I embarked on a journey of discovering how other Dioceses and Foundations are utilizing their resources to make a difference in the world. I met with Episcopal, Christian, and non-religious organizations and walked away with great excitement about what’s possible. 

I have been drawn toward the importance of words. Be it many words we string together to say something beautiful, the clarity that one word can give to something difficult we must say, or a sweet adjective that brings a smile to our face. The words we use - and don’t use - matter. 

Although the earth around us is covered in snow and animals remain in hibernation, for the human species the first of the year is often a time of new energy and excitement about the beginning of a new chapter.

In this time of Advent, we experience both the eagerness to put aside the worries and concerns of the past as well as look forward, with hope, to the coming anew of the Messiah.