It was a beautiful day in Bakersfield, California yesterday as the Diocese of San Joaquin’s new provisional bishop, the Rt. Rev. David Rice, was installed. There is so much hope, energy and excitement here that I am betting we will be working on some projects together to enable mission at the local level soon. The day was bittersweet, however, as good-byes were said to much-loved retiring Bp Chet Talton.
I heard of a desire for innovative youth programs and interest in internships under Mark of Mission 5 that would include advocacy around the water crisis here. I also heard of the possibility of some creative collaboration between the diocese and Church Divinity School of the Pacific. What used to be “Deaneries” in this diocese are now “Mission Centers” – how about that! And there is great need for communication tools – video conferencing and enhanced remote meeting options – to connect the Mission Centers of this geographically large and diverse diocese.
All in all a great weekend with some lovely faithful people. I’m looking forward to coming back here whenever they will have me. ~ Anne Rudig
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Bishop Rice.
Bishop Talton.