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We Have a New Presiding Bishop

Letter From the Pastor

Proverbs 11:19 Without guidance, a people will fall, but with many wise leaders will be kept safe.

 

We Have a New Presiding Bishop

Summary: The Most Rev. Sean Rowe was installed as the 28th Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church in a global, eco-conscious investiture ceremony, calling the Church to embrace liberation, unity, and service under his leadership

 

            Episcopalians worldwide welcomed The Most Rev. Sean Rowe as the Episcopal Church’s 28th presiding bishop last Saturday, November 2nd. Reflecting Rowe’s commitment to inclusivity and environmental stewardship, the event was a modest, scaled-down ceremony that minimized its carbon footprint by being live-streamed to a global audience.

            In a powerful opening tribute, the diverse international community of the Episcopal Church was showcased through a special “roll call.” Representatives from the Church’s 106 dioceses offered their blessings and greetings, underscoring the unity and diversity within the Episcopal Church. The liturgy was further enriched by being written and led in fifteen languages, emphasizing the inclusivity and global reach of the Church.

 

A Life Shaped by Service and Leadership

            Bishop Rowe’s journey to this esteemed role reflects a lifelong commitment to leadership and service. His path began in childhood, where he demonstrated early leadership as a Boy Scout and was later elected class president in high school. He earned his Master of Divinity from Virginia Theological Seminary and completed a Ph.D. in Organizational Learning and Leadership from Gannon University. At age 24, Rowe became the youngest ordained Episcopal priest in the United States and, at 32, the youngest bishop. Now, at 49, he continues to break records as the youngest person to hold the office of Presiding Bishop. Throughout his ministry, he has served in numerous capacities, including as Bishop of Northwestern Pennsylvania, Provisional Bishop of Bethlehem, and Provisional Bishop of Western New York, demonstrating a readiness and depth of experience in guiding the Church forward.

 

A Call to Unbind and Liberate

            In his investiture sermon, Bishop Rowe preached on the story of Lazarus from the Gospel of John, using it as a powerful metaphor for the Church’s work. In the story, after Jesus calls Lazarus from the tomb, he instructs the witnesses to “unbind him” — a call Rowe interpreted as an invitation for the Church to engage in the work of liberation.

"Jesus intentionally left the final act to those gathered around Lazarus," Rowe explained. “You unbind him, you liberate him, you set him free.” Bishop Rowe challenged the Church to embrace this task, emphasizing that unbinding and liberation require resilience and a willingness to let go of divisions, attachments, and preconceived ideas about how things should operate.

Bishop Rowe urged the Episcopal Church to stay faithful to the work of unbinding not only individuals but also church structures that may have become restrictive. "Our calling," he said, "is to worship God and care for God’s people — to feed the hungry, care for the sick, clothe those in need, and welcome the stranger." His sermon was a profound reminder of the Episcopal Church’s mission to be a source of light and hope in a world that so often feels divided and hurting.

 

Embracing the Future Together

            Bishop Rowe’s investiture marks a new chapter for The Episcopal Church, one that promises renewed focus and commitment to serving both its members and the broader world. Under his leadership, the Church is encouraged to reassess its priorities, to continue evolving, and to remain a steadfast presence in the face of challenges.

As we embark on this journey together, we welcome The Most Rev. Sean Rowe with hope and gratitude, looking forward to the work of unbinding, healing, and shining light in the darkness.

 

Join me in welcoming our new Presiding Bishop, The Most Rev. Sean Rowe,

Pastor Anny+

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