The Rev Bill Exner, St.
Matthew’s, Goffstown
It was a moment of totally unexpected surprise! The Holy
Spirit of God was operative (BIG TIME!) in the House of Bishops with the
election of our new Presiding Bishop. Katherine Jefferts Schori is the very
first woman Primate in history.
Elected by a wide margin, Bishop Schori comes highly
qualified and much respected. A scientist and pilot as well as faithful
Episcopalian, I can tell you that people I know in her diocese say she is “the
best of the best: focused, smart as can be, compassionate.”
I can’t tell you how delighted I am by what God has done.
This was not “by the script.” God did this while the rest of us were focused on
the Windsor Report war, and peace. As of today, the Episcopal Church has
affirmed a place for all God’s people at every level. It only took 2006 years!
Faith and patience are virtues.
What an honor to be part of the Episcopal Church in the
Anglican Communion worldwide. We are making history. God is working The Purpose out!
By the Rev. Hank Junkin, Interim, St. James, Laconia
It’s 8:55 a.m. and I’m sitting in the House of Deputies
which is quiet save for a few souls wandering around preparing for today. We
are about to gather for our morning Eucharist.
I think it would surprise people to know how much of what we do here is
surrounded by our worship and prayer together; morning Eucharist, noontime
prayers, and prayers during our legislative work.
I’m also reflecting upon what happened here yesterday; I can
still feel the energy in the room which lingers from the announcement of our
new Presiding Bishop’s election and confirmation in this House. With Bishop
Schori’s election, the church enters the 21st century world visibly
representative of that world. Someday the world will see the choice of a bishop
not in terms of gender or sexual orientation but in the qualifications and
manner of life. How much we label one another! Apparently, the Holy Spirit does
not label us, but calls us to witness to God’s love in life, death, and
resurrection of Jesus ways that reach all people. We are also pushed to care
for those who are hurting by calling for justice and fairness.
Time will tell if Bishop Schori was the right choice. The
Holy Spirit stirs in this place.
