Virginia Episcopalian Magazine Spring 2014 Issue | 页面 9

A Multicultural Identity
When it comes to being a multicultural congregation, there are several churches in the
Diocese that truly embrace the concept as part of their mission. We asked members of these
parishes one question: How does your congregation’s multicultural identity strengthen your
church community? Here’s what they had to say.

Being a part of a multicultural community of people
from different races and socioeconomic status is not always
easy. It stretches and challenges me because I am forced to
incorporate the views of people who see the world and even
God very differently. In the end, I believe I am a better person
and wiser Christian. I see what I could not see by myself.

The Rev. Jo Belser,
Church of the Resurrection, Alexandria

Multicultural and Ethnic Ministries

The Rev. Cass Bailey,
Trinity, Charlottesville

As much as 30 percent of the active congregation at Church
of the Resurrection in Alexandria is from Africa. The beauty of
this is that we honor our differences and more closely resemble
the Kingdom of God here on earth.

Jane Perry, Trinity, Charlottesville
Le Cao, St. Patrick’s, Falls Church

Many churches in the Washington metropolitan
area may also have members from different cultures.
However, St. Patrick’s official and strong multicultural
identity in worship makes it stand out in the Christian
community in spreading God’s love to the world. It brings
pride to our congregation and encourages people from
different cultures to come to worship God with us.

Dr. Kendra
Hamilton, Trinity,
Charlottesville

As a cradle
Episcopalian and an
African American woman,
it’s beautiful to see how
serious our