Letter From Bishop vonRosenberg

In the last "Episcopalian," I wrote some ideas about the theme of our diocesan convention, "We are called … to grow in people and in resources for ministry and for mission." In fact, what I expressed were some of my preliminary thoughts in preparation for my convention address.

Here, though, I want to write of a different perspective on our convention - one that I mentioned briefly previously. Our being together at convention symbolizes our unity as a diocese - a sign of the reality of the "one Church" that is East Tennessee. However, the blessings of our unity in Christ extend far beyond our own diocese. Indeed, we proclaim week by week our participation in Christ's "one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church." At our convention, therefore, we will celebrate the reality of this unity by welcoming guests from beyond the borders of our diocese.

When we celebrate Evensong on Friday, February 8, at 6:45 in the Radisson, our homilist will be the Rev. Paul Kehnle, a pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Pastor Kehnle represents Bishop Ron Warren, whose synod (diocese) includes the states of Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi! During this time of "Called to Common Mission" with the ELCA, it is important for us to seek means to affirm our unity in mission. I am delighted, therefore, to anticipate this visit by a representative of our Lutheran brothers and sisters in Christ.

Then, at our concluding Eucharist on Sunday morning, February 10, at 10:00 in the Radisson again, our preacher will be the Rev. Dr. Martin Brokenleg, a Native American Lakota Sioux. I will be joined at the altar by the Rt. Rev. Creighton Robertson, also a Native American. As we take steps toward establishing a companion diocese relationship with South Dakota, we welcome these two distinguished representatives from that diocese. Also, it is interesting to note that February 10 has been identified as "World Mission Sunday", with the theme of "Companionship." Isn't it great when a plan comes together!

Therefore, at convention - when we gather to work, worship, and play as a diocese - may we hold before us the call "to grow in people and in resources for ministry and for mission." Further, may we rejoice in the fellowship of Christian people beyond our diocese with whom we are called into the mission of our Lord!

April 24, 2002 at St. Paul's in Chattanooga

To schedule an appointment on one of these dates, contact Tami Dyke by eMail (tmac@etdiocese.net) or phone (865.521.2900).