Bishop Search: Reflection and Impressions

Today’s post is another in a series of reflections and impressions from members of the Search & Nomination Committee and Transition Committee. This post is from Grace Swinski, a member of the Transition Committee and a member of St. Paul’s, Pawtucket. For more information visit www.episcopalrisearch.org

Transition, as defined in Webster’s dictionary, means movement, passage or change from one position. This, my friends, is so true. I have been honored to serve on this committee with an interesting group of Episcopalians who hail from all over the state. The beginning stages of this group have been extremely interesting and a lot of fun. I have always enjoyed meeting others from the diocese who have the passion to be involved.

There are so many new terms to learn. I mean what is a “walkabout”? Does one prepare for a consecration or ordination? The first few months (we have been meeting since June), we have been in a holding pattern on places and dates. But as the winter progresses so has the excitement of actual site visits for some of the events. I have been on some wonderful field trips to see some wonderful Episcopal places in our small but beautiful state. The committee is trying to be thoughtful about finding venues in each part of the state.

The walkabout is basically a Q&A session with the candidates for bishop. All congregations and delegates are invited to attend. We had been looking at many churches to see which had space. One afternoon I was driving to a church in question to see if the space would work for this event. I went with blind faith and hoped that the church would be open, but if not at least I would peer in the windows to get a basic idea.

When I arrived at the church, at first it looked like only the Holy Spirit was home. But as I went to the rear of the building I noticed a car parked near a door. I knocked and, yes, it was answered!! A lovely gentleman opened the door. He and two other were finishing up their day’s ministry of working in the “coat closet.” With great pleasure they told me about their ministry there — how they give all items free to people in need. I was also given a tour of the space and saw all the exciting things happening in the church. I explained to them about the process of transition and how this was an exciting time. As I was listening to their stories about the “closet” I couldn’t help but think about the transitions they help people with each day.

Items have been posted about the places of some events, and I hope all will stay as planned. I look forward to the coming months and working with my committee and helping the new bishop transition in Rhode Island