Diverse Voices, Unified Faith
As I reflect on the recent election of Sean Rowe as the youngest leader of the Episcopal Church, I am both hopeful and concerned about the broader implications for diversity and inclusivity within our beloved denomination. Rowe, a 49-year-old white bishop from western Pennsylvania, is set to succeed Bishop Michael Curry, whose historic tenure as the first Black presiding bishop has left a permanent mark on our church. As a Black member of this community, Curry’s leadership has been a beacon of hope for me, embodying the rich diversity and inclusivity that we strive for in our faith community. The transition from Curry to Rowe, while notable for its role in breaking down the latent ageism found in faith, brings into sharp focus the ongoing need for greater representation and diversity within the highest ranks of our church leadership.
Rowe’s election at the General Convention in Louisville, Kentucky, marks a significant moment in our church’s history. However, it also highlights the urgency of our continued commitment to fostering a leadership that truly reflects the diverse tapestry of our congregations. As the apostle Paul reminds us, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28). Our leadership must mirror this unity in diversity. It is imperative that we also recognize and address the broader context of diversity within our leadership. A graduate of Grove City College and Virginia Theological Seminary, Rowe’s academic and clerical journey is commendable. Still, as we celebrate his achievements, we must also strive to ensure that our leadership is inclusive and representative of all.
Our church has seen its membership decline over the past decades. This decline presents an opportunity for renewal and transformation, particularly in embracing and uplifting diverse voices within our church. Bishop Michael Curry’s inspiring tenure, marked by his advocacy for racial reconciliation, climate change action, immigration policy reform, and LGBTQ+ equality, set a powerful precedent. His leadership showed us the transformative power of inclusivity and the importance of diverse perspectives in guiding our faith journey.
As we transition to Rowe’s leadership, it is crucial to remember the words of the prophet Isaiah: "Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed" (Isaiah 1:17). Our church’s future depends on our ability to uphold these principles and ensure that our leadership reflects the rich diversity of our congregations. We must call upon our leaders and the church community as a whole to do better, to actively seek out and hire more BIPOC individuals for leadership roles, and to prioritize Black concerns now that one of our most prominent voices has been lost.
The Book of Common Prayer teaches us to "seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself." This guiding principle must extend to our approach to leadership, fostering an environment where diverse voices are not only heard but are integral to our decision-making processes. We stand at a pivotal moment, guided by a new leader but also by the values of justice, inclusivity, and tolerance that guide and define our faith. As we navigate this transition, let us be mindful of the ongoing need for greater diversity in our leadership. May we rise to the occasion, embracing the challenges and opportunities ahead with a steadfast commitment to inclusivity and justice, ensuring that our leadership reflects the beautiful diversity of God’s creation. Let us call upon our church to take concrete steps to hire more BIPOC leaders to better serve and represent the rich diversity of our faith community.