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We continue to live in uncertain and anxious times in our nation, our world and even the Church. The economic recovery has been sluggish and many people are still unemployed, underemployed and economically stressed. The level of partisanship and political polarization among our elected officials only seems to get worse.  The people of Haiti are valiantly attempting to recover from a devastating natural disaster and the United States is still fighting in two wars and attempting to broker peace in other tinder box areas throughout the world. We continue to face conflict and dissent in our own Anglican and Episcopal communities while our Roman Catholic bothers and sisters are dealing with an ever growing crisis over the handling of sexual abuse by priests.

Yet as Christians we continue to be people of hope even in the midst of conflict, crisis, schism and dissent.  As Episcopal communities of faith, we have an obligation to comfort, heal and preach the good news of the Gospel to members of our congregations and our local communities. During this most holy time of the year, we also have a unique opportunity to proclaim the Risen Lord to a hurting and broken world. While the message of Easter is always relevant and new, it is especially meaningful during times of stress, anxiety, fear and uncertainty. While Easter represents Jesus’ ultimate victory of life over death, it is also an assurance that faith will dispel doubt, hope will conquer despair and that nothing can separate us from the love of God.

The mission of the Episcopal Church Foundation (ECF) is to help strengthen the leadership and financial capabilities of Episcopal congregations, dioceses and related organizations.  Our vision for the Church is a growing number of healthy, vital and vibrant congregations in service to God’s mission.  ECF celebrates and rejoices when the members of our beloved Episcopal churches acknowledge, embrace and proclaim that because of the Resurrection, they are empowered to live out the Gospel and make a difference in the lives of their congregations, their local communities and the world. ECF feels so privileged to be invited to walk alongside the people of God on these unique and important journeys of faith.

On behalf of the board of directors and the entire ECF staff, I wish you and your loved ones a blessed, hopeful and joyful Easter season.  The Lord is risen indeed!  Alleluia!