Simply Christian LIFE with Bishop Michael Hunn

Meet the Rev. Alex Reyes : Bivocational Bilingual Multicultural Ministry in El Paso Texas

Revitalizing a Community: The Journey of a Bivocational Priest
In this video Bishop Michael Hunn interviews The Rev Alex Reyes, the bivocational priest and vicar of St. Christopher's Episcopal Church in El Paso, Texas, discussing his dual role as a licensed professional counselor and a religious leader. Reyes shares insights into his work with families and youth through psychotherapy and how his experiences guide his pastoral care. Having transitioned from the Roman Catholic Church to the Episcopal Church, Reyes talks about his journey, the challenges posed by COVID-19 on the congregation's size and engagement, and how he strategized to foster growth and inclusivity within the church community. He highlights bilingual services, community outreach, and special events that cater to the Hispanic population, emphasizing the importance of personal connection, trust-building, and adapting to meet the spiritual and social needs of the congregation. Alex's story showcases the impact of bivocational ministry on individual lives and community revitalization.
00:00 Welcome to the Diocese of Rio Grande: Meet Alex Reyes00:17 Alex Reyes: A Bivocational Priest's Journey01:39 Transition from Roman Catholic to Episcopal Church02:44 St. Christopher's Congregation: A Bilingual Community04:27 Reviving the Congregation Post-COVID07:13 Embracing Traditions: First Communion and Community Engagement12:20 Cultural Celebrations and Outreach in the Hispanic Community17:52 Exploring Church Rituals and Community Engagement19:00 Embracing Multilingual Traditions in Worship20:39 Fostering Community Through Bilingual Celebrations21:43 Enhancing Youth Engagement with Fun and Faith25:01 Strategic Ministry and Community Building27:22 Innovative Outreach and Embracing Technology33:02 Welcoming Newcomers and Building Trust35:34 Navigating Cultural Transitions in Faith Communities

WU 3 Easter 24 LeAnna and El Paso

Diocese of the Rio Grande Weekly Update: Easter 2024 Highlights
This weekly update for the Diocese of the Rio Grande, for the third week of Easter 2024, features a comprehensive discussion with Le Anna Brun about the upcoming Camp Stoney at Bishop's Ridge, focusing on family and youth sessions including bilingual camps. It introduces a new segment titled 'Storytime in the DRG,' aiming to explore the diocese's history and its evolution amid changes in the Episcopal Church. The script also touches on plans to visit El Paso and interview local congregants, with a deep dive into the diocese's origins, notably the contributions of Judge Jud Gaylord Clarke and the Reverend Joseph W. Tays in establishing the Episcopal Church in the region.
00:00 Welcome to the Weekly Update!00:19 Introducing Camp Stoney and Bishop's Ridge Programs00:33 Storytime in the DRG: A Dive into Diocesan History01:36 Camp Stoney: A Deep Dive with Le Anna Brun13:22 Exploring the Rich History of the Diocese22:10 Closing Remarks and Blessings

Katie Hudak on Borderlands Ministry in the Big Bend, Texas

Revitalizing Faith in the Big Bend: A Conversation with Katie Hudak
This episode captures a heartfelt discussion between Bishop Michael Hunn and The Rev Katie Hudak, a curate serving in the Big Bend area of the Diocese of Rio Grande, covering her ministry and the community's revitalization amidst challenges. Hudak, based out of Marfa, Texas, collaborates with Father Mike Wallens to serve five churches in the region since November 2022. Despite hardships, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, their efforts alongside the diocese have led to growth and renewed engagement within these communities. Hudak shares the unique local character of ministry in the Borderlands, her transition from a development role in a non-profit to full-time priesthood, and the importance of community and faith in smaller, rural congregations. The conversation emphasizes the significance of collective efforts and adaptability in nurturing spiritual life and the potential replicability of their model in similar diocesan settings.
00:00 Welcome to Alpine, Texas: A Journey with Katie Hudak00:40 Serving the Big Bend: Ministry and Community Engagement01:20 Embracing Early Mornings and Spiritual Growth02:17 Innovative Church Activities: From Taize Service to Paint a Saint03:53 The Impact of Partnership and Full-Time Ministry07:08 Navigating the Transition from Seminary to Full-Time Priesthood10:47 The Beauty and Challenges of Serving in the Big Bend12:02 Building Bridges Across Cultures and Communities19:56 A Model for Growth: The Big Bend Experiment21:47 Gratitude and Invitation: A Closing Message

Long Walk Pilgrimage

The Long Walk: Remembering and Reckoning with America's Past
This episode covers a pilgrimage undertaken by the General Convention Deputation of the Diocese of the Rio Grande to the Bosque Redondo Memorial at Fort Sumner, New Mexico, as part of their anti-racism training. The pilgrimage aimed to explore and learn about the racism experienced by indigenous peoples, focusing on the tragic history of the Long Walk between 1863 and 1866, where the U.S. government forcibly removed and marched thousands of Native Americans to a concentration camp at Bosque Redondo, leading to the deaths of approximately 3,000 people and generational trauma still being felt today. The participants, including Bishop Michael Hunn and members of the Diocese, shared their personal reflections, the importance of recognizing this atrocity, the ongoing impact of generational trauma, the role of the church, and the significance of preserving oral histories and stories of indigenous peoples. The script emphasizes the importance of understanding and acknowledging past injustices as a step towards healing and reconciliation.
00:00 The Tragic History of the Long Walk00:41 A Pilgrimage of Learning and Remembrance02:01 Discovering the Sacred and Historical at Bosque Redondo04:20 Voices from the Diocese: Personal Reflections and Insights11:50 A Prayer for Beauty, Reconciliation, and Healing16:57 Reflections on Witnessing and Responsibility22:53 The Impact of Youth Activism and the Importance of Storytelling23:46 Connecting Past Atrocities to Present Injustices26:07 A Journey Towards Justice and Remembrance

Mike Wallens on Borderlands Ministry in the Big Bend, Texas

Faith Beyond Borders: Ministry and in the Diocese of the Rio Grande
In an enlightening conversation, Bishop Michael Hunn and Mike Wallens, the vicar of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Marfa, Texas, and a notable figure in the Big Bend region, share insights into the multifaceted ministry efforts within the Diocese of the Rio Grande. With responsibilities spanning five congregations, Wallens, alongside Katie Hudak, the curate of the Big Bend, engages in regular worship services across several locations and actively participates in outreach ministries focused on asylum seekers at the border, providing both material aid and pastoral care. The discussion delves into the development of a unique collaborative model among the congregations that emphasizes mutual support without merging identities, driven by a shared mission to expand outreach efforts and foster community growth. Wallens highlights the significant role of youth ministry, supported by grants and partnerships, in bridging communities across the US-Mexico border, thereby nurturing a vibrant network of support among teenagers. Additionally, the narrative touches on the ethical and humanitarian challenges faced by Border Patrol agents, offering a nuanced view of border security dynamics. The conversation also introduces innovative initiatives aimed at rectifying environmental and social injustices within the region, demonstrating the diocese's commitment to holistic ministry and social justice.
00:00 Welcome to the Diocese of the Rio Grande00:24 Exploring the Extensive Ministry in the Big Bend04:06 The Power of Collaboration Among Congregations14:03 Youth Ministry: A Beacon of Hope and Community22:45 The Impact of Borderland Ministries on Asylum Seekers and Border Patrol23:49 Pilgrimages and the Realities of Border Life34:31 Addressing Environmental Racism with Tree Planting Initiatives37:37 A Heartfelt Invitation to Experience the Big Bend Ministry

WU Holy Week 24

Holy Week and Advocacy in the Diocese of the Rio Grande: A Lenten Update for 2024
This weekly update for the Diocese of the Rio Grande, for the last week of Lent 2024, covers a health update from Bishop Michael Hunn, an invitation to experience the upcoming Holy Week liturgies, and information about a march and vigil for human dignity in El Paso, Texas. Bishop Hunn expresses gratitude for prayers regarding his health and reassures of a positive prognosis. The importance of experiencing every service of Holy Week is emphasized, from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, highlighting the spiritual significance of each event, including the Chrism Mass and the themes of love, sacrifice, and renewal. Additionally, the speaker invites participants to a march titled 'Do Not Be Afraid,' aiming to advocate for humane treatment of individuals in borderland areas, reflecting the necessity of policies that respect human dignity. The session concludes with a call to fully embrace Holy Week and participate in the Borderlands March and Vigil in El Paso.
00:00 Welcome to the Weekly Update!00:28 Health Update and Gratitude for Prayers00:33 Holy Week Preview: Don't Miss a Moment00:38 March and Vigil for Human Dignity in El Paso00:59 Personal Health Journey: Back to Normal01:43 The Significance of Palm Sunday05:26 The Chrism Mass: A Time for Renewal07:06 Maundy Thursday: Love, Eucharist, and Reflection10:10 Good Friday: A Day of Fasting and Remembrance11:28 Holy Saturday: A Quiet Reflection Before Easter13:28 Easter Vigil and Sunday: A Celebration of Resurrection15:02 A Special Invitation: March for Human Dignity16:34 Closing Thoughts and Blessings

WU 3 Feb 24

Diocese of the Rio Grande | Weekly Update, February 2024
In the first Weekly Update February 2024, The Diocese of Rio Grande is in three parts. The first one focuses on an essential activity conducted at a leadership retreat and its broader rollout expected in spring. The activity intending to understand the core values that make up the identity of the Episcopal Church. Reinforcing the importance of holding on to the identity and values even in the face of challenge and change. The second part sheds light on the annual discernment retreat taking place at the Cathedral of St. John, aiming to understand every individual’s purpose and who God wants them to be. The video also informs about a film viewing event about the Philadelphia 11 at the Cathedral of St. John on February 28th.
00:12 Introduction and Weekly Update00:20 Leadership Retreat and Future Activities00:39 Challenges and Identity of the Episcopal Church00:56 Annual Discernment Retreat01:52 Core Values of the Episcopal Church03:04 Facing Challenges and Remembering Our Identity04:32 Personal Story and Reflections on Identity07:13 Discernment Program and Call for Participation08:45 Film Screening and Invitation09:24 Conclusion and Blessings

Meet The Rev’d Mary Ann Hill

Meet Mary Ann Hill: The New Rector of Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church
In this video, The Rev'd Mary Ann Hill, the new rector of Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church in Los Alamos, shares her journey to the priesthood, the challenges she faced, and her experiences working in different parishes. Mary Ann discusses how she grew up in an outside of St. Louis on the Illinois side of the river and knew from a young age that she was called to the priesthood. She talks about her experiences in various dioceses and her longing to be ordained in a place that initially didn't support the ordination of women. Mary Ann also mentions her work with multicultural ministry, the initiation of a Spanish speaking ministry, and her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, Mary Ann shares her excitement about serving in Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church and her eagerness to join the upcoming Solar Eclipse Party in the town of Los Alamos.
00:08 Introduction and Meeting Mary Ann Hill00:29 Mary Ann's Early Life and Call to Priesthood02:44 Mary Ann's Journey to the Episcopal Church04:56 Mary Ann's College Years and Early Career06:35 The Struggles and Triumphs of Mary Ann's Ordination Journey10:05 Mary Ann's Ministry Career and Her Move to Freeport17:12 Starting a Spanish Mission in Tulsa17:40 A Revelation and a New Mission18:24 Building a Spanish-Speaking Community19:20 The Impact of the New Community20:57 Navigating Through the Pandemic22:10 Adapting to Online Church Services25:55 The Search for a New Call29:00 Settling into a New Community29:04 Embracing the Unique Culture of Los Alamos30:24 The Challenges and Joys of Leading a Diverse Church32:41 Celebrating a Solar Eclipse in Los Alamos

WU 27 Jan 24

Weekly Update: A Case for Love & Ministry Updates for Diocese of the Rio Grande
In this weekly update for the last week of January 2024, discussions cover 'A Case for Love' - a film showcasing the teachings of Michael Curry and the Episcopal Church, and an episode of On Point regarding 'de-churching' in America. The speaker also highlights his participation in the ordination to priesthood of Reverend Leona Brahm at St. James Episcopal Church in Taos, New Mexico, sharing details of her role in the diocese. Further into the video, there is a staunch call to welcoming diverse individuals into the Episcopal Church, highlighting their inclusivity and openness. The video ends with optimistic hopes around the outreach of the film 'A Case for Love'.
00:06 Introduction and Weekly Update00:20 A Case for Love: A Film About Love and the Episcopal Church00:34 De-Churching in America: An Analysis01:07 Ordination of Reverend Leona Brahm04:04 The Episcopal Church: A Place of Love and Acceptance05:47 A Case for Love: The Film's Message and Impact08:47 The Power of Love: Stories from A Case for Love10:34 Conclusion: The Hope for Love to Reach Beyond

Priest and Yoga Teacher: The Rev Corinne Hodges, Vicar of Holy Family, Santa Fe

Interview with Vicar Corrine Hodges: A Journey of Faith and Leadership
 
In this engaging interview, Corrine Hodges, Vicar of the Church of the Holy Family in Santa Fe, shares her spiritual journey to priesthood. As a prior Roman Catholic, Corrine's vocation started by serving nursing home residents. She talks about her transition from the Catholic Church to the Episcopal Church, the key moments that shaped her calling, and her unique approach to ministry by emphasizing 'giving ministry away' and nurturing others in their service to God. Corrine also discusses her additional career as a yoga teacher, which she attributes has brought balance to her life and ministry. The discussion also focuses on the importance of sabbaticals and maintaining healthy boundaries and pacing in ministry.
 
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:19 Corrine's Journey to Priesthood
01:55 Transition from Roman Catholicism to Episcopalian
03:46 Corrine's Ordination and Seminary Experience
05:37 Corrine's First Parish Job and Move to Indiana
07:54 Moving to Santa Fe and Joining the Holy Family Church
10:32 Balancing Priesthood and Yoga Teaching
12:24 The Growth and Structure of Holy Family Church
13:09 Maintaining Work-Life Balance and Prioritizing Essential Tasks
23:46 Recognizing and Managing Stress
25:09 The Role of Exercise in Stress Management
25:49 The Importance of Sabbaticals
26:39 The Power of Mindful Activities
27:39 Recognizing Signs of Overstress
28:38 The Art of Pacing in Clergy Life
29:19 The Importance of Rest Before and After Vacation
30:18 The Role of Exercise in Maintaining Focus
31:42 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Preaching
33:10 The Importance of Mellowing with Age
33:35 The Pitfalls of Multitasking
34:27 The Role of Yoga in Stress Management
35:33 The Importance of Being Present and Mellow
37:28 The Importance of Giving Ministry Work
41:05 The Role of a Priest in Nurturing a Community
42:00 The Importance of Letting Ministries Die When They Need To
45:57 The Role of a Priest in Building and Nurturing a Team