 This Week from
Bishop Wayne Wright
May 14, 2008
Yesterday afternoon I attended the monthly board meeting for St. Anne’s Episcopal School. It was Harvey Zendt’s last meeting as school head. Harvey will be retiring at the end of this school term. Harvey was been a remarkable leader of this young institution. Under his leadership the vision of a new school has become a reality. He has assembled a wonderful administrative and teaching team. We thank Harvey for all he has done and wish him the very best during this time of transition.
This is also the season when the schools and colleges in our communities are finishing another year. We recognize and give thanks for all who teach and all who learn. These are good vocations. Are thoughts are especially with those who graduate this month and next.
I have spoken with Gene Robinson. He regrets not being able to join us on Tuesday. We will be in contact to schedule another date for him to visit Delaware – most likely in the fall. Thanks again to Celeste Cox, members of Christ Church, and members of the bishop’s staff for all their help as we prepared for Bishop Robinson’s visit.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
May 7, 2008
All of us have heard the new about the unfolding disaster and great loss of life following the cyclone in Myanmar (Burma). Click here to learn how Episcopal Relief (ERD) has begun to respond. Their website includes a bulletin insert that you can download and distribute with your parish newsletter or Sunday service sheet. I hope you will make and contribution to ERD and encourage your members to support ERD relief work in Myanmar.
We look forward to welcoming Bishop Gene Robinson next Tuesday, May 13. Clergy will gather in the Christ Church, Dover Parish Hall at 9:30 a.m. There will be social time, announcements, and time for conversation with Bishop Robinson. The Forum begins at 12:15 pm in the church. Lunch follows in the Parish Hall. Given Bishop Robinson’s very full travel schedule since the publication of his new book, we are grateful that he is taking the time to be with us.
Vicki Anthos, a member of Immanuel, Highlands has written with the sad news that their sister parish, St. Luke’s, New Orleans, was partially destroyed by fire last week. This is another blow to this historically black, urban parish already challenged by the effects of Hurricane Katrina. If you would like more information on how to help St. Luke’s rebuild, click here to send Vicki an email.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
April 30, 2008
At our recent Diocesan Convention we passed a resolution urging elected officials to make Thursday, May 1, an interfaith Inclusive National Day of Prayer. The resolutions states that, “It is our hope that promoting an annual interfaith Inclusive National Day of Prayer will nurture greater understanding and mutual respect among all of God’s children and help heal divisions in our society.”
Prayer is the great spiritual gift that we all have to offer. People from different beliefs and spiritual traditions gathering together in prayer is a powerful symbol – especially in a nation that continues to grow in its diversity. It is another reminder that we really are “one nation under God.”
 Bishop Carol Gallagher has just published a new book entitled: Reweaving the Sacred: A Practical Guide to Change and Growth in Challenged Congregations. We congratulate Carol on this accomplishment. Copies may be ordered on-line from the Church Publishing, Inc. website or by calling 1-800-242-1918.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
April 23, 2008
The warm weather this past weekend was a reminder that the summer camping season at Camp Arrowhead is just around the corner. This Sunday afternoon, April 27, Camp Arrowhead is sponsoring an Open House. I hope that you will encourage your members to visit. It will be a good opportunity to learn more about Camp Arrowhead and its outstanding ministry to young people. There are still openings for the summer camp sessions. And, there are a few opportunities remaining for summer employment. To learn more and to download a brochure, click here to visit the Camp Arrowhead website.
Last week I announced that Trinity Parish, Wilmington has called the Rev. Patricia S. Downing to be their next rector. If you would like to send Patti Downing a note welcoming her to the Diocese of Delaware, here is her current address. She plans to begin her new ministry on August 1.
The Rev. Patricia S. Downing
Good Shepherd Parish
818 University Boulevard W
Silver Spring, MD 20901
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
April 16, 2008
Our 223rd Diocesan Convention concluded on Saturday afternoon. Thank you for your support and for taking the time to participate on such a beautiful weekend. Rita Nelson and the St. Philip’s congregation were outstanding hosts. The Bishop’s staff and a large group of volunteers organized arrangements and logistics for the convention. Special thanks go to Bishop Bud Shand and the many others who led presentations, workshops, and hearings. I was moved and humbled by kind words on Friday evening. Together we have accomplished a lot in this diocese. When I travel to England for the 2008 Lambeth Conference, there will be much good news to share.
At this convention we reported on plans to strengthen youth ministry in our diocese. You are able to meet members of the new Diocesan Youth Council and the delegation traveling to this summer’s Episcopal Youth Event. We heard a report from Jay Angerer about the growing ministry at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church. You met the six postulants preparing for ordination as deacons.
All these ministries are supported directly through the “Fair Share” giving by our congregations. Along with members of our Diocesan Council, and Larry Heinold, diocesan treasurer, I want to recognize and thank congregations for these essential gifts. Detailed information about diocesan finances was included in the Narrative Budget presented to the convention. Copies will be available soon for downloading from this website. The complete audited report of all diocesan funds is included in the Annual Report of the Diocese to be distributed later this summer.
The Diocesan Convention elected members of our governing bodies and deputies to the General Convention. Thanks to all who offered themselves for election. Click here to see the results of the balloting. We have also posted the text of a resolution adopted by convention urging all elected officials and event planners to make May 1, 2008 an inclusive, interfaith, national Day of Prayer. Click here to see the Day of Prayer resolution.
Yesterday we received the good news that Trinity Parish, Wilmington has called the Rev. Patricia Steinecke Downing. She will be coming to Trinity from Good Shepherd Parish in Silver Spring, Maryland, where she has served as Rector since 1997. Patty is married to the Reverend Richard Downing (Dickie), who has just retired as the Rector of another Episcopal church in the Diocese of Washington. We look forward to welcoming the Downings to our diocese.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
April 9, 2008
Last week our nation observed the 40th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King’s assassination. In the days following Dr. King’s tragic death, violence erupted in cities across this country. In the City of Wilmington there were seven days of chaos, burning, and sporadic violence. For nine months the Delaware National Guard patrolled city streets. In the end there were over 900 arrests, nearly 100 injuries, and dozens left homeless as fires damaged their homes.
In Sunday’s News Journal, Beatrice Ross Coker, a community civil rights activist, described the Wilmington riots as Delaware’s “family secret” – “Something nobody would talk about, like if you were at someone’s house and a cockroach walked across your arm – everyone knew it was there, but no one said a word.” Forty years is a very long time. Forty years is also a Biblical number. From that perspective it may be that we have been in the wilderness long enough.
At this weekend’s diocesan convention we will hear the first report from the newly formed committee studying the history of slavery in Delaware. One thing clearly emerges from that study. Although the Civil War may have ended slavery, it did not end racial prejudice or economic injustice. It is easy to see how the weight of these problems still bears down upon each of us even after so many years. Blessedly, progress has been made. Delaware’s Episcopal churches have helped to bring change. But, more remains to be done.
I look forward to seeing you on Friday and Saturday for our 223rd Diocesan Convention. The people of St. Philip’s, Laurel and Rita Nelson their priest are ready to extend a warm welcome to friends from around the diocese. I want to thank them, members of the bishop’s staff, and our convention presenters for all they have done to help us prepare. It should be a good convention. I personally am doing well and feel very blessed by your email, cards, and prayers. Thank you. [Click here to learn more about the convention.]
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
April 2, 2008
There is a very special opportunity coming up this weekend. Westminster Presbyterian Church, Wilmington is sponsoring a lecture series by the Reverend Doctor John Polkinghorne. Dr. Polkinghorne is a world-class scientist and an Anglican priest. He is one of the greatest living writers and thinkers on the subjects of science and religion. In 1979 he resigned his Professorship of mathematical physics at Cambridge University to train for the Anglican Priesthood. He was ordained in 1981 and served congregations in Cambridge, Bristol and Blean. He returned to Cambridge as both a physicist and theologian, and in 1989, was appointed President of Queens’ College. Dr. Polkinghorne has written numerous books and articles. Dr. Polkinghorne will speak at Westminster on Friday evening (5:30 to 7:00 p.m.), Saturday morning (9:00 a.m. to noon) and preach at Sunday morning services.
Here is the schedule of the various lectures of The Reverend Doctor John Polkinghorne:
- Friday, April 4, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Session I: "The Friendship of Science and Religion"
- Saturday, April 5, 9:00 a.m. - Noon
Session II "Can a Scientist Pray?"
Session III "Can We Believe in a Destiny Beyond Death?"
These lectures are free and open to the public. We are all invited to attend. Westminster Presbyterian Church is located at 1504 West 13th Street, Wilmington. Click here to see additional information on the Westminster website.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
March 26, 2008
In just a few weeks Judi Gregory, our diocesan Business Manage will be leaving for Sudan. She will devote her sabbatical summer to helping the Sudanese Episcopal Church develop a modern business accounting system. The opportunity for this kind of personal mission work is a significant blessing. It is possible to do something like this because the Episcopal Church is a member of the Anglican Communion. We have friends in Christ around the world. Opportunities for mission arise from these friendships. As a diocese, we are pleased to support Judi during her sabbatical.
While Judi is away, we are seeking a part-time financial consultant to assist our staff with some of her day-to-day responsibilities over the summer. You may know of someone who might be interested in this position. For additional information, click here to send an email to Gary Rowe or call (302) 656-5441, ext. 107.
This week Winifred Primo will celebrate her 88th birthday. We send her our best wishes with thanks for her friendship and ministry through the years. Ron Haines, the retired bishop of Washington died on Good Friday following a long illness. Ron had many connections with Delaware and was a good friend of our diocese. Our prayers are with all who mourn his passing. May he rest in peace.
I hope that you all enjoy the blessings and renewal of this Easter season. Thank you again for your thoughts and prayers. They are very much appreciated.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
March 19, 2008
Today is Wednesday of Holy Week. It is also the fifth anniversary of the war in Iraq. At its beginning few could have envisioned the breadth, counted the cost, or predicted the length of this war. All of us have felt its impact, but none have been touched more directly than members of our own armed forces, their loved ones, and the people of Iraq. Today we pray and hope for the return of peace. We mourn the lost on all sides and pray for those who serve in our name.
At our recent meeting in Texas Bishop George Packard reminded all the bishops of the continued need for pastoral care and support of those who serve in the armed forces and their families. Thank you for making this a priority.
It was good seeing you on Tuesday of Holy for the Renewal of Ordination Vows at the Cathedral. Thanks go to the diocesan Clergy Life Committee for their leadership, Bill Lane and the Cathedral for their hospitality, and Cynde Bimbi for her help organizing this event. I am happy to announce that the Presiding Bishop will be our guest next year for Tuesday of Holy Week.
I will be participating in the Holy Week and Easter services at the Cathedral. It is always a special and blessed time. As always you are in my prayers.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
March 13, 2008
The spring meeting of the House of Bishops is just ending. I will be flying home from Texas on Thursday afternoon. It has been a good and productive gathering. I give much credit to the bishop’s mutual desire to work together even when facing challenging issues, and to the Presiding Bishop for her leadership. Her wisdom and steady faithfulness are great resources for our church.
Much of our time was spent preparing for this summer’s Lambeth Conference. The format and the agenda for the meeting will be different. There will be more time for discussion and mutual learning. There is no plan for resolutions and formal reports. This makes sense to me. Making new friends and learning about ministries around the world will be a very positive benefit.
It was announced that the Archbishop of Canterbury will not be inviting Bishop Gene Robinson to participate fully in the Lambeth Conference. This is regrettable, but not unexpected. The House of Bishops formally expressed our regret at this decision. We look forward to welcoming Gene Robinson to Delaware on Tuesday, May 13.
Today the House of Bishops voted to depose two of our colleagues from their ministries: John-David Schofield, Diocese of San Joaquin, and William Cox, retired. This was the culmination of a lengthy process. There were repeated opportunities given for reconciliation. We took this action based on the facts presented to us and following lengthy conversation and prayer. The outcome is sad, but necessary. The process of rebuilding in the Diocese of San Joaquin is beginning. There will be a special diocesan convention at the end of March to select a provisional bishop.
I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday of Holy for the Renewal of Ordination Vows at the Cathedral. Before Fredrica Thompsett makes her presentation I will take a few minutes to brief you in more detail about the House of Bishops meeting and the Lambeth Conference. It will be good being with you.
The busy days of Holy Week and Easter are close at hand. This season bears the promise of hope for all God’s people. Thank you for all you are doing to prepare.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
March 5, 2008
I always enjoy reading the newsletters I receive from congregations around the diocese. It is a great way to catch up on the many good things happening here in Delaware. Over the last few weeks parish newsletters have been filled with notices about worship and other events during Holy Week and Easter. I really admire the hard work, commitment, and creativity that go into this central season in the liturgical year. Thank you for all you are doing as we prepare for this important time.
I will be leaving on Friday morning for the House of Bishop’s meeting in Texas. Much of our time together will be spent preparing for our participation in the Lambeth Conference this coming summer. We will also be discussing our continuing relationship with the Diocese of San Joaquin and Bishop Schofield. I will be returning to Delaware just before Palm Sunday. I will look forward to telling you about the bishops meeting when we are together for Tuesday of Holy Week. (Details are just below.)
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
FEBRUARY 27, 2008
I hope all clergy are planning to join us at the Cathedral on Tuesday of Holy Week for the annual Renewal of Ordination Vows. Dr. Fredrica Harris Thompsett is our speaker this year. Dr. Thompsett is the Mary Wolfe Professor of Historical Theology at the Episcopal Divinity School, Cambridge, Mass. She is well-known across the Episcopal Church as an engaging teacher and speaker. Click here to learn more about this service. We look forward to welcoming her to the Diocese of Delaware.
Below is the schedule for the day. As in past years I hope that all Episcopalians and their friends will join us for the Holy Eucharist and lunch. Thanks go to the diocesan Clergy Life Committee, Cynde Bimbi, Bill Lane, and the Cathedral staff for all they have done to make this annual event possible.
Renewal of Ordination Vows
Tuesday of Holy Week, March 18, 2008
Cathedral Church of St. John
Concord Avenue & Market Street, Wilmington
9:30 a.m. Social Gathering
10:15 a.m. Conversation with Dr. Thompsett
11:30 a.m. Break
12:00 Noon Holy Eucharist
(Clergy will vest and process – red stoles)
1:00 p.m. Lunch
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
FEBRUARY 20, 2008
An early Lent, as we all know, means there will be an early Holy Week. If you haven’t already done so, I hope that you are beginning to publicize the 2008 Good Friday Offering. Each year since 1922 the Episcopal Church has supported ministries in Jerusalem and the Middle East through the Good Friday Offering. Last year over $368,000 was raised. The needs in the region are very great. Our gifts help support hospitals, schools, orphanages, and many other programs. Good Friday is an effective way to share the compassion and generosity of Christ.
For more information about the 2008 Good Friday Offering, click here.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting St. David’s, Brandywine Hundred.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
FEBRUARY 13, 2008
I had just gotten home and was sitting down for supper when the telephone rang. “Hi, this is John Smith calling. Your seminary is having it winter phone-a-thon. We were hoping that you would be interested in making a contribution to the annual fund. . . .” We have all received calls like this. When I was in seminary, I had to make them.
Interesting how it is always a little awkward – at both ends of the telephone. Generosity doesn’t always come naturally or easily. But, generosity is at the heart of the Gospel. The opportunity to bless many good things comes when we are generous. I keep reminding myself of this even in moments when I don’t feel like being generous. There is always room to grow.
Please keep the search committee and vestry at Trinity Parish, Wilmington in your prayers during the coming weeks. They have begun interviewing candidates to be their next rector.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting St. Peter’s, Smyrna. Next Tuesday afternoon – Thursday afternoon, I will be in New York for the winter meeting of the Church Pension Fund Board.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
FEBRUARY 6, 2008:
As Lent begins, I want share some good news with you. This year Judith Gregory completes her 14th year as Business Manager for our diocese. In this capacity, she serves Delaware’s Episcopal churches and diocesan ministries by providing financial oversight, data and analytical support to our institutions, governing bodies and committees.
From May 1 – August 31, 2008, Judi will take a sabbatical leave from her day-to-day ministry as a member of the Bishop’s staff. She plans to spend her sabbatical in the African nation of Sudan. Using her skills as a financial consultant, she will work with the Episcopal Church in the Sudan. She will train staff for the implementation of a new computerized accounting system. This new system will update the current method of recording and tracking funding for relief work. This work is the first step towards providing a solid foundation to support the churches’ ministry in that war-torn country.
Planning for this sabbatical is possible through a partnership between The Office of Anglican and Global Relations of the Episcopal Church in New York, Episcopal Relief and Development, and the Episcopal Church in the Sudan. It underlines our commitment in the Diocese of Delaware to the life of the Anglican Communion. The opportunity to share gifts and skills for the benefit of others lies at the heart of our friendship with Anglicans around the world.
During her four-month sabbatical time, Judi will reside in Juba, in the southern portion of Sudan. She will return to Delaware at the end of August and resume her position on the Bishop’s staff following Labor Day. While she is away, members of the Bishop’s staff, volunteers, and a part-time consultant will share her responsibilities, in the Bishop’s office and the life of the Diocese.
We look forward to the many good things that will come from this exciting opportunity. We are grateful, as a diocese, to support this sabbatical ministry to our brothers and sisters in Sudan. To learn about Judi's ministry to the Sudan in her own words, click here to visit her website.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
JANUARY 30, 2008:
Earlier this week the board of St. Anne’s Episcopal School announced that Peter Thayer has accepted the call to serve as the school’s new head. He and his wife Francie will be moving to Middletown in the early summer.
Peter is an experienced educator with over thirty years as a teacher and school administrator. Most recently he has served as middle school head at the Lancaster Country Day School. He is also an active Episcopalian serving both as warden and vestry member at St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church, Lancaster.
I enjoyed meeting Peter and the other finalists as the search for this position progressed. All the finalists were exceptional people. It is clear that Peter will bring very significant gifts to this new ministry. He will build upon the outstanding work of Harvey Zendt, the school’s founding head. All of us look forward to welcoming Francie and Peter Thayer to the Diocese of Delaware.
Thanks to our diocesan Clergy Life Committee for sponsoring our winter Clergy Retreat at Pendle Hill. It was a blessing to be with colleagues for a good time of refreshment and prayer. Special thanks go to Carlyle Gill, our presenter; and to Cynde Bimbi for her help in organizing this event.
I will be away until Shrove Tuesday. Holly, Parker, and I will be traveling to New Orleans for Carnival. It will our first time there as a family since Hurricane Katrina.
This comes with my thanks for your ministries and prayers for a blessed and holy Lent.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
JANUARY 23, 2008:
Over the last few months both Episcopal Life and the Episcopal News Service (ENS) have been expanding their coverage and resources on the World Wide Web. This includes news and features articles about local, national, and international ministries of the Episcopal Church. You may want to check out their website. Here is the link:
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/elife/
St. Barnabas’, Wilmington was featured in a recent Episcopal Life online story. You can read it here:
www.episcopalchurch.org/81827_94099_ENG_HTM.htm
St. Thomas’ Parish, Newark is about to complete its Parish Profile. We will soon begin recruiting candidates to be the next rector. If you know someone who should be considered for this new ministry, please click here to e-mail the name along to Gary Rowe. Many of our most effective clergy have come to Delaware through your recommendations. Thanks for thinking about this.
Our winter clergy retreat at Pendle Hill begins on Monday afternoon. It will be good being with you for this time of fellowship, quiet, and prayer.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
JANUARY 16, 2008:
The Sundays after Epiphany are very, very few this year. Christmas seems barely past. We are rushing around to complete Lenten programs and sell tickets for pancake suppers. I would be tempted to complain about this. But, a quick look at the Prayer Book calendar reminds me that it will be over 80 years until Ash Wednesday is this early again.
With so few Sundays after Epiphany I will miss the opportunity for preaching in this season. I have always felt that worshippers are particularly open to the message of hope at this time of year. Given the many things happening around us, this longing for the light of Christ seems especially strong this year. The message of hope is one of the great gifts that we have to offer as Jesus’ disciples. It is the light of the world.
Thanks go to Celeste Cox and the members of Christ Church, Dover for their pastoral ministry to Michael Mayer over these last years. The service for him last Saturday morning was beautiful and memorable. I look forward to seeing you this coming Saturday at 4 p.m. for the Celebration of New Ministry at St. David’s, Brandywine Hundred. It will be a happy occasion for Brad Hinton and members of the congregation. Our winter clergy retreat begins on Monday afternoon. It will be good being with you for this time of fellowship, quiet and prayer.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
JANUARY 9, 2008:
I hope that you all enjoyed a blessed and joyous Christmas season — including some time for personal refreshment and renewal. Balancing multiple responsibilities for clergy and their families is always challenging especially during the holidays.
During the month of January we always observe two significant annual events. This year Martin Luther King Day is January 21. Because this event has now become a civic holiday, it is easy to lose sight of the fact that Martin Luther King’s life and work were built upon the rock of faith in Jesus Christ. The annual celebration is an appropriate occasion for all of us to give thanks for the presence of Christ in Dr. King’s life and ministry. It is an opportunity for each of us to re-dedicate ourselves to challenge racism and bias everywhere.
January 18-25 is the traditional Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. As Episcopalians we can be especially grateful for the spirit and commitment that led to the “Call to Common Mission,” the covenant of full communion between our church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. In our own diocese we have been especially blessed this past year by the ministries of two ordained Lutheran pastors serving here. In 2006, at the General Convention, first steps were taken that may lead to a similar relationship with the United Methodist Church. Resources to observe the Week of Christian Unity are now available online.
This past Sunday I celebrated the Feast of the Epiphany at St. Peter’s, Lewes. Next Sunday I will be visiting St. Albans. The Celebration of New Ministry for Brad Hinton at St. David’s, Brandywine Hundred is scheduled for Saturday, January 19, 4 p.m. I look forward to seeing you then.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright,
Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
JANUARY 2, 2008:
Happy New Year! I hope that you and your families had a good holiday. We join with people of good will everywhere in praying for God's blessings and the return of peace in this new year.
Holly, Parker, and I have been in Florida this week taking a few days of vacation and visiting with family and friends. We will return on Friday. I will be visiting St. Peter's, Lewes on Sunday.
Being away from home affords extra time in the morning to read the papers and watch the news. Clearly, politics will be front and center in this new year. The caucus and primary season is upon us. Important decisions are about to be made.
Times like these provide opportunities for teaching, preaching, and conversation about the relationship between faith, discipleship, and public life. The Episcopal Church has a distinctive approach to these issues. Through the years Episcopalians have played important roles in national life. I hope all of us will be thinking about how to use these days as opportunities for teaching, witness, reflection, and prayer.
Services from Michael Mayer have been set for Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Church, Dover. Greg Howe, retired rector of Christ Church will be the preacher. I will be the celebrant. All are invited to attend.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
DECEMBER 19, 2007
The last busy days before Christmas are finally here. I wish you all the very best for a blest and joyous Christmas. After the investment of much time and energy I hope that your Christmas celebrations are beautiful, meaningful, and renewing. I also hope that you will have some time for refreshment after the holiday. I will be visiting St. Peter’s, Lewes on Epiphany and back in the office the next day.
Don’t forget that the Celebration of New Ministry for Brad Hinton and St. David’s Church, Brandywine Hundred is scheduled for Saturday, January 19, 4 p.m. You will be receiving an invitation shortly. Please reserve the time and plan to attend. Also, our diocesan Clergy Retreat will be taking place at Pendle Hill, Monday afternoon, January 28th through Wednesday midday, January 30. Please be sure to send in your registration.
Michael Mayer died recently following a brief illness. He was a wonderful person with a distinguished record of service to the church. Plans are being made for a memorial service at Christ Church, Dover in January. Also, Trudy Shipp died on Monday. Along with Matt, her husband, Trudy was a leader in our community and a faithful member of the Episcopal Church. Her burial service will be Friday, 11:00 a.m. at the Episcopal Church of Sts. Andrew & Matthew. May she rest in peace.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
DECEMBER 12, 2007
I always aim to allocate extra time for pastoral ministry during Advent. It’s amazing how hard this is to do. The urgencies of Christmas preparation quickly seem to fill up the calendar. It is so easy to postpone or procrastinate visiting the sick and shut-ins. When I let a busy schedule crowd out these opportunities, in the long run I always end up regretting it. Looking back I realize that my most satisfying memories of this season come from these pastoral moments.
The Celebration of New Ministry for Brad Hinton and St. David’s Church, Brandywine Hundred is scheduled for Saturday, January 19, 4:00 p.m. You will be receiving an invitation shortly. I hope that you will reserve the time and plan to attend. Also, our diocesan Clergy Retreat will be taking place at Pendle Hill, Monday afternoon, January 28 through Wednesday midday, January 30. Please be sure to send in your registration.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
DECEMBER 6, 2007 - In the midst of this busy season I wanted to remind you of a couple of dates for your January calendar. The Celebration of New Ministry for Brad Hinton and St. David’s Church, Brandywine Hundred is scheduled for Saturday, January 19, 4 p.m. You will be receiving an invitation shortly. I hope that you will reserve the time and plan to attend. Also, our Diocesan Clergy Retreat will be taking place at Pendle Hill, Monday afternoon, January 28, through Wednesday midday, January 30.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
NOVEMBER 28, 2007
The Christmas shopping season is well underway. Here in Wilmington the increase of traffic around the Christiana Mall and on Concord Pike is noticeable. Crowds are flocking to the outlets malls in Lewes & Rehoboth.
This year there are several positive, creative opportunities for alternative gift giving. The Episcopal Relief & Development website offers many ways to make gifts and support worthwhile projects around the world. Also, web shoppers thinking about making a purchase from Amazon.com should first visit the AIDS Delaware website. AIDS Delaware will earn up to 10% of the purchase price by simply clicking on their link before visiting Amazon.
There are many other similar opportunities available for gift givers. I hope you will make them known and encourage generous giving by your members. The needs are always very great.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
NOVEMBER 21, 2007
Thanksgiving is a very special day. Unlike other national holidays like July 4th or Labor Day, Thanksgiving has both a spiritual and a civic dimension. We recognize our blessings as a nation. We are grateful for God’s presence and blessings in our lives. As we gather with family and friends for a great feast, we also remember the long Thanksgiving tradition of caring for the poor. The opportunity is always there at Thanksgiving to discover a renewed sense of personal gratitude. This experience deepens faith and inspires disciples to serve in Jesus’ Name.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
NOVEMBER 9, 2007
November is the month when many congregations receive the United Thank Offering Fall In-Gathering. This is such an important ministry of the Episcopal Church. Funds raised through the United Thank Offering have supported remarkable ministries here locally, around our country, and the world. In 2006 Episcopalians gave $2,439,342 to the United Thank Offering. I hope that you will urge your members to support the UTO.
It is also time to think about asking for a grant from the United Thank Offering in 2008. Mary Ann Brillhart has the UTO grant application forms. She would be glad to send one to you. I know that there are many outreach/service ministries in Delaware that would benefit from this kind of support.
This coming Sunday is Veteran’s Day. Several of our congregations will be taking up special collections to assist members of the armed services and their families. It will also be a special opportunity to pray for all in harms way and to ask God for peace on earth.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
OCTOBER 31, 2007
We have all seen and read about the devastating fires in Southern California. I received an email from Jim Mathes, bishop of San Diego concerning the situation there. He describes how the Episcopal Church is responding and how each of us can help. I have sent a check from the Bishop’s Discretionary Fund. I hope that you and your congregations will consider helping. Bp. Mathes letter is included below.
It was good being with you last Thursday for the Celebration of New Ministry at Christ Church, Christiana Hundred. It was a very happy occasion. Our prayers are with Ruth Kirk and the members of Christ Church as their new season of ministry begins.
Thank you for encouraging vestry leaders to attend the recent series of meetings held with wardens and treasurers around the diocese. We had a very good turnout and useful conversations. I am especially grateful to Larry Heinold, treasurer of Diocesan Council, to Judi Gregory, our business manager, and to members of the Council’s Finance Committee for their help preparing for the meetings.
This coming Sunday I will be visiting St. Stephen’s, Harrington. I look forward to being with John Desaulniers and St. Stephen’s congregation.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop of Delaware
A LETTER FROM BISHOP JAMES MATHES, BISHOP OF SAN DIEGO
Dear brothers and sisters:
Many of you have already contacted us with news of your prayers and offers of assistance, for which we are deeply grateful. As you might imagine, our situation in San Diego is very fluid. The fire fighters and aid workers are doing extraordinary work. Please pray for the safety of those battling the fires both in the air and on the ground.
What is becoming clear is that we will be involved in a two-fold endeavor: a short-term ministry of housing and hospitality helping those who have been displaced through evacuation; and long-term assistance in recovery and rebuilding. We are currently matching requests for housing with those who have offered that blessing, and our clergy are fanning out to evacuation centers to provide pastoral care. Some of these clergy are evacuees themselves.
To prepare for the long-term recovery work, we have established a 2007 Fire Relief Fund. Please send gifts designated for that fund to:
The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego
2728 6th Ave.
San Diego, CA 92103
Individuals can make a gift to the fund via our website: www.edsd.org. Please add: “Fire Relief” to the memo line. In addition, we are collecting gift cards to Target, K-Mart, Walmart, and JC Penney to be distributed to people who have lost property. These gift cards can be sent to the above address to the attention of Canon Howard F. Smith. Any communication of these requests would be a blessing.
Please know of our deepest appreciation for your concern and prayers. It is another reminder of the blessings of our Episcopal Church.
Faithfully, The Rt. Rev. James R. Mathes, Bishop of San DiegoBack to Top
OCTOBER 24, 2007
Last week Harvey Zendt announced his decision to end his tenure as Headmaster of St. Anne’s Episcopal School at the end of the 2007-2008 academic year. He wants to pursue his passion both for working for world peace and environmental sustainability. A search committee has been formed and a consulting firm engaged to guide the search process. I have agreed to serve on the committee.
Harvey Zendt has been an outstanding head for St. Anne’s School. He is much loved by the students and faculty. He is much respected for the challenging work of leading the school during its founding years. He has prepared it well for the next season of its life. Our thanks and prayers are with Harvey as he finishes his work at St. Anne’s and begins his new vocation.
Tonight we will hold the second of three regional meetings for vestry leaders. Thank you again for encouraging participation by your church leaders. Remember that diocesan clergy are also invited to attend. Here is the date and place for the final remaining meeting: Monday, October 29 at St. Peter’s Lewes, 2nd and Market Sts, Lewes, 7 pm
The Celebration of New Ministry for Christ Church, Christiana Hundred and Ruth Kirk, their new rector, is scheduled for tomorrow evening Thursday, October 25th at 7:00 p.m. Loren Mead will be the preacher. It is important for all of us to attend events like these. It is another way to show support for our colleagues and to strengthen friendships among clergy in the diocese. I hope that you have reserved the time and are planning to attend.
Don’t forget that we have a Diocesan Clergy Continuing Education Day scheduled for Tuesday, November 27th at Christ Church, Christiana Hundred. Gordon Lathrop, noted liturgical theologian and scholar will be our presenter.
Faithfully, Wayne Wright, Bishop, Diocese of Delaware Back to Top
OCTOBER 17, 2007
Bishop George Packard has written to remind all of us that October 22-28 is “Pastoral Care Week.” This special observance is an opportunity to recognize the clergy and lay pastors who provide care in specialized ministry settings. Bishop Packard was our guest for the most recent Diocesan Convention. He gave a powerful witness to the importance of these ministries. There are resources about Pastoral Care Week available on the Internet.
During this week you may want to remember in prayers of thanksgiving all who offer pastoral care in Christ’s Name. It is also an opportunity to express personal thanks to our many colleagues engaged in this work.
The new “Gifts for Life” catalogue was just published by Episcopal Relief (ERD). It offers simple and affordable ways for anyone to support mission and outreach. I hope you will encourage your members to utilize this resource – especially in the upcoming Christmas giving season. More information can be found on the Internet.
Faithfully, Wayne P. Wright, Bishop of DelawareBack to Top
Letter from the Bishop
Click here to read the Bishop's letter on Leaving the House of Bishops' Meeting in New Orleans, September, 2007
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