Simply Christian LIFE with Bishop Michael Hunn

The Power of Flocking: The Seven Nearest...

The Power of Flocking: The Seven Nearest…
 
In this episode, Bishop Michael Hunn applies the concept of 'flocking' as described by adrienne maree brown in her book 'Emerging Strategy’ to live in the Episcopal Church.  By examining how birds, bees, and fish use flocking for defense, energy conservation, and resource finding, the video draws parallels to church congregations. It proposes an innovative approach where each church member focuses on connecting with the seven people nearest to them, fostering a deeper, more connected community. The idea extends to diocesan levels, encouraging clergy and church leaders to maintain regular, intentional connections with their peers. This transformative model aims to strengthen the church's unity and efficacy, aligning with early Christian practices.
 
00:00 Introduction to Flocking
01:02 Flocking in Nature
01:33 Flocking and Energy Conservation
02:00 Flocking for Resource Finding
02:51 Applying Flocking to Church
03:00 The Seven Connections Concept
04:01 Implementing the Concept in Congregations
05:56 Diocesan Level Connections
07:53 Broader Implications and Conclusion
09:10 Preview of Next Video

Ferns, Fractals and Faith : Scaling Patterns in the Episcopal Church

Ferns, Fractals and Faith : Scaling Patterns in the Episcopal Church
 
In this episode, Bishop Michael Hunn explores the concept of fractals and their relevance to the Episcopal Church. Fractals illustrate how patterns exist at every scale in reality—from small to vast, like a shell spiral compared to a galaxy. This idea translates to organizational theory in the Church, where patterns of behavior and belief, like individualism, are present at every level. We discuss how individualism manifests within the Church, detailing its influence from individual parishioners to entire dioceses. The episode challenges viewers to reconsider the Church's value systems at all scales to foster new relational qualities and offers a preview of the next episode's exploration of alternative models inspired by nature.
 
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:04 Understanding Fractals
01:01 Fractals in Organizational Theory
02:19 The Pattern of Individualism
04:03 Individualism at Different Church Levels
06:43 Reimagining Church Values
06:58 Conclusion and Next Steps

Indigenous peoples day 24

Celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day in the Diocese of Rio Grande In this special message from Bishop Michael Hunn, the Diocese of the Rio Grande is invited to honor Indigenous Peoples Day by deepening their understanding of indigenous history and cultures in New Mexico and West Texas. Bishop Hunn shares recommended readings to learn about the Puebloan and Diné peoples, examines the impact of colonialism, and encourages respect and stewardship of the natural world. He highlights important books and historical events like The Long Walk, offering insights to foster meaningful connections with indigenous communities. The video calls for a respectful and open-hearted engagement with the indigenous cultures within the diocese.
00:00 Introduction and Invitation
00:32 Exploring Indigenous Histories and Cultures
00:54 Pueblo Peoples on the Pajarito Plateau
01:52 Discovering Jemez Pueblo
03:10 Learning about Contemporary Navajo Culture
04:05 The Tragic Long Walk
05:41 Colonial Interactions and Slavery
06:35 Theological Perspectives on Colonialism
07:22 Braiding Sweetgrass and Creation Care
09:13 Conclusion and Call to Action

Strategic Intention: Reimagining Church in Uncertain Times

Embracing Strategic Intention in the Episcopal Church This video introduces a series about reimagining the Episcopal Church using insights from adrenne mares brown's, 'Emergent Strategy.' The focus is on 'strategic intention,' a concept that emphasizes staying true to core values over rigid planning, especially in uncertain times such as political elections. Bishop Michael Hunn encourages congregations to adapt to unforeseen challenges by understanding who they are and their fundamental mission, fostering unity and love within their communities regardless of external circumstances.
00:00 Introduction to New Church Concepts
00:35 Understanding Strategic Intention
00:58 Strategic Intention vs. Strategic Planning
02:26 Practical Example: Election and Church's Role
05:11 Embracing Beloved Community
06:56 Focusing on Core Values and Intentions
08:38 Phase One Plan and Future Vision
09:43 Preview of Next Topic: Fractals

Rethinking Episcopal Church Structures: Lessons on Relationships and Responsibility with Canon Lee Curtis

Join Canon Lee Curtis, Canon to the Ordinary of the Diocese of the Rio Grande, as he follows up on Bishop Hunn's recent discussion about the essential nature of bishops and dioceses. Curtis explores the relational role of bishops, the importance of maintaining relationships within the church, and how feedback from our environment informs church structure. This episode delves into indigenous economic theories to inform relationships in the church, challenges the myth of self-sustainability, and emphasizes local decision-making. This is a must-watch for anyone interested in the evolving dynamics within the Episcopal Church.
 
00:00 Introduction and Purpose
00:30 Understanding the Role of a Bishop
03:08 Relational Units in Church Dynamics
04:27 Indigenous Economics and Church Structure
06:00 Challenges in Seminary Education
08:09 Rethinking Church Sustainability
14:34 Local Decision-Making and Subsidiarity
18:36 Conclusion and Call to Action

Dioceses and the Role of Bishop : a Troubling Trend

The Role and Future of Bishops in the Episcopal Church
 
In this thought-provoking update, we delve into a concerning trend within the Episcopal Church regarding the role and function of bishops. We explore the financial challenges leading to the merging of dioceses, the sale of diocesan offices, and the push for larger diocese structures. The video calls for a conversation about the true purpose of a bishop, the historical evolution of the role, and the need for a pastoral, rather than administrative, relationship between bishops and their congregations. Join the discussion on redefining the Episcopal Church's approach to episcopal leadership amid economic pressures.
00:00 Introduction to Episcopal Church Trends
00:15 Challenges Facing Dioceses
02:40 Historical Role of Bishops
05:47 Defining a Diocese
07:08 The Role of Bishops Today
09:17 Economic Pressures and Relationships
12:17 The Future of Episcopal Leadership
16:24 Call to Action and Reflection
 

WU : Congratulations Lee Curtis! Fall, and the Borderlands

Weekly Update - Diocese of the Rio Grande: September 2024
 
Join us for the Diocese of the Rio Grande's weekly update for the third week of September 2024. Celebrate Lee Curtis's nomination as Bishop Suffragan in the Diocese of West Texas and catch his exclusive interview. Get exciting details about the upcoming Diocesan Convention in November packed with fun, fellowship, and inspiring workshops. Hear from Tim O'Malley about efficient energy use as seasons change, and dive into the latest Borderland Update with Lee Curtis discussing new trends at the border and the administration's approach to asylum seekers. Stay informed and engaged with your diocesan community!
 
00:00 Introduction and Special Report
00:39 Upcoming Diocesan Convention
01:28 Energy Efficiency Tips for Fall
02:07 Interview with Tim O'Malley
05:45 Borderland Update: Asylum Seekers and Border Policies
09:21 Concluding Remarks

Canon Lee Curtis Candidate for Bishop Suffrigan!

The Long Road to Recovery in New Mexico

In this episode, join us for an insightful interview with Janna Lopez, the founder of Neighbors Helping Neighbors from Las Vegas, New Mexico. Janna shares the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating Calf Canyon and Hermit's Creek fires of 2022. Learn about the community's resilience, the challenges of navigating governmental aid, and the immense environmental and economic impacts of the fires. Discover how the Diocese of the Rio Grande, with support from Episcopal Relief and Development, working through Neighbors Helping Neighbors has mobilized to provide essential support, from distributing food and clothing to offering mental health services. Despite the slow governmental response and the lingering effects on the environment and local livestock, the spirit of togetherness and faith keeps this community moving forward. This episode sheds light on the continuous need for donations and volunteers to aid in the long-term recovery.
 
00:00 Introduction and Overview
01:01 Meet Janna Lopez: Founder of Neighbors Helping Neighbors
01:11 The Immediate Response to the Fire
02:11 Transition to Long-Term Recovery
03:57 Challenges with Government Aid
06:08 The Ongoing Needs of the Community
08:22 Environmental Impact and Long-Term Consequences
15:25 Building a Network of Support
19:49 Call for Volunteers and Donations
21:45 Personal Reflections and Closing Thoughts

WU Labor Day 24

Weekly Update: Mission Trips, Wildfire Recovery, and Remembering Bishop Dave Bailey - Labor Day 2024 In this weekly update for Labor Day 2024, we catch up after a busy summer filled with general conventions and vacation time. Highlights include inviting you to join the Boquillas and Beyond mission trip, a recap of a youth mission trip in Taos, updates on wildfire recovery efforts in Ruidoso, NM and progress on our diocesan four-phase project. We also take a moment to honor the life and ministry of the late Right Reverend Dave Bailey, Bishop of Navajo Land. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of labor and the contributions of various workers this Labor Day weekend.
00:00 Welcome Back: Weekly Update Overview
00:30 Join the Mission: Boquillas and Beyond
02:57 Youth Mission Trip to Taos
11:08 Diocesan Four Phase Project
14:24 Wildfire Recovery Efforts in Ruidoso, NM
16:11 Honoring Bishop Dave Bailey
18:32 Labor Day Gratitude