April 20, 2023
A summary of news and events,
for the people of the
Episcopal Churches of West Missouri
Send your news and pictures to: communications@diowestmo.org
News
Letter from Bishop Bruce on the shooting of Ralph Yarl

Bishop Diane writes, “I was shocked and appalled to hear of the circumstances surrounding the shooting of 16-year-old Ralph Yarl a few days ago. I am heartened to hear that Ralph has been released from the hospital and is recovering from his wounds…”

One-minute read.
The Union of Black Episcopalians chapter in The Diocese of West Missouri is saddened and outraged by the shooting of Ralph Yarl. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones, and stand in solidarity with the community that has been left heartbroken by this senseless act of violence.
2023 Renewal of Vows and Blessing of Oils

Two-minute read.
On April 4, 2023, the clergy of West Missouri gathered at Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral for a Holy Eucharist to commemorate the Tuesday of Holy Week, with a renewal of baptismal and ordination vows, and the blessing of Holy Oils.
Three-minute read.
Episcopal Relief & Development has launched a campaign to support the organization’s efforts to alleviate the global hunger crisis. A group of generous donors will match each gift made to the Global Needs Fund until May 25, 2023, up to $250,000.
Features

Three-minute read.
Amy Kenny, the author of ‘My Body Is Not A Prayer Request’, takes us into the world of what it is like to be a disabled Christian and her interactions with the Church (and with society in general) as a disabled person.
Righteous Anger

Three-minute read.
Love is something we do. We educate ourselves. We refuse to demonize those who disagree with us. We try our best to make our words and actions a witness to the world.

Two-minute read.
You don’t have to enroll in a degree program to enrich your faith.
Español

Se invita a los episcopales de todas partes a inscribirse para participar en un festival de culto, aprendizaje, comunidad y acción de toda la Iglesia del 9 al 12 de julio en el Centro de Convenciones de Baltimore (Maryland).
Announcements
Two-minute read.
We are pleased to introduce Zachary Phillips, who joined the Diocesan Staff on April 18 in the three-quarter-time position as the Communications Assistant. Zachary will be responsible for assisting with website maintenance, email campaigns, social media, diocesan-wide events, and other events of interest to our members in West Missouri.

Episcopalians everywhere are invited to register to join a churchwide festival of worship, learning, community, and action July 9-12 at the Baltimore (Maryland) Convention Center.

The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri is hosting a Title IV training on April 28 and 29, 2023, at the Episcopal Church of St. Michael & St. George in St. Louis.
Three-minute read.
The March issue of Lamplight, Episcopal Relief & Development’s disaster program newsletter is available to read online.
What's happening
This is essential training for all new vestry members and church leaders.


In-person. 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., St. Philip's, Joplin.
KC Pride 2023
You are invited to join the Episcopal presence at KC PRIDE 2023 

Join us June 9 – 11 at KC Pride 2023 where the Episcopal Church will once again make herself known as a welcoming and safe place…

Events & Meetings
There is lots more to see on the diocesan Events home page.
Check out the diocesan calendar and our full list of forthcoming events and meetings.
Deadlines
None at present.
Many churches in the diocese are offering daily prayers, reflections, and Sunday worship online.
Clergy, Administrators, and Church Leaders
Safe Church, Safe Communities information issued
One-minute read.
In early March, Lay and ordained cures received an email confirming their enrollment in the Praesidium Academy, and set out the Safe Church Training Certification requirements for The Diocese of West Missouri.
Changing the times of your online services?

Don't forget to let us know so we can keep the list of online services up to date.

Email any changes to communications@diowestmo.org
Bulletin inserts and flyers

Do you have any bulletin inserts or flyers of interest to the Episcopal Churches of West Missouri? Send them in!

Second chance - In case you missed it
West Missouri on the move: March Diocesan Council update
New West Missouri Campus Ministry Podcast discusses “All Things Episcopal”
Safe Church, Safe Communities information issued
Spread The Word