4. Honorary Chair, UBE Board of Directors, The Right Rev. Carl Walter Wright

The Right Reverend Carl Walter Wright

Greetings Brothers, Sisters, Siblings and All, As Honorary Board Chair of the Union of Black Episcopalians and as a son of Baltimore, Maryland I am especially delighted to welcome you to the 54th anniversary of our Union. When composing this message the thought occurred to me how often I use the words “food” and “fun” when praying and blessing our times together. But on this occasion I’ve decided to add another “fellowship!” When we come together as Union each year, while it is true that we look forward to our food and fun, but it is our fellowship that gives us the strength we need to continue to do the work of fighting for justice. It is our fellowship that keeps us going; our fellowship that draws our fellow Episcopalians to our ranks. It is our strong bond of fellowship that, in spite of the criticism of naysayers, allows us to endure. And, if I may say so it is our enduring fellowship that makes us an invaluable gift to the Episcopal Church. Particularly in these pandemic and war stricken times, we thank God for this Union and the myriad ministries we have accomplished; and for this Church whose ministry to us daughters and sons of Africa endures. As we meet and greet, let us remember those sacred words from Anthony Johnson Showalter’s hymn: “What a fellowship, what a joy divine, leaning on [God’s] everlasting arms!”

Again, welcome. I pray that you will enjoy the fruits of the labors of our indefatigable President, the Very Rev. Kim L. Coleman and the many Union members who have made this week possible. Faithfully,

Carl Walter Wright

VII Bishop Suffragan for the Armed Forces and Federal Ministries