The Rector's Column - May 2024

Dear Brothers and Sisters, 

Who are We? This is a significant question for us, both in terms of where we “fit” into the world around us, but also as to how we see ourselves, especially as we are as a growing congregation. 

Part of this answer also affects the church around us – APNET and other “rural” congregations. 

Some years ago, the bishop and leadership in the diocese had a vision for enhancing the ministry of the church in the Northeast part of the Diocese of Dallas, particularly in the congregations in our area. The idea was that a companionship be formed among the congregations to work together, sharing with and encouraging each other in creative ways to grow in ministry. 

St. Dunstan’s was perceived to be the anchor point for this work. So it was that my call was not only to be Rector at St. Dunstan’s but to also share in the formation, care, and leadership of what has become APNET (Affiliated Parishes of Northeast Texas). 

Some of this is to have a resident Episcopal presence in our congregations.  However, the call is not just to me, but to all of us at St. Dunstan’s. The last few years have seen so many blessings come out of the relationship and work we share. We’ve held a number of workshops and a conference. We’ve had seminars about ministry and worship. We study the scripture together.   Most of these things would have been difficult or impossible for any one of us to do on our own. We’ve found strength in numbers. 

However, these are not the most significant fruit of this association. Far more profound are the relationships that have formed. It’s been a bit like meeting long-lost cousins, or reuniting with family you have  not seen for a very long time. We have become friends. This friendship isn’t merely in the normal, worldly sense of friendship, but that of disciples – mutual friends of Jesus. 

We have been called to realize we are a part of the CHURCH, and not simply separate congregational bodies. God is using these relationships to help us learn from one another and to work together for the good of the gospel. People are hearing the gospel, being built up as disciples, encouraged in their faith, and experiencing the power of God in their lives. This isn’t only an opportunity for us, it is our call. 

We don’t know how long this APNET “thing” will last, or what it’s future shape will be. It is all about mutual support, encouragement and growth. It is also to take up Paul’s direction to us to spur one another on in our discipleship and ministry. It is also part of our purpose as St. Dunstan’s that we have the joy of a special responsibility to the congregations around us. 

I fully believe there is more to come in this regard. Just as God is at work here among us, pouring out His grace, so He calls us to share it with other congregations and other people. Many of our parishioners can testify to the grace of God and the joy we have experienced in these APNET events and relationships. 

Many have yet to “taste” of that water. I encourage you to “dive in” and sample the family relationships we have, to experience the events we share, and to be open to what God might do. Expand your horizons. God is giving us so much, and we rejoice in His grace and presence. All the glory and honor be to Him in all these things.  

The Lord be with you,  +Fraser