Diocesan News
Let the Spirit work – It’s why we meet in Christ’s name
By
Jun 19, 2006, 15:56

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 21^st 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.