diocesan staff changes

“Changes” is one of the late artist David Bowie’s most iconic songs. His stuttered vocals (“Ch-Ch-Changes”) are some of the most famous stutters in rock music. In fact, if you know the song, you’re probably singing it right now - so you’re welcome! The song’s lyrics include lines such as,

            Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes

            Turn and face the strange
            Ch-ch-changes

            Don't tell them to grow up and out of it

I’ve always liked the song because it boldly pushes the listener toward the future and not away from it. Bowie insists on embracing the reality of change rather than the denial of it as we “turn and face the strange.”

Frankly, I think this is actually great discipleship strategy. As Christians we trust Jesus, the author, pioneer and finisher of our faith, who goes ahead of us and calls us to follow him into a future that is totally secure and yet which can sometimes (often?) feel disorienting. With joy and a twinkle in his eyes, I can envision our Lord saying, “Come follow me - turn and face the strange…"

I want to announce to you a couple of ch-ch-changes to our diocesan staff.

I’m sad to announce that the Reverend Greg Hampton is stepping down from his role as the Canon to the Ordinary (Bishop's Canon). Over the past year Greg provided excellent support and thoughtful and strategic leadership to our diocesan team. Due to personal reasons, Greg has decided to retire from his role as Canon effective at the end of January.

I’m pleased to announce that Canon Tuck Bartholomew will be increasing in his diocesan role. I have appointed Tuck to be Canon for Mission and Ministry. In this new role, he will still oversee church planting and the Great Commission Committee. However, he will also serve as the primary clergy associate to the Bishop, aiding in my role as Senior Pastor and CEO of the Diocese. This position functions as Chief of Staff, providing leadership and oversight in mission, leadership development, clergy and congregational care. I'm excited to see the ways that God will use Canon Tuck in this expanded leadership capacity. 

Blessings,

+Chris