On November 22, Bishop Todd Hunter addressed clergy from the Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others at the first annual Diocesan Convention, delivering a message that communicated his heart and imagination for the missionary Diocese. He spoke live at In The Vine Anglican Church in Fullerton, California, with his message simulcast in three other locations: Christ Church in Plano, Texas, California; St. James Anglican Church in San Jose, California; and Christ Church Anglican in Overland Park, Kansas.
Bishop Todd first encouraged clergy with Jesus’ command in Matthew 28 to go out and train everyone we meet, far and near, in His way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We are then to instruct them in the practice of all Jesus has commanded us; He promises to be with us as we do this, day after day, right up to the end of the age.
“These words have led me to shape the culture and philosophy of ministry, as well as the vision and values of C4SO,” Bishop Todd explained. “As a Diocese, we are ultimately called to announce, embody and demonstrate the Kingdom of God.”
He then reinforced five other defining values that are critical to C4SO’s identity and purpose.
- Kingdom resources.
We are not about poverty/zero-sum thinking, or the belief that the things of life are so limited that any win is a loss for everyone else. Rather, we are called to be joyfully generous. - Spirit-enabled.
Thanks to the Spirit’s power in our lives, we are empowered, “en-gifted” and “en-fruited.” - Risk-tolerant.
We boldly and joyfully move forward in our calling, demonstrating humble, childlike faith. - Pioneering.
We intentionally have a research and development vibe. We are not settled; we are not slavish to tradition. Instead, we co-labor with the heart of Cranmer. - Growth and formation.
We are about personal, spiritual and professional growth and formation—being trained by Jesus in a way of life. We are engaged in the practices that emerge from the Gospels—especially the calling, mentoring and sending passages.
Throughout his address, Bishop Todd engendered support and understanding of the Diocese and communicated his own respect and support of each clergy in attendance. Clergy received a practical message to take back to their parish or ministry.