Events
MARCH GATHERINGS AT DAYSPRING
College of Presbyters and Retired Clergy and Spouses meet for their annual gatherings.
COLLEGE OF PRESBYTERS
O
n Shrove Tuesday 80 presbyters gathered at DaySpring Episcopal Conference Center to hear the Very Rev. Dr. William S. Stafford, Dean Emeritus of the School of Theology at the University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee and Visiting Professor of Church History at the Church Divinity School of the Pacific. Dean Stafford was excited to be reunited with so many familiar faces. Many of the clergy in attendance had taken classes from Dean Stafford during his time at Virginia Theological Seminary and the University of the South. Bishop Dabney Smith reflected positively on Dean Stafford’s book Disordered Loves: Healing the Seven Deadly Sins, sharing how he often referenced his works for classes as Rector at Holy Trinity in Melbourne, FL. “Speaking of Sin,” presented as a day-long workshop, broke down the idea of sin through the example of the seven deadly sins, where they manifest in our lives and can corrupt our relationship with God. “Whenever we turn and allow grace to change our minds, we are forgiven,” said Dean William Stafford.
Clergy from across the diocese gather at College of Presbyters; Retired Clergy & Spouses enjoy their annual luncheon with a special Ash Wednesday Holy Eucharist and Imposition of Ashes. 6
by Lindsey Nickel
Through lively dialogue and small groups, the presbyters reflected on humanity’s fallen nature, sin, and grace. Although the topic was a perfect lead into the Lent season, the biggest takeaway from the event was the joy felt by all in being together in-person. “Listening to Dean Stafford was like drinking a cup of cool sweet water drawn from a well on a hot day,” said Canon Richard Norman, Canon to the Ordinary. “His presentations were refreshing and lifegiving. I am so grateful for his presence with us and for providing me with some new insights into sin and grace.” The excitement in the room was palpable for everyone as Canon Richard Norman introduced 16 presbyters who had joined the diocese since the last inperson College of Presbyters in 2019. “Attending the first in-person College of Presbyters in two years, it is so good to be here,” shared the Very Rev. Ryan Whitley. “Looking around at all these colleagues - I am not alone. I am not alone.” “I am most excited to actually see everyone’s face and gather together as brothers and sisters in Christ,” said Bishop Dabney Smith.
