Diocesan Resolution

Our Diocesan Patron: Saint Jonathan Myrick Daniels
At the 165th Convention of the Diocese of Alabama last weekend, Fr. Peter had the privilege of introducing a resolution with Deacons Carolyn Foster, Tom Osborne, and Quincy Hall, proposing that the diocese formally adopt Jonathan Myrick Daniels as our diocesan patron saint. The resolution commended anti-racism and reconciliation training as a requirement for all clergy, parish and diocesan staff, vestries, and search committees, as a way simple yet significant step of embodying the spirit of his witness. The resolution passed with one amendment: anti-racism training was affirmed as "recommended," rather than required. You can read the full resolution below.

Jonathan Daniels, an Episcopal seminarian, responded to Dr. King’s call in 1965 to stand with all those in Alabama working for Civil Rights. In Hayneville, he shielded 17 year old Ruby Sales from a shotgun blast, giving his life for her in an act Christ-shaped love. To adopt Daniels as diocesan patron is to recommit ourselves to the costly work of reconciliation.

Saint Andrew's Vestry recently voted to participate in anti-racism training and to work with Breanna Carter, Missioner for Racial Healing and Pilgrimage in the Diocese of Alabama, to provide this training more widely for other parishes and individuals who are interested in taking part.

If you're interested in participating, please contact Fr. Peter Helman for more information (rector@standrewsbham.org).