A request for prayers

​Dear Friends in The Episcopal Church in South Carolina,

As you know, a hearing is scheduled in Orangeburg at 10 am Monday, November 19 on how best to implement the South Carolina Supreme Court's ruling in August 2017 that the properties of the disassociated group and 29 parishes must return to The Episcopal Church. While we do not anticipate an immediate decision from the court on Monday, the hearing is an important step toward resolving this matter so that all who are involved can move forward.

This weekend, as our Diocese comes together in Convention, I again recall the words of St. Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” We have many reasons to rejoice and give thanks at all times, and especially as Thanksgiving Day aproaches. We also have a keen awareness of the work that remains to be done in restoring, rebuilding and repairing this Diocese.

I ask you once again to hold in prayer Judge Edgar Dickson and all who will gather at the courthouse on Monday. As well, I ask your prayers for the people in congregations who are discerning how to respond as faithful disciples of Jesus to what the future holds for our Diocese. And I add to that my own prayers of thanksgiving for your witness to the love of God in this time and place as followers of the Way of Jesus. 

Bishop Skip