The 2019 Convention. CYNTHIA L. BLACK PHOTO
“O Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you, I will praise your name; for you have done wonderful things, plans formed of old, faithful and sure.” – Isaiah 25:1
One of the blessings of our tradition is the relationship each parish has with the other 96 parishes in our diocese. No one parish is alone, goes its own way, or is forgotten because all parishes are connected to each other.
While all our parishes reside in Northern New Jersey, it is more than geography that unites us. We are interrelated because of shared tradition, worship, and our faith. We have much in common, not the least of which is the Book of Common Prayer that orders our worship, teaching, and relationships with each other and with God.
It can be easy to forget that each of us is part of something bigger. Each church is a vital part of the Diocese of Newark. Our diocese in turn is an active participant in The Episcopal Church. The Episcopal Church serves a unique role in the Anglican Communion as does every province. And all of us, here in Northern New Jersey and across the world, practice an ancient faith begun with a dozen followers of Jesus who were sent to share the Gospel with all people.
Every year, at Diocesan Convention, we claim our relationship with each other. Reports are made, votes are taken, information is shared, workshops are given, and we worship God together. In short, we remember who we are as a much larger people of faith. Together we are a mighty force and an awesome sight to behold.
Whether you are a Deputy to Convention or not, we have a place for you on Saturday morning at Holy Eucharist and/or at the workshops that will follow the service. You are invited and I hope to see you there. l am continuously astonished and energized by the powerful sense of God’s presence and peace when we gather as a diocese to pray, praise, and worship our God.
Mark your calendar and join us for this special gathering of the diocese for worship at Convention on Saturday, February 1, at 9 AM. Praying, singing, and receiving communion with several hundred Episcopalians is always a blessing. I look forward to seeing you there.
Grace and peace,
Bishop Hughes
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