Dean's Message fir July 2, 2026

Author:
July 08, 2026

Beloveds,
Hello from Camp!
As you read this week's eNews, I am serving alongside Ashley Ozan, our Children, Family & Cathedral Life Minister, as Camp Deans for the Intermediate Session at St. Crispin's. This has become a beloved tradition for us over the years, and it is one of the highlights of my summer.

Please keep the St. Crispin's staff, counselors, and campers in your prayers this week and as they continue to serve throughout the summer. There is something sacred about watching young people step away from their daily routines and encounter God through worship, friendship, laughter, nature, and community. It has been especially meaningful to have so many St. Paul's children with us this session, as well as many others who are attending different camp sessions throughout the summer. The future of the Church is bright, and camp is one of the places where faith is nurtured in unforgettable ways!

As I write from camp, I also want to encourage you not to miss one of the most unique and exciting events in the life of our cathedral this summer: Stars, Stripes, & Pipes, this Friday, July 3, at 6:00 p.m.

This special service of readings and music will commemorate our nation's 250th anniversary in a way that is distinctly St. Paul's—thoughtful, inspiring, and rooted in gratitude. Drawing on the beloved Lessons and Carols tradition, the evening will weave together foundational American documents, historic speeches, poetry, and literature with patriotic music performed by organist Joseph Ripka, soloist Paul Laurence Fletcher, and the magnificent St. Paul's organ.

In a time when it can be easy to focus on our divisions, this gathering invites us to reflect on the ideals, hopes, and aspirations that have shaped our nation and continue to call us forward. It will be an evening of remembrance, gratitude, music, and community.

I'll be slipping away from camp for a few hours to return to Oklahoma City and be with you for this special event before heading back to St. Crispin's. I wouldn't want to miss it, and I hope you won't either. I look forward to seeing many of you there.

Whether you are spending this holiday weekend with family, friends, or fellow parishioners, know that I am grateful for each of you and for the many ways you help make St. Paul's a place of welcome, worship, learning, and belonging.

As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day this week, I leave you with this prayer from the Book of Common Prayer:
Lord God Almighty, in whose Name the founders of this country won liberty for themselves and for us, and lit the torch of freedom for nations then unborn: Grant that we and all the people of this land may have grace to maintain our liberties in righteousness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.


Faithfully,

The Very Reverend Katie Churchwell +
15th Dean, St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral

 

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