Christmas greetings, beloved people of the Episcopal Church in Vermont,
Hope! The same word that resonated with me this time last year still rings true today, but in a new way. We began the new year with so much hope about our future and ministries. None of us knew that, instead, we would live through one of the most challenging years of our lives.
We are showing astounding love and care for our neighbors by being physically distant to protect others from the virus. We are dreaming up creative ways to worship, learn and serve. We are building Beloved Community through study and prayer as we face our complicated history with racism. We have committed to reduce our impact on the environment.
I will not minimize how hard this time has been, but I have no doubt that our faith has sustained us and given us the courage to be people of hope. The hope I have seen in your commitment to the way of love is so real. You are a faithful diocesan household, and you give me hope.
May God’s blessing be with each of you and those whom you love this Christmas season.
Peace & Blessings,
Bishop Shannon
image: original calligraphy by Bishop Shannon