Dean's Message for July 31, 2025

Author:
July 30, 2025

After ten full and beautiful days in the United Kingdom, I am so very glad to be home with you again.

Our time in Ripon and Liverpool was more than just a journey across the ocean—it was a pilgrimage through the deep and sacred history of our Anglican tradition. To walk and touch the worn stones of cathedrals that have stood for centuries, where countless generations have worshiped, prayed, and sung, was profoundly humbling.

My heart is full—full of gratitude for the memories made and the friendships deepened. And I cannot say enough how incredibly proud I am of our Choristers. Their voices rang out in spaces ancient and holy, carrying our story, our music, and our faith across the miles. They served with grace, focus, and joy, and I know they carried each of you with them in spirit. You were with us in every note, every song.

Thank you for your prayers, your encouragement, and your steadfast presence while we were away. I return renewed by the experience and eager for the days ahead with you.

I leave you this week with a prayer for our journey together, from the Book of Common Prayer (p. 832):
For the Future of the Human Race
O God our heavenly Father, you have blessed us and given us dominion over all the earth: Increase our reverence before the mystery of life; and give us new insight into your purposes for the human race, and new wisdom and determination in making provision for its future in accordance with your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

The Very Reverend Katie Chuchwell +, 15th Dean, St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

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