On May 18, the Diocese of Bethlehem launched a new Facebook group for conversations about mission, spirituality, Christian formation, and more. "Bethlehem Episcopalians is an open group," wrote Archdeacon Rick Cluett, "which means that anyone can join and items that you post can be shared by group members on their own Facebook pages. This offers each of us the opportunity to reach a larger audience with news and conversations about what God is doing in our diocese." Join the Facebook group, which now includes more than 230 members.

 

Allen (right) and members of the Diocese of Bethlehem's General Convention deputation and Episcopal Church Women Triennial delegation

The 78th General Convention of the Episcopal Church will take place in Salt Lake City from June 25-July 3. The General Convention, which meets every three years, is the governing authority of the Episcopal Church.

 

Deputy Scott Allen, chair of the diocese's General Convention deputation, asks that congregations in the Diocese of Bethlehem include the General Convention in the Prayers of the People on June 21 and June 28. He has written these petitions:

 

June 21

For the Bishops, Deputies, and Triennial delegates who are gathering this week  in Salt Lake City for our General Convention that they may have safe travel  from their many dioceses in 50 states and 17 foreign countries and that the Spirit of wisdom and discernment be especially present in their gatherings and deliberations.

 

June 28

For continuing guidance of the Holy Spirit for our Bishop and Deputies as they conclude this week in Salt Lake City at the General Convention of the Church.  And that 

your Spirit will rest mightily on _____________ elected and confirmed as the new Presiding Bishop yesterday and that he will lead our Church with vision and a passion for your Gospel for the next nine years.

 

[The Presiding Bishop will be elected by the House of Bishops and confirmed by the House of Deputies on Saturday June 27.]

 

Episcopal Digital Network has prepared a downloadable bulletin insert about General Convention for use on June 14. Forward Movement has prepared downloadable bulletin inserts about the House of Deputies State of the Church report.

Call for Nominations

In preparation for the 144th Convention of the Diocese of Bethlehem, October 2-3, 2015,  the Nominating Committee calls for nominations for the:

• Commission on Ministry
• Diocesan Council
• Disciplinary Board
• Incorporated Trustees
• Standing Committee

Nomination forms will be available on the Diocesan website by June 9. The deadline for nominations is July 15, 2015. The Nominating Committee includes Ray Arcario, Susan Boskett, the Rev. Lou Divis and the Rev. James Rinehart, chair. The Rev. Canon Anne E. Kitch is the staff liaison.

 

Call for Resolutions

Resolutions for the 144th Diocese of Bethlehem Convention are being accepted through August 2, 2015. Resolutions should be submitted in the following format:

1. 1.     Title of the resolution
2. 2.     The full resolution beginning with "be it resolved"
3. 3.     The expiation of the resolution
4. 4.     The names of those submitting the resolution (three (3) delegates or by a Committee or Commission.)

The resolution can be emailed, faxed to 610-691-1682, or mailed to Jo Trepagnier in the diocesan office.

 

The Certificate of Elections of Lay Delegates was emailed to each parish earlier this week and can be downloaded here.

 

On July 20, clergy families of the diocese will gather at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown to see the Lehigh Valley IronPigs take on the Toledo Mud Hens! Gates open at 5:45 pm, and an all-you-can-eat picnic is available from 6-8:30 pm. Game time is 7:05 pm.

 

Bring the whole family! Register online now!

On June 13 from 9 am-1 pm at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Tunkhannock, the Diocese of Bethlehem's Peace Commission will host a day of conversation on gun violence and gun safety. The event is an opportunity to gather with others from throughout the diocese in an atmosphere of peace to share personal stories and begin dialogue that can decrease gun violence and increase gun safety.

 

"This inspiration for this dialogue came from exciting open and honest discussion that took place at the hearings for the resolutions presented at the diocesan convention in October of 2014," writes the commission. "Not only did the people present share their opinions on the resolution, but it was done in an atmosphere of prayerful listening. Our hope is to recreate that sense of working together in the Christian community."

 

Register online.

The Diocese of Bethlehem's Commission for Life Long Christian Formation offers consultations to assist congregations and regional groups of congregations seeking to explore new formation ministries and programs. 

 

Canon Anne Kitch writes, "Are you or your congregation wondering what the future of Christian formation will look like in your context? The Commission for Life Long Christian Formation can help you discern where the Spirit may be leading you. Is your parish looking at the upcoming season of Sunday school and wondering what to do next? Are you considering becoming a Sunday School teacher, youth mentor, or engaging in some other formation ministry, but just aren't sure if it's for you?"

 

To schedule a consultation, which can take place in the evening, in a day-long retreat, and even via Skype, email Canon Kitch.

Canon Bill Lewellis writes:  "Linda Moggio, 70, died on June 2. Linda faithfully dedicated herself in life to Christian education and music, retiring from Christ Episcopal Church, Reading last year. She served also at St. Anne's Trexlertown. She was a devout Moravian. A memorial service will be conducted at Christ Episcopal Church on June 10, 7:30 p.m." Read her obituary.