​The Anglican/Episcopal Church of Christ the King in Frankfurt, Germany, has begun a major renovation to the sanctuary of the church, including updating the wiring, refinishing the pews, redoing the floor, installing new streaming tech, and a fresh coat or two of paint! 

The renovations began in January, when we formally and liturgically took leave of the long-disused pulpit. Under the guidance of our priest-in-charge, Markus Dünzkofer, we have moved our worship services into the undercroft, for an entirely new experience with one another. We are grateful for the good leadership of the vestry, who is keeping us organized and on schedule. 

On our last Sunday in the church, we wrapped up the organ in a huge tarp. Tune in later this spring for an update! 

​The Episcopal Diocese of the Virgin Islands recently gathered for a rejuvenating retreat at San Justo Retreat and Conference Centre in Puerto Rico, held from November 13th to 15th, 2025. The event brought together clergy and lay leaders from across the diocese for three days of spiritual nourishment, reflection, and renewed enthusiasm for mission and ministry.

The retreat opened with a warm welcome over dinner and a group activity designed to foster fellowship and deepen connections among participants. The evening set a tone of camaraderie and shared purpose, laying the foundation for a meaningful gathering.

Over the course of the next day, participants engaged in dynamic brainstorming sessions and collaborative discussions. The focus was on exploring ways to nurture the soul while working together for the well-being of the church. Topics ranged from "Call to Action" to practical strategies for fostering spiritual growth within their communities. Attendees shared insights, experiences, and innovative ideas to strengthen their collective ministry efforts.

The final day began with a reverent celebration of the Eucharist at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a powerful moment of worship that unified participants in their faith and shared mission. The retreat concluded with a convivial lunch at the Diocesan Centre, providing an opportunity for reflection and fellowship.

This retreat served as a vital moment of renewal for the clergy and lay leaders, inspiring a rekindling of passion and commitment to their mission. It reinforced the importance of collaboration, spiritual nourishment, and shared vision in advancing the church’s work across the Virgin Islands and beyond. The retreat was led mainly by Dr. Alex Barriera.

The Episcopal Diocese of the Virgin Islands looks forward to carrying the renewed energy and insights gained from this retreat into its ongoing ministry efforts, fostering a vibrant and spiritually grounded community.

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, USVI — December 6, 2025 —
The Episcopal Diocese of the Virgin Islands celebrated a momentous occasion with the ordination of two new priests, the Rev. Dana Lewis Ambrose and the Rev. Trevaughn Todman. The service was held at the Cathedral Church of All Saints in Charlotte Amalie and was attended by clergy, community members, and representatives from across the wider Virgin Islands. This signified a new chapter of growth and spiritual leadership within the Virgin Islands community.

The ordination ceremony was presided over by the Rt. Rev. Rafael Morales Maldonado, Bishop Provisional and included the participation of the retired Diocesan Bishop, the Rt. Rev. E. Ambrose Gumbs. Their presence underscored the importance of this milestone for the diocese.

The Rev.  Richard Winston Arthur, Rector of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Newnan, Georgia, delivered an inspiring sermon emphasizing faith, service, and leadership. His message resonated with the congregation and highlighted the significance of vocation and dedication in the ministry.

The ordination of Rev. Ambrose and Rev. Todman is expected to strengthen the diocese’s mission of outreach, compassion, and faith-based service.

The Episcopal Diocese of the Virgin Islands extends its congratulations to the new priests and looks forward to their service in advancing the church’s mission across the islands.

Funeral of The Very Reverend Canon Dr. Sandye A. Wilson
Nobody prepares for a sudden death. On April 15th, the Cathedral Church of All Saints lost its Dean and Rector, the Diocese lost its Canon to the Ordinary for Pastoral Care and Formation —a pastor, a friend, a confidant, an encourager, and a forerunner of a message of radical love. Although Dean Wilson's time was short, her character was contagious; everybody knew her and respected her dearly. It was a testament to the dedication to serving God and His people with unwavering faith, compassion, and wisdom. Her pastoral heart, scholarly mind, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

On June 20th, scores were gathered from around the Diocese and wider Episcopal Church, which included the Canon for African Descent Ministries, the Reverend Canon Ronald Byrd Sr, Past President of the Union of Black Episcopalians, Canon Annette Buchanan, and the Right Reverend John Harmon, Bishop of Arkansas.
The service featured a variety of talents combined and individualized, along with the sharing of fond memories. The Diocesan Choir provided soul-stirring renditions, accompanied by Mr. Howard Jones on the organ and Rev. Dr. Jeremy Francis directing. Canon Annette Buchanan read the Eulogy, The Right Reverend John Harmon, Bishop of Arkansas, preached, and The Right Reverend Rafael Morales Maldonado, Bishop Provisional of the Virgin Islands, presided.

Canon Buchanan told the gathering how determined Dean Wilson was to return to these islands despite being advised not to as she continued her treatment. It is concluded she knew why, Bishop Harmon suggested Sandye came back to a place where she first felt a called to ordained ministry and served and ended such ministry in the very place. While Bishop Morales encouraged the Diocese to keep the vision alive and to serve for Jesus Christ as Sandye would want us to do.
Although Dean Sandye has gone on to the presence of God, in this time of grief, we find comfort in knowing that she now rests in the eternal peace of our Lord and Savior. We ask for your continued prayers for her family, friends, and all whose lives were blessed by her ministry.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your master." - Matthew 25:23
YouTube Link: https://youtube.com/live/Q3sTcZHsEFs?feature=share
Electronic Booklet:https://www.flipsnack.com/heatherpd/flipbook-the-very-rev-canon-dr-sandye-wilson-1.html

Bishop Provisional Pastoral Visit to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 1st Ave, Sugar Estate.
The Friendly Church, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, was visited by Bishop Provisional, the Right Reverend Rafael Morales Maldonado. Bishop Morales was pleased to be among the faithful gathered on Sunday, June 21, 2025. During the morning celebration, those gathered in person and via Facebook were able to sing a song in both Spanish and English. This was a creative means of welcome and inclusion since the Bishop’s first language is Spanish.
Bishop Morales encouraged the people to continue serving and loving as Jesus Christ mandated. Furthermore, the Bishop believes that his visits will help to define and spread an ethos of love and togetherness across the diocese.
The Rector of the parish is the Reverend Lenroy Cabey.

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Patronal Festival-55Th Anniversary
In unity, members of St. Croix Deanery joined members of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Castle Coakley for their feast of title celebratory activities. The theme for 2025 was: “St. Peter Church keeping Christ alive in 2025!” The time of celebration concluded with the Holy Eucharist on Sunday, 29th June 2025. The service was filled with jubilant singing as the St. Croix Deanery Choir, under the leadership of Mrs. Monica Jacobs, led the worship experience. Rev. Dr. Jeremy Francis played the organ. The Priest in Charge, the Rev. Fr. Alric Francis Sr., was the celebrant, while the Rev. Amonteen Doward and Cleverton Beckford concelebrated, and the Rev. Deacon Trevaughn Todman preached.  Rev. Todman encouraged the saints to continue praying, encouraging one another, rebuking sin, and convincing each other, all while maintaining love for Christ and for one another. The church becomes more substantial and impactful only when we are united for the common good.  
​
 A Luncheon followed the service to honor three of their members: Lucy Carty, Margary Vanterpool, and Shirley Smith at Teddy’s.  All three women have offered their lives to God as they serve in the church and the wider community. They have fought the good fight but have not finished the race.  The continue to inspire other persons to serve and not allow life’s challenges to disrupt their purposes. 

The Seminary of our Episcopal Diocese of Puerto Rico, San Pedro and San Pablo, will be offering an immersion course in June for those who want to learn Spanish. The promotion is attached. 

Registration ends in May 31st.  For more information, send an email to [email protected]. 

St. Michael’s, Wall & St. James, Bradley Beach, NJ, Ship a 40-Foot Container with Church, Relief, and Medical Supplies to Liberia
Wall Township, NJ – February 12, 2025

On December 14, parishioners and volunteers gathered at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Wall Township, New Jersey, to load a 40-foot freight container—the eleventh shipment—with church materials, vestments, theological books, textbooks, school supplies, medical equipment, and relief supplies. Destined for Liberia, West Africa, the container departed from the Port of New York on December 20th and is scheduled to arrive at the Freeport of Monrovia on late February 17, 2025. Canon & Mrs. Yarsiah are currently in Monrovia, Liberia, to help with the distribution of the donations.

This shipment, the first to originate from New Jersey, is part of the Global Outreach Ministry to Liberia, an extended mission of the affiliated parishes of St. Michael’s, Wall Township, and St. James, Bradley Beach, Diocese of New Jersey. As with previous efforts, the shipment will support churches and clergy in the Episcopal Diocese of Liberia, as well as other denominations, schools, clinics, orphanages, and institutions, including the Liberian Group of 77, a government institution that assists the physically challenged. The total value of the donations is estimated at $24,000 US Dollars, with shipping costs amounting to $6,221, excluding clearance and transportation costs in Liberia. The Diocese of Arkansas, through the Christopher and Caroline Keller Fund for Mission provided a grant of $4,200 to assist with trucking, shipping, clearing and other expenses. The Global Outreach Ministry is deeply grateful to Bishop John Harmon and the Diocese of Arkansas.

​According to The Rev. Canon Dr. James T. Yarsiah, Priest-In-Charge at St. Michael’s and St. James, “In an effort to give back, my wife Ophelia and I initiated this ministry in 2006, engaging churches, institutions, and friends from the Diocese of South Carolina and beyond to contribute materials and supplies. This effort, known as the Global Outreach Ministry to Liberia, aims to assist churches, schools, women, children, orphans, and the needy.” 

The Rt. Rev. Sally J. French, Bishop of New Jersey, has emphasized the importance of this ministry, describing it as a vital effort in strengthening and empowering the Church and people of Liberia. Bishop French donated $2,000 from her discretionary funds to help defray shipping expenses. The Global Outreach Ministry is sincerely grateful to Bishop French for her unweaving support.

The contents of the container include, but not limited to:

• Church Materials: Used pianos, crucifixes, candle stands, clergy vestments, choir and acolyte robes, Bibles, theological books, Prayer Books, Hymnals, cassocks, etc.
• Medical Supplies: Wheelchairs, walkers, medical beds, portable commodes, foyer lift, catheter,bandages, lympho press, ortho boots, back & kneel braces crutches, canes, etc.
• Relief and Educational Items: School supplies, textbooks, educational games, toys, stuffy animals, clothing, shoes, sleeping bags, rice, beans, vegetable oil and more.

Church materials were donated by the Diocese of New Jersey and other parishes. The Medical Equipment Ministry of St. James Memorial Episcopal Church in Eatontown, NJ, partnered with St. Michael’s and St. James to provide medical equipment and supplies. The dry food items, rice, beans and oil came from Christ Church, Shrewsbury, NJ. Additional contributions came from several local parishes, clergy, and friends. The Global Outreach Ministry extends gratitude to Fr. Austin Murry and parishioners of St. James Memorial Church, Eatontown, New Jersey. 

The Global Outreach Ministry to Liberia remains committed to this vital work of empowerment. Our Ministry accepts donations from churches in transition to close or have closed, and are looking for a place to donate their church materials/ornaments.

Parishes and dioceses within The Episcopal Church Parishes and dioceses within The Episcopal Church (TEC) are encouraged to donate church materials, ornaments, etc as listed below, for future shipments. Donations can be sent to St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2015 Allenwood Road, Wall, NJ 07719. Large pickups within a 100-mile radius can be arranged. For inquiries, email Cn. James Yarsiah at [email protected] or call 843-810-3500. St. Michael’s can also be reached at [email protected] or 732-681-1863. A detailed list is available at www.saintmichaelswall.com and www.saintjamesbb.com, Global Outreach Ministry to Liberia.

Founded in 2006 by The Rev. Canon Dr. James T. Yarsiah and Mrs. Ophelia NG Yarsiah at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC, the Global Outreach Ministry to Liberia is a mission-focused initiative under the affiliated parishes of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Wall Township, and St. James Episcopal Church, Bradley Beach, NJ. The ministry aims to provide material and humanitarian assistance to rebuild and empower the Episcopal Church of Liberia, its institutions, and underserved communities. 

Since its inception, the ministry has shipped ten containers to Liberia, benefiting over 12,000 individuals, churches, schools, and other institutions. This charitable endeavor is a testament to God’s love and the transformative power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. “For the love of Christ urges us on …” 2 Cor. 5:14a. For more information about this initiative or to learn how to contribute, please contact The Rev. Canon Dr. James T. Yarsiah using the contact details provided above.
To see a list of all the items shipped, download the attached press release >

Break The Silence Sunday is an effort to open up a conversation within the church about rape and sexual assault. Within the context of our faith communities we hope to
(1) acknowledge the reality of rape and sexual violence in our world;
(2) support survivors by creating a place where they can tell their stories, feel loved and supported, and find encouragement on their healing journey;
(3) commit ourselves to the work of changing the world, creating a future where rape is a memory.
Why does this matter?
The most conservative estimates from the U.S. Department of Justice tell us that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 33 men will be victims of rape in their lifetimes. Let that sink in – twenty five percent of the women and three percent of the men you know! What those statistics don’t tell us though is how many rapes go unreported because of a victim’s fear, sense of shame, and overwhelming societal pressures. How many people aren’t able to talk about what has happened to them, don’t have a safe place to tell their story, don’t have someone they can trust to tell their story to?

This is a very small world, especially in the Episcopal Church.  Recently Dr. Barbara Wheeler, a member of Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church in Beach Haven, NJ, went to Germany to attend a conference and to lecture at a University.  While she was there, she visited a long-time friend, Doug Keith, who is the Director of Music at the Anglican/Episcopal Church of Christ the King in Frankfurt, Germany. While she was there, Dr. Wheeler was invited to attend and do one of the readings at the Evensong that the parish choir was doing at the Abbey of St. Hildegard, just outside the wine village of Rüdesheim. Dr. Keith’s father, Nate, did the other reading. The choir, thanks to its close relationship to the abbey and its community of Benedictine nuns,usually sings Evensong there once a year This was also the first service led by Markus Dünzkofer, the parish’s new priest-in-charge.