Here Am I – Send Me! – Council Updates
Council News from Lory Zimmerman
The Diocese of West Texas gathered for a significant event on the third weekend of February, marking a time of celebration and reflection for the Episcopal Church community. Representatives from various parishes, including Darrell and myself, Lisa Mumme, Sharon Carson, and Fr. Mike and Cyndy from St. Philip’s, came together to reconnect and engage with the leadership of the Diocese.
A highlight of the weekend was the introduction of Rev. Angela Corteñas, the newly elected Bishop Suffragan. She shared her background and aspirations, offering a reassuring presence as she steps into her new role. Her vision for the future promises exciting developments for our diocese and beyond.
Bishop David Read delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing the importance of the Great Commission as a “call to action” rather than a “mere suggestion.” He announced an ambitious plan to establish five new churches in the Diocese over the next decade, a goal that reflects our commitment to being a missional people. Additionally, Bishop Read reaffirmed his support for reinstating the vocational Deaconate, a decision made after thorough exploration by a diocesan committee led by Fr. Mike.
The Iona Collaborative, a three-track program for spiritual development, was also discussed. This initiative, which supports the growth of laity, deacons, and priests, will be crucial in training our future deacons. Furthermore, Bishop Read plans to appoint a task force to review the apportionment formula, with findings to be presented at next year’s council.
Bishop Read reminded us that addressing social injustice is not political but a fundamental aspect of proclaiming the gospel. He urged us to emulate Jesus in our pursuit of justice and to turn to prayer when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges, encouraging us to pray BIGGER and bolder prayers.
I encourage each of you to go to the Diocesan website and read the Bishop’s address and any other information that is available from Council. – Lory Zimmerman
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Council Reflection from Sr. Warden Sharon Carson
One of my favorite hymns! “Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord. I have heard you calling in the night.” Here I am, Lord, It is I Lord, was also the scripture chosen by Bishop Read for this year’s council theme.
This was probably the fourth time I have represented St. Philip’s as a delegate at council over the last twenty or so years. Each time, I have grown in understanding just how much the diocese supports its churches and the world. Here are a few of my many takeaways from this year’s council. Some were new, and some were refreshers!
Although we are not technically classified as a small church by diocesan criteria, we have challenges in common. Resources and guidance were provided through workshops for small churches. The diocese has a group tasked with “church planting” (starting new churches) in the population growth areas within the diocese. There were reports from various outreach groups, sharing stories that were inspiring, yet sometimes heartbreaking. The diocese has an endowment fund, and the income from that fund supplements the diocesan budget. (That’s my plug for an endowment fund at St. Philip’s!)
Without a doubt, though, for me, the highlight of council is the eucharist service—so many banners, so many robes, so many voices singing, so many brothers and sisters in Christ—a time to put all the work of the church aside, and simply worship. – God’s peace, Sharon Carson
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Council Reflection from First Time Attendee – Lisa Mumme
Last week I had the wonderful opportunity of attending the 121st annual Diocesan Council in San Marcos with Cyndy & Mike Marsh, Lory & Darrell Zimmerman, and Sharon Carson. I had a great time of fellowship with some of my St. Philip’s family, but also a great time being in the midst of our larger Diocesan family.
It was my first time attending Council and I didn’t know what to expect! I had always been slightly intimidated by the notion of going to Council for fear I wasn’t knowledgeable enough about Diocesan business. Plus I didn’t know many others in our Diocese so I wouldn’t know who to vote for. But by the time I arrived at Council, I felt better prepared, thanks to a couple of really informative pre-council meetings.
If you have ever had any desire to attend Council but were unsure about it, I can wholeheartedly suggest it as time well spent. Not only do you help to elect a variety of Diocesan committees and board members, but you hear about all the activities and ministries of our Diocese that we don’t often hear about. Probably my favorite part was the celebration of the Eucharist on Friday night with all the bishops and clergy processing into the room and then sharing communion with all our diocesan family. It was very moving! – Lisa Mumme
Go to Facebook, Vimeo, or website or click on the links below to learn more about the 121st Council of the DWTX.
+ The Bishop’s Address to the 121st Council
+ Council Eucharist
+ Bishop Suffragan Elect Angela Cortiñas Address to Council – The address starts at approx. 40:09
+ Fr. Mike Marsh’s Report on Reinstating Vocational Deaconates – The address starts at approx. 1:18:40
