We Are the Branches

Women of the Diocese met for the Crazy Quilt Conversations Retreat in November of 2012. At that time, it was determined that a mission statement and plan for going forward to empower, support, and grow women’s ministry in the Diocese was important. To further that goal, a focus group of interested women from across the Diocese met at the Cathedral on February 10 for discussion. We started by sharing whether we were a grape leaf, tendril, fruit, or branch based on John 15.

The most important item of the meeting was formulating a mission statement. This was distilled to read: “The mission of the Women of the Diocese of the Rio Grande is to empower all women in their diverse Christian ministries.” Implementing this mission will include communication of opportunities and ways to welcome women from all demographics. Several ideas for future retreats were considered, including online (watch for something after Easter) and leadership workshops. Bishop Barbara Harris will be here on Pentecost weekend (more info to follow). Mark your calendars for the Mind, Body, Spirit Retreat on June 21-22 in Taos and Abide, the second annual retreat at the Bosque Center on November 9-10. Plans for events in 2014 are already starting, too. Check the blog calendar and watch for info in e-newsletters. If you aren't receiving the info, it's because we don't have your email. Send that to Cindy to be added.

Already women across the diocese are coming together for exciting events like the many Lenten retreats offered around the diocese this year. One of these was organized by Dean Peggy Patterson at Holy Faith in Santa Fe. Over 80 Episcopal, Presbyterian, and Roman Catholic ladies gathered on February 9 to hear Deborah Smith Douglas and soak in a day of absolute quiet in the Lord during the Deep Peace and High Anxiety: Pray, Love, Remember day.