Annette Webb: Calvary Episcopal Church, Columbia
This reflection is part of a series celebrating women's ministry, June 2022.
I had a rather rocky beginning in my faith journey. With my new dress and fabulous new hat this 8-year old made her way gingerly down the church aisle, turned into the pew and promptly fell over the kneeler! My hat flew off but I was hooked with this mysterious place. In a short time, I could “perform” the service of Morning Prayer marching around just like Father Barnes, but Mom explained I wasn’t qualified. A few Sundays later, I was shocked as MY service changed – COMMUNION! I hadn’t experienced that and soon learned I wouldn’t.
Once confirmed, I felt like I had died and gone to heaven as I was now actually a part of this wonderful 20-member church family. I also discovered the benefits of volunteering – the ladies served homemade, oven baked mac and cheese. Now I was hooked for life. Some traditions never change.
Fast forward and the Episcopal Church has seen many wonderful changes never imaged by that 8-year old. Changes such as women being ordained, to the LGBTQIA+ community being accepted not only in ordinations but marriages. With all the diverse voices that are now heard, our liturgy has never sounded nor felt more beautiful. A big thank you goes to all our trail blazing, never giving up or in attitude of our Episcopalian Brothers and Sisters. Are more strides needed – of course!
I have profound hope for the future of the Episcopal Church and especially our Diocese. Future changes will be eloquently executed under the leadership of our Presiding Bishop Curry and our Bishop Deon. Both bring dignity, grace, understanding, and most importantly JOY. They have tackled difficult situations and have delivered considerate, well thought out solutions. They teach what Jesus preached – Love one another. The challenge for Episcopalians is to walk their talk so we may be examples for all others to follow now and into the future.
Although I am still on my journey, I haven’t fallen over any kneelers but still enjoy volunteering and the Episcopalian ladies’ home cooking!