July 22nd 2024.
On July 20, history was made as Rev. Dr. Dorothy Sanders Wells was formally installed as the newest bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi. This was a momentous occasion as Wells became the first Black person and the first woman to hold this prestigious position. It was a long-awaited and well-deserved achievement for Wells, who was elected in February 2024 and has been actively serving since May. Now, with her official installation, the church formally acknowledges her as their esteemed leader.
While many may focus on the historical significance of Wells' appointment, she is more concerned with the message she wants to convey to her congregation. In an interview with Al.com, Wells expressed her desire for the church to showcase radical love and hospitality towards their neighbors. She believes that this love and kindness should extend beyond Sunday mornings and into their daily lives. For Wells, it is not just about attending church, but about embodying the teachings of love and acceptance in all aspects of life.
Wells' appointment comes after the retirement of Bishop Brian Seage, who led the Diocese through difficult times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Jackson, Mississippi water crisis. In an interview with USA Today, Seage shared his thoughts on Wells' election, stating that it marked a new chapter in their history. He emphasized the significance of her being both a woman and an African American, and how it speaks volumes about the progress within their church.
The installation ceremony was presided over by Michael Curry, the first Black person to serve as the presiding bishop of the Catholic Church. Curry gained worldwide acclaim for his sermon at the wedding of Prince Harry and Megan Markle in 2011. This added an extra layer of significance to Wells' installation, as she was being led by a trailblazing figure within the church.
Wells' election also came after the historic appointment of Sharma Lewis as the first Black woman to serve as bishop of the Mississippi United Methodist Church in 2022. In an interview with USA Today, Wells expressed her humility and excitement for the opportunity to work with the people of the Diocese of Mississippi. She acknowledged the challenges that churches face today, but expressed her faith in God and her determination to serve and care for others.
Wells grew up in Mobile, Alabama, and has an impressive educational background, including a degree in vocal performance and a Juris Doctorate. She also holds a master's degree in divinity and a doctorate in ministry. In an interview with USA Today, Wells shared her plans to engage with the community and get to know the various congregations in Mississippi. She wants to meet and have conversations with clergy and laypeople, building relationships and exploring ways to serve God together.
In light of this historic moment, it is also worth mentioning the efforts of the Episcopal Church of New York to acknowledge and apologize for their participation in the transatlantic slave trade. They have pledged $1 million towards fighting racism, showing their commitment to promoting love, acceptance, and equality within the church and society as a whole. It is a reminder that while we celebrate progress, there is still work to be done in the fight against injustice and discrimination.
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