An early autumn evening set the scene for a remarkable event in the Diocese of Central Florida, as nearly 200 people gathered on Oct. 16 to watch and discuss a film dramatically portraying a vibrant contrast between theism and atheism. Several churches in the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida, including All Saints, Winter Park; the…
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During the Requiem Eucharist for the Rt. Rev. Dr. Dabney T. Smith on Nov. 11 at the Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Orlando, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin S. Holcomb, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida, pointed out that everyone in attendance, regardless of position or responsibility, was there for the same reason:…
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Dear Survivors of Abuse, News of abuse can stir up echoes of past wounds, drawing painful memories to the forefront for survivors. We understand that this painful remembering can bring feelings of powerlessness and a sense of being overwhelmed. With this in mind, we write to offer care and comfort, reminding you of the love…
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This fall, two deaneries hosted events designed to equip clergy and laity for mission and ministry in the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida. Organized by their respective deans, the Very Rev. Deke Miller of the Southwest Deanery, vicar of Holy Cross, Winter Haven; and the Rev. Dr. Porter Taylor, former dean of the Southeast Deanery…
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In the original Greek, Ephesians 1:3-14 is one long and elegant sentence that gathers momentum until it reaches a crescendo. The writer, the apostle Paul, is exuberant that the triune God initiated and accomplished our redemption and reconciliation for “the praise of his glory” (v. 14). In this passage, there are at least 30 references…
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The Rev. Darin Metz was ordained into the Sacred Order of the Priesthood on Sept. 22 in a service held at Church of the Incarnation, Oviedo. The Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin S. Holcomb presided, and the Rev. Dr. Rob Lord, retired associate priest, Emmanuel, Orlando, preached. Metz was one of seven in the Episcopal Diocese of…
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Why would an always-busy bishop from the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida travel all the way to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, for more than a week? For the Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin S. Holcomb, the answer revolves around just two essentials: promises and people. Both drove his participation and leadership in the recent Anglican Safe Church and…
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It began in 1885 as a small group Bible study led by Maggie Franklin, a young wife and mother living in New York, who believed that the women in her church could come together for more than potlucks or sewing circles or charity bazaars. She thought women could encourage each other to grow closer to…
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As coordinator for New Beginnings weekend, the Rev. Kevin Bartle, rector of St. Mary of the Angels, Orlando, and one of three diocesan youth ministry coordinators, never wants the youth in attendance to concern themselves with keeping a schedule. That’s his job. Instead, he wants them to focus on only one thing: getting to know…
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Quiet pathways. Serene waters, broken by the splash of an occasional fish or water bird. Lush wooded areas. Precious fellowship with other followers of Christ, often accompanied by delicious meals. Times of reflection, worship and praise. Such are some of the many moments and memories of what for many in the Episcopal Diocese of Central…
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