Dear Faithful Friend of Episcopal Ministries,
In this season of anticipation, I want to reiterate the gratitude expressed by Episcopal Ministries of Long Island in the enclosed report. To our clergy, ministry leaders, vestry members, parishioners, volunteers, partner organizations, and to all those who give generously of their time and resources to make Christ’s love known and felt in our diocese: thank you.
In bearing witness to your deep commitment to sharing God’s love by ministering to your communities, I am reminded of this passage from Matthew 25:40: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
In the enclosed report, you will find the stories and impact of ministries bringing this scripture to life in our diocese. Seniors gathering weekly for the Silver Bells at Trinity-St. John’s in Hewlett have a safe place to laugh, dance, and overcome the isolation and fear many experienced during the pandemic. In communities where produce is often only available to the wealthy, our gardens and pantries ensure that all people can access the healthy, nutrient-dense foods they need for their families to thrive. Children in Queens have access to tailored educational support at Grace & Resurrection in East Elmhurst, while parents in Brooklyn have safe, enriching, and low-cost childcare option at St. Gabriel’s Angels Summer Camp.
In your service to your neighbors, you have become the hands, feet, and heart of Christ across our diocese. Thank you.
In this season of giving, I am calling on you to give generously to ensure that parishes across our diocese not only can continue their good work, but expand our work and impact, as we have done in the past year. In 2023 (thus far), EMLI has seen an 82% increase in ministry funding, with 17 parish ministries currently receiving support. This is the highest number of active ministries EMLI has simultaneously supported since before the pandemic, and we anticipate funding even more new programs before the year concludes.
This beautiful growth in ministry is only sustainable with your generosity. Please, give generously to Episcopal Ministries of Long Island today, ensuring that we can continue to make Christ’s boundless love known – both in the pew, and in the public square.
In Peace,
The Rt. Rev. Lawrence Provenzano
Bishop of Long Island