This synod marks a new beginning on September 1 as Bishop Julie Schneider-Thomas begins her service and celebrates this new beginning on September 13 as she is installed as bishop. It’s Easter, Pentecost, and Reformation Day all rolled into one.
As I describe in my book, When God Speaks through Change, beginning anew is not like flicking a light switch. The new beginning occurs when people develop the new identity, experience the new energy, and discover the new direction and sense of purpose that make the change begin to work. Some have been in this place since May; others will need a while longer to get there because they might need time to incorporate and embrace new understandings, new attitudes, new values, and new identities.
Truth be told, as much as we want to want new beginnings, often we do not. More precisely, we want new beginnings to happen but fear them at the same time. New beginning triggers old anxieties, involves a risk, conjures nostalgia, and ends what was for some the pleasant experience of the liminal strand.
We cannot assume that new beginnings will wonderfully unfold all on their own. Each of us must carefully consider how we will participate in them. Here are four things you can consider doing: (1) attend Bishop Schneider-Thomas’s installation on September 13. (2) Pray for Bishop Schneider-Thomas, her family, and the team she is gathering around her. (3) Pray for and exercise the gift of patience. (4) Put the best construction on things.
September brings a new beginning for people I care deeply about: Rebecca Bossenbroek, Chrisy Bright, Ann Stavros, Kjersten Sullivan, Cathy, and Chelsey Satterlee. I honor them for their service. I cherish them as colleagues, companions, and friends. I will do everything I can to assist them as they move forward.
September brings a new beginning for me. I am honored to preach and preside for the final time as bishop at Prince of Peace in Portage on August 17. That week I will also turn in the car, crozier, cross, and keys, and hopefully head Up North to spend some time with Jesus. I will bid the synod farewell and Godspeed on my August 24 Take One video.
Then it’s off to visit Mickey, Donald, and Goofy before heading home to begin something new. I’m excited. I’m afraid. And I pray that your new beginning is as life-giving as I expect mine to be.
The peace of Christ be with you always!
The Rev. Craig Alan Satterlee, Ph.D.