Dear Friends in Christ,

Two weeks ago, members of Saint Philip’s and I ventured to Phoenix for a two-day annual convention of the Diocese of Arizona. Wardens John Bremond and Bonnie Winn, Vestry member Kristin Tovar, parishioner Jane Prescott-Smith, Deacon Leah Sandwell-Weiss, Fr Alex Swain, Fr Henry Hoffman, and I attended.

I found this convention more relaxed than usual, with a heightened energy of participation.

The Bishop’s sermon emphasized courage, faith, and hope that she has found throughout the diocese, even as we journey through uncertain times.

Implicit and explicit in her words was the need to be together, gathered in community to listen to scripture, pray, and explore.

Implicit and explicit was her call to resist going it alone so that together we might discern God’s call to us.

She highlighted stories from Luke and Acts. The Lucan story of the dejected men fleeing Jerusalem on the first Easter afternoon when “Jesus himself came near” figured prominently. The Acts story of Philip climbing into the chariot of a high African official figured prominently.

In both instances, people are discovering together that they are not alone. The Presence of the Holy happens unexpectedly. The disciples shed their dejection and returned to Jerusalem, now emboldened. Philip is “snatched away” while the African official goes on his way home, “rejoicing.”

Robert Putnam’s Bowling Alone was a 2000 book that sounded an alarm over declining involvement in civic engagement, community groups, and social activities. He cited the negative consequences for societal health and personal well-being. Going it alone trumped participation with others.

Worship services, bible studies, and service groups offer opportunities for relationships at Saint Philip’s. Just look at the website as a menu of delicious delights. Explore.

Why bowl alone when you can bowl with others? Why practice Christianity in solo fashion when the Spirit seems to prefer showing up in groups? Increase the odds. Increase the communal dimension in your life.

—Richard