The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego’s 51st Annual Diocesan Convention will be held on November 8-9, 2024, at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Palm Desert. Far more than a business meeting, the Convention offers a rich blend of fellowship, celebration, and spiritual renewal. 

The Convention kicks off with pre-convention, optional activities on Friday, November 8, designed to deepen attendees’ connection to both nature and the community. The day begins with a 2.2-mile hike along the scenic Cross Trail, led by Father David Burgdorf. For those seeking hands-on service, the Food Loop program with Chet Hecht offers the chance to engage in meaningful work, including food packing, composting, and community gardening. Participants can also enjoy a reflective Labyrinth Walk, offered by the Daughters of the King in the peaceful courtyard of St. Margaret’s.

Convention business begins in the afternoon with registration at 1:00 PM, followed by a special showing of “The Philadelphia Eleven,” a documentary commemorating the first women ordained as priests in the Episcopal Church. Friday evening closes with dinner on the patio.

Saturday’s schedule includes the Opening Eucharist at 9:00 AM, followed by a full day of business and opportunities for fellowship. Whether you’re a seasoned delegate or attending for the first time, Convention is always a meaningful blend of business and joy.

Every year, Diocesan Convention elects clergy and lay people from throughout the diocese to fill positions of leadership positions throughout the diocese’s governance. These positions often serve at the heart of diocesan ministry.  All lay and clergy members of the diocese are welcome to run for elected office at Diocesan Convention. If you are feeling called to serve the church as a diocesan leader, please submit your nomination for election here: 

Nomination Submission

Positions Open for Nomination

Executive Council is responsible for implementing the Strategic Plan of the diocese. Currently, Executive Council is working on forming new worshiping communities, crafting affordable housing initiatives, working on peace and justice efforts, opening a migrant shelter in Tijuana, and advocating for growing evangelism efforts throughout the diocese. There are also Executive Council Committees that use their significant financial knowledge to support congregations in financial planning and stewardship. The Executive Council also takes care of diocesan properties. You can see that Council makes use of a wide variety of people and their gifts. It’s a four-year term and meets virtually one Saturday of the month. With virtual meeting space, no matter where you reside, you can participate in Executive Council.

The Standing Committee is the Bishop’s council of advice. It comprises four clergy, who are voting members of Convention, and four Lay members, who are communicants of the Church. The Standing Committee acts as the ecclesiastical authority when the bishop is absent or incapacitated. The powers, functions, and duties of the Standing Committee shall be those prescribed by the Constitution and· Canons of The Episcopal Church, and by the Constitution and Canons of this Diocese. Upon expiration of the member’s term, no person shall be eligible to serve as a member of the Standing Committee for a period of one year.

The Disciplinary Board hears cases regarding the discipline of clergy as specified in accordance with Title IV of the Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church. Members are elected for staggered three-year terms and may be re-elected for multiple terms.

The Secretary of Convention takes the minutes for Diocesan Convention, certifies Deputies to General Convention, and performs other duties as listed in the Canons of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego. The Secretary of Convention records the minutes and resolutions of the monthly Diocesan Executive Council meetings. The Secretary is elected for a one-year term and may be re-elected.

Housing

EDSD has not secured a block of rooms at a hotel for Diocesan Convention.  All delegates and visitors are encouraged to secure their hotel rooms early. We have compiled a list of hotels near St. Margaret’s for your convenience at www.conventionedsd.org/housing.

Dinner

This year, St. Margaret’s has planned a wonderful dinner that will be provided to all delegates and visitors on Friday, November 9th. This is built into the fees for Convention.

Vendors

We are excited, once again, to welcome vendors to Diocesan Convention. This is a great opportunity to showcase your goods or services to Episcopalians throughout the diocese. Ministries of the Diocese are welcome to share materials free of charge.  Registration is required for all vendors.

Register

Resolution Submission

Every year, the Diocesan Convention votes on Resolutions and changes to the Diocesan Cannons. If you would like to submit a resolution or canonical change, please click the button below. If you have questions about submitting a resolution or canon change, please email Canon Gwynn Lynch at glynch@edsd.org.

Resolution Submission

“Aaron, your house is burning down!” Those words from a friend at work in 1967 struck like a bolt of lightning, leaving Aaron stunned. At just 13, he moved to Section 14 from Chicago, finding a new life in the predominantly black community adjacent to downtown Palm Springs. The neighborhood became home. But now, that home was gone—engulfed in flames as part of the city’s forced demolition of properties in Section 14. What started as a normal day at work turned into a moment that would stick with Aaron throughout his life.

Aaron is a proud member of The Church of St. Paul in the Desert, where many know the pain of being marginalized. For them, the fight for justice is personal. “Are we going to celebrate our personal liberty by holding it safe for ourselves or use it to bring liberation to those who still need it?” said the Rev. Jessie Thompson. It is a question that echoes at the core of our faith—liberty is not meant to be hoarded, but to be shared, especially with those who are still downtrodden.

The Church of St. Paul in the Desert, under the leadership of the Rev. Dan Kline and the Rev. Jessie Thompson, has taken on the cause of advocating for justice in the Section 14 conflict—a painful chapter in the Palm Spring’s history. As a congregation composed largely of older gay men who have faced their own struggles with discrimination, the church is uniquely positioned to understand the plight of the Black and Latino residents who were forcibly removed from their homes more than half a century ago. The Rev. Dan Kline said, “It’s a real way in which our parish has been growing and empowering community advocacy. It is in our DNA.” 

Section 14 is a one-square-mile tract of land adjacent to downtown Palm Springs, California–historically owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. In the mid-1900s, the Section 14 neighborhood was formed due to discriminatory housing practices. If you were a person of color living in Palm Springs, you were required to live in Section 14. Many of the residents were in the military or worked in the city’s booming tourism industry, serving as gardeners, housekeepers, and construction workers. 

In the 1950s and 1960s, Section 14 became a focal point for redevelopment as Palm Springs sought to capitalize on its growing reputation as a glamorous vacation town. The city, citing health and safety concerns, issued eviction notices to residents, declaring many of the homes as substandard. 

Over the course of several years, the Palm Springs Fire Department, under city direction, demolished or burned down 235 structures in Section 14, forcibly displacing over 1,000 residents. The evictions were conducted with little to no warning for many families. A 1968 report by the California Attorney General called the actions a “city-engineered holocaust.” 

Today, Section 14’s survivors are still seeking justice, and the Church of St. Paul in the Desert has made it a point of focus. The church, known for its inclusivity and compassion, has embraced the fight for reparations as a moral and theological issue. “Our faith calls us to pay attention to who our neighbors are and to partner with our neighbors; so Section 14, thank you for inviting us into your neighborhood. We know that when your neighbors are hurting, you stand with them!” said the Rev. Jessie Thompson. 

On September 11, 2024, over 100 people gathered at Palm Springs City Hall for a prayer service and rally demanding justice for the survivors of Section 14. St. Paul in the Desert expressed their solidarity with those who had lost their homes and livelihoods and underscored the relevance of Section 14 today.

Opening the demonstration in prayer, the Rev. Dan Kline asked God to “soften the hearts of the city leaders” and to give them “the courage to do what is right, that may not be politically popular, but is the right thing to do.” His words resonated deeply with the crowd, reminding them that justice and peace are inseparable.

The Rev. Dan Kline notes, “We have a survivor of Section 14 and a relative of the conservator of the tribe in the same congregation. While we support the Survivors in having a seat at the table in these conversations, we also are trying to listen to opposing groups like the Friends of Frank Bogert. We are called to be prophetic and pastoral, activist and chaplain. There is a nuance to supporting the right of the survivors to seek justice, acknowledging that this occurred on tribal land and benefited indigenous persons whose economic welfare had been largely suppressed due to discriminatory federal laws, and to admitting that this was a complex situation that white leaders of the city did not have the tools or language to adequately address. It is easy to pass judgment from the rearview mirror of history, and we are called to confess our collective sins, receive absolution and the gift of grace, make amends, and find the peace that comes only from sacrificing our comfort for the sake of the other – including the comfort of avoiding uncomfortable conversations and decisions.”

Section 14 is now largely erased from the landscape, replaced by a convention center, hotels, and a casino, and the memories of forced removal remain.

Many survivors, along with their descendants, continue to seek reparations for the loss of homes and personal property, as well as for the racial trauma endured. The history of Section 14 is a painful reminder of the intersections of race, wealth, and power in America, and it continues to be a focal point for discussions on justice and reconciliation in Palm Springs.(1)

The story of Section 14 is one of pain and loss but also of resilience and hope. With the spiritual leadership of the Rev. Dan Kline and the Rev. Jessie Thompson, and the commitment of the congregation, St. Paul in the Desert is showcasing what our faith means by standing with the oppressed, seeking justice, and working toward a future where liberty and justice are shared by all.

“It’s been amazing to see how our parishioners are living out their baptismal covenant in respecting the worth and dignity of every human being,” said the Rev. Dan Kline.  

(1) https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/21/us/section-14-palm-springs-reparations.html

Edited 9.18.24 for additional context

At our diocese’s 50th anniversary, Bishop Susan introduced the Courageous Love campaign, a $2.5 million fundraising effort aligned with our strategic plan. This campaign focuses on three goals: strengthening congregations, serving our neighbors, and growing the church. As we close out the first year, the results have already exceeded expectations, with resources being reinvested into our communities. 

A year ago, Bishop Susan commissioned two new church plants. Today, St. Brigid’s in Oceanside and Resurrection in Ocean Beach are thriving examples of what can happen when we courageously love our neighbors. Both communities have launched regular worship services, and under the leadership of the Rev. Brian Petersen, St. Brigid’s has baptized and confirmed new members into their growing community.  

After a long period of contraction, the Diocese of San Diego is now experiencing a season of expansion. Thanks to the Courageous Love campaign, we are in the early stages of planning two more church plants—one in southern Riverside County and another in southern San Diego County. 

In addition to planting new churches, this campaign has also supported our existing congregations. Many have found creative, faithful ways to share God’s good news and serve their neighbors. The diocesan executive council has already awarded significant grants to St. Luke’s in San Diego and St. John’s in Fallbrook, with more grants to come. 

St. Luke’s is building a network of community groups linked to the congregation. They are training ten young adults to form five neighborhood groups in Sudanese, Congolese, and Ugandan communities. St. John’s, meanwhile, offers two key programs: ESL classes, helping parents improve their English for education or employment, and a support group for mothers with spouses stationed at Camp Pendleton, providing a space for rest, community, and spiritual renewal. 

For years, we prayed and strategized on how to begin campus ministries at more universities and colleges. In the spring of 2024, we had just one campus ministry at SDSU. Thanks to the Courageous Love campaign, this fall we have three, now including UCSD and Cal State San Marcos. 

A key part of this campaign is supporting congregations in developing real estate projects that advance their mission. Our goal was to support seven congregations in this work with the support of a grant from Trinity Wall Street, and we’re now working on ten projects with more in the pipeline. One is in final negotiations, with groundbreaking expected in early 2025. One expects to receive developer proposals in early 2025. Two are completing property analysis and site assessments. Two are completing community engagement and needs analysis processes, and four are in earlier stages of congregation and community engagement.  

Bishop Susan understands that strong leaders build vital congregations. The campaign has focused on raising up new leaders from diverse backgrounds. So far, 14 individuals are in the process of discernment, and as we develop more leaders, the health of our communities grows. 

Together, through the Courageous Love campaign, your diocesan staff and executive council have managed resources far beyond our initial hopes. But we’re not finished yet. We still need your help strengthening congregations, serving our neighbors, and growing the church. If you haven’t contributed to the Courageous Love campaign yet, please visit edsd.org/courageous-love and consider giving or making a pledge today. You may also contact me at your convenience to discuss your gift. 

Together, we are sharing God’s courageous love across our diocese! 

Cast your vote, not on a partisan basis, not based on your biases, but vote your values. Vote the values of human dignity and equality. Vote the values of the rock on which this country was built. Vote.   -Presiding Bishop Michael Curry 2024

As people of faith, we are called to engage thoughtfully and prayerfully in the political process. Voting is a way to express our hope for a better future, where the needs of the vulnerable are addressed and policies promoting the well-being of all are uplifted. In this election, let us reflect on the teachings that guide our lives—values like love, justice, and mercy—allowing them to inform our decisions.

Participating in the democratic process as a way to live out our values and faith is vital. Voting is a powerful tool for shaping the future of our communities, allowing us to advocate for justice, peace, and the dignity of every person–our values. 

What values? While each person’s values and votes are deeply personal decisions, The Episcopal Church and the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego have, over the years, passed resolutions that highlight the church’s values on key issues. These resolutions offer insight into how our faith intersects with civic life and provide a framework for thoughtful reflection as we approach the polls.

As you consider your choices, here’s a small sampling of resolutions to review:

• Climate and Environment (EDSD Res21-06): Putting the Episcopal Covenant to Care for Creation into practice locally.
• Economic Justice (GC2018-C041): Advocacy for housing, healthcare, and nutrition as human rights for all residents.
• Gun Violence Prevention (GC2024-A166, GC2024-D014): Calling for gun regulation and recognition of gun violence as a public health crisis.
• Housing and Community Investment (GC2018-C041): Affirming housing as a human right and advocating for community support.
• Immigration (EC012018.08): Supporting just treatment for immigrants and the reunification of families.
• Indigenous Rights (EC23 April 2022): Expressing solidarity with Indigenous Peoples and supporting their rights to equal treatment.
• Racial Justice and Healing (2023MBMW004, EDSD Res21-04): Combating bias crimes and supporting efforts to address racism.
• Reproductive Rights (GC2018-D032): Advocating for women’s reproductive health to be treated as a medical right.
• Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity (GC2018-C022): Opposing discrimination and advocating for protections for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals.

Visit The Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations to explore these and many other resolutions on various topics. There, you can download the full “Policy for Action” document.

“It is a Christian obligation to vote, and more than that, it is the church’s responsibility to help get souls to the polls.” –Presiding Bishop Michael Curry 2024 

Are you looking for ways to promote voter participation in the upcoming 2024 elections? One effective way is to organize a nonpartisan PropTalk in your neighborhood, where you and others can explore the values behind those often-confusing propositions. PropTalks can help ensure everyone is educated about the issues in this year’s ballot. For more information and resources, visit EDSD Civic Life.

With the 2024 elections less than 90 days away, it’s time to take action. Here are some ways you can get involved:

• Challenge everyone in your congregation to verify their voter registration, especially young adults. You can check or register at the San Diego Registrar of Voters, or if you’re outside San Diego, visit your local registrar’s website.
• Become a poll worker, even if you can’t vote yet! Or help by offering hospitality at polling places—provide water, childcare, or shade.
• Share important voting information: such as mail-in ballot drop-off locations, early voting dates, and polling locations.
• Spread accurate information using resources from The Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations, found here, to promote voter engagement as a reflection of our faith.
• Host non-partisan forums to address polarization or partner with local nonpartisan groups for voter education. The League of Women Voters can assist with Prop Talks and Candidate Forums.
• Finally, pray. Join Bishop Susan Brown Snook on October 1 for a Voter Participation Initiative prayer service. 

Your faith can move you to action. Let’s work together for a free, fair, and peaceful election.

When I first learned about Neighbors 4 Neighbors in Palm Desert, I recognized it is an example of one of my most deeply held Episcopal pillars–living out my faith through service to others. The St. Margaret’s and Neighbors 4 Neighbors partnership is an example of how a church and a local organization can be a bridge between those in need and those who are called to help. Neighbors 4 Neighbors brings together volunteers, resources, and local partnerships to address the challenges faced by individuals and families in the Coachella Valley. Through acts of service like providing food, cultivating community gardens, or supporting sustainability efforts—Neighbors 4 Neighbors embodies our Episcopal commitment to social justice and care for creation.

Just like St. Margaret’s philosophy that ALL are welcome here, the Neighbors-4-Neighbors program welcomes volunteers in the same way–including those who are disabled, marginalized, or simply considered the people who ‘need’ help, rather than the people who ‘can’ help. Our local community consists of individuals from diverse backgrounds, abilities, and experiences. We believe in the importance of fostering inclusivity and the creation of opportunities for all members to actively participate and contribute to the betterment of our community, and strive to find appropriate opportunities for anyone who wants to volunteer their time to tend to God’s creation with us.

Desert ARC is another vital partner of St. Margarets’ and the Neighbors-4-Neighbors initiative. Desert ARC provides life-enhancing programs to approximately 700 adults with disabilities, including Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, and Epilepsy; each supported by a person-centered plan, it fosters personal growth and development. This partnership not only enriches the lives of those served by Desert Arc but also strengthens St. Margaret’s shared mission of inclusivity and service to others. 

Three years ago, Neighbors 4 Neighbors began an amazing partnership with our friends from Desert ARC. By offering them the chance to be agents of change rather than solely recipients of assistance, they are able to showcase their strengths, skills, and talents. It provides a sense of purpose and belonging while they develop new skills, make friends, and have a positive impact in the lives of others. 

A partnership that started with one person with disabilities and their caretaker has grown to 8-12 ARC members and 2-3 ARC staff working 2-3 days a week in our food pantry, our compost program, community garden, weekly cardboard recycling, and so much more. This partnership serves as a weekly reminder that while we all have challenges in our lives, we all have unique, special, and wonderful gifts to share with the world. St. Margaret’s partnership with Neighbors 4 Neighbors and Desert ARC is a powerful message of inclusivity that breaks down barriers that often hinder their full participation in other areas of Palm Desert. This approach benefits our community as a whole. We at St. Margaret’s are blessed to be doing God’s work alongside these amazing volunteers!

If you would like to learn more about St. Margaret’s partnerships with local service agencies like Neighbors 4 Neighbors and Desert ARC, please email Chet Hecht at cheth@stmargarets.org

Diocesan Convention is far more than just a business meeting of our diocese; it’s a gathering that connects us to the greater community of Episcopalians across our diocese. While we come together to engage in the important work of the church, Convention is also a time of fellowship, celebration, and spiritual renewal. It’s an opportunity to deepen our relationships, share in worship, and participate in activities that inspire and energize us for the mission ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned delegate or considering attending for the first time, Convention is a meaningful blend of business and joy, making it an event not to be missed.

Diocesan Convention Schedule

Friday, November 8
Registration 1:00 pm – 2:00 PM on the Meyers Patio

Organ Concert 1:30pm

Convention Business begins at 2:00 PM and includes a showing of “The Philadelphia Eleven”

Dinner for all attendees on the patio at 5:30 PM

Gun Safety Prayer Vigil at 7:30

Saturday, November 9

Convention Registration 8:00 am – 9:00 AM

Opening Eucharist 9:00 AM

Business of Convention 10:45 AM

Lunch 12:30 PM

Business of Convention 1:15 – 4:00 PM

Pre-Convention Activities: A Day of Exploration and Service

As we gather for the upcoming convention, we invite you to join us on Friday, November 8, for a day filled with exploration and service in the beautiful surroundings of Palm Desert. These pre-convention activities are designed to deepen our connection with both nature and the community, offering a unique way to start our time together.

Morning Hike: Discovering the Cross 

Begin your day with a refreshing 2.2-mile hike along the scenic Cross Trail, led by Father David Burgdorf. This moderately challenging route will take you through some of the most picturesque areas near Palm Desert, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy breathtaking views. With a few moderately challenging sections along the way, this hike is perfect for those looking to get their blood pumping while soaking in the natural beauty. We’ll gather at the church front steps at 9:15 AM, with the hike starting promptly at 9:30 AM. Please come prepared with closed-toed shoes, water bottles, and sunscreen.

The Food Loop: Engaging with Creation and Community

Or, dive into our Food Loop program from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM, where you can participate in one or more of our three stages of service and sustainability. This program offers a meaningful opportunity to connect with our community through hands-on activities:

1. Neighbors-4-Neighbors (N4N) Food Packing – Help pack essential food bags for our weekly distribution, while learning about the impact of hunger and how our efforts are making a difference.
2. The Good Earth Compost Project – Engage in sustainable practices by contributing to our composting efforts, essential for maintaining the health of our community garden.
3. The Comm-Unity Garden – Get your hands dirty in our community garden, assisting with planting, weeding, watering, and even participating in a short garden craft activity.

Each stage offers a 5-10 minute introduction, followed by 20 minutes of hands-on work, making it easy to join in at any time. We welcome you to choose the activities that resonate most with you, as we work together to care for our creation and support our neighbors in need.

Labyrinth Walk: A Journey of Reflection and Prayer

The Daughters of the King invite you to experience a labyrinth walk in the peaceful courtyard of St. Margaret’s. Available on Friday morning, this sacred practice offers a unique opportunity for quiet reflection and spiritual renewal.

A labyrinth is an ancient spiritual tool, a winding path that leads to a center and then back out again. Unlike a maze, it has no dead ends or wrong turns, allowing you to walk at your own pace, focusing on your breath, thoughts, or prayers as you journey inward and outward. Walking the labyrinth can be a powerful way to center yourself, release concerns, and open your heart to the presence of God.

Whether you’re seeking a moment of calm before the day’s activities or a deeper connection with the Divine, the labyrinth walk provides a serene space for contemplation and prayer. Take this opportunity to pause, reflect, and prepare your spirit for the convention ahead.

Join us in these enriching pre-convention experiences, and let’s start our time together with purpose and joy.

The 51st meeting of Diocesan Convention in EDSD will be held November 8-9, 2024 at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Palm Desert.

Housing

EDSD has not secured a block of rooms at a hotel for Diocesan Convention.  All delegates and visitors are encouraged to secure their hotel rooms early. We have compiled a list of hotels near St. Margaret’s for your convenience at www.conventionedsd.org/housing.

Dinner

This year, St. Margaret’s has planned a wonderful dinner that will be provided to all delegates and visitors on Friday, November 9th. This is built into the fees for Convention.

Vendors

We are excited, once again, to welcome vendors to Diocesan Convention. This is a great opportunity to showcase your goods or services to Episcopalians throughout the diocese. Ministries of the Diocese are welcome to share materials free of charge.  Registration is closed for all vendors.

Resolution Submission

Every year, the Diocesan Convention votes on Resolutions and changes to the Diocesan Cannons. Please review the Resolutions facing Conention.

Resolutions

Positions Open for Nomination

Every year, Diocesan Convention elects clergy and lay people from throughout the diocese to fill positions of leadership positions throughout the diocese’s governance. These positions often serve at the heart of diocesan ministry.  All lay and clergy members of the diocese are welcome to run for elected office at Diocesan Convention.

Nominations

Executive Council! Executive Council is responsible for implementing the Strategic Plan of the diocese. Currently, Executive Council is working on forming new worshiping communities, crafting affordable housing initiatives, working on peace and justice efforts, opening a migrant shelter in Tijuana, and advocating for growing evangelism efforts throughout the diocese. There are also Executive Council Committees that use their significant financial knowledge to support congregations in financial planning and stewardship. The Executive Council also takes care of diocesan properties. You can see that Council makes use of a wide variety of people and their gifts. It’s a four-year term and meets virtually one Saturday of the month. With virtual meeting space, no matter where you reside, you can participate in Executive Council.

Standing Committee! The Standing Committee is the Bishop’s council of advice. It comprises four clergy, who are voting members of Convention, and four Lay members, who are communicants of the Church. The Standing Committee acts as the ecclesiastical authority when the bishop is absent or incapacitated. The powers, functions, and duties of the Standing Committee shall be those prescribed by the Constitution and· Canons of The Episcopal Church, and by the Constitution and Canons of this Diocese. Upon expiration of the member’s term, no person shall be eligible to serve as a member of the Standing Committee for a period of one year.

Disciplinary Board! The Disciplinary Board hears cases regarding the discipline of clergy as specified in accordance with Title IV of the Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church. Members are elected for staggered three-year terms and may be re-elected for multiple terms.

Secretary of Convention! The Secretary takes the minutes for Diocesan Convention, certifies Deputies to General Convention, and performs other duties as listed in the Canons of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego. The Secretary of Convention records the minutes and resolutions of the monthly Diocesan Executive Council meetings. The Secretary is elected for a one-year term and may be re-elected.

Up-to-date information, resolutions facing convention, important deadlines, the nominees for elected offices, and more will be made available on www.conventionedsd.org

For most of my childhood and young adulthood, I remained oblivious to creation. Taking for granted the beauty and wonder all around me, I hurried through school and began working towards my career goals. Of course, I knew the big challenges facing the natural world. News about climate change and a giant plastic garbage patch in the Pacific did not escape my notice. Yet, the crises facing our earth always felt a bit distant from my day-to-day life. I knew that Christians were called to care for the earth—I’d read Genesis chapters one and two enough times to know that God created the earth, and it was good. I knew that God loved creation and that we, the ones bearing God’s image, were called to care for and steward the created world. But the problems with our world seemed overwhelming, and I didn’t know how I could make a difference.

Then, I discovered gardening. 

For me, caring for creation starts with plants and gardening—not because plants and gardening are necessarily the most important element of creation (though they are pretty great), but because gardening connects me to God’s beautiful creation, the earth.  My work with plants in the garden has shown me anew the truly wondrous nature of the world around us, and it has given me a passion to do what I can to care for God’s creation.

I came to gardening, like many, during the Covid pandemic. Our church preschool director was looking for someone to help start a gardening program for the school, and I volunteered. I jumped in head first, taking a horticultural class at my local community college and building four different raised beds–one for each classroom. I learned so much that first year. I learned about flowers and pollination, pistils and stamen, rhizomes, and tubers. I even learned the difference between a monecious and a dioecious plant (look it up). However, the most important thing I gained from gardening was a renewed wonder for God’s created world and the hope that I could make a difference for the environment.

Being outside with birds and insects awakened me to the complexity and beauty of our natural world. Learning about the miracle of photosynthesis stopped me in my tracks. Through the process of photosynthesis, plants take energy from sunlight, add carbon dioxide and water, and turn it into a simple sugar. They basically convert sunlight into sugar! Without plants, we would have no food because almost everything humans eat comes from a plant or an animal that eats plants. Learning about this mind-blowing miracle of creation left me in awe of our wonderful creator, God.

Gardening has also inspired me to make a difference in the environment. I learned I could improve our world by planting and caring for native plants, which are crucial to the health of our insect and bird populations. Since 1970, the adult bird population in North America has decreased by about 2.9 billion, which is more than a quarter of the total population. Why are birds disappearing? Many point to pesticide use and the loss of habitat. But in fact, it comes down to bugs. While adult birds eat a diverse diet of seeds, fruit, and insects, baby birds need a special diet of insects, primarily caterpillars. For example, 5,000 caterpillars are needed to raise a nest of 5 baby chickadees. Unfortunately, in what some scientists have called the “insect apocalypse,” the total number of insects in our world has declined by 45 percent in the last forty years. Without insects, we would not have food for birds. Nor do we have pollinators for our crops and wild plants, which means less habitat for insects and birds and the eventual collapse of entire ecosystems.

The good news is we can do something about it. We can help restore bug and bird habitats by planting native plants in our yards. Many insects need the native host plants that they co-evolved with in order to survive because their young only eat a specific host plant. A well-known example of this is monarch butterflies and milkweed. Monarch caterpillars only eat milkweed. As milkweed disappears, so do the monarchs. (Some estimate that western monarchs have declined by 90% in the last two decades). As native plants disappear, so do the insects that require those plants to reproduce, which causes the decline of birds that need insects to reproduce. 

Scientist Doug Tallamy, in his book Bringing Nature Home, argues that the suburban spaces in our yards, parks, schools, and churches, if planted with native plants, would provide the habitat necessary to save our insects and birds.  Contrary to common perception, planting California natives instead of the introduced species that fill our big box stores would not cause us to sacrifice beauty in our yards nor leave us with only succulents or desert plants. There are over 1500 native species in San Diego alone, including everything from the majestic coast live oak to the beautiful California poppy.  Sages, Buckwheats, Manzanitas, California Lilacs, Toyon, and Coffeeberry once covered the hillsides of San Diego. Unlike the lawns and alien shrubs we use in our landscaping, these beautiful native plants are perfectly adapted to our climate and soils, requiring very little extra water or care.   

Gardening and learning about plants have shown me that we can make a difference for the good of the earth. When we plant native plants, we care for the earth by providing crucial habitat for the insects upon whom our birds and food web depend, fulfilling our role as stewards of God’s wondrous creation.  

This Fall, make an effort to experience creation in a new way. Take a hike. Plant a native species. Stop and smell the flowers. And consider what you can do to better steward this beautiful, intertwined creation.  

Jesus asks us to become like children, but how do we do that? Over a warm July weekend at St. Bartholomew’s in Poway, a group of children’s formation leaders and volunteers from around EDSD, including myself, ponder this question. We’re attending a three-day “Godly Play” training to equip us to be storytellers in our congregations. I’m eager and excited to learn more. The “stories”—simplified retellings of seminal Bible stories and liturgical practices—are captivating and memorable.

I was first exposed to the power of Godly Play last fall at a retreat at Camp Stevens. Charlette Presler, the Director of Formation for EDSD, told the Godly Play story of Holy Baptism. It was magical. As a daughter of two ministers, I’ve witnessed many baptisms, but this interactive Godly Play story told with a baby doll really brings the symbolism and meaning of baptism to life, and when the story is told with children, it really comes alive. I watched children from my congregation, including my own daughters, as their eyes lit up with wonder and delight at the pouring of the water, the lighting of the baptismal candles, and the meandering smoke from the extinguished flames. “See how the light has changed,” the storyteller says as she snuffs out a candle, “It’s not gone—it’s everywhere.”

It’s this mysterious, wonder-provoking quality that has drawn me to this training. The stories elicit a child-like curiosity and enchantment. Many of the sacred bible stories occur in the desert and so the storyteller sets the stage in a desert box, full of actual sand, which they move back and forth with their hands, telling the many journeys of God’s people. Parables are told against a backdrop of felt, with movable pieces and materials like pearls, colorful birds of the air, seeds, shepherds, and sheep—all of it ready to be manipulated by the small hands and inquiring minds of children at the conclusion of the story.

On the second day of the training, I can feel a rekindling of a spark inside me. It’s joy, joy from the simple pleasure of stories, wonder, and play. Part of the reason I became a teacher, specifically a teacher of young children, is because I felt this joy so keenly and clearly as a child and young adult. The spark has since dulled, buried under the burdens and cynicism of adulthood, but Godly Play is connecting me to it again.

Godly Play is much more than a Sunday school curriculum, it’s a whole pedagogy that is rooted in the very best of early childhood development practice. It is child-centered and honors the competency and capacity of children. The adult’s role is one of nurturing and guiding children’s spiritual development as they wonder and play. Questions are encouraged and not always answered. Storytellers invite children into the process of making meaning of scripture and exploring their growing relationship with God.

I’m aware of the audacity it takes to do this work in our churches today. In the face of diminishing attendance, fewer children and families at many churches, and church budgets stretched paper thin, how can we begin to think about growing children’s ministry? It can be hard to even see a future. Yet, this is what we are asked to do. Welcoming, nurturing, and guiding children is a central call of the church and of our baptismal covenants.

Back in the Sunday School room of St. Bartholomew’s Church, as the sun sets on the last day of our training, our facilitator, a priest, and Godly Play practitioner, Jana Sundin, puts the question before us: “Jesus asks us to become like children to enter the kingdom of heaven, but how do we do that?” She admits she doesn’t fully know, but thinks the answer lies in being with children. Such a simple but profound idea. Godly Play asks us to meet children where they are and as they are. The space, materials, and curriculum are carefully designed with children in mind. Imagine if we thought about children first when planning our services and programs. How would our work change? The potential for intergenerational work with Godly Play is tremendous, and in addition to children’s ministry, many congregations are already using the stories in this way. If I’m being honest, I’m learning as much, if not more, than the children in this process. Perhaps that is why Jesus asks us to become like children. Seeing through the eyes of a child is so much more fun anyway. So, let’s get to work, or perhaps I should say, will you play with me?

About the author: Alexandra McGuane lives in Palm Desert with her husband and two children and attends St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church. There, she is a member of the choir, serves on the vestry, and teaches Sunday School. She holds a master’s degree in transdisciplinary early childhood education and teaches third grade in the Palm Springs Unified School District.

There is this wonderful Gospel hymn, “Jesus, the Light of the World”, which takes the text from Hark the Herald Angels Sing and adds a response, Jesus the Light of the World, after each stanza. It also adds a chorus:

We’ll walk in the light, beautiful light.

Come where the teardrops of mercy shine bright.

O, shine all around us by day and by night.

Jesus, the light of the world.

The chorus is my favorite part and ran through my head each day of the recent youth trip to Tijuana which was similarly titled “Caminar en la luz.” This year’s trip was a partnership between our diocese and the Anglican Diocese of Oxidente and included participants from San Diego, Tijuana, and Hermosillo, Mexico. The week included time for worship, cultural experiences, games, and so much more.

One of the highlights was the work they did side by side preparing Comunidad de Luz, a shelter for migrant women and children, to receive its first occupants. They spackled walls in dormitory rooms, sanded and prepared the stairwell for paint, and painted the dining hall and kitchen walls and ceiling. Some paint may also have ended up on all of us!

The work together was filled with joy. We played music, laughed with one another, and began to build bridges of understanding where a lack of shared language separated us. At the end of the week, we painted our hands and pressed them on the wall in one of the dormitory rooms. As our pressed handprints created a heart on the wall, it reminded me of the love we poured into our work – love for friends who came with us on the trip, love for friends we made as we served together, and love for the people who would soon call this place home.

I could tell countless stories about our time together, but I would rather let you hear them from the students themselves. Below are pictures and reflections from the members of our delegation.

Samuel – St. Luke’s

Making new friends was very important to me. I was shy the first few days, but by the end all the kids were my compás. I can’t wait to see them in the future.

Sofia – St. Bartholomew’s

This trip has been a great learning experience. Although we do not all speak the same language, we were able to connect over games and laughter. The people and the culture of Tijuana and Mexico are so vibrant. I loved my time there and I learned so much. The friends we made are friends that I will keep forever. These memories are priceless.

Andrew – St. Dunstan’s

This Tijuana trip has been one of the most memorable and impactful trips that I have participated in. On the trip I met so many new and interesting people, despite not speaking spanish very well. We could still communicate and work together. I am grateful fro the experience and look forward to going back soon!

Greyson – Christ Church

I really enjoyed getting to explore another culture, walking around the markets and going down by the border. I also liked getting to meet new people from all different places and dealing with the challenges that a language barrier brought together. I also enjoyed the food and my bed was mad comfy too.

Matthew – St. Luke’s

Being here for over a week made me realize that not sharing a common language but coming together to reach a common goal can make the difference. I enjoyed church, am grateful for the new people I met, and the opportunity to take a nap each day.

Oumnia – St. Luke’s

This trip was amazing. I’m so glad I got to see this beautiful city and all the lovely people in it. Casa de Hodeni was such a beautiful place to stay. I loved getting to see the sunsets from the roof and meeting the kids who lived there. Overall I’m so grateful that I got to go on the trip and see the colorful and beautiful places that are in TJ. Thanks to Charlette for giving us this opportunity.

Maggie – Holy Cross

My journey to Tijuana was such a blessing in so many ways! I stayed in an orphanage with youth from several other youth groups from Mexico, and together, we formed connections I’ll never forget, both with each other and the kids who lived in the orphanage. We shared meals, laughed over card games, and explored the city. Together, we worked to paint and prepare a space to become a beautiful, welcoming shelter for migrant women and children. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity to connect with others, practice my Spanish, and do important work. I hope to return to Tijuana someday to continue these journeys!

The Reverend Nina Bacas – Rector, St. Bartholomew’s

Throughout our trip, I was amazed at how everyone, of all ages, made accommodations for each other. Through this mutuality, we overcame linguistic, cultural, and even worship style differences to find common ground. Once there, sweet and lasting relationships were formed.  It was a beautiful experience to witness and participate in!

Robert Vivar – EDSD Migration Missioner

You don’t need to speak a foreign language to make friends with someone from another country! Courageous Love is all you need. Just look to one of our Episcopal youth as an example.

The people and experiences of this trip run through my memories daily, often accompanied by the tune of the song above – a reminder that no matter the distance and obstacles that divide us, there are so many other things that draw us together.

O, shine all around us by day and by night.

Jesus, the light of the world.

Inviting someone to church can feel daunting. Sometimes, just the thought of approaching a friend or neighbor with an invitation to church can make me feel like I have rocks in my stomach. Sometimes, I wonder if I’m the best person to even extend such an invitation. They’ll just think I’m weird…right? What I came to realize is that this feeling isn’t uncommon. In fact, many people ask for advice on inviting a friend to church.

The root of my invitation fear often lies in how I will look and feel–how I am perceived by the person I’m inviting. But when I shift my perspective to the other person, the fear can dissipate. This is about them, not me. Unlike invitations to the beach or an evening out, church invitations carry a different weight. Church is where our souls are fed and where we recenter ourselves in worship. Maybe it’s not so surprising that many people find church to be intimidating, but when I can effectively share the value it has in my life, it makes room for that person to consider church in a new way.

Understanding why people don’t go to church is one of my first steps in knowing how to invite them. Many reasons are not rooted in hostility. For some, especially younger folks, church simply isn’t part of their family tradition, so they haven’t been introduced to its importance. They might not believe because they’ve never heard the Gospel. Some hold negative opinions of Christianity for any number of reasons. And, while I may love and care for them, these are the people I often dread inviting–fearing their rejection or criticism. This is why our story, our experience, and our personal invitation are so important. 

There is no one-size-fits-all method for inviting someone to church, but always start with prayer. Prayer connects you with God and reminds you that God is leading this effort, not you. Reflect on why you want to invite your friend to church. Remember, inviting someone is about caring for them–giving them a path to a greater life through Jesus. But know that the Holy Spirit is the one who softens hearts and creates faith. Your role is to ask; God does the heart work. 

But how do we actually ‘invite’ someone to come to church? Inviting someone to church is not just a question but a conversation. Start by asking if they go to church anywhere. If they do, follow up with more questions to understand their beliefs. If not, extend a simple, friendly invitation to your church. Invitations are more likely to be accepted by those with whom you have a personal relationship. Friends, family, and neighbors are often more receptive because they trust you and value what you have to share.

If your friend declines your invitation, don’t take it personally. This decision is between them and God. Your role is to plant the seed. A “no” today doesn’t mean “no” forever. Keep praying for them and lead by example. Your conduct and kindness can spark curiosity about faith, leading to more conversations.

If they accept your invitation, show genuine happiness without overwhelming them. As Sunday approaches, let them know what to expect—what the worship is like, appropriate attire, and the length of the service. Avoid negative disclaimers about your church and join them during the service to make them more comfortable.

Imagine the impact if your friend finds genuine community and acceptance at your church. What if it ignites their faith and gives them true joy and confidence found only through fellowship with God? Isn’t that worth inviting someone you care about to church?

In the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, we recognize the challenges and rewards of inviting friends to church. That’s why we’ve established Invite a Friend Sunday, a dedicated season for reaching out to those in our lives who might benefit from experiencing the love and community in our churches. To help, our Diocesan Office has compiled a list of Invite a Friend to Church resources for your use.

Invite a Friend Sunday is about sharing what is near and dear to us—our faith, our community, and our worship of God. It’s an opportunity to extend an invitation rooted in genuine love for our friends, family, and neighbors. As we prepare for Invite a Friend Sunday, let’s remember to pray, consider our motivations, and approach our friends with genuine conversations. Let’s share the joy and fulfillment we find in our church community, trusting that God will work in the hearts of those we invite

Inviting someone to church might feel daunting, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. By understanding the reasons behind their reluctance, praying for guidance, and building genuine relationships, we can extend heartfelt invitations that have the potential to change lives. In the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, Invite a Friend Sunday is our chance to share the joy of our faith with those we care about. Remember, a simple invitation can open the door to a lifetime of faith and community.

So who will you invite?