As we near the conclusion of the Confirmation season, Bishop Hughes talks about the excitement of those who have just professed their faith, and what we in their congregation can do to support them in their faith journey. (Time: 4:41.)
If you want to grow the church, says Bishop Hughes, start by growing your own faith in fellowship with other faithful Christians, which will empower you to talk about faith with others who need to hear the good news that they are loved by God. (Time: 5:31.)
It will offer training for lay people seeking to become licensed Preachers, Worship Leaders, and Pastoral Leaders, as well as those seeking ordination as Vocational Deacons. (Time: 4:50.)
I hope and pray that every Episcopalian will be in a Faith Group.
In these closing days of Lent, Bishop Hughes recommends meeting with a priest for the Rite of Reconciliation of a Penitent in the Book of Common Prayer as a way to go joyfully into Easter, unburdened from worry, guilt, or regret. (Time: 4:57.)
Referencing the fact that in the past year, the United States has experienced the largest number of deaths by suicide than it has in its history, Bishop Hughes urges us, as we move through Lent, to be a little more aware and sensitive to those who might be feeling left out. (Time:3:44.)
Bishop Hughes suggests a simple Lenten practice, based on Jesus' actions in Mark 1:31, that is particularly suited to the times in which we're currently living. (Time: 4:17.)
"The faith life is like anything else," says Bishop Hughes: "We have to build that muscle, we've got to get stronger at it, we have to practice, we have to learn how to get better at something, we've got to make the decision to nurture it." (Time: 3:52.)
As we start a new year, Bishop Hughes suggests we focus on becoming even more committed to growing deeper in our faith. (Time: 4:40.)
This is Bishop Hughes in the Diocese of Newark. It is the start of 2024. We're only a few days into it. And we are still, very many of us, at that time of year where we're looking wistfully at the rest of the year and asking ourselves, what is it that I want to do differently this year?
Bishop Hughes says, "I want to invite you this Advent to think about where you need light, and also to think about where you are asked to witness to the light.... How can we share the light that we know? How do we share the hope that is within us, the hope of God's love and mercy and compassion that we know exist even in a world that is deeply, deeply fractured and troubled?" (Time: 4:20.)
