September 14, 2022

Beloved in Christ:

It is easy to forget, in our busy lives and our mainly local church context, that we are connected at Calvary to a worldwide network of faith communities that live, interact, and are woven together in the Anglican Communion.  Sometimes, as when someone like Queen Elizabeth II dies, we remember that we Episcopalians originated, a long time ago, from the Church of England. You may know that during the American Revolution, the Church of England left the original American colonies, naturally, and through an interesting connection with the Episcopal Church of Scotland, bishops, and then priests, were ordained to serve in the brand new United States of America.

This Sunday, we are reminded, again, in a gracious and joyful way, of our connection to this great network of faith communities, because of the visit of the 10th Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Minnesota, the Right Reverend Craig Loya. In the Diocese of Minnesota, we have one bishop who connects all of our faith communities – churches, missions, schools, retirement homes, and other Episcopal entities, all under his care. Bishop Loya has not been to Calvary since his ordination in June 2020, and it is our honor and pleasure to welcome him on our feast day – Holy Cross Sunday. He will celebrate and preach at both services, confirm and receive 16 people, spend time in a Bishop’s Forum in Crawford Hall at 9:15, and join us all in a festive reception to honor him and our confirmands after the 10:30 service.

A bishop’s visit to his parishes is a big deal. I’m excited to welcome him and hope you are too. Please join me in this welcome and joyful occasion of worship and celebration.

In gratitude,