In this final episode of our Voices from the Anglican Communion series, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan engages with the Rev. Natalie Blake, a tutor and warden of Anglican students at the United Theological College of the West Indies. Rev. Blake offers a comprehensive look into the Anglican Diocese of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, celebrating its 200th anniversary, detailing its structure, clergy (including 28 female priests out of a total of 107), and its place within the wider church in the Province of the West Indies. The conversation delves into the unique ecumenical theological education at the United Theological College, where students from six denominations live and study together, fostering interdenominational unity. Rev. Blake candidly discusses the challenges women in ministry face in the diocese, particularly the expectation to "prove themselves" in a way their male counterparts are not. As a member of both the Commission for Theological Education in the Anglican Communion (CTAC) and the International Anglican-Pentecostal Commission (IPAC), she highlights the importance of shared resources, theological dialogue, and discovering commonalities across diverse Anglican and Christian traditions. Finally, Rev. Blake addresses the critical issue of climate change in the Caribbean, emphasizing how the region's "small island developing states" are already experiencing rising sea levels and altered weather patterns. She shares how Jamaican churches are actively responding through tree planting initiatives, advocating for sustainable resource management, and encouraging individual and collective mindfulness of global environmental impact. Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.   Credits: Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic Podcast produced by Polymnia

Dr. Paulo Ueti from Brazil is the theological advisor and regional manager of the United Society Partners in the Gospel (USPG). He introduces the history and mission of the Episcopal and Anglican churches in Latin America and the Caribbean. The churches were founded by British Anglican missions and the Episcopal Church. They are  multiracial, multicultural, and multilingual, speaking Spanish, English, Portuguese, and French. Most congregations are small, yet they play significant roles in civil society. The Anglican Episcopal Church of Brazil has three female bishops out of nine. Archbishop Marinez Rosa dos Santos Bassotto is the Primate of the Church and is the first woman to lead an Anglican province in Latin America. She is the only female Primate in the Anglican Communion. Dr. Ueti collaborates with his colleague, Dr. Peniel Rajkumer, on the Fellowship of Anglican Scholars in Theology project, which provides support for new theologians. He strengthens partnerships in the region by providing resources and support, enabling churches to better carry out their mission and learn from one another. In July 2025, the Commission for Theological Education in the Anglican Communion organized a meeting for theological educators in the Americas held in Brasilia, Brazil, to discuss the future of theological education. Dr. Ueti emphasizes the need for decolonial and contextual theology and pedagogy. He also highlights how the Brazilian Book of Common Prayer, revised in 2015, attempted to contextualize liturgy in the Brazilian Church. He hopes that member churches in the Anglican Communion can foster relationships and mutual learning despite theological, cultural, and linguistic differences.   Credits: Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic Podcast produced by Polymnia

In this episode, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan converses with the Rev. Mark Nam, a third-generation British-born Chinese and Vicar of St. John's, Woodley, in the Diocese of Oxford. Rev. Nam offers a unique perspective on being a racial minority leader in a predominantly white institution, sharing his personal journey from law to ministry and his call to serve as a British Chinese priest in the Church of England. The discussion explores the historical context of racial minorities in the church in the U.K., from the Windrush generation to the recent influx of 300,000 Hong Kongers. Rev. Nam critically assesses the Church of England's efforts to welcome immigrants and address systemic racism, referencing the "From Lament to Action" report and the establishment of a Racial Justice Commission. A highlight of the conversation is the story of The TeaHouse, an initiative founded by Rev. Nam to raise the profile of Chinese-heritage clergy in the Church of England. He recounts how this network began with just nine individuals and has grown to visibly represent Chinese-heritage clergy, challenging normative perceptions and fostering an embracing environment for future generations. Rev. Nam also shares the deeply personal significance of his recent National Diversity Award nomination at Liverpool Cathedral, which ties back to his grandparents' migration story and the reclamation of his true Chinese surname at his ordination. He concludes with his hopes for the Anglican Communion, advocating for the emergence of the East Asian theological voice and a deeper, more inclusive fellowship. This is the fifth episode of Episcopal Divinity School’s (EDS) series hosted by Distinguished Scholar, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan: Voices from the Anglican Communion. Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.   Credits: Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic Podcast produced by Polymnia

In this episode, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan speaks with Ms. Sunshine Dulnuan, a systematic theology lecturer at St. Andrew’s Theological Seminary in Quezon City, Philippines. Ms. Dulnuan shares her passion for theology, emphasizing its direct impact on people and the planet, and reflects on her unique experience studying at the Church Divinity School of the Pacific during the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of anti-Asian hate. She delves into the complex history of how The Episcopal Church established its presence in the Philippines, highlighting its distinct focus on indigenous communities like the Igorots and Tirurays, who still comprise the majority of the church's membership today. Their conversation also delves into the current priorities of The Episcopal Church in the Philippines, including its commitment to contextual theology and holistic missions through initiatives like eCare (Episcopal Community Action for Renewal and Empowerment), which fosters economic empowerment through micro-loans and community organizing. Learn about their significant eco-justice work, including the establishment of a "communion forest" and mangrove planting efforts. Ms. Dulnuan also addresses challenges facing the church, such as the ongoing conversation around LGBTQIA+ inclusion and the critical need for women bishops—currently, there are no women bishops in The Episcopal Church in the Philippines, though women now make up about 40% of seminary students and a majority of the faculty. As someone deeply rooted in indigenous perspectives and whose father was a forester and mother a farmer, she offers profound insights on being better stewards of God's creation and the ecosystems. This is the fourth episode of Episcopal Divinity School’s (EDS) series hosted by Distinguished Scholar, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan: Voices from the Anglican Communion. Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.   Credits: Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic Podcast produced by Polymnia

In this episode, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan speaks with the Rev. Claire Chia-lin Wang, a deacon at St. John's Cathedral in Taipei, for an insightful look into the Episcopal Diocese of Taiwan. Rev. Wang shares the fascinating history of this diocese, part of Province VIII of The Episcopal Church, from its post-1949 beginnings to its vibrant present, including its unique name heritage and relationships with other dioceses across the Pacific and within Asia. Rev. Wang discusses her personal journey to ordained ministry and her work serving the English-speaking congregation and engaging youth and young adults at St. John's Cathedral. She provides insight into the growing role of women's ordination and leadership within the Diocese of Taiwan. Drawing from her experience at the "Women Mentoring Women" conference at Virginia Theological Seminary, she highlights the strength and wisdom of women in leadership and the enduring power of gentle, compassionate service. Rev. Wang also shares her hopes for the broader Anglican Communion, advocating for deeper mutual listening, humility, and a shift from hierarchical declarations to relational, incarnational engagement that truly embraces diversity. This is the third episode of Episcopal Divinity School’s (EDS) series hosted by Distinguished Scholar, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan: Voices from the Anglican Communion. Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.   Credits: Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic Podcast produced by Polymnia

In this episode, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan speaks with Dr. Esther Mombo, a leading theologian from St. Paul’s University in Limuru, Kenya, about women's leadership in the Anglican Church in Africa. Dr. Mombo introduces the "Africa Six," the current six female bishops, highlighting their significance as a testament to both the challenges and transformations in African Anglicanism. The conversation explores the hurdles women face in accessing theological education and ministry on the continent, the crucial work of the Mothers' Union in community and economic development, and Dr. Mombo's own work in empowering women through theological study. She shares her extensive experience serving on high-level Anglican Commissions, including discussions around human sexuality within the Communion. Dr. Mombo offers a nuanced perspective on the complexities of these debates, emphasizing the need for empathy, understanding, and solidarity over division. She concludes with powerful advice for young women aspiring to be future church leaders, particularly on navigating patriarchal structures and embracing theological empowerment. This is the second episode of Episcopal Divinity School’s (EDS) series hosted by Distinguished Scholar, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan: Voices from the Anglican Communion. Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.   Credits: Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic Podcast produced by Polymnia  

Join Dr. Kwok Pui Lan and the Rt. Rev. Victor Atta-Baffoe '92, the fourth bishop of Cape Coast, Ghana, for a discussion on global Anglicanism and his journey from EDS seminarian to bishop. Bishop Atta-Baffoe shares how his Episcopal Divinity School (EDS) education shaped his influential roles as Dean of St. Nicholas Seminary and as a bishop in the Anglican Communion. Bishop Atta-Baffoe shares the poignant history of Cape Coast Castle and its connection to the slave trade, offering a critical postcolonial perspective on the church's past. He delves into the joys and challenges of his ministry, focusing on the realities of poverty, gender inequality (where 70-75% of church members are women, yet they often constitute only 10-15% of convention attendees), and the urgent need for contextualized theology and inclusive leadership in the Global South. As Chair of the Commission for Theological Education in the Anglican Communion, Bishop Atta-Baffoe also addresses the critical challenges facing theological education worldwide. He champions celebrating diversity and fostering trust within the communion, emphasizing that the church's true mission lies in addressing pressing issues like poverty, climate justice, and human dignity over internal divisions. Learn about his prophetic vision for a more united, mission-focused Anglican Church in the first episode of our series hosted by EDS Distinguished Scholar, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan: Voices from the Anglican Communion. Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.   Credits: Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic Podcast produced by Polymnia

The Rev. Leyla King, Canon for Mission in Small Congregations for the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas, sits down with guests the Rev. Kevin Diehl, Rector of St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church in San Francisco, the Rev. Suzanne Smith, Rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Alvin, Texas, and Ed Carrette, Community Missioner also at Grace Church with Rev. Smith. Kevin describes how St. John's, a small church in the Mission District of San Francisco, has partnered with the Gubbio Project to provide essential services to the homeless population in their neighborhood, transforming their sanctuary into a vital community resource. Suzanne and Ed share how Grace Church, facing declining membership, reinvented itself as a church that says "yes" to community needs. They describe how a simple blessing box evolved into a thriving weekly mobile food pantry, serving thousands of people in their community. The conversation explores the importance of: Embracing a "reckless openness" to community needs: Both churches emphasize the importance of being open to new opportunities and willing to take risks to serve their communities. Building strong partnerships: Kevin and Ed highlight the crucial role of partnerships with other organizations, such as the Gubbio Project and local food banks, in amplifying their impact. Integrating faith and action: The guests discuss how their faith in God and commitment to the mission of Christ inform their community service, with examples such as incorporating liturgical elements into their food pantry ministry and viewing community service as an integral part of their discipleship. Overcoming internal resistance: The conversation addresses the challenges of overcoming internal resistance within the congregation, such as fear of change and concerns about financial sustainability. This episode offers practical advice and inspiring examples for small churches seeking to make a lasting impact on their communities. Episode Links: Grace Episcopal Church, Alvin The Episcopal Church of St. John the Evangelist, San Francisco The Gubbio Project   Credits: Music Credit: I Love to Tell the Story, Benjamin Grove, keyboard Podcast produced by Polymnia

In this episode of the Small Churches Big Impact Collective, host the Rev. Rebekah Hatch, Canon for Lay & Ordained Vocations in the Episcopal Church in Connecticut, speaks with the Rev. Candice Combs, pastor of New Life Lutheran Church in Dripping Springs, Texas - a unique congregation that worships exclusively outdoors. Rev. Combs shares how New Life, a congregation focused on grace, discipleship, children, and creation, has found its own unique expression of faith. By embracing an outdoor worship space, the congregation has cultivated a deeper connection with nature and fostered a sense of community that values resilience, flexibility, and the inclusion of all God’s people. The conversation explores how this unique worship style, grounded in a deep respect for creation, informs New Life's understanding of social justice. Rather than focusing solely on external activism, New Life prioritizes building a just and inclusive community within the church itself, fostering trust and understanding among its members and within the New Life community. This episode offers a refreshing perspective on how small churches can find innovative ways to live out their faith, demonstrating that social justice begins with cultivating a just and welcoming community within the church itself. Key Takeaways: Unique Worship Style: New Life's outdoor worship fosters a deeper connection with nature and cultivates a sense of community resilience. Focus on Inclusion: The congregation prioritizes inclusion and welcomes all people, emphasizing grace and understanding within this community of faith. Justice as Community Building: New Life recognizes that building a just and inclusive community within the church is a foundational step towards addressing social justice issues beyond the church walls. Embracing Vulnerability: The outdoor worship setting encourages vulnerability and a deeper connection to the natural world, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and compassion. Creative Approaches to Ministry: New Life demonstrates that small churches can find innovative and creative ways to live out their faith, adapting to their unique context and embracing new possibilities. Episode Links: New Life Lutheran Church of Dripping Springs  Wild Church Network Church of the Wild: How Nature Invites Us Into the Sacred, by Victoria Loorz Upwild.org - the joint ELCA/Episcopal Wild Church in Michigan thebtscenter.org/guides-for-lectio-terra: the practice of listening for the voice of the sacred in nature   Credits: Music Credit: I Love to Tell the Story, Benjamin Grove, keyboard Podcast produced by Polymnia

In this episode, the Reverend Allison Sandlin Liles, Vicar of St. Stephen's in Hurst, Texas, sits down with the Reverend Dr. Elizabeth Mae Magill, pastor of the Small Church Collaborative which includes Rindge Congregational Church in Rindge, New Hampshire and Ashburnham Community Church in Ashburnham, Massachusetts. Liz shares her experiences leading two  “micro-congregations” and building a collaborative ministry with a neighboring church of a different denomination. Liz  emphasizes the importance of prioritizing community engagement, including identifying local needs and organizing community-based ministries. Drawing on community organizing principles—a set of strategies that empower communities to identify and address their own issues, such as grassroots mobilization, building power, and developing leadership—Liz  has successfully empowered her congregations to become agents of change within their communities. Liz’s success in addressing social justice issues is evident in her work on racial justice and LGBTQ+ inclusion. In Rindge, New Hampshire, she facilitated community conversations on racial justice, leading to the formation of a local group dedicated to addressing racial inequities. In Ashburnham, Massachusetts, she championed the display of a rainbow flag at the church, sparking a community conversation about LGBTQ+ inclusion and leading to the creation of a support group for LGBTQ+ seniors. Faced with limited resources and declining membership, Liz found innovative ways to engage her community, such as organizing community meals, utilizing social media for outreach, and collaborating with existing community organizations. This episode offers valuable insights for pastors, church leaders, and anyone interested in exploring innovative and impactful models of small church ministry. Episode Links: Ashburnham Community Church in Ashburnham, MA First Congregational Church in Rindge, NH Five Loaves, Two Fish, Twelve Volunteers: Growing a Relational Food Ministry by Elizabeth Mae Magill Living Stones Partnership   Credits: Music Credit: I Love to Tell the Story, Benjamin Grove, keyboard Podcast produced by Polymnia

In this episode of the Small Churches Big Impact Collective, host the Rev. Stacy Williams-Duncan sits down with the Rev. Dr. Paula Miller, Rector of St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Lincoln Park, Michigan and the Rev. Nandra Perry, Vicar of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Hearne, Texas. Paula shares how St. Michael's in Lincoln Park, Michigan, is working to improve the social and economic well-being of their community. Through partnerships with local organizations, they are advocating for systemic change by addressing issues such as poverty, food insecurity, and access to resources. Nandra describes how St. Philip's Episcopal Church in Hearne, Texas, has revitalized their community through asset-based community development. By focusing on the strengths and resources within their community, they have empowered local residents to address community needs, leading to the creation of new initiatives such as a community festival and a local resource center. This episode highlights how small churches can go beyond traditional ministry models to become catalysts for positive change in their communities. By emphasizing shared ministry, where the entire congregation participates in the work of the church, and focusing on empowering local residents and fostering community leadership, rather than simply providing services, these churches are demonstrating a commitment to long-term, sustainable change that builds on existing community strengths and creates lasting impact. Episode Links: St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Lincoln Park, MI St. Philips Episcopal Church in Hearne, TX Little Fork Episcopal Church in Rixeyville, VA Asset Based Community Development  Texas Rural Leadership Program Lincoln Park Community Resource Guide Community Development Block Grants Iona Collaborative   Credits: Music Credit: I Love to Tell the Story, Benjamin Grove, keyboard Podcast produced by Polymnia

The Rev. Leyla King, Canon for Mission in Small Congregations for the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas, sits down with guests the Rev. Halim Shukair, Priest-in-Charge at Christ Episcopal Church and Priest-in-Charge at Mother of the Savior Church, the first Arabic worshiping community in the Episcopal Church, both in Dearborn, Michigan, and the Rev. Lauren Grubaugh Thomas, church-planting priest of a year-old Episcopal community called Holy Companion, located south of Denver, Colorado. In this episode, they discuss racial justice work in small churches, specifically as it is manifested around Arabs, Arab Americans, and Palestinians in our churches and our society. Halim describes the innovative partnership between Christ Church, a predominantly white congregation, and Mother of the Savior, an Arabic-speaking congregation. Through shared meals, cultural exchange, and joint advocacy efforts, these two congregations are building deeper relationships and working together for social justice. Lauren shares how Holy Companion, a young church plant, has integrated social justice into its core identity from the very beginning. By prioritizing community engagement and building relationships with neighbors, they have become active in local advocacy efforts. The conversation highlights the importance of: Building relationships across communities: Both guests emphasize the importance of building genuine relationships with people from diverse backgrounds as a foundation for meaningful social justice work. Integrating faith and action: They discuss how their faith motivates their commitment to social justice and how their worship and community life reflect their values. Centering the voices of marginalized communities: Both guests emphasize the importance of listening to and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities in their advocacy work. This episode offers valuable insights for small churches seeking to deepen their commitment to social justice and become more effective agents of change in their communities. Episode Links: Mother of the Savior Facebook Page Christ Church, Dearborn Partnership in Faith between Mother of the Savior and Christ Church Episcopal News Service article about the Partnership in Faith Holy Companion Holy Companion Episcopal Community Instagram account Palestinian Anglicans and Clergy Allies (PACA)   Credits: Music Credit: I Love to Tell the Story, Benjamin Grove, keyboard Podcast produced by Polymnia

The members of the Small Churches Big Impact Collective are joined by The Rev. Lydia Kelsey Bucklin, President and Dean of Episcopal Divinity School (EDS) in conversation about this upcoming season. Each episode centers around communities of faith and their understanding of social justice. Listeners will hear about the variety of ways justice can be lived out and witnessed to, even in smaller congregations. Episode Links: Episcopal Divinity School Small Churches Big Impact Collective The Episcopal Church in Connecticut The Episcopal Diocese of West Texas Little Fork Episcopal Church, Rixeyville, VA St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, Hurst, TX Credits: Music Credit: I Love to Tell the Story, Benjamin Grove, keyboard Podcast produced by Polymnia

Much of what defines religion in the United States today can be traced back to its historical and contemporary relationship with indigenous peoples. One of the most traumatic chapters in the history of this relationship is that of Indian residential schools. For more than 100 years, indigenous children were sent away from their homes, their families, and their cultures to be "re-educated" in environments that were often neglectful, violent, hostile, and even deadly. Many of these 400 schools across 37 states were run by churches.   Join the Rev. Steven Paulikas, Rector of All Saints' Episcopal Church in Brooklyn, New York and our expert guest, Dr. Anton Treuer, Professor of Ojibwe at Bemidji State University and author of over 20 books, to learn more about both the intergenerational trauma caused by Indian residential schools, and what churches can do to bring about reconciliation and healing.   This special episode is being released by Episcopal Divinity School to mark Native American Heritage Month.

In this episode, the Very Rev. Lydia Kelsey Bucklin interviews the Rt. Rev. Matthew Heyd, Bishop of the Diocese of New York and Vice Chair of the EDS Board of Trustees. Bishop Heyd reflects on the Episcopal Church's pivotal moment where the message of announcing a new age, rooted in love and grace, is more vital than ever. He also discusses the need for transformation in leadership and how we must rethink the way we form leaders to build the beloved community.

In this episode, the Very Rev. Lydia Kelsey Bucklin interviews Rev. Nancy Frausto, Director of Latinx Studies and Lecturer in Multicultural Ministry at the Seminary of the Southwest. They discuss the essential role of Latinx ministry in the Episcopal Church, focusing on Nancy's work with students called to this ministry and the required January-term course on immigration issues. Rev. Frausto emphasizes the need for creativity and adaptability in ministry, urging future leaders to think beyond traditional church boundaries to engage meaningfully with the evolving needs of their communities.

In this third episode of our podcast series, the Very Rev. Lydia Kelsey Bucklin sits down with The Rev. Katie Nakamura Rengers, staff officer for church planting within The Episcopal Church. Together, they explore the evolving culture of church planting and how new Christian communities are being formed in ways that break from traditional models. From innovative worship gatherings to grassroots community initiatives, Katie shares how these fresh expressions of faith are meeting the spiritual needs of today’s world, inviting listeners to reimagine what it means to “plant a church” in the 21st century.

In this second episode of our podcast series, the Very Rev. Lydia Kelsey Bucklin speaks with Rev. Dr. Sheryl Kujawa-Holbrook, historiographer of The Episcopal Church and former Episcopal Divinity School professor, about the legacy of EDS and its predecessors, Episcopal Theological School (ETS) and Philadelphia Divinity School (PDS). They explore the history, social justice focus, and ecumenical vision of these institutions, highlighting their lasting impact on theological education.

In this episode, EDS' new President and Dean Lydia Kelsey Bucklin speaks with Dr. Kwok Pui Lan, recently retired professor of Systematic Theology at Emory Candler School of Divinity and a distinguished scholar who taught for 25 years at the Episcopal Divinity School. Dr. Kwok is widely recognized for her work in feminist theology, postcolonial theology, and Asian theology. President Bucklin and Dr. Kwok discuss the future of theological education.

Join us for a compelling episode of Just Conversations as we welcome Lydia Kelsey Bucklin, the incoming president and dean of Episcopal Divinity School (EDS). In this special conversation, former president Kelly Brown Douglas sits down with Lydia to discuss the significance of women's leadership at this time in the Church, the importance of passing the baton to the next generation, and Lydia's inspiring vision for the future of theological education in the Episcopal Church.