Our weekly Conference of Bishops call today was focused on conversations about discernment of next steps for our churchwide organization. We heard from the Rev. Phil Hirsch who is the domestic mission unit head about how plans continue to be developed to be a church focused on sharing the story of Jesus Christ and activating all members to respond to this call.

In addition to our work on church fronts I have been engaged in calls with Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins and diverse faith leaders across this part of the territory of NT-NL Synod, ELCA. Wednesday’s call was to share details of easing restrictions in Dallas as Covid-19 case counts decline. It was great seeing Bishop Greg Kelly of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Dallas, Dr. Frederick Haynes of Friendship West Baptist, and Rev. George Mason of Wilshire Baptist on the call. They along with many other diverse leaders from across Dallas county make a relevant and authentic witness.

Today’s call focused on how faith leaders can advocate with Justices of the Peace to continue to prevent evictions in the county as communities continue to deal with economic challenge. In this work I am grateful for Dr. Robert Smith, director of Briarwood Leadership Centerand also NT-NL Bishop’s Associate tasked with these sorts of interfaith and ecumenical relationships and public witness work.

Facebook reminded me today that 9 years ago I was in Baltimore at Pius X Roman Catholic Community for the first communion of a good friend’s oldest daughter. A gift that his brother, a Jesuit, invited me to be a part of that special moment. A reminder that the centrality of word and sacrament ministry in all that we do. The proclamation of Jesus Christ crucified and raised. Made known to us in the proclamation of the Word and sharing in the Holy Supper. #NTNL #BWTX #InMissionTogether