It’s December in Columbia, which means that it’s either sunny and hot or cold and rainy or both. The rest of the world is caught up in the spirit of Retailmas Christmas, while Episcopalians in Upper South Carolina gather in an Advent gray hope. Hope that their beloved Church will overcome the forces of secession, division and bigotry. Hope that their Church, led by a new Bishop, will regain a prophetic voice, defend the dignity of all people, speak truth to the Power that resides in the big white building across from our Cathedral and show South Carolina what a Christian community should look like.

I will be posting regular updates today via Twitter and Facebook.

Almighty God, giver of every good gift: Look graciously on your Church, and so guide the minds of those who shall choose a bishop for this Diocese that we may receive a faithful pastor, who will care for your people and equip us for our ministries; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
                            The Book of Common Prayer, page 818