PROCLAMING THE GOOD NEWS ON THE PLAINS!
PRAIRIE SPIRIT Spring/Summer 2018
FROM THE BISHOP
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“But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent?” (Romans 10:14). When a new bishop is elected there is always a renewed sense of what the future holds for a diocese. We of Western Kansas are no different. You have elected a person to lead us into the future. But what will that future hold? There are several significant challenges that Mark Cowell, our bishop-elect, will confront. One of which is finding adequate priests and deacons to serve the diocese beyond Salina and Hutchinson. The General Convention of the Episcopal Church created what would become the Diocese of Western Kansas (originally the Missionary District of Salina) in 1901, and for 117 years we have faced three major challenges: too few clergy, too few people, too few dollars. But, after 117 years Western Kansas has been able to continue to rise to the challenge. We have ministered the Sacraments to our people; offered pastoral care to all who asked; proclaimed the Good News of Jesus in congregations both great and small. I can’t help but believe that God has a plan for our diocese! Sometimes we may feel like Moses in the wilderness, but we know God had a plan for Moses and the Hebrew people. Maybe our ministry right now is to continue the pilgrimage. Like a Sunday morning procession, our pilgrimage follows the cross of Jesus. We are called to proclaim him whom we follow. But, as St. Paul reminds us: “…how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? How are they to proclaim him unless they are sent?” In the not too distant future, Western Kansas will be faced with a severe shortage of clergy. We must begin today to confront that shortage and find ways to lift up men and women for the ministries of priest and deacon in our diocese. For the most part these will be non-stipendiary, part-time clergy who will serve in their local communities and congregations. The call to the ordained ministry is not for everyone. It is a call that is tested and examined by the candidate, the Church, and Christ. It is a call to a special and unique ministry of servanthood. It is a call to share the life, the Good News, and the joy and love to those whom you may be called to serve. If anyone thinks they might want to explore a call to ordained ministry, the first step would be to have a conversation with your local priest or deacon. Or you could make an appointment to come and see me, or Bishop-elect Mark Cowell. (contd)
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The process from inquiry to ordination may take 3-5 years, or more. This is a time of discernment and education. The discernment part will involve a lot of conversations with your Lord, your Spiritual Director, and your bishop. It is the beginning of an examination of call and ministry that will continue for the rest of your life. The educational process may also take 3-5 years depending on the process used. We encourage all our candidates (if they cannot attend a residential seminary) to participate in the Bishop Kemper School for Ministry Program (BKSM). In a nutshell, this is 3 years of 1 weekend a month for 10 months at the campus in Topeka. I am well aware that the drive to Topeka from Western Kansas to BKSM can be 4-6 hours each way. However, BKSM is also implementing some distance learning programs that would reduce the number of times one would need to be in residence. However, I would encourage candidates to be “in residence” as much as possible. Why? In residence you begin to see just how large, and complex and beautiful our Church is. You work and study with men and women whose views and perceptions will be different from yours, and you will learn from each other. In residence you make new friends who will walk with you in ministry, supporting one another in good times and bad. The BKSM experience is not the only option for education and other options could be discussed with the bishop and the Commission on Ministry. If you would like to hear a little more about BKSM, just contact one of the graduates in the diocese or check the BSKMS website. They would be happy to share their insights. Do you feel the tugging of the Spirit? The gentle whisper of God calling you to the ordained ministry? There is only one way to find out, and that is to begin to explore that call. Talk to your local priest. Call me or the bishop-elect. Let’s talk! Are you the one to be sent? Sent into the future of Western Kansas? Yours in Christ, Bishop Milliken
The Rev. Mark Cowell Elected as the Sixth Bishop It took only one ballot to elect the Mark Cowell as the Sixth Bishop of the Diocese of Western Kansas! The other two nominees were the Rev. Mary J. Korte, Rector of St. Stephen’s, Wichita, and the Rev. Jonathan Singh, clinical manager of St. Leonard’s Hospice in York, England. The electing convention was held at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Hays. Cowell, a lawyer who once prosecuted gang members in Dodge City, Kansas, is the Vicar of Saints Mary and St. Martha of Bethany in Larned, Kansas, and Holy Nativity, Kinsley. He will continue to serve both churches after his consecration.
Bishop-elect Mark Cowell is pictured with his wife Julie
The Bishop-elect’s wife, Julie, is a district magistrate judge, and they are parents to three children: Gabriel, Cathleen and Gryffin. The Cowell family has lived in Larned since 1996.
After the bishop-elect receives the canonically required consent of a majority of the Episcopal Church’s diocesan standing committees and bishops with jurisdiction, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry will consecrate the new bishop Dec. 1, 2018. The Delegates of the Election sign the Testimony of Election to make it official.
September 22, 2018 Celebration of Ministry for The Rt. Rev. Michael Milliken Gella's Diner & Lb. Brewing Co. Hays, KS 3:00—6:00 p.m.
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From The Bishop-Elect Earlier this Spring, I attended a conference in Camp Allen Texas with other leaders of the diocese. The conference was Project Resource 2.0 and is put on by the College For Bishops. One of the things that we discussed at the conference was recognizing that each generation has a different point of view or a different lens through which they view the world. For example, Millennials view things differently than baby boomers, and differently than generation Xers. As a result, each generation responds differently even to similar situations. One of the reasons that this occurs is because each generation has their own common experiences that define it, different things that have happened collectively to that generation that shape their view of the world. For example, the greatest generation was shaped by the events in World War 2 and the dramatic increase in prosperity that followed. Baby boomers had the sweeping social changes in the 60’s. Perhaps the Generation Xer’s had 9-11, but each generation had particular events that shaped that generation. The point the conference presenters were trying to make is that in order to relate to each different generation, it is important to understand the lens through which that generation views the world. This is true for any group of people. One works with and relates to the group better when one understands the events and experiences common to that group, and understands that group’s point of view. Western Kansans have their own point of view that I think is in part a product of common pioneer stock, and the continued struggle that our communities face from trying to live off the land. We are independent, and we get things done with or without the “proper” equipment. We don’t like a lot of governmental interference getting in the way, nor do we like a lot of rules. We belong to our towns, and to our families. We tend to stick to our own business, and we expect others to stick to theirs. But if we encounter someone in need, we do not hesitate to help. It is through this last trait, through this hospitality that I see us going forward. Everywhere that I have been invited to go in this diocese, and I have been lucky enough to have been invited in by many church families, I have been welcomed. The welcome was not just for me. I have witnessed the hospitality we have for others all over this diocese. I have watched each and every church invite others into their churches, into their families, and into their lives. Whether we are doing a youth event at the Cathedral, a convention in Colby, a wedding in Hays, or a funeral in Meade, we respond with hospitality. Make no mistake. The strength of the Diocese of Western Kansas is not in our buildings. It is not our fancy churches, (although we have some gems on the prairie!). Our strength is not places or things. Our strength is our people, and the love of God they reflect for each other. It is in our hospitality. Our strength is in all the good people, and in the hospitality and warmth we share with others. Our strength is our people because the people of Western Kansas understand how to care for one another in need, how to build each other up, how to treat your neighbor with dignity. I have seen this in the clean up efforts and support for the survivors of the Greensburg tornado. I have seen it in the helping hands when there are crop failures and drought. I have seen it after wildfires. I watched good people treating guests and each other with hospitality, with care and with love. I watched good people inviting others to eat with them, break bread with them, share a story, or a shoulder or a blanket or even a roof when needed. In Garden City, when the planes were grounded on 9-11, the people who live in Western Kansas fed the passengers and crew. That is exactly what God invites us to do! God invites us to be in relationship with Him, to come to Him to receive the benefits of His hospitality, His abundance, His comfort, His love, and then to invite others into that relationship as well. Invite them in and show them the same hospitality, the same abundance, the same love and the same comfort. The same hospitality. The strength of this diocese is in the hospitality of our good people, and it is on this strength that we are going to build up His church. We are going to invite people into relationship. We are going to invite people into our churches. We are going to invite people into our church families. We are going to invite them regardless of how they appear, or who they know, or what they wear, or the color of their skin. Then we are going to care for them with same hospitality with which God cares for us. That is our calling, to be God’s hands in the world, inviting in and caring for and sharing the hospitality. We are not going to have all the programs that bigger dioceses have. We are not going to have the trappings and the titles and the things with which some of them are blessed. We won’t, but we will get the job done just the same. We will do it our way, with God’s help. Peace and love to you all, Bishop-Elect Mark Cowell
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ECW—Our One Word On April 6-7, Women from the Diocese of Kansas and all over the Diocese of Western Kansas gathered for an Our One Word Retreat with Martha Bourlakas. Our One Word was Cultivate. We dug deep into how that word was significant to us and our lives. We shared prayers, personal stories, laughter and temporary tattoos! You can see all the photos on our Flickr page at : https://www.flickr.com/photos/89892904@N06/albums/72157689700143070
Dean Installed at Christ Cathedral
Deacon Georgia Decker Retires
The Very Reverend David Hodges was installed as the 18th dean of Christ Cathedral in Salina, Kansas, during a special service on April 26. Bishop Michael Milliken, performed the installation.
Deacon Decker’s last service before her retirement was at Grace Episcopal Church in Hutchinson on April 29. A celebration was held after services. Bishop Milliken presented Georgia with a retirement purse collected from around the diocese. Bishop Milliken also presented her with a certificate officially giving her the title of Archdeacon Emeritus of Western Kansas for her many years of selfless service. Georgia was ordained as a deacon in November of 2003. Deacon Georgia has moved to Wichita where she can be closer to her family. We wish her many
Fr. Hodges is also president of The Saint Francis Foundation and Chief Development Officer for Saint Francis Community Services. Prior to his January 1 appointment to dean, he served for 10 months as provost of Christ Cathedral. ECW PRESIDENT STEPS DOWN Our ECW President, Ms. Lana Mederos has moved to Texas to be closer to her family. A celebration of her ministry took place on May 24th. Keeping Lana in our prayers as she starts a new chapter of her life!
Congratulations To all those who have graduated High School and College. May your future be full of blessings!
Successful Easter Egg hunt at St. Cornelius in Dodge City.
All wise, all loving God, we thank you for all your gifts to us; for making us, for saving us in Christ, for calling us to be your people. Look with love on our graduates and bless them . May your Spirit give them many skills and talents and help them to use these gifts for your glory and for the good of all people. In your kindness, guide them along paths that are level and smooth. We ask these blessings through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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The Rev. John Seatvet Installed as Rector at St. Cornelius In a service on June 2, The Rev John Seatvet was installed as rector of St. Cornelius in Dodge City, by the Rt. Rev. Michael Milliken. Fr. John has been serving as the Interim Priest since November of 2017. Prayers and Blessings for Fr. John’s new calling.
(Left to Right) The Rev. John Seatvet, Bishop Milliken and Rev. Jeff Mitchell
Dear friends, The Diocese of Western Kansas has become such a wonderful family of people. You welcomed me and helped me grow. Thank you so much for your support. I may be now living in the Eastern Diocese, but will always be a member of Western Kansas. I am so grateful for all of you and hope to see you at future gatherings. Thanks so much!
Father Brian Viel and Deacon Joe Withrow at St. Mark’s in Lyons on Ash Wednesday.
Georgia Decker
Restored Window Blessed By Bishop When Bishop Milliken visited St. Paul's in Goodland on February 17, he also blessed the restored stained glass window that was damaged last year due to large hailstones . In the picture long-time member, John Golden explains to Bishop Milliken the work that was done.
Bishop Milliken was at All Saints in Pratt with Mother Karen Lemon, on March 25. He confirmed William and Gale Voss, Leo Egging, Abigail Farmer and Sarah Skaggs.
Fr. Don Martin and Bishop Milliken are pictured with Emily Molstad who was received on February 18, during Bishop Milliken’s visitation.
Deacon George Martin and Rev. Basil Price are pictured with Bishop Milliken during his visitation to St. John’s in Great Bend on February 11th.
“Love God. Love your neighbors. And while you’re at it, love yourself.” -Presiding Bishop Michael Curry
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London, Canterbury and Dublin We are excited to let you know about a nineday trip to London, Canterbury and Dublin planned for 2019. We will depart May 31, 2019, from Wichita. Once arriving in London, we will tour many of the major sites in the city. A highlight of this trip will be participating in an Evensong Choral service at Canterbury Cathedral! The itinerary will include open time to allow you the freedom of exploring sites you want to on your own or with a group of other people. After spending several days in London, we will travel through Wales. A ferry ride to Dublin where we will tour St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the city. We will depart Dublin arriving back in Wichita. The cost of the trip includes airfare as well as lodging and most meals. The goal of this adventure is for fellowship while exploring sites important to the Anglican Church. Although we hope to have many people from the Diocese of Western Kansas participate in the trip, anyone can join us this trip, all are truly welcome. If you are interested and need more information please contact Fr. Bill Waln at fr.billwaln@gmail.com or Todd Ray at tsray@sbcglobal.net. An information meeting is tentatively being scheduled to be held at St. Cornelius’ in Dodge City on Saturday, June 23, starting at 10:00 am. If you plan on attending that meeting, please contact Fr. Bill or Mr. Todd
Ladies of St. John's (Ulysses) luncheon. Deloris Underhill, Evelyn Hacker, Mother Carolyn Ballinger, and Julie Meier
In March youth from Dodge City and Larned and their sponsors went on a Pilgrimage to England. They are pictured here in front of Leeds Castle.
GENERAL CONVENTION 2018 The 79th General Convention of the Episcopal Church, in Austin, Texas, is less than a month away. Bishop Milliken and Kathy along with our Deputies will be representing our Diocese at the General Convention, July 4th—13th. Harry Smith From Salina will be going as a Convention Volunteer. Please keep these folks in your prayers. You can keep up with the Convention at the website: http://www.generalconvention.org/
Rev. Carolyn Ballinger
Rev. Mark Cowell
Rev. Karen Lemon
Rev. Randy McIntosh
Julie Cowell
Sally Russell
Pam Smith
Harvetta Von Fange
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CURATE CALLED TO CHRIST CATHEDRAL Christ Cathedral’s Dean, the Very Rev. David Hodges, would like to formally announce that The Rev. Shay Craig has accepted his offer to become the Cathedral’s Curate. Shay is currently working on the bishop’s staff in the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago as the associate for resource development. In that role, she has served as a consultant to churches of the diocese and as a fundraiser for the bishop. Shay earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Illinois at Urbana and attended Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, IL. She was ordained a deacon earlier this year and, God willing, she will be ordained to the priesthood on June 16 at the cathedral in Chicago. Shay has deep roots in western Kansas where her family has owned a ranch in Clark County since 1901. She has four children: a son, Sam, and a daughter, Caden, who live in Chicago; a daughter, Emma, who lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota; and a daughter, Jamie, who will be joining Shay in Salina and attending Central High School. Shay and her daughter, Jamie will be moving to Salina at the end of June and her first Sunday with us will be July 1. Please
Young acolytes during Palm Sunday Services at St. Thomas in Garden City.
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Diocesan Calendar July 1-14: General Convention in Austin, TX. July 21: Diocesan Council/Standing Committee/ Commission on Ministry Meeting at St. Michaels, Hays. July 22:: Bishop Visitation St. Andrew’s-Rural Hays August 5: Bishop’s Visitation St. Thomas –Garden City August 21-29: Bishop Milliken & Kathy on Vacation September 7-9: Bishop to BSKSM- teaching weekend September 22: Bishop’s Retirement Party-Hays September 29: Bishop to Diocese of Kansas October 6: Western Kansas Clergy Day October 18-20: Diocesan Convention: Salina
Bishop Milliken and Kathy spent Pentecost with the folks at Grace Church in Hutchinson.Ava Waln, Thaddeaus Blakley, Morgan Hixson, Kai French, Ame Baldridge, Robyn Longhofer and Angelica Primeaux were confirmed and Christin Schneider and Daryl Robbins were received. A Pentecost cookout followed the service on May 20th.
Lord God Almighty, in whose Name the founders of this country won liberty for themselves and for us, and lit the torch of freedom for nations then unborn: Grant that we and all the people of this land may have grace to maintain our liberties in righteousness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen
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