I am so glad to welcome Bishop John Stephens to St. John’s this week, which in many ways feels like a sort of homecoming. However, though it is hard to believe, this is actually his very first episcopal visit with us.

‘Episcopal’ is a bit of a funny word and refers to the function and ministry of a bishop. Now you can use it at your next scrabble tournament with confidence!

Perhaps this visit is a good opportunity to learn and reflect a little bit about bishops, one of the three “orders” in the church (along with deacons and priests). 

Not all churches have bishops, and not all churches that have bishops think about or use them in the same way. However, bishops are pretty important to the self-understanding and organization of the Anglican Church. This is so much the case that Anglican churches in some parts of the world are called “Episcopal” churches. 

In the Anglican Church, bishops have a special authority and ministry that primarily has to do with unity and oversight. However, they are more than just an administrator or CEO. In our tradition, they are understood to be in succession with the apostles, connecting us to the Church that spans both time and space. Interestingly, they are directly mentioned (along with deacons) in the scriptures before any reference or understanding of a Christian priesthood (1 Timothy). 

Bishops are the ones that are charged with the sacraments of ordination – making new priests, deacons and bishops; as well as confirmation. They are also directly connected to every baptism and the anointing of the sick and dying, as they are the ones who bless and consecrate the holy oils for these activities. 

Bishops are the chief pastor, the chief evangelist, the chief shepherd of a diocese, and so, I work for the bishop and not for parish (a nuance that is different than in some other denominations). I am here, serving you, celebrating the Eucharist, teaching, preaching, baptizing, and doing all the other fun things I am honoured and delighted to be charged with, because Bishop John is not able to himself.

Being episcopally organized isn’t a perfect system. It has both its advantages and disadvantages. However, I am grateful to be able to work and walk alongside these, our imperfect, very human siblings in Christ, who have responded to the calling of the Holy Spirit and the Church, to fill this important, episcopal role in the many-membered body of Christ. I bless them, and I invite you to do the same, as they do their best to serve Christ in their lives and ministries.

Thanks be to God!


CG+