In the heart of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, leaders from across the country gathered at St. Paul’s Cathedral for the transformative Young Adults and Campus Ministry Leadership Conference. Over three inspiring days, attendees embarked on a journey of learning, prayer, and connection, equipping themselves with new skills, fostering relationships, and igniting a renewed energy to serve young adults in camps, college campuses, and churches.

The first evening ended with a keynote address by Becca Stevens, the visionary Founder of Thistle Farms. Stevens acknowledged the vital role each of the attendees played, stating, “I know I’m not just preaching to the choir; I’m preaching to the choir directors!” These talented leaders guide young people on a profound journey of self-discovery and purpose, serving as the roots of a great tree. Just like roots dig deep into the ground, providing structure and support, these campus ministers rarely get to witness the leafy beauty they help cultivate.

Bishop Susan Brown Snook said, “Campus ministry is one of the most important ministries in the Church. We are called to serve these young people and guide them toward a full, healthy life in Christ. Bringing these talented leaders together to learn from one another, pray with each other, and rest is vital to the care of their ministries. Gatherings like the Young Adult Ministers Conference are perfect times to make new connections and develop new ways to share the Good News of Christ with the world. EDSD was happy to host this year’s conference.”

Greg Tuttle, a dedicated SDSU Agape San Diego leader, said, “It was a pleasure serving on the Design Team for this one,” as he prepared for a candlelit evening worship around the labyrinth at our Cathedral. “Conferences like this are times to worship together, share bold ideas, affirm one another for the work ahead, and shape lifelong friendships, said  Tuttle. It is a privilege to welcome those who are questioning, not only about God but also about life itself. “At SDSU (Agape San Diego), we create a safe space where young adults can freely explore and discover themselves,” said Tuttle. 

Young adulthood and college years are a time when questions take center stage. It is a period of exploration, as individuals grapple with their values, perspectives, faith, and identity. The Rev. Heather Lawrence, EDSD Campus Minister, said, “Intentionally listening and supporting our young people–in the ways they ask to be supported–must be the church’s top priority if we are going to continue to minister to our rapidly changing world.” It is a ministry of presence–of showing up and sharing your spirit. By enveloping them in the love and acceptance of Jesus Christ, campus ministers empower young adults to embrace their unique calling and positively impact the world.

Charlotte Preslar, the EDSD Director of Formation, said, “Having a safe space to feel seen and loved exactly as you are is transformative. I feel blessed to have met so many leaders at this conference who create safe environments for students and young adults to ask questions, express doubts, and grow in relationship with God and each other.” Cultivating an environment where young adults can freely ask questions, express doubts, and embark on a journey of self-discovery is vital to their development as people of God.

The conference was not just about learning; it was a melting pot of connections and shared experiences. Bishop Susan Brown Snook preached at the opening Eucharist, welcoming the campus ministers to San Diego.

During breaks, participants gathered in cozy corners, engaging in lively conversations. They shared stories of triumphs and challenges, offering support and guidance to one another. In this nurturing environment, friendships were forged, and a new network of empowered young adult leaders took root.

The Young Adults Campus Ministers Conference offered a space for these dedicated leaders to connect and share their experiences. It was a gathering of minds and hearts committed to walking alongside young adults during this transformative phase of their lives. 

As the conference drew to a close, participants gathered on the shore of the Pacific Ocean, reflecting on the profound impact they have on the lives of young adults. By embracing questions, creating safe spaces, and cultivating a ministry of presence, these leaders are shaping the future of young adult engagement in the Church. The Young Adults Campus Ministers Conference served as a catalyst, empowering them to be the branches that reach out and bear the fruits of love, acceptance, and transformation for young adults seeking their place in the world.

This year holds special significance as we celebrate 50 years as a diocese. We’ve journeyed together through half a century, carrying forward our faith and mission. As we reflect on the challenges overcome and victories achieved, the story of a resilient community that thrives on mutual support, shared values, and a commitment to service comes to light.  

This November 10-11, St. Paul’s Cathedral will serve as the gathering point for clergy, delegates, and visitors to Diocesan Convention. We will join together to learn, vote, and engage in the annual meeting of the diocese.

On Friday, November 10, after the Business of Convention, you’re invited to join in marking this momentous occasion at the 50th Anniversary Dinner. This is not just about honoring our past, but also about looking forward to our courageous future. This dinner symbolizes our unity, resilience, and shared commitment to the mission of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego.

Each one of us has a role to play in this journey. In light of this significant milestone, perhaps now is the time for you to consider an even more active role in shaping our Church’s future. Convention is a launchpad for our next steps together. It’s a reminder of our shared commitment and an opportunity to invigorate our mission with new voices and fresh perspectives.

Consider the impact you could make, not just for today, but for the generations that will follow. Stand up for the opportunity to lead, and you will be continuing the legacy that our Diocese has been building for the past 50 years. You’ll be contributing to a future that, one day, we’ll look back on with the same spirit of celebration and gratitude that we share today. This is your chance to be a part of our next 50 years and beyond. Let’s shape the future of our Diocese together.

You don’t have to wait for someone else to nominate you; take charge of your calling and nominate yourself here.

We need a team of leaders representing a range of experiences and backgrounds united by a passion for our mission. Together, we can create a lasting impact on our communities. Your voice and viewpoint matter – seize the opportunity and run for one of these elected positions.

If you are interested in running for an elected office, click here.

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, advocating for change, and implementing creation care objectives 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 at the first 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.

For up-to-date information, resolutions facing convention, important deadlines, the nominees for elected offices, and more, please visit www.conventionedsd.org

In response to the call to serve our neighbors, the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego (EDSD) dedicated June as a month of service, focusing specifically on our ministries with migrants and refugees. EDSD galvanized the spirit of compassion and service within various congregations, serving as a beacon of hope and aid to migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.

The Epistle to the Hebrews reminds us, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2). In embracing this call, participating communities put into action their commitment to love and serve our neighbors, regardless of where they come from.

Participation was extensive, reaching across numerous congregations in the diocese. Good Samaritan in UTC, St. Dunstan’s in Del Cerro, Christ the King in Alpine, St. Paul’s Cathedral, St. John’s in Fallbrook, St. Mathew’s in National City, and Sts. Peter & Paul in El Centro were among the congregations that played instrumental roles. Donations came in various forms, from non-perishable canned goods, water, snacks, hygiene items, clothing, blankets, tarps, and even solar cell phone chargers. These items made a significant difference to many, including farm workers in Fallbrook, migrants in Mexicali, and farm workers in El Centro.

Beyond material support, congregations also offered education and guidance about the asylum process, exemplified by Robert Vivar, EDSD’s Migration Missioner, who conducted talks at places like St. John’s in Chula Vista, Christ Church in Coronado, Good Samaritan UTC, and St. Pauls Cathedral. Robert knows that education is crucial for congregations that are newly engaging with migrant issues.

While donations of goods, resources, and time are vital, a number of congregations have gone steps further, embedding the spirit of service within their very foundation. They have served as cultural and community centers for migrants, providing more than just necessities – but a space for renewal, strength, fellowship, and solidarity.

The June Month of Service showed the continued engagement of congregations that consistently live in solidarity with immigrants and refugees, such as St. Luke’s in North Park with Refugee Net and St. Alban’s in El Cajon through the Welcome Ministry of East County.  St. David’s in Clairemont routinely supports St. Luke’s Food Pantry, serving many immigrants in their area. St. Margaret’s in Palm Desert also continued their robust support for a shelter in Mexicali, St. James in La Jolla, supports several immigration-related projects, and St. John’s in Fallbrook has a long-lasting relationship of service to local farmworks. These examples show that this ministry goes well beyond a single month of service, highlighting an ongoing commitment to serving our neighbors.

The June Month of Service is an example of how the Christian call of hospitality can be put into action. The collective efforts to volunteer, give, donate necessary materials, and join in educational opportunities have made a lasting impact on the lives of those in distress, proving that through serving, some have entertained angels without knowing it.

You can continue to serve your neighbor by visiting www.edsd.org/migration-ministry to find out more ways you can give, participate, or learn about the plight of migrants. 

The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego had been looking for new ways to help manage the contact information and increase engagement among our members. It is not a surprise that in 2023, many people prefer to connect digitally and engage online through cell phone applications. EDSD needed to adapt to keep up with the changing times.

After an exhaustive search, the Diocese discovered Church Community Builder and Pushpay–a digital giving and engagement platform designed specifically for churches and faith-based organizations. These platforms offer a range of features that the diocese believes can help better connect with its members. 

Through these new platforms, EDSD has developed an EDSD App–a custom cellphone application that takes us into the 21st century! The new EDSD cellphone application is now available for download on the Apple Store and Google Play Store.

With the EDSD App, members are able to create their own personalized profiles; where you can review your giving history, set up recurring donations, and make changes to your giving preferences at any time. Additionally, in Church Community Builder, you have the ability to update your contact information and privacy preferences, ensuring that your information is always up-to-date and accurate. This feature allows you greater control over your personal information and privacy. 

You can stay up to date with the ministries that you want to hear from. 

Do you like creation care events or ministries along the border?  Well, with these new tools, you can curate your own list of ministry groups to be the first to know about new events and opportunities. 

The response from members who have already joined is overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciate the convenience of being able to access up-to-date news, connect with groups, and donate online.

Church Community Builder and the EDSD App work hand-in-hand to update each other with current information. That means any event you register for will be logged in Church Community Builder and the EDSD App. 

Members get a new way to stay connected with the Diocese and with each other. The platform provides tools to communicate with other people through group channels. (All of which is controllable through your personal profile–if you don’t want to receive messages, you have the ability to turn them off or limit them to specific groups.)

The benefits of using these tools extend beyond engagement.

One of the advantages of using these tools is the ability to give easily and securely through the EDSD App or Church Community Builder. Donors can set up recurring donations or give one-time gifts and can choose to give to specific funds or causes within the diocese. With the platform’s reporting and accounting features, the Diocese can streamline donation and financial workflows–keeping better track of donations. And with the ability to keep up-to-date information on members, the diocese can better understand its community and make more informed decisions about how to serve.

Every digital product and service EDSD provides is created with great care and intentionality. These tools are designed to help you pursue a deeper relationship with God in a safe and secure manner. These tools are here to serve you, and you have choices in your experience. You choose what you access. You choose what you share, and with whom. Your data is yours. EDSD does not sell your information, nor do we share it with others without your consent. Your privacy is very important to us. 

The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego believes that this step into the digital world will help connect individuals with each other, increase generosity and participation, and improve transparency in the financial management processes. In the end, we believe that this new tool will help us be a better diocese and a better church. 

Join us on the EDSD App today by scanning the QR code above. If you are having trouble setting up your profile or making a donation, contact Alyson Terry, EDSD Registrar, at aterry@edsd.org.  

Overview of the EDSD Cellphone App


Overview of the Church Community Builder and EDSD Cellphone Application

My interim ministry began with St. Alban’s in May 2023. I stepped into big shoes left by The Rev. Dr. Dave and Naomi Madsen and the exciting and beautiful ministries they founded. 

St. Alban’s began refugee work when tensions between Iran and Iraq came to war in 1980. Many migrated from Iraq to the U.S., specifically to El Cajon in southern California, in search of safety and a new life. Tensions in Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, caused many to flee for safety in mass during the mid-2000s; civil war in their country with the ethnic Burmese percolated since the 1940s, and refugees from Myanmar started leaving as early as the late 1990s, peaking during 2006-2007. Many of them moved into the El Cajon area of Southern California.

St. Alban’s went to the streets in search of these newly arrived refugees and immigrants. They started Church Without Walls , an ecumenical outreach service with a mission; “to bring God’s hope and love to those who were homeless and unchurched.” They offered spiritual care, assistance in securing housing, help in accessing healthcare, and provided companionship, friendship, and a place of belonging. This outreach program began in 2016 at Wells Park in El Cajon until 2019, when they moved to Lakeside near Lindo, Lake Park. After every monthly service, attendees were provided a nutritious lunch put together by church volunteers and an opportunity for fellowship and conversation.

Welcome Ministries began as an outreach of worship, mercy, and justice for immigrants, refugees, and the unchurched in the East County of San Diego in 2016. In 2019, Welcome Ministries expanded to include a refugee ministry, “Joy Force.”

Special arrangements were made with food distributors, and St. Alban’s started a food pantry in El Cajon to distribute food every first and third Tuesday of every month. Fresh food is picked up using one of the Welcome Ministries’ trucks and then sorted by many of the Chaldean volunteer workers in the parish hall. Every bag is filled with a meat selection, vegetables, and fruits, enough for several meals. Judy Brown organizes the group and logs each person into a data collection system to better serve them once information is gathered about where they live, family make-up, and any other special needs they may have. Today, 50-60 families receive very fresh food twice a month.

Mary Zori is a Chaldean member of St. Alban’s and is now one of our community leaders. She came from Iraq in December 2008 after working in the banking business for 28 years. When Mary arrived, she did not speak any English. She heard about St. Alban’s bi-lingual service and began attending in 2010.  Mary joined Table Talk, a weekly gathering of Chaldean women where they can freely share concerns, discuss issues, and make friends. Because of these weekly meetings, Mary speaks good English and helps translate our service to the Chaldean people. She is also a trained Eucharistic minister and acolyte! 

St. Alban’s hosts Loads of Love, a laundry service for those on the margins, every Tuesday. Laundry is scheduled to be brought to a designated location, and with funds provided by St. Alban’s folks, volunteers pay and aid in washing and drying. Volunteers offer companionship, conversation, and information to assist with other needs during that time.

St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in El Cajon is a shining example of the Christian call to aid those seeking refuge and a new beginning. Through Welcome Ministries and various outreach programs, the church has embraced the arrival of immigrants and refugees– offering them practical assistance and a sense of belonging, hope, and love. St. Alban’s demonstrates the power of compassion by fostering a community that works tirelessly to ensure that those in need are embraced and supported. I am inspired by the example set by the St. Alban’s Episcopal Church–extending their hands and hearts to those who seek refuge, knowing that in doing so, we truly fulfill Christ’s commandment to aid the “other” and create a world where all are welcomed and cherished.

I am filled with gratitude and joy as we commemorate a significant milestone in our journey toward equity and love. June 26 marks the 10th anniversary of marriage equality in California—a momentous occasion that reflects the progress we have made in embracing and affirming the diverse expressions of love within our faith community.

Fifteen years ago, in 2008, the California Supreme Court made a landmark ruling legalizing same-sex marriage. This decision brought immense joy to many couples who had longed for recognition and rights as loving couples–a joy that did not last long.

Later that year, Proposition 8 took center stage across the state. This ballot measure aimed to amend the California Constitution to define marriage as the union between one man and one woman–effectively banning same-sex marriage in the state.

When the day of California’s general election arrived, the people of California cast their votes. Proposition 8 emerged triumphant, securing a slim majority of 52% in favor of the amendment. With its passage, the California Constitution was modified to restrict marriage solely to opposite-sex couples.

Thankfully, the story did not end there.

Many embarked on a legal journey to challenge Proposition 8. They argued that the amendment violated the constitutional rights of gay and lesbian couples, seeking justice and equality under the law.

Their legal battle took them to the United States District Court for the Northern District of California in a case known as Perry v. Schwarzenegger. In 2010, Judge Vaughn R. Walker delivered a historic ruling, declaring Proposition 8 unconstitutional. The judge found that it violated both the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution.

Joy and relief swept through the state as same-sex marriages immediately resumed in California.

But, the proponents of Proposition 8 were not ready to concede. Their continued efforts eventually led them to the highest court in the land—the United States Supreme Court. In 2013, the Supreme Court heard the case Hollingsworth v. Perry, which determined the constitutionality of Proposition 8.

Love had something to say that day. On June 26, 2013, the Supreme Court stated that the proponents of Proposition 8 did not possess the legal standing to appeal the lower court’s decision. In essence, the Supreme Court allowed the lower court’s ruling to stand, legalizing marriage for all same-sex couples in California.

The impact of the California cases reached far beyond the state’s borders. Momentum for marriage equality grew, shifting public opinion and a growing recognition of the rights and dignity of same-sex couples. It began transforming the nation.

Over the past decade, we have witnessed profound moments of celebration as couples joined together in holy matrimony, surrounded by the support and blessings of their families and friends. These sacred unions have enriched our diocese, reminding us that love knows no boundaries and that all relationships are worthy of recognition and affirmation.

I am so proud that the people of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego demonstrate our commitment to the Gospel message of love and inclusivity. We recognize that every person, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, is a beloved child of God, created in God’s image and deserving of dignity and respect. By celebrating and supporting same-sex unions, we affirm the inherent worth and value of LGBTQ+ individuals and their relationships.

As we reflect on these ten years of progress, let us also acknowledge the work that remains. According to The Human Rights Campaign, a record number of anti-LGBTQ+ bills “have been introduced to state legislatures,” and 45 anti-LGBTQ+ laws have been passed. The LGBTQ+ community who are transgender, gender nonbinary and/or Black, Indigenous, or people of color, face increased discrimination and vulnerability. We must continue to advocate for equal rights and protections for all LGBTQ+ individuals, both within and outside of the church. We are called to stand alongside our LGBTQ+ siblings, affirming their identities and supporting them as they navigate a world that often marginalizes and discriminates against them.

In celebrating this milestone, we recognize that the journey toward full inclusion and equality is ongoing. We recommit ourselves to creating a community where all people feel welcomed, embraced, and empowered to fully participate in the life of the Church. Let us continue to engage in conversations, education, and advocacy that promote justice, compassion, and understanding.

To all those who have contributed to this journey of inclusivity and love, thank you. Your voices, your actions, and your unwavering commitment to justice have made a difference. Together, we are transforming the landscape of the Church and society, creating a more compassionate and inclusive world.

As we celebrate this milestone, let us renew our dedication to building a society where all are fully embraced and affirmed. May our courageous hearts be open, our actions be guided by love, and our voices be raised in support of justice and equality for all.

The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego (EDSD) stands as a proud and dedicated partner of Episcopal Community Services (ECS). Together, we embody the shared values of compassion, justice, and community engagement. Episcopal Community Services (ECS) has been a beacon of hope and transformation in San Diego. Through its long history and comprehensive range of services, ECS has made a profound impact on the community–providing early childhood education to approximately 2,000 children through the Head Start program, bilingual counseling services to at-risk families and children, addressing the complex challenges faced by long-term homeless and mentally ill clients by providing them with homes and substance abuse treatments, and playing a crucial role in helping individuals recover from substance abuse disorders through counseling and support.

As a diocese, we recognize the vital importance of ECS’s mission to break barriers and transform communities. This steadfast relationship reflects our commitment to fostering a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, making ECS an essential pillar of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego’s journey toward a more just and equitable San Diego.

Nine years after the end of World War I, in 1927, a group of faithful Episcopalians in San Diego came together with a shared vision: to provide support and care for those who were often forgotten by society. This noble cause led to what eventually became Episcopal Community Services, an organization that would go on to make a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals and transform communities across the region.

In its early days, ECS focused on social welfare programs, extending a helping hand to marginalized individuals facing various hardships. Their commitment to service quickly gained recognition as the years passed. In 1954, embracing the spirit of change and growth, the organization expanded its scope to address the wider spectrum of needs within the San Diego community. After forging partnerships with the government, ECS secured its first contract with San Diego County in 1955. This pivotal moment marked a turning point in ECS’s history. The new contract allowed them to provide counseling and job opportunities for men transitioning from correctional institutions, a bold step towards breaking the cycle of recidivism–empowering individuals to build meaningful lives after incarceration.

The Rev. Ralph Bonacker, Director of ECS in 1959, said, “It’s easy to criticize and to point fingers at these men. Society may feel that it has no duty to these men, that they have erred, that they must work out their own salvation. But this simply isn’t so.” 

Mirroring the evolving needs of San Diegans, ECS tackled the pressing issue of homelessness by providing shelter and housing assistance to those in need. In 1979, the San Diego Tribune described an ECS lunch program as first looking like a breadline out of the Depression. “But, up close, the picture is quite different. Men and women from all walks of life are receiving a free, noon meal.” Julia Doughty, then 20, who worked at a health food store and volunteered with ECS, said, “We don’t ask anything of anyone. We don’t make anyone listen to a sermon first in order to get a free meal. We do it because we care about those that don’t have anything.”  

By 1985, ECS had opened the Friend-to-Friend Clubhouse, the first drop-in center for mentally ill homeless people in San Diego. The clubhouse was a place where they could connect, access essential amenities like showers and laundry, make necessary phone calls, securely store their belongings, and, significantly, seek assistance in navigating government benefit programs.

In 2007, after a dispute with the landlord, the ECS Friend-to-Friend Clubhouse eventually closed its doors after 22 years of serving the streets of San Diego. The Union-Tribune reported that Steven J. Gordon, the location’s landlord said, “‘It’s a nuisance and a detraction for downtown and for the other businesses in the area.’ Social workers ‘don’t belong there.’”

Early on, ECS recognized the importance of access to mental health support. Offering comprehensive services to address the emotional well-being of individuals and families is a standard for ECS’s programs today. Substance use disorder treatment became a vital component of their efforts. By providing support and rehabilitation to those battling addiction, ECS continued to reach out to those on the margins with a helping hand.

ECS’s impact did not stop there. Understanding the significance of early childhood education, ECS sought to ensure that the youngest members of our community received a strong foundation for their future. Through their multifaceted approach to service, ECS acted on their belief that addressing various interconnected needs was key to fostering a strong, vibrant, and just San Diego. 

Today, ECS has a number of wraparound programs to support children and families. The ECS Para Las Familias program provides a range of bilingual early childhood mental health services to low-income children from birth to 12. We know that behavior problems can arise due to trauma, such as illness, accidents, neglect, domestic violence, and child abuse. By offering adult mental health services to parents of children currently enrolled in the program, ECS gives parents the tools to help them heal from their own past traumas in order to create a healthy emotional bond with their children. ECS is again there to fill the gaps in social programming with care-filled service. 

Central to ECS’s success are its core values, guiding every decision and action; belonging, respect, empowerment, exploration, and stewardship form the bedrock of their work. Inclusivity and collaboration are the driving forces behind their community engagement, and they strive for equity in all aspects of their programs.

Today, ECS and the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego continue to work toward an abundant and equitable society where every person can unleash their unlimited potential. With a rich history of compassion, faith, and community engagement, EDSD is proud that ECS embraces the challenges of the future, continuously evolving to meet emerging needs, and inspiring others to join us on the journey toward a better, more compassionate world.

Reflecting on the rich history and enduring partnership between ECS and EDSD, Elizabeth Fitzsimons, CEO of ECS, said:

“ECS, built on a rich history of resilience, continually adapts to our community’s evolving needs. Our partnership with the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, the origin of our legacy, is fundamental to our mission. From mental health services to homelessness relief and early childhood education, our dedicated team, many with lived experience, tirelessly work to make a difference across our 23 locations. As we reflect on the 7,000 lives we impact annually and celebrate the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego’s 50th anniversary, we acknowledge the immeasurable value our collaboration brings to the community.”

Fitzsimons then went on to commend the leadership of Bishop Susan Brown Snook and highlight the empathetic approach of ECS:

“As the Chief Pastor of EDSD and our ECS Board Chair, Bishop Susan Brown Snook brings invaluable support and leadership to our mission. Our approach is always centered on understanding and addressing the unique circumstances of each individual we serve. Whether assisting a child in our Head Start program or providing a safe space for an adult grappling with addiction and homelessness, our focus remains on building empowering relationships of trust. Encouraged by EDSD’s milestone, we are committed to fostering an abundant and equitable society where all have unlimited potential.”

Over the last 96 years, ECS has touched thousands of lives in San Diego. From providing shelter to offering mental health services, from empowering individuals to nurturing communities, their legacy is one of hope and transformation. The unwavering dedication to breaking barriers and creating opportunities has left an undeniable mark on the landscape of social welfare in San Diego. EDSD takes pride in our continuous involvement in ECS’s journey; while we celebrate EDSD’s 50th anniversary, we’re looking forward to being a part of ECS’s history and future.

And so, the remarkable work of Episcopal Community Services continues, a testament to the power of collective action, the strength of the human spirit, and the profound impact that can be achieved when a community courageously comes together with a shared vision of uplifting lives and transforming communities.  …this is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.

To learn more about Episcopal Community Services, visit https://www.ecscalifornia.org

The following is a reflection written for EDSD by Mr. Tomás Gayton, a retired Civil Rights attorney, poet and published author, and member of St. Luke’s, North Park.  

In this writing, Tomás shares parts of his and his ancestors’ pieces in our history and interweaves these stories of resilience and liberation from Jim Crow racism with the sobering reality of “The New Jim Crow” — a phrase first coined by civil rights lawyer and activist Michelle Alexander in her 2010 book The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness. Alexander’s book examines racial inequities in America’s criminal justice system and delves further into how our systems of mass incarceration continue generational cycles of marginalization of the poor, and particularly those poor who are also people of color. 

I’m grateful to Mr. Gayton for this piece of truth-telling and for the reminder that, though we are no longer who we once were, there still remains a gap between our reality and the vision of Beloved Community. I invite each of you reading this, as siblings in Christ and co-creators in ministry, to sit with this reflection and to invite the Holy Spirit, particularly into the words that may feel the most uncomfortable or challenging to you. In this discomfort, how is God calling you to love? What might God be calling you to help transform, re-imagine, or co-create? 

For those of you looking for a more specific place to begin, I invite you to join our diocesan Racial Justice & Reconciliation Task Force, Diocesan Service and Justice Coalition, join or create a Sacred Ground circle, and/or talk to your clergy, vestry or Bishop’s Committee, and other pastoral and congregational leaders to help discern how Love might be asking you to move.

Grace and peace, 

Rachel Ambasing, Missioner for Multicultural Ministry 

—————– 

JUNETEENTH  

 This week we remember that on June 19, 1865, enslaved African-Americans in Texas finally received the Order that they were emancipated. Congress ratified the 13th Amendment–finally abolishing slavery on December 6, 1865. 

156 years later, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act on June 17, 2021, making it a federal holiday.    

Soon after the Civil War, we saw the rebirth of white supremacy and the rise of racist organizations like the Ku Klux Klan (KKK). Rutherford B. Hayes was elected the 19th President of the United States in 1877 and soon withdrew federal troops from the Confederate States. 

Fortunately for me, my paternal grandfather, John Thomas Gayton (JT) was a Black pioneer in 1889 when he escaped from the Jim Crow South and settled in Seattle, Washington. In Seattle, my grandfather, John T. Gayton, and his wife, Magnolia, were liberated from Jim Crow racism and prospered. 

Almost a century later, responding to the legacy of slavery, racial discrimination, and segregation, the Civil Rights Movement led by the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. took to the streets to end Jim Crow.    

My parents were both raised in Seattle, and my father, Leonard Gayton, was a prominent Jazz percussionist. My mother, Emma, was a loving wife and mother of four children. I was the oldest of three children. 

When Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States, we celebrated our nation’s “triumph over race.” Obama’s election was touted to be “the final nail in the coffin of Jim Crow.”  

Today, as we celebrate the liberation of my ancestors from slavery, we also see the legacy of slavery resurrected in “The New Jim Crow” and “The New Slavery” – the prison-industrial complex.  

According to a report from the US Bureau of Justice Statistics published in February 2023, at year-end 2021, 1.7 million African American adults were under supervision of adult correctional systems. Further, 1 in 19 African American adult U.S. residents were estimated to be under correctional supervision. This is in comparison to the statics for white adult U.S. residents at 1 in 62.  

Our adults who leave our prison systems are permanently relegated, by law, to second-class caste status. They are denied the right to vote, excluded from juries, and legally discriminated against in employment, housing, access to education, and public benefits like in the Jim Crow era. 

As we celebrate the end of slavery, and, in the words of Michelle Alexander, “let us not forget that the racial caste is alive and well in America.” 

 —–

“LEGAL LYNCHING” 

In a nation anesthetized by consumer capitalism 

its soul riven 

by George Floyd’s crucifixion  

on the cross of the Ku Klux Klan 

Protest and Rebellion  

against the legacy of slavery 

have risen on the city streets of America 

across the sea and around the world 

We repeat and repeat 

BLACK LIVES MATTER! 

I hope and pray you hear us 

—–

About the author: Tomás Gayton was born and raised in Seattle and lives in San Diego. Tomás is a retired Civil Rights attorney and published author. He co-founded San Diego Poet’s Press and taught poetry at the Writing Center and the Craft Center at UCSD. He is a world traveler. His poetry is his life in verse.  

For more of Tomás’ work, check out his website (www.sambajia.wordpress.com). You can also find his memoir, Long Journey Home, available on Amazon Kindle. 

Seven years ago, a small team began a podcast to help enliven formation for families. Today, the Faith to Go podcast has over 40,000 downloads and provides hundreds of regular listeners with a candid conversation about God in our lives. 

It was 2004 when the words “iPod” and “broadcasting” were combined, bringing to life the word ‘podcast.’ Nearly 20 years later, there are over 3 million podcasts across several platforms. This popular means of entertainment has made great strides in providing new, creative content for people–a space that the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego boldly stepped into. 

Did you know that most Americans aged 12-54 (53%) have listened to a podcast in the last month? 43% of listeners ages 35-54 are monthly podcast listeners, the most popular age group for podcast consumption. What an amazing way to share the Good News of Christ. 

Shortly after finishing seminary, David Tremaine, Faith to Go founder and cohost, noticed that many of the families with young children did not attend church every week–giving the impression that the community had very few families with children. “It wasn’t that we didn’t have families with children–they were just never at church all at the same time. A few families would come one Sunday, and others would come another.” The schedules just never matched. 

Knowing that there had to be a way to help these families grow in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, David approached his colleague, Maya Little-Saña, for help. It wasn’t long before Faith to Go was a fully-fledged online family formation resource. They were designed specifically for families to engage with children of all ages with reflections and activities about Jesus. The Faith to Go podcast began as a way to help reinforce parents as they utilize the website’s resources at home.

“At some point, we realized that it wasn’t just parents listening but everyone,” said Tremaine.    

Today, the Faith to Go Podcast is cohosted by David Tremaine and Charlette Preslar and offers a weekly conversation about God and the Gospel. “It makes me think about my own life and how God is at work in it,” said Preslar, “We don’t tell anyone what to think. It is a community of listeners that wonder [about God] with us.”

Faith to Go was there when we, as a Church, needed it most. Between March 2020 and July 2020, the Faith to Go podcast had its most downloads ever, giving people a way to interact and wonder about God when things were bleak, and churches struggled to adapt to the pandemic culture. 

“During a remarkably difficult and dark time, Faith to Go provided people a pathway toward the light of Christ. I am immensely proud of our Faith to Go team and the ministry they continue to provide every week,” said Bishop Susan Brown Snook. 

In 2023, Faith to Go welcomes more guests from across the Church. The Faith to Go team regularly travels across EDSD to interview lay leaders and clergy alike at their home congregation or diocesan events. If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast or hosting Faith to Go (on the Go) at your congregation or in-person event, contact Faith to Go producer, Greg Tuttle at gtuttle@edsd.org. Your feedback, God-sightings, and thoughts on the Gospel are always welcome. Email your thoughts about the Gospel to faithtogo@edsd.org, and the team may read your reflection on the air. 

Congratulations to the entire Faith to Go community on 40,000+ downloads! You are the light of the world. 

You can subscribe and listen to Faith to Go on Apple, Google Play, and Spotify.

In Godly Play, the season of Pentecost is called The Great Green Growing Season. What a beautiful way to name the months that begin just before Summer and run through the Fall. The Great Green Growing Season carries us all the way until Advent, and while those green weeks can seem to stretch beyond our capacity for enjoying them, it takes time for things to grow.

Anyone who has planted a seed has also watched the soil for the first glimmer of a sprout. From sprout to harvest is a long journey requiring good soil, nutrients, water, and lots of sunshine. And so we water and watch and wait. We pull off caterpillars that nibble, fertilize fledgling plants, and pray for pollinators to take our blossoms from beautiful blooms to delicious produce. Sometimes we are rewarded for our work with sweet red strawberries or gloriously fat pumpkins. 

Plants are not the only thing that takes time to grow; we do too. 

And just like the seeds we plant, growing as people of faith requires intention and time. Whether you are a ministry leader or simply a person hoping to deepen your relationship with God, there are lots of opportunities to do that work in the months ahead. Below is a snapshot of some of those opportunities.

LISTEN: The Faith to Go Podcast is a weekly conversation about the Gospel. It is co-hosted by David Tremaine and me and features guests from around the country. I especially encourage you to LISTEN to this week’s episode featuring Bishop Phyllis Spiegel of the Episcopal Diocese of Utah, “Beautiful Healing.” Listen here.

DEVELOP: Godly Play Core Training will be offered again this Summer, this time at The Episcopal Church Center in Ocean Beach. Children’s Ministry leaders are invited to join the training whether or not they are currently offering Godly Play as part of their program. This three day training offers a deep dive into the spirituality of children and encourages adult participants to DEVELOP and expand their sense of Wonder. Registration is now open for the training. 

SERVE: Join Migration Missioner, Robert Vivar on June 25 for a cross-border service opportunity designed to expand hearts and help us live into the call in Matthew 25:35, “I was hungry and you gave me food to eat. I was thirsty and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” Limited space is available. Register here. 

CONNECT: Formation leaders are invited to spend a weekend at Camp Stevens deepening their Christian Formation tool box and CONNECTING with peers. Companions on the journey provide an opportunity to share resources and to collaborate. There will be time for rest and play too. The retreat is planned for September 29 – October 1. Registration will open in August. 

EXPAND: Pursuing racial justice and combating racism is a life-long journey all Christians are called to by virtue of our baptismal covenant. LARK (Localized Anti-Racism Knowledge) is meant as one step on that journey. LARK training was developed by the EDSD Racial Justice Task Force. Plan to EXPAND your anti-racism knowledge in October of this year.

REST: It can be exceptionally hard to prioritize rest. We live in a culture that encourages constant movement and production, and yet we know in our hearts that we need time to breathe too. As you explore the opportunities above, I also hope that you consider the ways inwhich you are invited to press pause and create room to see God moving in your life, to hear God whisper that you are beloved, and to know the expansiveness of God’s love for each of us and the world. 

Rest and grow.

And remember, even Jesus took naps.

For more information on any of the offerings listed below, contact Charlette Preslar, Director of Formation at The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, at cpreslar@edsd.org