Bishop Gregory O. Brewer 2018 Diocesan Convention Address
Channel: Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida
Date: 2018-02-06

In his address at the Forty-Ninth Annual Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida, Bishop Gregory O. Brewer expounds on the 2018 Diocesan Convention theme:  Evangelism - Embracing Our Neighborhoods.  He begins his address by highlighting diocesan outreach efforts in the wake of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria.  Special emphasis is placed on the impact displaced persons from Puerto Rico are having on the Central Florida region and how our Episcopal Church can answer the call to assist.  

Bishop Brewer also shares the 2017 accomplishments of the Diocese of Central Florida and reviews work being done to carry out the diocese's six strategic points:  becoming ever more deeply a diocesan family, raising up new clergy and lay leaders, looking at our neighborhoods and facing the missionary challenge that is before us, revitalizing children and youth ministry, asking for discernment on God's missionary strategy for the diocese and taking our place within the councils of the Episcopal Church.  Bishop Brewer cites facts, figures and examples related to ordinations, diocesan plans for church plants, strengthened relationships with diocesan schools, the growing number of active youth groups in the diocese and our continued partnership with the Diocese of Honduras.  Bishop Brewer emphasizes his need for counsel and prayer especially with regard to these three ministry areas: church plants and existing churches, the exploding Hispanic population, and the growing gay population.  

Bishop Brewer closes his annual address with a call for unity in the diocese:  "We are here to serve together.  Let's do it."