Dear Sisters & Brothers in Christ,
What an honor it is for me to write to you as your Bishop-elect. I will long remember the moment when I heard of my election and the overwhelming joy of speaking to the electing convention. As I shared that day, what I have discerned over the last few months and most intensely during Patti’s and my time with you, is that I have not so much felt called to be a bishop as I have felt called to be your bishop, the bishop of Bethlehem. I am so thrilled to join with you in bearing witness to the power of Christ’s resurrection in your communities.
The extraordinary leadership that Bishop Sean has imparted over the last four years has loosened the soil for a new vision that is emerging and unfolding. The momentum you have built is unmistakable. I am inspired by the collegiality among the clergy and people of the diocese. I am inspired by your commitment to reconciliation and serving the most vulnerable in your communities. And I am inspired by your thirst for mission and invitation to be a part of “building something that we cannot see or know.” I cannot wait to see what God has in store for us together.
I am thrilled to be returning to the diocese May 21 to 23 to lead the Clergy Day, meet with diocesan staff, and to begin preparations for my arrival. Plans are underway for me to join the diocesan deputation at General Convention in Austin TX from July 2 to 14 and officially begin my ministry in the diocese on August 1. The Transition Committee and Commission on Liturgy & Music continue to prepare for the Ordination on September 15. It is all a bit of a whirlwind, but feels so incredibly Spirt-filled.
Thank you for this incredible honor and for the trust that you have placed in me. May God’s presence and love fill your hearts in the days and weeks ahead and forever more.
Kevin
Bishop-elect