As the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement, we dream and work to foster Beloved Communities where all people may experience dignity and abundant life and see themselves and others as beloved children of God. The Episcopal Church’s work toward racial reconciliation, healing and justice is guided by the long-term commitment to form loving, liberating and life-giving relationships with each other. Together, we are growing as reconcilers, justice-makers, and healers in the name of Christ. Becoming Beloved Community (BBC) organizes its ministries around the four quadrants of the labyrinth. Each quadrant represents a commitment that is vital to lasting change within us, our churches, our communities and society at large.

Repairing the Breach in society and institutions by providing space for public storytelling, offering training opportunities for all ages, facilitating leadership training, and coordinating pilgrimages.

Telling the Truth about our churches and race through educational programs, re-examining local stories, partnering with allies and accomplices.                                                                    

Proclaiming the Dream of Beloved Community through interfaith gatherings for reflection and spiritual practice, seeking repentance, and rebuilding systems and structures.

Practicing the Way of Jesus’ healing love by building community partnerships, offering space for community groups, creating and offering justice initiatives, and supporting restorative justice initiatives.

The BBC Team of the Diocese of Northern Michigan was born in April of 2019 when members of the Diocese’s Justice and Peace Committee attended a BBC gathering in the Diocese of Ohio. This gathering inspired many of the attendants to journey together in the important work of dismantling systemic racism in our church and communities. We learned at this Province V event that efforts are going on all around the church and the province. We were eager to share the work in our diocese and hear from other people.

MEMBERS OF THE BBC TEAM

Arlene Gordanier
Sarah Diener-Schlitt
Deb Nedeau
Rick Stanitis
Leora Tadgerson
Kathy Vanden Boogaard
Pamella Vincent-Jenkins
Rayford Ray

Episcopal Diocese of Northern Michigan

131 East Ridge Street
Marquette, MI 49855

(906) 228-7160

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The Episcopal Diocese of Northern Michigan is located in K’chi Namebini-Ziibing (Marquette), the ancestral homelands of the Anishinaabeg, Three Fires Confederacy. The diocese acknowledges the historical connection our organization has with its Indigenous community and their sacred connection with the land. We recognize, support and advocate for the sovereign rights of tribal nations as they navigate through the various impacts of settler colonialism. This acknowledgment is aligned with our churches core value of creating a diverse and inclusive community. It is an organizational responsibility to recognize and acknowledge the people, culture and history that make up our beloved shared community.