Bishop Dan Schwerin

This annual conference is amazing! There is so much potential here! Every day I hear a story of some creativity or investment in ministry that blesses not only the community and its people but makes Christ known in a new way. In late February and March, I was with the Institute for Congregational Development group, elders, local pastors, deacons, the Annual Conference Shepherding Team (ACST), and the District Strategy Committee training. I was amazed at the creativity and innovative spirit that characterized the laity session. From Greenstone to Oregon, I see Christ in you and through your ministry!
 
Sure, we are living in post-Christendom, days that the culture is not filling our churches with citizens who wish to make a missional contribution, but rather days our culture seethes with white Christian nationalism. We are facing powerful monied interests that seek to divide us for political gain, both in the culture and the mainline churches. We are living in a Holy Saturday period. We are people who know grief at the foot of the cross but also that resurrection hope is found on the road to Emmaus. I am praying that the One who can bring us hope will stay at the table with us because the night is near.
 
I encourage you to watch Bishop Tom Bickerton's address, "Time to Reclaim, Revive and Renew." This message features an invitation to claim a moment of conversion, a metanoia toward beloved community. Read more below about the message that injects hope and kindness into your life of faith. To watch the full video by clicking here.
 
Watch with me and pray for the newness God would bring us in the name and hope of Jesus. Know that I am praying for you.