“Kindle our hearts and awaken hope” is the theme for our diocesan convention this November 9-11 in Augusta. During our time together, we will focus on God’s action in our midst as the fruit of a faithful congregation extends well beyond the red doors of a church.

“Where we place our focus matters,” Bishop Logue says of this theme, “for if we focus on the survival of our churches and what we have to do to turn the tide, we will miss not only how God is acting now but also where the Holy Spirit is leading us next.”

The theme comes from a collect in Evening Prayer (shown below) which emphasizes God as the one who kindles light in the darkness and awakens hope when all seems lost. If we pray, read and reflect on scripture, and serve others as if serving Christ while we wait in joyful anticipation, what might God kindle and awaken?

A Collect for the Presence of Christ

Lord Jesus, stay with us, for evening is at hand and the day is past; be our companion in the way, kindle our hearts, and awaken hope, that we may know you as you are revealed in Scripture and the breaking of bread. Grant this for the sake of your love. Amen.