News & Updates | May 27, 2026 | www.dioala.org

Last Sunday, I was inspired again by the story of Pentecost from Acts: “And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability” (Acts 2:2–4).

There are parts of this story that are difficult to understand. What is easier to grasp, though, is that the Holy Spirit is real and present among us. In my own life, I experience God the Holy Spirit in many different ways—sometimes dramatic, sometimes quiet...

Ordination and Consecration of the 13th Bishop of Alabama

On behalf of the Transition Committee of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama, we are honored to announce the ordination and consecration of the Very Reverend Richard T. Lawson III as the Thirteenth Bishop of the Diocese.

This sacred and joyful liturgy will be presided over by the Most Reverend Sean Rowe, Presiding Bishop and Primate of The Episcopal Church, and will take place on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Cathedral Church of the Advent (2017 Sixth Avenue North, Birmingham).

All parishes and clergy in the diocese have received invitations with details on how to RSVP. If you are interested in attending, please contact your rector or senior warden for instructions. This RSVP is required to ensure that each parish is included. Email alabamaepiscopal@dioala.org if you have any questions.

The service will be livestreamed on the Diocesan Facebook and YouTube channels, and a recording will be posted and shared afterward. Please visit the consecration webpage to learn more.

Your prayers and presence are warmly requested as we gather to celebrate this significant moment in the life of the Church and the Diocese of Alabama.

Diocese Hosts Special Clergy Day

Last Thursday, clergy and lay preachers from across the Diocese gathered at the Cathedral Church of the Advent for a special Clergy Day with the Rev. Dr. Will Willimon. The day offered a rich time of learning, encouragement, and fellowship as participants came together to reflect on the calling of preaching and pastoral leadership in the life of the Church.



The Rev. Dr. Will Willimon currently serves as Professor of the Practice of Christian Ministry at Duke Divinity School. A widely respected preacher, teacher, and author, he previously served for eight years as Bishop of the North Alabama Conference of The United Methodist Church, leading more than 157,000 Methodists and 792 pastors throughout the region.



The Rev. Jack Alvey of the Church of the Ascension in Birmingham offered this reflection on his time at Clergy Day:

“Willimon quoted Bonhoeffer's line that there is really only one preacher — the Risen Christ. He went on to say that any sermon is liable to be ripped out of our hands by the Spirit anyway. There is freedom here as Jesus is the real preacher. My work is to tailor that message for my congregation in this time and place, and to trust the Spirit with the rest.

If that's true, then any pushback isn't really about me. I was reminded of what God told Samuel after the elders of Israel got frustrated with him: ‘They have not rejected you. They have rejected me from being king over them.’ This was a helpful word for any of us trying to lead and preach faithfully in contentious times.”

Thanks be to God for such a meaningful time of learning and fellowship, and to everyone who helped make the day a success.

Join Us for the Central Alabama Pride Parade

Join us on Saturday, June 13 at 6:30 p.m in Birmingham as we celebrate God’s love for ALL people. Last year, Episcopalians were the largest group walking in the parade — and we want to show that same love, joy, and support again this year!

Who should join us?

🏳️‍🌈 Members of the LGBTQ+ community

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

❤️ Allies

✨ Everyone is welcome

Help us show Alabama that The Episcopal Church welcomes YOU.

Registration is required to walk in the parade because all participants must sign a waiver. Questions? Contact Jen Manning at jmanning@dioala.org

Seeing The Face Of God In Each Other

Sat, Jun 6, 2026 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

This interactive workshop provides an insightful look into the causes and effects of racism. It provides practical ways to combat unconscious bias and ways to work to see the face of God in each other. Who should attend? For all who seek to build bridges of racial reconciliation. This training is offered in the spirit of hope and offers a positive vision of unity that can be achieved through Christ.

Questions? Contact the Rev. Carolyn Foster at carolynjfoster@bellsouth.net

St. Thomas, Birmingham, is looking for someone to fill the position of Coordinator, Youth & Children Ministries. This is an exciting, part-time opportunity for someone who can connect with young people and coordinate programs that help them grow in their faith. Please review this summary of the job and email Rev. Susan Oakes at pastormo208@gmail.com for more detailed information.

St. John's Church in Montgomery is seeking a passionate and dynamic Director of Children’s Christian Formation to lead and nurture the spiritual growth of their youngest members. The ideal candidate will be energetic, compassionate, and committed to creating meaningful experiences that cultivate children’s understanding of Christian teachings and values. For more information and the application, check the job description.

Saint Stephen’s Church, Birmingham, is seeking to hire a Nursery Director to support its ministry with young children and families. Check out the full job description here.

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