“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:23
Last summer I was among a group of Episcopal bishops asked to be pastorally responsive to women and men who had come forward to tell of their experience of sexual harassment and assault in the Church. The stories varied; the pain was universal. Many recounted in vivid detail the sexual trauma they had endured as children and adolescents.
“The Episcopal Church is a very open and inclusive denomination, and St. Mark’s has always been in the forefront of gay and lesbian issues,” said Bill Martin, a church member who was helping staff the tent. “Every PrideFest is helpful. It gives you an opportunity to see that there are other gay people around, and it shows that there is a community of support for you out there as a gay or lesbian person.”
Dear Diocesan Family,
After many months of intense prayer and reflection, and in close consultation with the Presiding Bishop and our Standing Committee, I am formally announcing that I have decided to resign my office and ministry as Bishop of the Diocese of Virginia effective November 3, 2018, prior to the adjournment of our annual convention. I will then serve the diocese in a consulting capacity to facilitate the transition to new leadership. I will fully retire effective July 1, 2019, having served over twelve years as a bishop in this diocese.
July 28, 2017
The Bishops of the Diocese of Virginia continue our commitment to the inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons in all aspects of our common life as a Church and as a nation. We are proud to be in community with Presiding Bishop Michael Curry and concur with his statement (below) in response to our President's decision to exclude transgender persons from military service. We also stand by the guidelines for the inclusion of transgender persons in our camps and schools, which we developed last year. Be assured of our unwavering support for God's beloved children, no matter their gender, gender identity or sexual orientation.
The Rt. Rev. Shannon S. Johnston
The Rt. Rev. Susan E. Goff
The Rt. Rev. Edwin F. Gulick
"The Episcopal Church Welcomes You" is not just a slogan, it's who we seek to be and the witness we seek to make, following the way of Jesus.
