Dear sisters in Christ,
As your president, I continue to explore what is needed for all Daughters in our diocese to be able to live into the vows we have all taken to be members of our order. I see us as a congregation where we can come together to learn and share with one another and to find refuge, especially in times of challenge and adversity. We are continuing to explore how our new website can assist us in staying in communication with each other and bring needed information to all members.
Our Diocese finds itself in an incredibly challenging time dealing with the aftermath of the catastrophic fires we experienced in January. The diocesan One Body & One Spirit Annual Appeal has dedicated all donations to assist those who have been affected, especially St. Mark’s Church and school in Altadena. We have made a $500 donation to this cause.
The devastation caused by the fires was also an impetus to finding a program for our Spring Assembly (being held via Zoom on May 3rd) to help us all in those challenging times. I hope that many of you will be able to join us. Please see more information about our facilitator and a description of her presentation on the Spring Assembly registration link.
Also, the Province VIII Spring Retreat (May 9-11 at the Episcopal Conference Center, Oakhurst, CA) is open to all Daughters. I am assisting with coordinating transportation to and from the Fresno airport and the venue, with the Daughters driving to the event. Please contact me if you are flying to Fresno or if you can help shuttle others to/from the airport.
I want to thank our chaplain, Rev. Linda Wirt, for her willingness to serve us in that capacity for the past three years. Having her as our spiritual director has been a pleasure and a tremendous help. Her agreed-to term has ended, and she will leave us after our Spring Assembly. We’d like to ask for your prayers and help in finding our new chaplain.
fHs,
Sheila