All the News Since November, 2026
March 20, 2026
Ladies,
I do not know about you, but I am reeling from everything that is going on in the world, and it makes it hard to focus on my faith journey. Yet it is just because of this chaos that I should be turning more to God, not less. I cherish my time with Episcopal Church Women because I know I am in a community where Christ is present. Thank you for the peace this gives me.
This brings us to the reason for this communique — what has been going on since I last wrote. Here is a summary of events that have occurred:
The Diocese of Virginia’s 231st Annual Convention
o “The 231st Annual Convention of the Diocese of Virginia took place November 6-8, 2025, in Fredericksburg, Virginia. More than 500 clergy and lay leaders representing churches across the diocese gathered for three days of worship, reflection, and decision-making.” — (Quoted from episcopalvirginia.org recap of 231st Annual Convention.)
o “Delegates leaned into discipleship, told stories, shared gifts, and celebrated our shared call to love Jesus, embody justice, and be disciples.” — (Quoted from episcopalvirginia.org recap of 231st Annual Convention.)
Dr. Lisa Kimball Speaking at the Annual Convention
o For me, the most inspirational speaker at the Convention was, soon to be retired professor from the Virginia Theological Seminary, Dr. Lisa Kimball. She impressed me so much that I went up to her after her last address to invite her to be the keynote speaker at our 2026 Annual Fall Meeting. Much to my delight, she agreed. So put this event on your calendar now because she is someone you want to listen to. The meeting date has been set for Saturday, October 17, 2026. The venue is still to be determined.
The Lenten Retreat on March 3, 2026, led by the Rev. Dr. Sarah Kye Price and held at Christ Church Episcopal, Glen Allen.
o In case you could not attend this event, I have embedded the video of the event. Click on the link: https: //www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmTXnrmrgyg. Skip to minute six to avoid listening to my blathering at the beginning. It is just annoying.
o Her heartfelt reflection was well received as she spoke about “Hallowing our Days: Sacred Spaces and Prayer Practices for Everyday Living.”
o Following her reflection, we enjoyed a Eucharist where the co-celebrants were the Rev. Sarah Price and the Rev. Drew Downey.
Three upcoming events to put on your calendar are:
The Spring Meeting on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, with Dr. Mark Biddle at St. Martin’s, Henrico.
Afternoon Tea at the Church of the Epiphany, Henrico, on Saturday, September 26, 2026. The proceeds from this event help to grow our Gifts and Scholarship Fund. Every year we give scholarships to young adults in our diocese who are pursuing post high school education, be it community college, four-year college, or technical education.
The Fall Annual Meeting on Saturday, October 17, 2026, with Dr. Lisa Kimball.
Many blessings be upon you,
Catherine Ogle Perrin
ECW President, Diocese of Virginia