|
October 17, 2013
Dear Fellow Episcopalians:
As you know, on May 17th, 2014 we will gather at Christ Church, New Bern to elect our next bishop. While this is an election, it is an election which should be very different from most other elections in which we participate. Most elections are motivated by what we want; this election must be motivated by what God wants. The source of motivation is the difference between decision and discernment. To help create an environment of discernment for the election of the VIII Bishop of East Carolina your Standing Committee, after significant prayer, has developed a set of Guiding Principles for Our Diocese, Delegates, and Nominees.
As you select delegates from your parish to represent you at next year's election, we ask you to prayerfully consider these principles. If you are asked to be a delegate we encourage you to ask yourself if you can practice discernment, being primarily motivated by God's desire. Also, as you engage in conversation with and about the nominees we ask that you please treat them as you would want to be treated in all manner of things.
This is truly an exciting time to be an Episcopalian in East Carolina. The Holy Spirit is at work molding whomever the Spirit is calling to work with us as bishop. Please keep them and our Diocese in your prayers.
Peace and Blessings to you and those you love.
Kevin A. Johnson+
President of the Standing Committee
The Diocese of East Carolina
| 
