Beshears is a past president of the board. Carole Palmer, the current board president is a member of St. Peter’s Church, Lewes. The Diocese of Delaware and the Jessie Ball DuPont Fund help to support First Steps Primeros Pasos. We join in congratulating First Steps Primeros Pasos for receiving significant new grant funding with support of Sen. Thomas Carper and the Perdue Family. Click here to read the article.
Two of our workshops at this weekend’s Diocesan Convention will highlight Episcopal ministries in southern Delaware. Representatives of First Steps Primeros Pasos will be present to tell about their work with children and their families.
The News Journal also contained an interesting article about Absalom Jones. If you have not had a chance to read it, it will be available on tomorrow at:
http://www.delawareonline.com/didyouknow
Bishop Duracin has written a letter describing the spirit and life of his diocese following the recent earthquake in Haiti. Click here to read his letter. Thank you again for your leadership in raising funds to support relief work there.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting St. Alban’s Church, Brandywine Hundred.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
March 3, 2010: Diocesan Convention
Bishop Martin Shaw and his wife, Elspeth, will be our guests for the upcoming Diocesan Convention. Their visit will be the culmination of our companion relationship with the Diocese of Argyll and The Isles. We began this relationship in the fall of 2001. In fact Bishop Douglas Cameron and his wife, Pat, almost did not make it over from Scotland for their first visit to Delaware because of travel restrictions following the September 11th terrorist attacks.
Much has happened through these years. Groups from Delaware have traveled to Scotland. Parishes have established links of friendships. A memorable highlight of the relationship was the joint clergy conference on the Island of Iona in 2003. These have also been years in which Anglican Communion relationships have often headlined the news. Our friendship with the Scottish Episcopal Church and with the Diocese of Argyll & The Isles has been a constant blessing. Welcoming Elspeth and Martin Shaw to our Diocesan Convention will be a present reminder of this good gift.
Clergy have received invitations to the Renewal of Ordination Vows on Tuesday of Holy Week. All are welcome to attend. Be sure to R.S.V.P. to Cynde Bimbi.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
February 24, 2010: Convention, Renewal of Vows
We are only a few weeks away from the 2010 Diocesan Convention. Preparations are well underway for what should be another good convention. The theme for this year’s convention is “That We All May Be One.” The convention speaker will be Martin Shaw, the recently retired bishop of our companion diocese Argyll and The Isles. Bishop Shaw will be the celebrant for the Convention Eucharist. We will be using the Scottish Prayer Book liturgy for this service. We look forward to welcoming Martin and his wife Elspeth back to Delaware
We are excited that St. Peter’s, Lewes, will be our host for the convention. They have been done much to welcome us to Lewes and to share the story of their parish and its ministry. There is a special page on their parish website about the convention and things to do in the Lewes area. You may want to have a look and share the link with others:
http://www.seekerslewes.com/DC-Main.html
Don’t forget that there is an orientation for new delegates on the Friday afternoon of convention from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. I hope that you will encourage your newly elected delegates to attend. This is a special opportunity for them to learn about our diocese and the convention.
This week clergy received invitations to the Renewal of Ordination Vows on Tuesday of Holy Week. I hope they will share the invitation with members of their congregations. All are welcome to attend. Be sure to R.S.V.P. to Cynde Bimbi.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting St. Mark’s Church, Millsboro.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
February 17, 2010: Lent
“And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness.”
--Mark 1:12.
I have always been fascinated by this Gospel passage that our Lectionary associates with the beginning of Lent. What a year for being driven around it has been. Snowstorms of historic proportions have carried all of us into unexpected places leaving a wake of cancelled events, changed plans, and delayed accomplishments. This can be trying in the best of circumstances, but even more challenging as the demanding season of Lent begins.
In such times I am reminded of Tilden Edwards’ book Living Simply Through the Day: Spiritual Survival in a Complex Age. It was recommended to me many years ago by a friend. “How can we live out of the simple, holy spaciousness that is always there in our midst? How can we allow simple purity of heart, so that we with Jesus see life in God, instead of seeing it neck deep in clutter,” he asks? In our case we might rather say living “buried under piles of snow.”
Holy simplicity, Edwards writes, requires from us three vital attitudes: firm commitment, deep acceptance, and pure confidence. Commitment springs from the heartfelt desire for God and our openness to God’s presence in our lives. Acceptance is our humble recognition that we are dependent upon so many things that we cannot change or control. Confidence is our belief that a loving God will never give us more than we can bear.
The snow will surely melt before Easter. But, in the meantime I will be praying for a holy season of Lent – for each of us a time of simply being with God.
Photo from the PhotoPrayer series by Danny Schweers.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
February 10, 2010: Snow, Publicity, Haiti
The snow this winter has been amazing. It has disrupted schedules and travel. Because many storms coming over the weekend, some congregations have had to cancel Sunday worship – in some cases more than once. We hope that the worst is now past.
Even with weather problems, the churches’ ministry continues in so many ways. I am especially grateful for all who support ministries to feed hungry people and to care for the homeless. This winter reminds us just how important these ministries can be.
Click here to read the announcement from the Episcopal Churches’ Office of Communication that describes several important new initiatives being sponsored to help “get the word out” about our church. New electronic and print publications will make it easier for all of us to stay connected and informed. You may want to share this information with members of your congregations.
Last Wednesday 35 wardens and vestry members from around the diocese gathered at St. Anne’s, Middletown for our first-ever Winter Warden’s Meeting. Mark Sullivan led a discussion about strengthening vestry leadership. I continue to be impressed by the faith and commitment of our congregational leaders. It was good event. [The Rev.
Kim Capwell, Immanuel Church,
Highlands, Wilmington, has written an article for the March, 2010 issue of our newspaper, the Delaware Communion, which will soon appear on this website as well.]
I will be away from the office until Ash Wednesday. I will be attending a Church Pension Fund Board meeting and then taking a few days off.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
3 February 2010: Haiti Relief, Clergy Conference
I am very impressed by the outpouring of care and concern among Delaware Episcopalians for the victims of the earthquake in Haiti.
Remember that the Episcopal Church Office of Communication has set up a special website. It has much up-to-date information on the current situation and the role and ministry of the Episcopal Church in Haiti.
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/haiti.php
Thanks to the diocesan Clergy Life Committee and to Cynde Bimbi on the bishop’s staff for all they did to make the Winter Clergy Conference such a good event. Click here to read a summary of the post-conference evaluations in PDF format. It gives a good sense of the spirit and the quality of the gathering. We enjoyed welcoming Eric Law back to our diocese. He is an effective teacher and advocate for Christian hospitality, inclusion, and gracious community building.
Don’t forget the upcoming Clergy Life Events:
Renewal of Ordination Vows
Tuesday of Holy Week, March 30
Cathedral Church of St. John
The Rev. Frank Wade, presenterDiocesan Clergy Day
Tuesday, May 18
St. Anne’s, Middletown
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
January 21, 2010: Haiti Earthquake
The images and news reports from Haiti continue to tell the story of distress, suffering and loss. Now more than ever, it is time for us to show our compassion and concern for our brothers and sisters in Haiti.
Here are some ways to share information and to encourage others to help make a difference. The Episcopal Church Office of Communication has set up a special website. It has much up-to-date information on the current situation and the role and ministry of the Episcopal Church in Haiti.
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/haiti.php
Yesterday the Episcopal News Service published a good summary article. Below is the link. You may want to reprint and share it.
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/79901_118611_ENG_HTM.htm
Here are some facts about the Episcopal Church in Haiti. The Episcopal Diocese of Haiti is part of The Episcopal Church. There are currently over 83,000 Episcopalians in Haiti. There are 115 congregations and 200 schools with over 6,000 students. Their Bishop Zache Duracin is unharmed. We understand that his wife suffered an injury to her foot. The Episcopal Church in Haiti has lost its cathedral, a convent, Holy Trinity Complex for ministry, College St. Pierre, and a Jubilee Center. The Episcopal Church’s three missionaries who were in Haiti are all accounted for - Mallory Holding, Jude Harmon, and Oge Beauvoir, who is the dean of the Theological Seminary, along with his wife Serette. Jeanne Kirby Coladonnato’s grandson John was in Haiti when the earthquake happened. He was there on a mission trip sponsored by George Mason Univ. Jeanne has received emails from him. He and the others on the trip are safe and doing well. This is a blessing.
Click here for further information about the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti website.
The Episcopal Sisters of St. Margaret have an active mission and convent in Haiti. We understand that the sisters were unharmed but that their facilities were heavily damaged. Here is a link to their website: http://www.ssmbos.com/Pages/Haiti.html
As we offer our good intentions and prayers, the most important thing we can do right now is to support the emergency relief work being carried out by Episcopal Relief & Development (ERD). Contributions to ERD make this possible. Episcopal Relief & Development has disbursed emergency funding to the Diocese of Haiti to help meet critical needs such as food, water and shelter for those affected. Rob Radtke, President of ERD has written an article about how ERD responds to situations like this. I have reprinted it below.
Donations can be made to Episcopal Relief & Development by calling 800-334-7626 ext 5129. It is also possible to make gifts online: https://www.er-d.org/donate-select.php
Thank you for your leadership and generous response to the suffering in Haiti.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
Haiti: The Three “Rs” of Responding to Disasters: Rescue, Relief, Recovery
by Rob Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development
Right now, we are in the “Rescue” phase. All hands are on deck to save lives and property. This phase involves finding and treating the immediate medical needs of survivors and stabilizing ongoing hazards, such as shifting buildings. As such, it is best left to the heavy lifters - government and military search and rescue teams. These groups also have heavy equipment that can clear roads and debris, as well as large specialized operations with mass distribution systems that have pre-positioned warehouses. The “Rescue” phase typically lasts a week, but with the extraordinary logistical hurdles being faced in Haiti, it may take longer.
The next phase is the “Relief” phase, where the focus is on creating temporary safe and sanitary conditions. As I saw in Katrina, the church is often one of the first places people go to seek assistance and shelter. We have already heard that in rural and outlying areas around the earthquake zone, existing clinics are seeing patients who have been able to get out of Port-au-Prince. Some of these clinics are expanding patient care to schools and church buildings. The “Relief” phase typically lasts a few months.
Finally, we get to the third and final phase: “Recovery.” During recovery the emphasis shifts to restoring services, rebuilding houses and buildings, and returning, to self-sufficiency. The Diocese of Haiti has a very large and vibrant social infrastructure and we fully expect that Episcopal Relief & Development will be there for the long haul supporting their important and vibrant ministries.
The challenge of the “Recovery” phase is that most of the television cameras have moved on, but the human suffering has grown. It is a chronic state, not a crisis. However, it is the phase that Episcopal Relief & Development and its partners excel at, because we work with churches that are part of the communities and know the needs best and how to meet them. This phase will last years. The unmet needs in a place like Haiti - which already struggles with immense, chronic poverty - will be monumental.
Right now Episcopal Relief & Development is focused on preparing for the “Relief” phase and securing the resources for the “Recovery” phase.
January 14, 2010: Haiti Earthquake
Dear Friends:
A little more than a year ago, hurricanes cruelly ravaged the island nation of Haiti, a country that has suffered so much. Fate once again has turned against the people of Haiti.
We are all heartbroken by the magnitude of the catastrophe caused by this earthquake. The images and news reports are very difficult to watch. The distress, suffering and loss are hard to bear. Now more than ever, it is time for us to show our compassion and concern for the most vulnerable people in the Americas, our brothers and sisters in Haiti.
I am asking every Episcopalian in Delaware and all of our churches to pray for the victims in Haiti. There are countless families who have been affected. Too many are in mourning, or wondering about their loved ones and friends.
Five years ago Delaware Episcopalians displayed remarkable generosity supporting recovery efforts following the tsunami in Asia. The needs today in Haiti may be even greater.
Our Presiding Bishop, Katharine Jefferts Schori, urges each of us to take concrete action in response to the Haitian earthquake. Please consider making a generous contribution to Episcopal Relief & Development (ERD). The gifts we make will go directly to meet the greatest needs in Haiti. My wife, Holly, and I have already made a gift to ERD for Haiti relief work. We hope that you will join us.
Our thoughts are with Haitian families in communities across Delaware. We also pray for police officers, soldiers, missionaries and humanitarian workers as they seek to respond and begin the hard work of rebuilding.
January 13, 2010: New Rector, Two New Priests
Just before Christmas, the Episcopal Church of Sts. Andrew & Matthew called a new rector. We are very pleased to announce that the Rev. David Andrews, Jr. has accepted the call. He plans to begin his new ministry on February 1. He is coming to Delaware from the Diocese of Maine where he has been serving as rector of Trinity Church, Casteen. Click here to learn more about David Andrews.
David's wife, Emily Gibson, is also a priest. For the last several years she has been working in interim ministry. They are both planning to join us for the first evening of our Clergy Conference at Pendle Hill. We look forward to welcoming them to Delaware. Thanks go to the parish leadership at SsAM's and to the clergy who faithfully served the parish during this transition time.
Our prayers for God's blessing are with Jennifer Andrews Weckerly and Dustin Trowbridge as they begin their new ministries as priests. Saturday was a special day for them and for our diocese. Training and preparation for ordination truly is a community ministry. Special thanks go to all those, who in many different ways, support clergy on the path toward ordination.
Thanks also go to Trinity Church, our host on Saturday and to Christ Church Christiana Hundred for all that they did to make the worship so beautiful and the day so memorable.
We look forward to seeing you on Monday afternoon, January 25th - Wednesday, January 27th for the Winter Clergy Conference. Much has been done to prepare. It should be a very good event.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting Christ Church, Delaware City.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
January 6, 2010
Happy Feast of the Epiphany! I hope that you all enjoyed a very Merry Christmas. It was a good time for our family. We had an opportunity to see friends and visit with my parents. As always, the opportunity to worship at the prison in Smyrna on Christmas Eve had special meaning. I always enjoy the Christmas Eve Service at the Cathedral.
This coming Saturday, January 9, Jennifer Andrews Weckerly and Dustin Trowbridge will be ordained to the priesthood at Trinity Parish, Wilmington. Celeste Cox will be the preacher. This is a very happy time and the culmination of much preparation and study. I hope that you are planning to be present. Our prayers with be with Jennifer and Dustin as they begin their new ministries.
At the end of this month we will gather for our Winter Clergy Conference (Monday afternoon, Jan. 25th through Wednesday lunchtime Jan. 27th). At your request the Clergy Life Committee has changed the format for this gathering. The Rev. Eric Law, director of the Kaleidoscope Institute in Los Angeles, will be our presenter. The focus will be on building community and collegiality. It is important that all of us are present. For more information contact Brad Hinton, chair of the Clergy Life Committee or Cynde Bimbi: (302) 656-5441.
This comes with my prayers and hopes for many blessings in the New Year.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware