06/05/2026
Still sorting through many images taken during the first full day of holy conferencing in the New England Annual Conference. And with good reason. Yesterday was chock-full of moments to rejoice in worship and the work of the church.
About 550 people are gathered in Manchester, New Hampshire this week for three days of worship, remembrance, and shared purpose. As part of the , New England is yoked with the New York Annual Conference (NYAC) and shares Bishop Bickerton, and members of New York are with us this week too.
The gathering opened with "Come to the Tree of Life," with prayer trees and labyrinths throughout the room inviting everyone to slow down and reconnect with God. In his sermon "No Strings Attached," Bishop Bickerton reminded us that love is not a suggestion but a command: "Everything begins with God's love. Everything."
There is much to celebrate, including 70 years of women's ordination and 30 years of the Order of Deacons. Forty-three pilgrims travel the Civil Rights Pilgrimage through Georgia and Alabama this spring, with another trip planned for 2028, and seven congregations are honored with the One Matters Award for welcoming new baptisms and professions of faith.
We also remembered those who have gone before us in a moving memorial service. We're grateful for this time of sharing ad loving boldly, together.
