A Note from Bishop Dillahunt

Philippians 1:6 reminds us “I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ”.

Happy Rostered Ministers Appreciation Month! I am grateful for your continued faithful service, especially in these Covid-19 months and years. We in the Bishop’s Office pray for you and your leaders and thank God for your call to ministry of Word and Sacrament and Word and Service in this Synod. Thank you!

Thank you for proclaiming the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those who have returned to in-person worship and to those who continue to worship online with your congregations. The narrative and message of God’s love, grace, forgiveness and new life is hope for many who are seeking refuge from life’s struggles.

Thank you for working with council leadership on making the congregation a safe place to visit, as we hear the Word, receive the Sacraments and renew relationships. The pandemic has affected our cities, towns, counties and congregations differently. Local councils have made decisions for congregational ministry and I know some of those decisions have been difficult. Thank you for your leadership. Thank you for ministering to those who are part of the Body of Christ, even virtually.

Thank you for sharing the generosity of the people of God in Southern Ohio. In spite of the pandemic, Mission Support is strong. Thrive!, our mission campaign, is moving ahead with great success. Abundance, potential and opportunities are all around and the Holy Spirit is working in our ministry together for the sake of Jesus Christ. New ministries throughout the synod are happening. Watch for more information on the new Cultivate Team’s November 6th event and encourage lay people to attend. We are living out this synod’s vision of Stronger and Better together… joining Jesus in the restoration of the world.

Remember you are not alone in ministry. Spiritual Directors and Coaches are here to assist you as you care for God’s people in this long night of Covid-19. Take care of yourselves! Take advantage of the wonderful resources at your disposal. As you look to Advent and Christmas (I know you’re already done planning… but if you need some other ideas) check out the new Community Sandbox, a resource center offered digitally. If you have not signed up yet, please do so on the new synod website.

Again, I wanted to take time to say “Thank You” for your ministry! The one Lord, Jesus Christ, truly is bringing the good work among you to completion. Stay well, be at peace and know you’re not alone.

Peace,

Bishop Suzanne Darcy Dillahunt