Story by Cn. Stephanie Martin Taylor; Photos by the Rev. Debbie Low-Skinner
As the 81st General Convention drew to a close, Bishop Marc Andrus delivered a poignant reflection during the “California Night” dinner at Doc Crow’s in downtown Louisville. Attendees included deputation members, colleagues, friends, and family.
Ron Hermanson, the lay alternate who organized the evening, thanked Bishop Marc for his years of steadfast leadership and announced to the group that the bishop had received a standing ovation that day in the House of Bishops. He then invited Bishop Marc and Bishop Austin to share their remarks with the group.
Bishop Marc took the opportunity to reflect on the concept of the Beloved Community, a divine vision that embraces inclusivity, mutual respect, and the interconnectedness of all life. He praised the Diocese of California for its intellectual engagement and analytical approach to addressing pressing issues such as climate change, homophobia, and systemic racism. He emphasized the importance of combining intellectual rigor with compassionate action, urging continued efforts toward creating a more equitable world.
Bishop Marc also highlighted the importance of enhancing the Diocese of California’s ability to empathize and build relationships. He urged prioritizing communal values and cooperation over the Bay Area’s tendency to focus on competition and financial gain. Drawing on examples such as the AIDS crisis, the 1989 earthquake, and the COVID-19 pandemic, he highlighted the resilience and solidarity that the people of the diocese helped foster during these times of adversity.
In his closing remarks, Bishop Marc called for a renewed commitment to elevating community solidarity as a guiding principle in the Diocese of California. He encouraged the gathering to embrace and amplify the message of unity and compassion, envisioning a future where the Beloved Community thrives as a beacon of hope and transformation. He noted that the Bishop of California has a significant platform and he has done his best to use it. Expressing his faith in Bishop Austin Rios, his successor, he voiced confidence that Bishop Austin will continue to expand the vision of the Beloved Community.
Following Bishop Marc’s heartfelt words, Bishop Austin expressed deep gratitude for Bishop Marc’s faithful ministry and leadership. He echoed the importance of the Beloved Community and praised the Diocese of California for its diversity and dynamism. Bishop Austin highlighted the value of using individual gifts to add direction and value, stressing the importance of constant learning and resetting relationships. He also emphasized that our differences can be used to enable connections rather than prevent them. Finally, Bishop Austin expressed his commitment to continuing Bishop Marc’s work to foster unity and compassion, address major challenges, and envision the Diocese of California as a movement the entire world needs.
