Current Events

Around the Diocese



Sunday of II Advent

The Sunday of II Advent was spent with those of St. James’ Chapel in Marion and St. Andrew’s Church in Carbondale. Saturday evening’s Vigil Mass was offered within the beautiful Chapel of St. James. Bishop Burgess took time before the service to meet with a local contractor and Don Monty of St. Andrew’s in Carbondale in the interest of articulating plans for moving forward with evangelical zeal in the fastest growing county in Illinois. This beautifully appointed chapel is a true treasure containing many well-placed memorials ready to be brought forward into a promising future.

 

Sunday morning was observed before the altar of St. Andrew’s in Carbondale. This leading parish has been through a great many challenges lately that have required much of their capable leadership, including the collapse of their interior ceiling within the Nave. Two “duly prepared” candidates were presented to Bishop Burgess for Confirmation. Fr. Jerry Anderson and a few of the parishioners had traveled to Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, Virginia where Fr. Anderson was being recognized by his alma mater for exceptional work done in the mission field among AIDS victims and the LGBT community. The Mass was beautifully offered while inviting prayer for continued faithful stewardship on this, their Consecration Sunday. Evidence of this parish’s Outreach priorities was seen in the placement of collection baskets for food, socks, and other items needed to sustain others within their immediate community. A delicious reception was offered upon Dismissal in thanksgiving for this parish’s faithful stewards, in recognition of the two who were Confirmed, and as a welcome to Bishop Brian and Denise Burgess.


posted 12/10/2024

Visit of Saint Nicholas of Myra

In Compliance with Article II, Section 3 of our Constitution, Bishop Burgess extended permission to Nicholas of Myra to arrive in Springfield in the interest of visiting the children of our Diocesan Cathedral, who are the delight of his heart. Bishop Nicholas’ travel schedule allowed for his appearance during the St. Nicholas Christmas Market, which was held throughout the Cathedral on The Feast of St. Andrew on Saturday, November 30th.


posted 12/3/2024

The Eve of Thanksgiving

The Eve of Thanksgiving was spent with the saints of St. Barnabas’ Church in Havana. This beautiful campus is wonderful to behold during the day and spectacular at night. A well-maintained rectory, beautifully illumined Carpenter Gothic church, and inviting parish hall that places at its center worship, evangelism, and faithful stewardship. The Holy Mysteries were reverently offered before their historic altar with their vicar Fr. Dante Anglin standing as Celebrant. St. Barnabas' is entering into the liturgical season of Advent this year with a greater attentiveness toward expectation as Fr. and Mrs. Anglin are expecting twins.


How lovely is thy dwelling place, O Lord of Hosts, to me!

My thirsty soul desires and longs within thy courts to be;

my very heart and flesh cry out, O living God, for thee.


(Hymn 517

Words: Paraphrase of Psalm 84)


posted 11/28/2024

Last Sunday After Pentecost

The Last Sunday after Pentecost was spent with the vibrant mission church congregation of St. Michael’s in O’Fallon. St. Michael’s is where the Diocese turns toward when we seek leaders to bid the weak be strong. Built in 1999 after meeting in a communicant’s basement and then sharing space with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) in O’Fallon, this congregation is now in its 25th year within their most inviting church. Existing a short distance from the gates of Scott Air Force Base, St. Michael’s understands mission, remaining mission oriented and sacrificing for mission success. Their constant reach beyond themselves has its inception in well-offered liturgy, a robust musical offering, and a priority for hospitality that is quite authentic. Bishop Burgess Confirmed Mr. Robert Paul Henderson, preached the Homily, celebrated the Holy Mysteries, and led an adult forum on his recent trip to the Anglican Diocese of Tabora in Tanzania. Keep your eye on the youth of this congregation who are actively engaged in worship, fellowship, outreach, and Christian education as the means of growing in grace together.


Kingdom theology is being encountered and lived before the altar of St. Michael’s in O’Fallon. “As I watched, . . .” (Daniel 7:9)

posted 11/26/2024

Twenty-sixth Sunday After Pentecost

The Twenty-sixth Sunday after Pentecost was spent with the saints of St. Mary’s in Robinson.  This historic schoolhouse at the threshold to the entire community is beautifully appointed for all sacred usages. St. Mary’s made a tremendous statement of hospitality by placing welcome bags on each table during our 147th Annual Synod of this Diocese, containing candies from the Hershey chocolate plant just up the highway. Excitement is in the air as the community prepares to welcome hundreds of families from the plant’s expansion of beginning to manufacture Payday peanut caramel bars. In addition, this being oil country, the Marathon Petroleum refinery also anticipates calling additional families as operations increase ahead of the priority of our nation’s energy independence.


The leadership here is strong, committed, and thankful as they look toward engaging needed capital improvements that will increase their visibility along their community’s major Thoroughfare (State Highway 33). St. Mary’s Church must be experienced to be truly appreciated. Like the prayers of Hannah (I Samuel 1:4-20), petitions are being offered up.  Specifically, that God will bring them into a future so strong that it bends human history closer to the salvation of God. When in the southern Wabash Valley area of our Diocese, please make it a point to worship before the altar of St. Mary’s in Robinson. Their faithful and stable presence completes us.


posted 11/19/2024

Twenty-fifth Sunday After Pentecost

The Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost was observed with rejoicing within the East St. Louis area of our Diocese. The Sunday Eucharist was celebrated with the saints of St. Bartholomew’s in Granite City where they are continuing to express thankfulness for the reclamation of their parish hall following damage to its ceiling from a windstorm. Fr. Hoogerhyde and these faithful servants remain joyful as they continue on exodus together.


The evening brought us to a service of choral Evensong before the historic altar of St. Paul’s in Alton, where God was greatly glorified and their magnificent organ spoke of a new beginning following a fire in the administrative wing of their church, requiring a complete dismantling and cleaning of the organ. Fr. Garron Daniels, the Choir, and the parish leadership of St. Paul’s in Alton all have a firm grasp of the very Anglican tradition that has evangelized entire continents.  


Our Lord Jesus Christ is greatly glorified and the Diocese of Springfield is tremendously honored by all that is taking shape in the East St. Louis area. In dulce jublio (Latin for “In sweet rejoicing”).


posted 11/13/2024

Installation of the Dean at Nashotah House Theological Seminary

October 22nd through 24th was spent on the campus of Nashotah House Theological Seminary in Nashotah, WI. Many from our Diocese hold positions of leadership, including The Rev. Canon R. Brien Koehler, SSC as Chairman of the Corporation Board; The Rev. Fr. Fred Robinson as Chair of the Board of Visitors, joined by his wife, Linda Robinson; The Rev. Fr. Ben Hankinson as Director of Community Life and Operations; The Rt. Rev. Daniel Martins as past-president of the Corporation; Zachary Buscher as a first-year student of theology, joined by his wife, Bethany Buscher and their daughter, Martha; and Bishop Burgess as a newly elected Director of the Corporation, joined by his wife, Denise Burgess.


Joined by many friends of our Diocese, the week culminated in the offering of a Solemn Eucharist commemorating Raphael, Archangel, with the installation of Lauren Linn Whitnah, PhD as the XXII Dean of the Seminary. Dean Whitnah is a medieval historian with credentials from the University of Notre Dame, the University of Oxford, and Gordon College. Her expertise is in the sacred places in the High Middle Ages and the study of devotion to the saints. Pictured first is Bishop Burgess with Dean Lauren Whitnah, followed by a photo of the Board of Directors (left to right, first row: Mr. Jim Sweeney, Mr. Keith Ackerman, the Rt. Rev. Keith Ackerman, the Rev. Canon Brien Koehler, Mrs. Beth Morphis, the Rev. Charlie Holt, the Rt. Rev. Chip Edgar, the Rev. Dr. Michael Cover. Middle row: The Rev. Fred Robinson, Mrs. Jody Maxwell, the Rev. Tara Jernigan, Dr. Lauren Whitnah, Mrs. Gayle Heatherington, Mr. Rich Baker, the Rt. Rev. Brian Burgess. Back row: The Rev. Doran Stambaugh, Mr. Andrew Bradford, the Rt. Rev. Derek Jones, the Rev. John Jordan, the Rev. John McCard, Mr. Myron Steeves).


Nashotah House Seminary is one of only a few seminaries of the Episcopal Church that still offers a full-time residential program in preparing priests, deacons, and lay-leaders for vocations in the Church. Our association with Nashotah House goes back many episcopacies with a notable number of our clergy having been educated, trained, and formed in the ways of the Church there.


posted 11/13/24

Choral Evensong for The Rev. Canon Mark Evans

Clergy, laity, and family gathered for a service of Choral Evensong within our Cathedral in commemoration of the lesser feast of Willibrord, Archbishop of Utrecht and Apostle to the Frisians, and to honor the retirement of The Reverend Canon Mark Evans. Following the retiring Hymn, a wine and cheese reception was held in the Diocesan Center as the means of extending fellowship, sharing words of appreciation, and the presentation of retirement gifts to mark the occasion. The way the Diocese of Springfield expresses thanksgiving is yet another way we sanctify the ordinary. Congratulations, Canon Mark Evans and thank you, Ms. Sandy Moore.


posted 11/09/24

Twenty-fourth Sunday After Pentecost

The Sunday after All Saints’ Day was observed with great solemnity before the altar of Trinity Church in Mount Vernon. Asaph Christopher Asplin, the son of Father Parker and Mrs. Laura Asplin, was present by his godparents for the sacrament of Holy Baptism. Their future as a parish has come upon them. Having dedicated resources to the proper refurbishing of the principal doors to the church and sprucing up their landscaping, the saints of this parish now have their eyes turned toward transforming a room of the parish hall being used for storage into a state-of-the-art classroom for the Christian education of their children and youth.


posted 11/04/24

Pasta Dinner at St. Thomas'

St. Thomas’ in Glen Carbon hosted their annual Pasta Dinner on Saturday, November 2nd in support of their early education preschool ministry. This year’s fundraising event attracted a noticeable increase in those supporting the mission and ministry of this celebrated school, to the point of running out of food prior to the 3:00 PM wrap-up. Pictured are Elizabeth and Edison with Fr. Mark Klamer and Bishop Brian Burgess. Elizabeth is an alumna and Edison is a current student of the preschool, their mother serves on the Board overseeing the mission and administration of the pre-school. Great food, tremendous fellowship, and extended outreach were the priorities of the day.


posted 11/04/24

Seating of Rector at St. George's

The Major Feast of St. Simon and St. Jude, Apostles was observed with great solemnity before the altar of St. George’s in Belleville. Organ, Choir, acolytes, lectors, and a very proud congregation came together to lend their voices to common prayer and for the seating of The Very Reverend Mark W. Ohlemeier as rector of their parish church. Originally from the Diocese of Kansas, Dean Ohlemeier has served as this parish’s priest-in-charge since early 2021. St. George’s is recognized throughout our Diocese and the community of Belleville as a church that is active in mission, at the forefront of ecumenical relationships, and faithful in the worship of God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.


The beautiful campus that they have shared with St. Mark Evangelical Lutheran Church (Pastor Brian Robinson) for over 40 years invites those Christ came to redeem to enter through one of its many doors. Bravo! To the acolytes of St. George’s who are most reverent and understand not only what to do, but why a particular liturgical action is necessary to the sacred liturgy.


God is greatly glorified in Belleville, receiving the teachings of our faith and practice; like gentle rain on grass, like showers on new growth (Deuteronomy 32:2).


posted 10/30/24

Twenty-third Sunday After Pentecost

The Sunday of XXIII Pentecost was spent before the historic altar of Church of the Redeemer in Cairo. A gift from the Estate of Mrs. Mary Steel invited the purchase of a new Viscount Cantorum Duo electronic organ, which was blessed by Bishop Burgess and immediately placed into use for sacred purposes. Prior to her death, Mary Steele served the community of Cairo as a public-school music teacher in addition to serving as organist of Church of the Redeemer for eight years. This was also the Sunday that the restoration of the beautiful rose window above their principal doors was showcased as completed. 


The Holy Eucharist was most reverently offered with two vested acolytes (Reuben and Jeff), Father James Muriuki, and a lay reader. The day culminated in a supper with Bishop Burgess and Denise sharing details of their recent trip to the Diocese of Tabora in Tanzania, Africa. Words of appreciation were extended over a parishioner who is moving to an assisted living facility near her daughter and words of welcome to those who are new to this dedicated and most faithful congregation. We are a more faithful Diocese because of the saints who call Church of the Redeemer their church home.


posted 10/29/24

Matriculation

After three weeks of orientations, training, and introductions to campus and classes, Nashotah House Theological Seminary welcomed eight new juniors into the fold during their Matriculation service on Thursday, September 19th. These young men have been sent from near and far in order to receive the golden standard of Anglo-Catholic formation offered at Nashotah House, where they spend their weeks debating theology at the table in the refectory and offering up their voices in song and liturgy in St. Mary’s Chapel. Included among them was the Diocese of Springfield’s very own Zachary Buscher. Hailing from his sending parish of Trinity, Lincoln and the former communications coordinator for the diocesan office, Zach began his discernment process in the winter of 2024 and, by the grace of God, will graduate from the seminary in the spring of 2027. Join us in prayer today for Zach and for his fellow matriculants, asking God that they all may grow in wisdom and humility in their studies at seminary.


posted 10/24/24

Celebration of a New Ministry

St. John’s Episcopal Church and Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) came together within their shared Centralia campus to officially welcome, institute, and celebrate the new ministry occurring there under the vocational leadership of The Very Reverend Matthew Kemp. Bishop Brian Burgess of the Episcopal Diocese of Springfield and Bishop Greg Busboom of the Central/Southern Illinois Synod of the ELCA both presided over the service of Holy Eucharist while commemorating the lesser feast of Bishop Robert Grosseteste of Lincoln (1168-1253) and invited the thankful prayer and praises of two faithful congregations who stand together in mission and blended worship. The Holy Eucharist followed the rite of the 1979 Book of Common Prayer while the service music was chosen from the Lutheran Book of Worship.

 

Clergy from the Episcopal Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church joined in the procession and common prayer, recognizing this opportunity that the Lord Himself has brought to our respective dioceses and this congregation. Recently elected regional dean, Dean Matthew Kemp and his wife Alethea are the proud parents of five beautiful children who also were recognized for the contribution they make to the holiness of life, time, and place.


This congregation recently celebrated the 100th anniversary of their beautiful church. Under the vocational leadership of Dean Kemp and the most capable leadership of committed laity, we may be assured that exciting, new, and faithful expressions of being Church will continue to resonate from a place where the walls are already saturated with the prayers of the saints.


posted 10/11/24

Recognition & Investiture of Bishop Matthew Gunter

Bishop Burgess attended the Recognition & Investiture of The Right Reverend Matthew Gunter (center) as 12th Bishop of Wisconsin.  Bishops attending to Bishop Gunter were (right to left): Bishop Brian K. Burgess, Springfield; Bishop Jay Lambert, Eau Claire (res); Bishop Steven Miller, Milwaukee (res); Presiding Bishop-elect Sean Rowe who stood as preacher.

The service of Holy Eucharist was offered to the glory of God on Saturday, October 5th during their 177th Annual Convention within the Holiday Inn Stevens Point Convention Center.


posted 10/08/24

Response to Hurricane Helene

from Bishop Burgess

As we watch reports of those responding to and recovering from the onslaught of Hurricane Helene, our prayers are needed for those living in the ravaged areas. The scale of devastation is on the level of catastrophic. It is painful to witness through many various kinds of media the devastating impact that this storm has had on our Nation, the Church and most importantly, those who complete us as the Body of Christ.


Please know that the Diocese of Springfield will be sending funds already designated by you as Outreach to both the Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida and the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina, directly to each Bishop’s Discretionary Fund. In this manner, the funds may be used immediately and upon the sole discretion of each bishop for disaster response and recovery within their diocese.


I have heard from Bishop José A. McLoughlin of Western North Carolina. This is not the time to send people or collections of other resources until they define the type, quantity and specific skill set required. They are managing the reestablishment of basic infrastructure needs at this time while still conducting search and rescue operations as well as damage assessment. There are many areas of his Diocese that are now impossible to get into or out of. Emergency operation centers are being established and they are overwhelmed by the level of need left in the wake of such a powerful storm. Specifically, if you are looking to contact family and friends in the impacted areas, please do not reach out to the Diocese. To connect with the Red Cross, click here.

 

Please keep the people residing in these areas of our country in your prayers, that they may have the strength to meet the days ahead. This recovery operation will go on for many months, if not years. Please only respond as invited.  And if in person or a group, only as one/those fully self-contained.

 

O merciful Father, who hast taught us in thy holy Word that thou dost not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men: Look with pity upon the sorrows of thy servant for whom our prayers are offered. Remember them, O Lord, in mercy, nourish their soul with patience, comfort them with a sense of thy goodness, lift up thy countenance upon them, and give them peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.  (BCP pg. 831)

 

In the peace of God, which passeth all understanding;


The Right Reverend Brian K. Burgess, DD

XII Springfield

(posted 10/01/24)


Nineteenth Sunday After Pentecost

Michaelmas (tr.) was observed with great splendor while deferring the highest honor to almighty God before the altar of Holy Trinity Church in Danville.  This dedicated parish is deeply involved in various outreach ministries throughout their community, including an efficiently operated food bank. The purpose for this reach is their altar, where they join their voices with “Angels and Archangels, and with all the company of heaven.” Those serving the altar greeted Bishop Burgess in the parking lot upon his arrival vested in cassocks and invited him into a time of liturgical review to ensure that rite and ceremony would be offered seamlessly, to the glory of God, and on behalf of the people Christ came to redeem.

 

Fr. Lewis is a most dedicated priest who concerns himself with the many details of good, faithful, and stable parish ministry. Since Bishop Burgess’ last appearance, the Nave has made room for the arrival of many children and their families. Standing at the extreme north east portion of our diocese, these faithful Christians keep watch while others sleep. They offer a daily Mass, a weekly Bible study, and many more reaches beyond themselves including an immaculately maintained and inviting campus. Holy Trinity Church in Danville is one of those parishes that you must experience when heading toward the Wabash River on Interstate 74. Their churchmanship and liturgical bearing are expressions of high thanksgiving that lend itself beautifully to the well-tuned voice of our entire Diocese.

 

Let your priest be clothed with righteousness;*

           let your faithful people sing with joy.

 

(Psalm 132:9)


posted 9/30/24

Celebration Service of Assignment UMC

On Saturday, September 28th, Bishop Brian and Denise Burgess traveled to Calvary United Methodist Church in Normal under the invitation to attend the Celebration Service of the Assignment of Bishop David Alan Bard & Bishop Kennetha J. Bigham-Tsai to the Illinois Episcopal Area of the United Methodist Church.  This is a shared ministry of oversight as each bishop will remain as the pastoral and administrative head of their respective Conference and share oversight of the Illinois Episcopal Area of the United Methodist Church (UMC), roughly covering the same geographical area as the Episcopal Diocese of Springfield.

Bishop Bard has served as the resident bishop of the Michigan Conference of the UMC since September 1, 2016 and Bishop Bingham-Tsai has been the resident bishop of the Iowa Annual Conference of the UMC since January of 2023.  Their shared oversight of the Great Rivers Conference will be simultaneous while incorporating in person opportunities to be with congregations and virtual meetings from their original jurisdictions.  The administrative office of the Illinois Great Rivers Conference is located on South Second Street, just North of Toronto Road in South Springfield.

Pictured (L to R): Pastor Jacqui King, Director of Ministerial Excellence; Bishop Burgess; Denise Burgess; Kristin Franklin, Administrative Assistant; Curtis Franklin, Coordinator of Mission and Outreach as well as Associate Coordinator of Camping & Youth Ministry.  Pastor Jacqui, Kristin and Curtis comprise part of the administrative staff located in Springfield who work in support of their bishops.

The Illinois Great Rivers Conference is comprised of all or part of 87 counties in downstate Illinois. The episcopal area known as the Illinois Area was formed in 1960 as the former Central Illinois and Southern Illinois conferences shared a bishop which was located in Springfield. Prior to 1960, the presiding bishop lived in Chicago and presided over the entire state. In 1996, the former Central Illinois and Southern Illinois Conferences voted to merge and formed the Illinois Great Rivers Conference.


posted 9/30/24

New Canon to the Ordinary

Bishop Burgess is pleased to announce that The Reverend Fr. David Wells has accepted his invitation to serve as the Diocese of Springfield’s Canon to the Ordinary. In response to Canon Evan’s impending retirement, a detailed position profile was posted and interviews were conducted to call forward the very best candidate for our Diocese in interest of supporting the work, priorities, and vision of Bishop Burgess.


Father David Wells possesses tremendous administrative experience, having served a successful 43-year career in law enforcement at both the state and county levels. He has served honorably at the executive administration level of the Illinois State Police, retiring as state Executive Inspector General. A graduate of Nashotah House Theological Seminary in Wisconsin with a Master in Pastoral Ministry (MPM) degree and a Master in Ministry (MMin) degree, Fr. Wells has also earned academic degrees from Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois (MS in Criminal Justice Administration) and Elmhurst College in Elmhurst, Illinois (BS in Business Management). Ordained deacon in 2015 and priest in 2016, Fr. Wells is recognized throughout central and southern Illinois as one who serves generously with a servant’s heart.

Father Wells has shepherded parishes and missions at many various levels of interim ministry throughout our Diocese. He recently served as assistant priest at the Cathedral of St. Paul the Apostle in Springfield, and he is currently serving as Interim Rector of St. John’s in Decatur where tremendous work is being accomplished under his pastoral oversight and administrative leadership. Many parishes throughout our Diocese are familiar with Fr. Wells due to his extensive supply work. In addition to his Diocesan work, Fr. Wells serves as Chaplain to the Illinois State Police. He is thorough, well organized, and a dedicated teacher, having served as adjunct instructor to the U.S. Department of Justice’s National White Collar Crime Center and as an instructor on white collar crimes within the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) Training Academy.

 

Regardless of where or when the liturgical expression is being made within our Diocese, Fr. Wells is there supporting the newly ordained, celebrating new ministries, or simply entering into sacred space and sacred time with those who mourn. He already holds precious the relationships that he has fostered with the clergy, their families, and the congregations of this Diocese. With his home having already been established in Springfield, Bishop Burgess looks forward to the benefit of a smooth transition.

 

Bishop Burgess observed, “It was made evident early in the interview process how Fr. Wells’ background, experience and devotion to the Church resonates robustly throughout the Diocese that we already are and the Diocese we are striving to become.”  He added, “Fr. Wells is that priest who will labor alongside us to the glory of God and on behalf of the people He came to redeem while representing the very best of our Anglican tradition.” Please look forward to this ministry of pastoral and administrative leadership taking place on November 15th. A service of Choral Evensong at the Cathedral will be offered on Thursday, November 7th in interest of bringing glory to God while thanking Canon Evans for his service among us.

 

Thank you for your faithful stewardship. We invite you to remember Fr. David and Mary Ellen Wells within your intentional intercessory prayer as he prepares to offer the priestly vocation entrusted to him in new and challenging ways.

 


Hosanna, Lord, hosanna!*

         Lord, send us now success.

 

(Psalm 118:25)


posted 9/19/24




Tabora Travels Day 1

The Burgess’ left Richmond, Virginia for New York JFK Airport and a five-and-a-half hour layover on Friday, June 7th to be en route to Tabora, Tanzania. From JFK they flew seven hours to Charles De Gaulle Airport in Paris. After a 3 ½ hour layover in Paris, they took an eight-hour Air France flight to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Zanzibar, Tanzania. After awaiting the three-hour correction of a minor maintenance issue on the plane, they made the short thirty-minute trip by air to Dar es Salaam. Excited and tired, they made it through customs after midnight Saturday. They collected their luggage and were immediately met by The Reverend Canon Richard Kamenya who greeted them and escorted them to the Blue Sapphire Hotel. He ensured their proper check-in and promised to be with them on Sunday afternoon. 


Upon a good night’s sleep, they had lunch in the Hotel restaurant and checked in with family and Diocesan staff. Canon Kamenya collected the Burgess’ and returned them to the airport for exchange of US Dollars into Tanzanian Schillings (12000 TZS = $4.54 USD), checked on their flight status to Tabora scheduled for Tuesday morning, and navigated an issue of overweight luggage due to vestments. The Burgess’ had dinner in the hotel restaurant while taking the time to learn some simple Swahili phrases from the wait staff (Thank you so much = Asante sana / You’re welcome = Unakaribishwa / Hello = Hibari).

On Monday, Canon Kamenya returned after a day-long clergy conference to give the Burgess’ a quick tour of the Anglican Cathedral and the Market Place. He is a dedicated priest who has been ordained for 25 years. Living near the airport, he gets calls from many bishops to act as their ambassador. He is married and has three grown children, all university-educated. The Burgess’ then treated Canon and Mrs. Kamenya to dinner as the opportunity to thank them and to hear more about the vocational journey that both families share. On Tuesday, the Burgess’ took the hotel shuttle back to Dar es Salaam Airport to board the three-hour Air Tanzania flight to Tabora with a thirty-minute layover in Mpanda. Bishop Elias Chakupewa has been in direct WhatsApp communication and shares how he is looking forward to greeting Bishop Brian and Denise Burgess when they arrive on Tuesday afternoon.


Please keep this time of travel and Companion Diocese relationship ensconced within your daily prayer. Bishop Burgess will send additional updates as time and wireless communications allow.


posted 6/11/24

We then traveled to St. John’s parish where we met their rector and toured their after-school youth center as well as a weekend academy of over 260 students. They teach skills such as computer literacy and sewing. The students are fed and are also taught Christian ethics and doctrine. Although organized, the facilities are rudimentary as one room contained 1990s-era IBM computer hard drives with monitors. The children are taught on these computers to become proficient in skills they will need as they take their place in a technologically advanced world. St. John’s is building a new church to meet the needs of this dynamic parish. The progress continues as the funds appear. The foundation has been poured and the exterior walls have been raised. Sheets of corrugated metal roofing are now being put into place. The Nave is the length of the Nave of our own cathedral in Springfield. This is quite a commanding presence in a community that is heavily Muslim. To summarize, I have never seen so much being accomplished on behalf of the mission of the Church so joyfully with so little.


Lunch was served at the cathedral, and we had the opportunity to speak with the coordinator of the Mother’s Union in Tabora. She wanted to know about the reach and influence of women in the Episcopal Church when it comes to advancing the church and advocating for children and women. We then toured The Tabora Zoo. It was primarily an outside, unfenced area where we saw an orphan elephant, monkeys, gazelles, zebras, and warthogs grazing on their own. The more beautiful but aggressive animals were in large contained areas (Lion-Simba, Lioness-Fiona, and a leopard). 


The good people of the Anglican Diocese of Tabora have been most welcoming and patient with us. Tomorrow we are meeting Bishop Elias at 8:30 AM in order to travel to Kahama. We are going to bed each night tired but extremely fulfilled. Please keep Denise and me in your intercessory prayer and this wonderful Diocese in your prayer of thanksgiving.


Mungu akubariki (God bless you)

+BKB


posted 6/12/24














We then checked into our hotel for the next two evenings, changed our clothes, and left with Bishop Chakupewa, “Momma” Asofku, the priests and drivers in our caravan to inspect the home being built for Bishop Elias ahead of his retirement. Since there is neither state nor church pension in Tanzania, the faithful are directed by Church Canons to provide a retirement home for their bishop. It is a beautiful home about halfway completed with high ceilings, large open windows, three bedrooms/bathrooms, and a spacious kitchen. There is a guest house and a house helper’s quarters behind their home being constructed simultaneously. The Diocese of Springfield is donating to the construction of their home in recognition of the relationship we have shared for almost a decade. Denise and I presented a sharing cross for their home where the cutout cross leaves a silhouette, and each family will keep one part for our homes. These serve as reminders of the relationship we share as dioceses and families and to pray for one another’s family, diocese, and our people.


We then headed back into town where we ate dinner together in an open-air restaurant before returning to our hotel for rest and preparing for Friday.


A note about the Toyota Land Cruiser that Bishop Elias is chauffeured in. It was a gift given to the Diocese of Tabora seven years ago by the parish of St. John the Baptist in Mount Carmel. The 4-wheel, drive, all-terrain vehicle has over 147,000 miles on it and it is being maintained meticulously by Bishop Elias’ driver and mechanic, Joe. Having been here and now having traveled hundreds of miles with Bishop Elias, I can assure you that this is not a luxury item, it is most necessary. The roads here are terrible and Joe is a master at avoiding very large pot-holes, ravines, and insane detours which at times require our cutting through the off-road paths to make it safely to our intended destination. Bishop Elias has expressed his gratitude to us several times and publicly in several meetings.

Thank you all for your faithful stewardship and your constant intercessory prayer. This is a Diocese that is constantly singing and dancing in the face of adversity and need which brings forward mightily and in an incarnate way, the reign of Christ. Amen!


+BKB


posted 6/13/24

All of our meals were served at the same restaurant in Kahama. The juice drink made to order by mixing pineapple and watermelon juice with a bit of sugar was the most refreshing. The young man who works the juice bar behind the scenes at the restaurant attends St. Paul’s parish. He made it a point to introduce himself to me so that I would know it was he who made our juices for our meals. Later that afternoon, we went back to the hotel, changed our clothes, and were taken to the street market for shopping. During dinner, Bishop Elias thanked me for preaching, but said, it was too short. I preached for over 20 minutes with an interpreter stretching that out to over 30 minutes.


A note about our interpreter. His name is Fr. Bartholomew (Fr. Bart) and he serves as principal of the Bible College in Tabora. He studied at the University of the South in Sewanee for two years (MA in Sacred Theology) before coming to the Diocese of Tabora from another Tanzanian diocese. He is most joyful and a great deal of fun to work with. He knows many of the professors and administrators that I knew when I attended seminary at Sewanee. We had a great deal to share and to celebrate.

On Saturday, we were picked up by Bishop Elias’ driver (Joe) and taken back to St. Paul’s Church where we were greeted at the entrance by clergy, clergy spouses, the Mother’s Union, Confirmation candidates, and local children who had just didn’t want to be left out. We quickly vested, offered prayer, and made our way into the church with over 15 vested clergy as four parishes were represented by their choirs and Confirmation candidates. There was barely room outside the door for all the people gathered. They extended the entrance with a tent and still children came around to open side doors to find a place on the floor. I preached a Homily based on the text of Matthew 6:24-34 ( “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?”) I was having fun, especially with Fr. Bart interpreting. I made sure I remained in that pulpit for over 30 minutes. 103 were presented for Confirmation and Bishop Elias made sure I did not dally. Every child was named aloud including Samuel, Water, Isaac, and Angel. St. Paul’s kindly presented Denise with a beautifully handmade dress and a well-made shirt for me.  


This service also lasted over three hours and the process for each church’s Confirmation class group picture with the clergy was quite an operation to behold. Many want pictures with me and Denise as well. Once we were able to remove our vestments, Bishop Elias gave me a tour of the new St. Paul’s Church now under construction. It will one day seat (two levels) over 1000 communicants (two levels) and most likely be designated the Cathedral of that Diocese when it forms.

At both services, the confirmands stood before the altar before receiving the laying-on of hands singing a hymn; asking the Lord for strong faith, and fortitude in their leadership, and to grant them an entrance into heaven. “Praise the Lord.”


After a quick lunch at our favorite restaurant, we prayed together and then made the three-hour trip back to Tabora. Imagine a two-lane interstate (one lane for each direction) with many pedestrians, ox carts, herds of cows and goats, bicycles, motorcycles, 1970s-era busses, and three-wheeled scooter taxies all without regard to traffic laws. I was so glad to finally pull into our hotel parking lot. We are going to bed early as we must be at the Cathedral for tomorrow’s Sunday Mass at 8:00 AM.


Blessings upon you and your families as this embrace from Tabora includes all of us.


In the peace of God, which passeth all understanding;

+BKB


posted 6/16/24

Tabora Day 6

Bishop and Mrs. Burgess spent the Fourth Sunday after Pentecost within the Diocese of Tabora in the Province of Tanzania, east Africa. Bishop Burgess assisted Bishop Elias Chakupewa before the altar of St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Tabora and was invited to preach the Sunday sermon before the congregation assembling ahead of their triennial Synod. Over 850 assembled to hear the Word of God and celebrate the Holy Mysteries. One hundred children came forward at the Offertory for a blessing by Bishop Elias before assembling for Sunday School in the original St. Stephen’s Church, which was built by Church of England missionaries in 1832. Four different choirs (including one from the Mother’s Union) offered well-choreographed dancing and beautifully balanced singing as part of the Word liturgy.


Bishop Burgess welcomed Diocesan clergy, Synod delegates, and regular communicants. His sermon was based on Chapters 1-3 of the Book of I Samuel (The Distress and Deliverance of Hannah, the Disobedience of Eli’s Sons, and the Call of Samuel). Four choirs offered song, and a group from Kaliua offered a rousing presentation of traditional African chanting, singing, and rhythmic dancing arranged and choreographed specifically to thank Bishop Elias for his faithful leadership. The lyrics were specific to Bishop Elias. Upon Dismissal and final Benediction, the cathedral choir sang a beautiful offering, a cappella, and then the cathedral secretary gave Bishop Elias a detailed report before the congregation.

Upon procession to the courtyard, a group picture was taken of all assembled clergy and then lunch was served. The Synod was called to order within Canon Nashon Nkugwe Hall, the secretary declared a quorum and the three houses were seated separately by orders (lay, clerical, and bishop). Canonically, each church of the Diocese is allowed three delegates (one priest, one layman, and one laywoman). The priests sit opposite of the lay delegates. When the Synod was adjourned for the evening, many remained for dinner, committee meetings, fellowship, and Bible study. We were taken back to our hotel by Bishop Elias and “Mama” Lucy (title of respect for a bishop’s wife).


This morning we reported to the assembly hall to convene the Synod with a Morning Prayer service. This Diocese sings and chants a cappella effortlessly. Their harmonies are brilliant. Prayers of the people are sung saturating every inch of the space and go on to ensure all intercessions are accounted for. After a few reports, we broke for breakfast (fresh cake donuts, and tea or coffee). Bishop Elias gave his Synod report and then the floor was opened for delegates of the other two houses to make comment on his report, which they did for over an hour showing support of his vision for the Diocese and pointing out some discrepancies that were noted. Bishop Elias and Mama Lucy took me and Denise off campus at this point while they continued the discussion. We went to the Tabora Market to purchase Tabora honey (the best in the world), check on tomorrow’s flight at the Air Tanzania office, meet the Moravian Bishop, and visit a Roman Catholic book store. We returned to Synod and took our seats as delegates were still discussing the strategic plan. We heard from Dr. Njerango, a consultant, on the Diocesan strategic plan. He is a celebrated churchman and consultant from the capital city, Dodoma.

The next agenda item was our greeting to the Diocese on your behalf and offering of gifts. We extended all of your well-wishes for their success and protection in the mission field. We presented a monetary gift from the Diocese in the interest of Bishop Elias’ retirement home and a power bank, one each for Bishop Elias and Mama Lucy. Denise and I gave a monetary gift to the school children we met in interest of their classroom needs. In return, the Mother’s Union gave Denise a beautiful handmade dress and a shirt for me. Once the Synod was adjourned for the evening, we were taken to our hotel where we had time to prepare this update and pack for our return home. Before we departed, we extended our prayers, love, and admiration toward them and promised to return. Many embraces, shaking of hands, and last-minute photos were taken.


We would like to take this opportunity to thank and show appreciation to The Diocese of Springfield and her staff for their prayer, support, and financial funding. We also would like our gratitude to Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, Canon Chuck Robertson, and Father Daniel Karanja of the Episcopal Church Center in New York for their prayers, direct advice and assistance, and financial support. Their participation and encouragement allowed this meeting of companion diocese to occur.  


We will be up early for our journey home. We have many prayers, stories, and memories to share with you. 

 

+BKB


posted 6/18/24