Loading...In a wide-ranging address to the 140th convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Central Pennsylvania, Bishop Nathan Baxter challenged those present to move away from covenants and actions based on fear and toward mission and covenants based on faith and a recognition of the work of the Holy Spirit here and now. He asked congregations to examine their ministries and purpose—seeking new ways to do their work. He also acknowledged that far too much effort in recent years has gone into issues that are ultimately divisive, not unifying. In concluding his address, the bishop said,
“I’m tired of substituting politeness for grace; and political agendas of the day being confused with Spiritual liberation of the Gospel. … I don’t have to lose my soul to make it happen, the Holy Spirit is already working. I’m ready to live into the larger dream of God. To be a church where we can be at different places and still be on larger mission. I’m tired of ecclesiastical “Tea Parties” disguised as Covenants of Fate.
I want a Covenant of Faith! I want to dream and live the Gospel of Hope. How about you!!!
I want to be like Conservative Peter and Progressive Paul who found themselves in Covenants of Fate about full the inclusion of Gentiles. They eventually decided to move to a Covenant of Faith. To have different views but common mission.”
A copy of Bishop Baxter's address is posted as a PDF file below. To read the full text of the address, click here.
