Dear Friends in The Episcopal Church in Vermont,
When we as a diocese gathered in convention to elect a bishop on May 18, we trusted in God’s guidance, held in the hand of Jesus, and guided by the leading of the Holy Spirit to hear the dream God has for us. When the results of the first ballot were read by Bishop Ely there was a gasp of amazement. God’s dream for the people of Vermont became our reality.
I am filled with joy as we enter into mutual ministry with the Rev. Dr. Shannon MacVean-Brown as the 11th Bishop of Vermont. She will walk faithfully with all the people of Vermont, the members of our 45 congregations and beyond, to share the unconditional love of Jesus Christ to the world. Her spirit of creativity and joy in faith will empower us on our journey with Christ.
In the coming weeks and months, there will be many opportunities to meet our bishop-elect and to join the celebration of her election and consecration with folks from around the diocese and the country. Please keep an eye out on The Mountain for the days and times of events near you.
In Christ,
The Rev. Rick Swanson, D. Min.
President of the Standing Committee