Patheos: Why I Am (Still) An Episcopalian

I found this post in my “Episcopalian food for thought” feed and thought you might enjoy.

Why am I (still) an Episcopalian? Because it was there for me in my faith journey years ago, and it’s still gently leading me forward, with poetic liturgy and heart-lifting music that brings me quiet joy. And I am glad that we will be lead into the future by Bishop Michael, especially in these times.

The Right Reverend Michael Curry

I am not Episcopalian because I imagine we’re ever going to be on top of the culture again — but I am encouraged by the fact that the Episcopal Church has come out on the far side of many of the Culture War questions still dividing other Christian denominations and causing those outside the Church to consider Christians prejudiced, homophobic, paranoid, or fixated on morality at the expense of justice.

 

The recent election of the dynamic preacher — and our first African-American presiding bishop — Michael Curry even makes me believe we might have a major role in addressing one of the crucial questions of our time, race in America.I’m not Episcopalian because I think the Church needs me — but I am Episcopalian because a faithful community from this tradition saved me, and I know many others could tell similar stories. God spoke to me in the words, love, and actions of Episcopalians when I had no hope and the future seemed, at best, impossible. As much as I love the great gifts of common worship, love of beauty, and thoughtful exploration handed down to us from the Anglican tradition,

 

I am Episcopalian — still — because in the faces of other Episcopalians, I saw — and see — the Face of God.

 

For that, for this life I did not expect to continue living, for the joy I find now, I thank God.

 

And because of that, I will love and serve God through the Episcopal Church for as long as I am allowed to walk this planet.

Source: Why I Am (Still) An Episcopalian

What did you think?

ginny@stnicholasepiscopal.org

Ginny Gibbs

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