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Episcopal Thoughts

Determining Directions

Anne Abdy

Episcopal Thoughts

Dear Friends in Christ,


This past Sunday afternoon, St. James Episcopal Church hosted the showing of the documentary, Philadelphia Eleven. I had not seen the film but had learned a little about these amazingly brave women in the Church History course in seminary. I also have three texts (Womanpriest: A Personal Odyssey (1988), Moving To The Edge Of The World: A Poetry Trilogy (2000), and Accidental Wisdom (2003) published by Alla Renee Bozarth who resided in Oregon. This past Sunday, I learned so much more!!!


The following are some of my reflections on watching the movie:


I never grew up in the United States during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960-70’s– but this was certainly a civil rights movement in the Church.


I was horrified by the rejection, the violence, and the hate speech made towards these women of great faith.


I was disappointed that the majority of the Bishops of the church would not recognize God’s call that the Eleven experienced in their lives.


I am so grateful for all that these women did for me. Because of their courage, other minority groups have come forward to be ordained to the diaconate and priesthood.


I would not be standing before you as your priest, if it were not for these determined, and in my mind, heroic women.


In the history of the church, there have been wars, reformations, demonstrations and movements of many kinds. This is certainly one of those “bookmarked” events in the life of The Episcopal Church. What is the next? Yes, there has been ordinations of race and ethnic backgrounds. Yes, there are members of the LGBQIA community who are ordained and serving, but there is still discrimination. I know. I experienced it.


My last reflection is this. What is the next big “revolution” or “movement” for The Episcopal Church?


The above ponderings from the showing of the movie, led me to wonder, what is Holy Cross’s next big movement? What is God calling us to do?


Thank you for the great showing by the 15 members who were present. We certainly have that community spirit going!


Blessings, Anne+

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