Reconciliation Theme of Global Episcopal Mission Network June Meeting
Episcopal News Service. May 31, 2005 [053105-1-A]
Dioceses, congregations and individuals interested in global mission will meet at Christ Church Cathedral in Indianapolis, Indiana, June 23-24 for the ninth annual Global Episcopal Mission Network's (GEM) Educational Institute.
Meeting under the theme "Ambassadors of Reconciliation" the conference will feature presentations, workshops, and opportunities for networking with other mission leaders from around the Episcopal Church.
The keynote speaker is Dr. Esther Mombo of Kenya. She is an academic dean at St. Paul's United Theological College in Limuru and will speak to the role of ambassadors of reconciliation and lead a Bible study. Other speakers include host Bishop Catherine Waynick of Indianapolis who will serve as banquet speaker and also address the topic of the bishop as the principal missionary agent of the diocese. The Rev. Mark Harris, previous executive director of GEM, will lead bible study and Margaret Larom, director of the Episcopal Church Center's Office of Anglican and Global Relations (AGR,) will preach at the Eucharist.
In addition to the annual meeting, this year's gathering will include the continuation of the three-year certificate program to equip diocesan mission agents. The focus is on mission networking. Also, the first annual Youth Mission Educational Institute (YMEI pronounced "why me") for young people ages 18-24 will meet and celebrate mission trips and, plan for the future.
GEM is an association of dioceses committed to the principle that every Episcopalian is a missionary by:
* Encouraging the establishment of mission organizations in all dioceses, and
* Assisting dioceses in developing and strengthening their mission programs and ministries outside their diocese.
They work in collaboration with AGR, voluntary missionary societies and ecumenical partners.
Further information and registration details may be obtained from the Rev. Bill Wood at 316.262.0897 or email williamjwood@hotmail.com.
Note: The following title is available from the Episcopal Book/Resource Center, 815 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10017; 800.334.7626 or 212.716.6118; http://www.episcopalbookstore.org/
To Read: THE CHALLENGE OF CHANGE: The Anglican Communion in the Post-Modern Era by Mark Harris (Church Publishing Incorporated, New York, New York, 1998, $23.)
In this book, Episcopal priest Mark Harris comments on Anglican identity and vision for the future. Contents include these sections: (1.) Finding the Anglican Communion; (2.) An Anglican Communion Understanding of the Church; (3.) Theology rooted in the Incarnation; (4.) Engagement with the World; (5.) Vocational Recommendations for the Anglican Communion.