Diocese of the Rio Grande Weekly Update: Special Announcements & Rev. Dr. Hilary Smith's Inspiring Journey In this week's update for the last week of September 2025, the Bishop of the Diocese of the Rio Grande reminds clergy about the upcoming clergy conference and announces the ordination of Gary to the Sacred Order of Deacons. Preparations for the Diocesan Convention in November are also discussed, including a presentation by the Borderlands ministry team. The Bishop encourages laity to run for diocesan positions and emphasizes the collaborative leadership between clergy and laity. The video features an in-depth interview with Rev. Dr. Hilary Smith, the new vicar of the Church of the Holy Spirit in Gallup, New Mexico. Dr. Smith shares her spiritual journey, experiences as a parish priest, spiritual director, historian, and her initial reluctance towards Christianity. She discusses her epiphany in England, which led to her baptism and service in the Diocese of Virginia before joining the Diocese of the Rio Grande.

00:00 Weekly Update Introduction

00:17 Upcoming Clergy Conference

00:55 Diocesan Convention Preview

01:40 Call for Diocesan Office Candidates

02:29 Interview with Reverend Dr. Hilary Smith

03:19 Hilary's Journey to the Diocese

05:33 Spiritual Direction and Historical Background

07:57 A Mystical Experience in England

17:17 A Life-Changing Experience

17:43 The Journey of Faith Begins

18:29 Finding Community in Church

20:11 The Power of Religious Practices

25:18 The Importance of Church Attendance

28:32 Exploring Different Ways to Pray

29:41 A New Ministry Chapter