Growing Young

Growing Young!

Six leaders, six questions: we talk to the next generation about what they think the future holds for the diocese.

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With the coming of each March brings a whirlwind of activity to the Diocesan House as we reach the parochial report deadline. The last two years have challenged all of our congregations, many experiencing heavy attendance losses reflected in our congregation numbers. Although this reflects the national trend, the shift in how we offer worship, virtually and in-person, continues to expand our evangelism efforts and looks to be a permanent part of how we minister to our communities moving forward. "In the work of Episcopal evangelism, we often say, ‘You can’t share what you don’t have’ when talking about sharing our faith. The same is true for restoring people to unity with God and each other. If we are not restored to each other— if we do not have intimate friendships where we know and are known— how can we offer that gift of sacred restoration (which is rooted in our Baptism and Catechism) to others? How can we invite others into liberating, life-giving love of God and abundant restoration if we are bound up in loneliness, isolation, and scarcity? I think the greatest challenge of these times, can also be the greatest gift we have to give: the gift of creating transformational, Jesus-centered, communities. If we will take the steps needed to create authentic communities within our churches, then we will become a people who together can live out our baptismal promises and the church’s mission – to restore and be restored in unity with God and each other in Christ, and that is what will change our church and the world,” said Jerusalem Greer, Staff Officer for Evangelism, Office of the Presiding Bishop.

Greer’s focus on hospitality and the need to “create authentic communities,” is also echoed in The Fuller Institute’s book Growing Young. Published pre-pandemic, the book researched 100’s of churches nationwide and isolated six core commitments that every church needs

make in order to grow young:

• unlock keychain leadership

• empathize with today’s young people

• take Jesus’ message seriously

• fuel a warm community

• prioritize young people and families everywhere

• be the best neighbors

We asked six young ordained and lay leaders representing all areas of our ministry in the diocese to share where they believe we should focus to create a brighter future.

Where should the church be focusing their efforts in the next 5 years?

Katie Arp: I feel that the church needs to maintain a focus on building up future generations to be the church in the world. This may look different than what we would traditionally think of, but as things like technology change our world, we need to move forward with adapting our ways as well. It is important to keep our focus on the mission while still keeping our faith rooted in Jesus.

The Rev. Whitney Burton: The church should always be focusing on loving our neighbor (and our enemy), and carrying the good news of the gospel out into the world. Our country and the world have been through a lot in the last few years with political differences, racial and health inequities, and exacerbated financial disparities caused by the pandemic. I think that the next five years needs to be about healing these deep wounds and looking forward to the future together.

The Rev. Nicholas Caccece: The world around us rushes by at a frenetic pace, moving from one activity to the next, from one opportunity to the next, from one fad to the next, with hardly a moment’s peace to reflect on the direction or significance of our lives. It can be tempting to adopt this way of being in the church. But we are called to bear witness, in our own time, to the

truths that endure throughout all times. Our focus should be to remain ever faithful to the One who alone brings freedom to the oppressed, grace to those in need, and peace to our restless hearts.

Brandon Ramos: The church should be focusing on seeking those who other churches have disenfranchised. I have met many people who were not raised in The Episcopal Church and later came to it because of how welcoming it is. That says something. I share a similar story, as an openly gay man who is very invested in my faith, I never felt welcome at other churches. Often I felt judged, or had to keep a part of myself hidden. But The Episcopal Church is different; I can be who I am, and my faith can grow. Do we put a lamp under a bushel? No, we put it on a stand so everyone can see it. People should know that we welcome them and affirm them.

Ayana Grady: I think that The Episcopal Church should have a focus on youth ministry - specifically the transition from high school to young adult. We have so many amazing youths that grow up in The Episcopal Church, that then leave the church as they become adults. In the summer of 2000, I was blessed to work on the summer camp staff at Camp Weed in the Diocese of Florida. I was surrounded by many other young adults who were serious about their faith, motivated, and inspiring. They were dynamic youth leaders, and we all learned and grew together throughout that summer. Currently (22 years later), two of us from that staff are working in Youth Ministry in The Episcopal Church, but the majority of the camp staff is no longer active in the church. The Episcopal Church can (and should) do better in providing financial resources, and emotional support to encourage its connection with young adults. We need to let the youth, young adults and young families know that they are treasured, and an important part of the church.

Michelle Thomas: I think the church needs to be leaning into the young

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Katie Arp

The Rev. Whitney Burton

The Rev. Nicholas Caccese

adults in the next five years. These are the people (myself included) who are fresh out of college, in new and wonderful positions, starting families, and making serious decisions about how to spend the rest of their lives. It seems, however, that it is also the demographic that is often focused on the least.

What challenges do you think the church will face in the next 5 years?

Arp: A challenge that the church will face in the next 5 years will be the increase in things that can distract us from important tasks. As the world becomes more accessible, which is a great thing in many ways, there are also more things going on in people’s lives. With a push to do more and be more, worship and fellowship that bring us closer to Christ and the community of Christ can be more easily pushed aside.

Burton: The world is changing. That is nothing new. The church has to adapt to the changes happening around us. Many of our churches see fewer families and young people in the pews, and we assume that they have found different values, but I don’t think that’s true. I think sometimes our message gets lost in the fray.

We have to be willing to step out of our comfort zone and find new and innovative ways to connect with people. Social media, streaming, and other ways of communication are valuable tools we need to take advantage of, but as we are hopefully moving out of the COVID-19

pandemic, we also need to find ways to be together again. There are so many people craving community, and we can be that for them. By meeting people where they are and spreading the gospel in new, exciting, and meaningful ways and by staying centered in the teachings of Christ and The Way of Love, I believe that we will draw new families and individuals into our church.

Caccese: The church has been commissioned to make disciples of all peoples – to nurture the faithful to live into their life in Christ. The major challenges to discipleship do not change (Mark 4:13-19). That said, every generation has, in addition to these, its own unique challenges. One significant new challenge is the shift in people’s perception of church. We used to be able to count on people regarding the church as an important institution. Now it’s often quite the opposite – ‘why church?’ Rather than take a defensive posture, we would do better to let the message of the gospel proclaimed by our lips and our lives be its own witness to God’s promise of new creation.

Ramos: It seems that many people of my generation have no idea about The Episcopal Church. We need to be more vocal and tell people about our church and, more importantly, how it is a very different experience. I’ve found that younger people, especially younger Christians, seek new ways to worship. I believe God is moving among us, and our church needs to put ourselves out there especially for this reason.

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Brandon Ramos Ayana Grady Michelle Thomas

Grady: I think that the aging demographics of The Episcopal Church is the greatest challenge that we will face, along with changing priorities and culture. In our fast-paced world, The Episcopal Church may not appeal to everyone, but our church has something unique and meaningful to give. The sacred traditions and history give a depth that not all churches have. I think that it's important for The Episcopal Church to show people who we really are, through personal connections and being genuine in our love and faith. They will know we are Christians by our love.

Thomas: Some of our most beloved, hard-working volunteers are starting to fade. We need to continue to be viable and relevant to younger generations while still holding our beautiful and sacred traditions.

What excites you about our Diocese?

Arp: Being in Southwest Florida excites me because there is such a strong foundation here with a real opportunity to continue moving forward. The amount of talent and passion that exists in this diocese is honestly amazing. Being part of the Bishop Coadjutor Search Committee really gave me the opportunity to get to know more people and viewpoints from around the diocese, and it is all very exciting. I love every chance I get to meet someone new and hear their story.

Burton: As a new member of the Commission on Ministry, I have been privileged to see many of those in our diocese who are at different stages of discerning their call to ordained ministry. Seeing the diverse and faithful people in our diocese who will become future priests and deacons gives me great hope in the future of the church and of our diocese. I’m also excited to be in a time of diocesan transition. While it is bittersweet to be saying goodbye to our Bishop soon, I am excited to be here in time to have a part in the calling of our

next Bishop, who will shape our diocese in the coming years.

Caccese: There is much about the Diocese of Southwest Florida that excites me. It is a healthy, vibrant diocese thanks in large part to good, stable leadership and support from our Bishop. It also focuses on where and how the church is growing in Southwest Florida, instead of lamenting decline. It is also committed to increasing the health of each congregation, which in turn frees the churches of the diocese to work toward the kingdom in their own communities.

Ramos: What excites me about this diocese is how healthy it is. I have heard many clergy talk about how good this place is. I do not take for granted that I am here. Furthermore, this diocese has been incredibly welcoming. The Bishop is an exceedingly faithful and kind person. I also appreciate the rich diversity of our churches. At previous Conventions, I have enjoyed listening to clergy and laity alike share their different theological understandings. I think that openness is a good thing.

Grady: The people are what excite me about this diocese. The kids I see having an emotional breakthrough during prayer stations at summer camp, the members of the Race and Reconciliation Committee fighting to have hope and serve in love despite the ongoing injustices in the world--and at St. John's, seeing the congregation endure in the midst of heartache and loss. There are so many sweet, motivated, spirit-filled people in this diocese that are pursuing their faith and changing the world. We have so much potential, and I can't wait to see what the future holds.

Thomas: I am particularly excited about the election of our new Bishop Coadjutor who will be leading our diocese into the next phase of its existence! I think we are a vibrant, growing diocese with lots of potential, and I am eager to see the what’s coming.

What advice would you give to someone stepping into The Episcopal Church?

Arp: I think the most important thing about joining anything new is to be okay with being uncomfortable while you’re learning and figuring things out. Also, take time to try different things. You might not find your exact right fit on the first try, but your community is out there somewhere. The Episcopal Church functions in some pretty cool ways once you learn more about it; take time to learn as much as you can and don’t be intimidated by people who seem like they know more than you, we’re all figuring it out!

Burton: Everyone comes to the church from a different place. Whether you need to sit in the back pew and sneak out after communion unnoticed, or want to meet everyone at coffee hour, all are welcome. I do always encourage newcomers to find something to get involved with at the church when they’re ready. It can be a great way to get to know other parishioners in a smaller group, and being involved in something helps you dive deeper in your faith formation. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, to have little ones that make a little noise, or to talk to your clergy and welcoming team about what you need to feel at home. We all want to be supportive and loving, to everyone who walks through our doors.

Caccese: Whatever has drawn you to The Episcopal Church, welcome! The Anglican tradition is a wonderfully rich tradition, so don’t be afraid to dig down deep and explore its treasures – you may be surprised what you find! You may also find it helpful to get involved in a small group study or inquirer’s class to help you get to know some fellow pilgrims on the way. The strengths of any tradition, however, should serve the larger goal of nurturing our relationship with God and helping us grow in love of God and neighbor. I hope you’ll find, as I have, that this well-trodden path of devotion does just that.

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What drew you to lead in the diocese?

I started out as a youth leader at my church attending the New Beginnings weekend with my youth group. Eventually I took over New Beginnings as the Lay Director and then started working at summer camp. As I continued to grow in these roles, the people around me drew me deeper and deeper into growing my leadership skills. These people stood behind me and encouraged me in my roles. They allowed me to test ideas and make mistakes all while supporting me. As I have learned more about how the greater church functions, I have continued to step into new roles such as being a delegate to diocesan convention and then the Bishop Coadjutor Search Committee and Diocesan Council. I love the way these experiences push me to grow and be better.

Member, Diocesan Council and Bishop Coadjutor Search Committee Lay Leader, New Beginnings

What drew you to your congregation?

From the time I became involved in the search process at Good Shepherd, this congregation’s heart for one another and for the community has shone through. They love being together for worship, formation, and fellowship and they love welcoming others into the fold. Their love for one another branches out into the community as well. This Parish is involved in many impactful Outreach ministries such as providing affordable furniture to the community, helping with necessary utility bills, feeding ministries for both children and adults, and so much more. They truly live out God’s call to love our neighbor.

Rector, Church of the Good Shepherd, Dunedin

What drew you to your congregation?

I came to Trinity-by-the-Cove in Naples right from seminary having experienced God’s call to this place. From my very first encounter with the parish, I was deeply moved by the idea of a community committed to living into the fullness of our life in Christ through beautiful worship, excellent teaching, warm hospitality and fellowship, and compassionate service to others. It was truly exciting, however, to see this vision lived out on a daily basis in the life of the church.

Associate Rector, Trinity-By-The-Cove, Naples

What drew you to support your church as a vestry member?

I wanted to join the vestry to make meaningful input for St. Catherine’s. I joined, along with others, during a very unpredictable time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We also had the job of finding who God had called to be the rector of St. Catherine’s. I do not doubt that God had intended for my other vestry members and me to be the ones to hear that call for Father James Reho. Even now, I work to bring a perspective from people of my generation. Vestries should have people from many generations and perspectives, and I’m happy to support mine through that lens.

Vestry, St. Catherine of Alexandria, Temple Terrace

What drew you to work in Christian Formation?

I was drawn into Christian Formation primarily because of a lack of Youth Ministry at my church growing up. I had several Youth parents and part time youth leaders come in and out of my life in middle and high school, and I pledged to be someone who stayed when I was older. I didn't really understand the concept of that as a full-time job (since I had never seen that in my church), but I always knew that I wanted to strive to be a positive, stabilizing presence in the lives of young people.

Director of Children, Youth and Family Ministries St. John’s Episcopal Church, Tampa

What drew you to work in church administration?

Katie Arp

The Rev. Whitney Burton

The Rev. Nicholas Caccese

Brandon Ramos

Ayana Grady

I am organized and I love helping people. I’ve always been drawn to church work and multi-generational ministry, first as an organist and choir director in Catholic and Episcopal churches. As the Cathedral Administrator and Associate for Christian Formation, I still find new and creative ways to engage with each parishioner and help the Cathedral thrive in St. Petersburg.

Parish Administrator and Associate for Christian Formation, The Cathedral Church of St. Peter, St. Petersburg

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Michelle Thomas

Ramos: I remember my first-time attending St. Catherine’s and using the ’79 BCP was very confusing. Everything was confusing. My best advice to someone new to the church is that it is okay to be confused. Ask the person next to you for help. We want you to know you are welcome here, you are valuable, you are unique, and your fresh perspectives matter.

Grady: If someone was joining The Episcopal Church, I would encourage them to lean in to what makes The Episcopal Church unique. I spent a lot of time as a young person wishing my church was "cooler" instead of realizing the things that make The Episcopal Church different and beautiful. I'm especially proud that we encourage discourse and are open to new ideas and people. My favorite quote from one of my former Rectors - one that I think applies to many aspects of The Episcopal Church - is "All May, None Must, Some Should"-everyone is welcome, and no one is forced to do things that they don't want to do, but there are things that will stretch and push you in your faith that you should do in order to become the person that God is calling you to be.

Thomas: The liturgy is my favorite part of the church, and our worship is the cornerstone of our identity. Newcomers who have not experienced The Episcopal Church need to not feel afraid to put The Book of Common Prayer down and take in the beauty of it all.

When meditating on the future, what passage or prayer are you called to share?

Arp: "But as for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty." -Matthew 13:23

Whenever I hear this passage, it reminds me that sometimes the best work we can do is lay the strong foundation for someone. While we may

not always get to directly witness the fruits of our labors, we can trust that the experiences that we provide for people can make a positive impact on them in the future. The more positive experiences people have with the church or with people associated with the church the more likely they are to turn back to that later in life. It can be frustrating when people work to grow their church or a specific program but the growth feels slow or people don’t come back. Sometimes we have to rely on the hope that we gave them a strong foundation to come back to when the seeds are ready to sprout.

Burton: "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires." -James 1:19-20.

Caccese: There may be many holy and good principles to guide the church in the years ahead, but the most basic is faithfulness to God. In the present age, we have been entrusted with the message of salvation and set as stewards over the gifts and resources at our disposal. God does not ask us to produce a remarkable return, but to be faithful in the little we have been given. Deep down, we each know that all our strivings are in vain without the affirmation of our heavenly Father: "Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter in the joy of your master." (Matthew 25:23). Every small act of service to God yields lasting dividends – every little act of faithfulness brings joy to our Maker. We can all be faithful over a little. By God’s grace, may it be so.

Ramos: "After this I looked, and there was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, robed in white, with palm branches in their hands. They cried out in a loud voice, saying, 'Salvation belongs to our God who is seated on the throne, and

to the Lamb!' And all the angels stood around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, singing, 'Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen." - Revelation 7:9-12

I always think about these verses whenever I reflect on the church. All people, from all cultures, languages, and places, are called to be a part of God’s kingdom. Every time we see someone different from us, we need to remember that they too are a reflection of God’s image. God values differences.

Grady: As we move forward in humility and faith, I'm reminded of one of my favorite Bible passages--2 Timothy 2:20- 21 (Message paraphrase): "In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets— some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing."

Thomas: I’m particularly drawn to the works of George Herbert, and the last stanza of Hymn 382 seems fitting: "Seven whole days, not one in seven, I will praise thee; in my heart, though not in heaven, I can raise thee; Small it is in this poor sort to enroll thee; e’en eternity’s too short to extoll thee."

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