Friday, April 10, 2009

In The Air Again

In a few minutes I head to McCarran to fly North to Reno. This is probably my favorite trip of the year. I am going to celebrate Easter, as generations of Nevada bishops have done, at Pyramid Lake Reservation with the Paiute people. We always have a slew of Baptisms. It is a glorious way to rejoice in Resurrection hope.

Before the joy of Easter morning, this year I will spend the Great Easter Vigil with the saints at St. Paul's, Sparks -- a lively and faithful crew of committed Christians, with a dynamic new rector, the Rev. Kirk Woodliff. I also plan to meet with several folks, including a few who are working on grants to help us resurrect a comprehensive program of Christian formation and ministry development in our Diocese.

The Spirit is particularly moving in the Reno-Sparks area these days. First, St. Steven's, Reno has opened their doors to Faith Lutheran. They are sharing Holy Week and Easter in the wake of a fire that has caused smoke damage to Faith Lutheran's church building. In Fernley, one of our priests and one candidate for priesthood are working with Pastor Paul Theis to build up the new Lutheran Fellowship there. In Virginia City, the Roman Catholic Church building is out of commission for a year's worth of remodelling, so they are worshiping at St. Paul the Prospector.

It isn't about denominations. It's about the gospel. I feel great and our people feel great when we help anyone anywhere share God's love with a world that needs it.

Easter blessings to all of you everywhere. The A word is on the tip of my tongue.

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