Who?
1) All the people of St. Paul's are invited to participate. All ages welcome.
2) Justice and Sustainability Associates
(JSA) will facilitate the conversations. JSA is an organization that specializes in guiding large and small group decision-making processes. Their Executive Director, Don Edwards, is a lifelong Episcopalian. JSA is based out of Washington D.C. and has partnered with VCU on reconciliation projects; they are very familiar with downtown Richmond, its people, and culture. Further, during the month of July, JSA has had extensive visits to St. Paul's to view our buildings and grounds, learn about our history, and meet and talk with our people. They look forward to learning more about us on August 2 and 23.
What?
A time to share, to listen, and to pray together as an act of community discernment. The outcome of these conversations is yet to be determined; they are the beginning of a process that involves time, listening, and, above all, the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
When?
1) Sunday, August 2 at 11:30 a.m.
2)
Sunday, August 23 at 11:30 a.m.
These dates were put on the calendar at the first available opportunity in order to be timely and responsive to current developments in our nation. Two sessions are scheduled in hopes that as many people as possible will be able to participate.
Where?
Each session of A Prayerful Conversation will begin in the church. After some time together as a large group, the participants will spend time together in small groups.
Why?
Our worship space includes historical Confederate imagery and symbols. While many in our country have felt divided about these images for decades, recent events have brought them into the spotlight. People of faith, meanwhile, are being called to examine, among other things, their worship spaces while listening to the perspectives of their brothers and sisters in Christ. St. Paul's and The Episcopal Church are deeply committed to reconciliation and being radically welcoming to all people. Discernment is core to the Christian faith. We trust that the Spirit of God will lead us where we need to go.
What to do next?
1) If you have any further questions, please contact one of our clergy:
the Rev. Wallace Adams-Riley,
the Rev. Molly Bosscher, or
the Rev. Melanie Mullen.
2)
Pray for St. Paul's and our community discernment.
3) Plan to attend one or both of the sessions.
