Bishop Michael Hunn Responds to Department of Homeland Security : Defending Our Border Ministry

In this video, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande addresses the recent letter from the Department of Homeland Security insinuating the diocese's involvement in illegal activities, including human trafficking. Bishop Hunn outlines the diocese's longstanding ministry efforts along the U.S.-Mexico border, including the operation of a shelter for legal asylum seekers in partnership with Homeland Security's Border Patrol and ICE. He underscores the legality and moral grounding of their work, rooted in Christian teachings and constitutional rights. Despite the scrutiny and funding withdrawal from FEMA, he reaffirms their commitment to aiding asylum seekers and invites support through prayers and donations.

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:32 Insinuations from Homeland Security

00:43 Reading the Letter

01:33 Response to the Letter

02:03 Details of the Shelter Operations

03:49 Partnership with Government Agencies

04:21 Financial Reimbursements and Current Issues

05:06 Call to Action and Conclusion

Understanding the Role of a Deacon with Bishop Michael Hunn and Deacon Athena Gassoumis Join Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande as he sits down with Deacon Athena Gassoumis to discuss the true essence and calling of a deacon. They delve into the differences between deacons, priests, and laypersons, shedding light on the crucial role deacons play in community service, justice, and compassion. Athena shares her life journey, experiences, and the impactful work she does both in her community and with those facing legal and detention challenges. This insightful conversation reveals the heart of diaconal ministry and its significance in the modern world.

00:00 Introduction to the Role of a Deacon

00:45 Meet Deacon Athena Gassoumis

01:04 Understanding the Diaconate

01:46 Athena's Early Life and Calling

04:30 The Deacon's Mission in the World

09:46 Daily Work and Community Impact

13:59 Building Trust and Providing Support

16:43 The Role of the Episcopal Church

20:46 The Deacon's Leadership and Influence

28:18 A Call to Serve and Engage

34:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Journey of Faith: Father James Brzezinski's Pilgrimage and Organ Building In this special episode, join us as we dive into a captivating conversation with Father James Brzezinski, an organist and organ builder. Explore his inspiring journey from Nashota House to Santa Fe, his experiences with Palm Sunday liturgies, Good Friday pilgrimages to Chimayo, NM and his transformative Camino de Santiago. Father James shares his profound thoughts on life's pilgrimages toward Jesus, the power of communal worship, and the importance of church music. Additionally, get an insider's look into the intricate craft of organ building and the significance of the organ in church music. This episode is filled with heartfelt stories, spiritual insights, and a celebration of the beautiful connection between music and faith. Don't miss the special tour of the Grace Church's organ and bell tower!

00:00 Introduction and Weekly Update

00:26 Father James' Journey to Santa Fe

02:33 Pilgrimage Experiences

04:22 Community Outreach Initiatives

09:07 Building Church Organs!

14:43 The Importance of Worship and Fellowship 1

9:46 Exploring the Organ and Bell Tower

23:55 Concluding Prayers and Reflections

What Christian Leadership Looks Like.... with Bishop Michael Hunn Join Michael Hunn, the Episcopal Bishop of the Diocese of Rio Grande, as he delves into the essence of Christian leadership. He emphasizes the importance of following the teachings of Jesus, particularly the Golden Rule, and embodying these principles in everyday actions. Through practical examples and reflections, Bishop Hunn highlights how Christian leaders should serve others, exhibit kindness and mercy, and foster community. He also touches on the challenges within our political system and the potential for the Christian faith to bring about transformative listening and compassion. Stay tuned for the next video, where Bishop Hunn will discuss the topic of forgiveness in the Christian tradition.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:20 Foundations of Christian Leadership

01:36 The Golden Rule in Practice

02:09 Practical Examples of Kindness

04:33 Contrasting Leadership Styles

06:19 The Struggle Within

07:50 Hope for Compassionate Dialogue

10:41 Conclusion and Next Steps

The President met a Bishop this week...Navigating Church and Society: A Message from Bishop Michael Hunn

In this insightful message, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande discusses the diverse reactions within the Episcopal community to recent political events and a controversial sermon at Washington National Cathedral. Bishop Hunn delves into the significance of the separation of church and state, the role of the church in societal dialogue, and what it means to be part of the Episcopal Church. He emphasizes the importance of mercy, compassion, and respect for all, inviting everyone to participate in creating a beloved community.

00:00 Introduction and Context

01:16 Addressing the Diversity of Opinions

03:28 Church and State: A Historical Perspective

04:47 The Role of the Church in Society

08:05 The Story of Bishop Ambrose

10:54 Expectations in the Episcopal Church

15:40 A Call for Unity and Compassion

19:27 Conclusion and Blessings

Weekly Update - Highlighting the Annual Leadership Retreat and a Special Introduction to Father James Brzezinski In this week's update for the third week of Epiphany 2025, we are introduced to Father James Brzezinski, the new rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Carlsbad, New Mexico. Additionally, the episode covers the recent annual Leadership Retreat of the Diocese, held at Prude Ranch in Fort Davis, Texas, with visits to local churches and organizations. Key topics include the challenges faced by Border Patrol agents, the concept of Migration with Dignity, (Tool kit here: https://bit.ly/40mSZxr ) and the Oxford Movement's influence on contemporary church practices. Don't miss a detailed dive into the traditions and activities at seminaries like Nashota House, explaining the significance of Anglican vestments, worship practices, and the importance of bringing Christ to the community.

00:00 Weekly Update Introduction

00:32 Diocesan Leadership Retreat Recap

01:08 Exploring the Big Bend

04:09 Migration with Dignity Week

05:22 Meet Father James Brzezinski

06:08 Life at Nashota House Seminary

22:45 High Church vs. Low Church

26:59 The Oxford Movement and Clerical Attire

35:12 Unity in Diversity

Welcome to the Diocese of the Rio Grande's weekly update for the second week of Advent 2024. In this episode, we provide key announcements including the upcoming open house at Bishop's Ridge and guidance on subscribing to the diocesan newsletter. The highlight is an insightful interview with Bishop Anne Ritonia, the Episcopal Bishop for the Armed Forces and Federal Ministries, and U.S. Navy Chaplain Jamal Scarlett. They discuss the role and significance of military chaplaincy, the responsibilities and challenges faced by chaplains, and how local churches can support military personnel and their families. Tune in to learn more about the profound impact of chaplaincy and community support.

00:00 Welcome and Weekly Announcements

Exploring St. James Episcopal Church in Clovis, NM: A Rich History and Vibrant Community Join Bishop Michael Hunn and the Rev. Simon Carian as they delve into the rich history and vibrant community of St. James Episcopal Church in Clovis, NM. Discover the town's origins as a railroad hub, its agricultural and dairy economy, and the presence of Cannon Air Force Base. Learn about the diverse ministry efforts—including community outreach, bilingual services, and unique events like the Blessing of the Animals and Chili Day— that make St. James a welcoming and active part of Clovis. Don't miss the stories of creative initiatives like the Hartley House purse drive, all aimed at strengthening the local community. Whether you're visiting Clovis or part of the diocese, St. James offers a warm welcome and a rich tradition of service and faith.

00:00 Welcome to St. James Episcopal Church

00:47 Discovering Clovis, New Mexico

02:19 The Agricultural and Military Influence in Clovis

04:41 The Heart of St. James Community

06:33 Reviving Traditions and New Celebrations

10:25 Blessing of the Animals

16:03 Community Outreach Initiatives

18:28 Introducing Bilingual Services

21:48 Understanding the Needs of the Spanish-Speaking Community

23:53 Conclusion and Invitation

A Solemn Veterans Day with Bishop Michael Hunn Bishop Michael Hunn invites the Diocese of the Rio Grande to observe Veterans Day, honoring those who served and remembering those who sacrificed their lives for our freedoms. He highlights a special film screening of 'Apache Blues Welcome Home,' a documentary about the Apache Troop's experiences during and after the Vietnam War. The event will take place at the Cathedral of St. John in Albuquerque on November 11th at 6:30 PM. Bishop Hunn also offers a heartfelt prayer for those in the armed forces, urging a collective hope for a world free of war.

Www.apachebluesfilm.com

00:00 Introduction and Veterans Day Invitation

00:08 History and Significance of Veterans Day

00:42 Diocese of Rio Grande's Support and Film Screening

01:21 Details of the Film 'Apache Blues Welcome Home'

01:48 Special Thanks and Film Trailer Information

02:03 Prayer for Armed Forces

02:39 Closing Remarks and Blessings

72nd Diocesan Convention: Strengthening the Future of the Episcopal Church in Rio Grande

Join us as we dive into the 72nd Diocesan Convention of the Diocese of the Rio Grande, featuring insights from St. Paul's first letter to the Corinthians. Bishop Michael Hunn shares reflections from his travels and discusses the unique challenges faced by the diocese. Learn about the importance of supporting small congregations, our shared values of liturgy, inclusivity, and tradition, and the detailed findings from Phase One of the diocese’s strategic project. Discover our new youth and family programs, campus ministries, and the strength of our relationships with neighboring dioceses and the wider church. This video emphasizes the critical need for transparency, collaboration, and leveraging our generosity to ensure the thriving of the Episcopal Church throughout New Mexico and far West Texas.

00:00 Welcome to the 72nd Diocesan Convention

00:10 Reflections on St. Paul's Letter to the Corinthians

01:11 Visiting the Eastern Part of New Mexico

03:17 Challenges Facing Our Episcopal Churches

04:52 Phase One: Understanding Our Episcopal Identity

06:39 Shared Values: Liturgy, Inclusivity, and Tradition

10:08 Community Outreach and Social Justice

10:57 Supporting Our Clergy and Transparent Communication

16:02 Youth and Family Programs

20:03 Partnerships Beyond Our Diocese

30:49 Financial Transparency and Future Planning

39:18 Paul's Metaphor of the Body and Our Diocese

42:36 Conclusion: Strengthening Relationships for the Future