Episcopal Divinity School

Caribbean Anglicanism: Women in Ministry, Ecumenical Theology, & Climate Justice in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands with the Rev. Natalie Blake

In this final episode of our Voices from the Anglican Communion series, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan engages with the Rev. Natalie Blake, a tutor and warden of Anglican students at the United Theological College of the West Indies. Rev. Blake offers a comprehensive look into the Anglican Diocese of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, celebrating its 200th anniversary, detailing its structure, clergy (including 28 female priests out of a total of 107), and its place within the wider church in the Province of the West Indies.

The conversation delves into the unique ecumenical theological education at the United Theological College, where students from six denominations live and study together, fostering interdenominational unity. Rev. Blake candidly discusses the challenges women in ministry face in the diocese, particularly the expectation to "prove themselves" in a way their male counterparts are not.

As a member of both the Commission for Theological Education in the Anglican Communion (CTAC) and the International Anglican-Pentecostal Commission (IPAC), she highlights the importance of shared resources, theological dialogue, and discovering commonalities across diverse Anglican and Christian traditions. Finally, Rev. Blake addresses the critical issue of climate change in the Caribbean, emphasizing how the region's "small island developing states" are already experiencing rising sea levels and altered weather patterns. She shares how Jamaican churches are actively responding through tree planting initiatives, advocating for sustainable resource management, and encouraging individual and collective mindfulness of global environmental impact.

Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.

 

Credits:

Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic

Podcast produced by Polymnia

Episcopal and Anglican Churches in Latin America with Dr. Paulo Ueti

Dr. Paulo Ueti from Brazil is the theological advisor and regional manager of the United Society Partners in the Gospel (USPG). He introduces the history and mission of the Episcopal and Anglican churches in Latin America and the Caribbean. The churches were founded by British Anglican missions and the Episcopal Church. They are  multiracial, multicultural, and multilingual, speaking Spanish, English, Portuguese, and French. Most congregations are small, yet they play significant roles in civil society. The Anglican Episcopal Church of Brazil has three female bishops out of nine. Archbishop Marinez Rosa dos Santos Bassotto is the Primate of the Church and is the first woman to lead an Anglican province in Latin America. She is the only female Primate in the Anglican Communion. Dr. Ueti collaborates with his colleague, Dr. Peniel Rajkumer, on the Fellowship of Anglican Scholars in Theology project, which provides support for new theologians. He strengthens partnerships in the region by providing resources and support, enabling churches to better carry out their mission and learn from one another. In July 2025, the Commission for Theological Education in the Anglican Communion organized a meeting for theological educators in the Americas held in Brasilia, Brazil, to discuss the future of theological education. Dr. Ueti emphasizes the need for decolonial and contextual theology and pedagogy. He also highlights how the Brazilian Book of Common Prayer, revised in 2015, attempted to contextualize liturgy in the Brazilian Church. He hopes that member churches in the Anglican Communion can foster relationships and mutual learning despite theological, cultural, and linguistic differences.

 

Credits:

Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic

Podcast produced by Polymnia

Racial Justice in the Church of England: British Chinese Identity, Hong Kongers, & The TeaHouse Network with the Rev. Mark Nam

In this episode, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan converses with the Rev. Mark Nam, a third-generation British-born Chinese and Vicar of St. John's, Woodley, in the Diocese of Oxford. Rev. Nam offers a unique perspective on being a racial minority leader in a predominantly white institution, sharing his personal journey from law to ministry and his call to serve as a British Chinese priest in the Church of England.

The discussion explores the historical context of racial minorities in the church in the U.K., from the Windrush generation to the recent influx of 300,000 Hong Kongers. Rev. Nam critically assesses the Church of England's efforts to welcome immigrants and address systemic racism, referencing the "From Lament to Action" report and the establishment of a Racial Justice Commission.

A highlight of the conversation is the story of The TeaHouse, an initiative founded by Rev. Nam to raise the profile of Chinese-heritage clergy in the Church of England. He recounts how this network began with just nine individuals and has grown to visibly represent Chinese-heritage clergy, challenging normative perceptions and fostering an embracing environment for future generations. Rev. Nam also shares the deeply personal significance of his recent National Diversity Award nomination at Liverpool Cathedral, which ties back to his grandparents' migration story and the reclamation of his true Chinese surname at his ordination. He concludes with his hopes for the Anglican Communion, advocating for the emergence of the East Asian theological voice and a deeper, more inclusive fellowship.

This is the fifth episode of Episcopal Divinity School’s (EDS) series hosted by Distinguished Scholar, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan: Voices from the Anglican Communion. Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.

 

Credits:

Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic

Podcast produced by Polymnia

The Episcopal Church in the Philippines: Indigenous Roots, Ecojustice, & Women in Theology with Ms. Sunshine Dulnuan

In this episode, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan speaks with Ms. Sunshine Dulnuan, a systematic theology lecturer at St. Andrew’s Theological Seminary in Quezon City, Philippines. Ms. Dulnuan shares her passion for theology, emphasizing its direct impact on people and the planet, and reflects on her unique experience studying at the Church Divinity School of the Pacific during the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of anti-Asian hate.

She delves into the complex history of how The Episcopal Church established its presence in the Philippines, highlighting its distinct focus on indigenous communities like the Igorots and Tirurays, who still comprise the majority of the church's membership today. Their conversation also delves into the current priorities of The Episcopal Church in the Philippines, including its commitment to contextual theology and holistic missions through initiatives like eCare (Episcopal Community Action for Renewal and Empowerment), which fosters economic empowerment through micro-loans and community organizing. Learn about their significant eco-justice work, including the establishment of a "communion forest" and mangrove planting efforts.

Ms. Dulnuan also addresses challenges facing the church, such as the ongoing conversation around LGBTQIA+ inclusion and the critical need for women bishops—currently, there are no women bishops in The Episcopal Church in the Philippines, though women now make up about 40% of seminary students and a majority of the faculty. As someone deeply rooted in indigenous perspectives and whose father was a forester and mother a farmer, she offers profound insights on being better stewards of God's creation and the ecosystems.

This is the fourth episode of Episcopal Divinity School’s (EDS) series hosted by Distinguished Scholar, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan: Voices from the Anglican Communion. Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.

 

Credits:

Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic

Podcast produced by Polymnia

The Episcopal Diocese of Taiwan: History, Ministry, & Women's Leadership with the Rev. Claire Chia-lin Wang

In this episode, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan speaks with the Rev. Claire Chia-lin Wang, a deacon at St. John's Cathedral in Taipei, for an insightful look into the Episcopal Diocese of Taiwan. Rev. Wang shares the fascinating history of this diocese, part of Province VIII of The Episcopal Church, from its post-1949 beginnings to its vibrant present, including its unique name heritage and relationships with other dioceses across the Pacific and within Asia.

Rev. Wang discusses her personal journey to ordained ministry and her work serving the English-speaking congregation and engaging youth and young adults at St. John's Cathedral. She provides insight into the growing role of women's ordination and leadership within the Diocese of Taiwan. Drawing from her experience at the "Women Mentoring Women" conference at Virginia Theological Seminary, she highlights the strength and wisdom of women in leadership and the enduring power of gentle, compassionate service. Rev. Wang also shares her hopes for the broader Anglican Communion, advocating for deeper mutual listening, humility, and a shift from hierarchical declarations to relational, incarnational engagement that truly embraces diversity.

This is the third episode of Episcopal Divinity School’s (EDS) series hosted by Distinguished Scholar, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan: Voices from the Anglican Communion. Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.

 

Credits:

Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic

Podcast produced by Polymnia

African Women in Anglican Leadership: Dr. Esther Mombo on Challenges, Progress, & Theological Education

In this episode, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan speaks with Dr. Esther Mombo, a leading theologian from St. Paul’s University in Limuru, Kenya, about women's leadership in the Anglican Church in Africa. Dr. Mombo introduces the "Africa Six," the current six female bishops, highlighting their significance as a testament to both the challenges and transformations in African Anglicanism.

The conversation explores the hurdles women face in accessing theological education and ministry on the continent, the crucial work of the Mothers' Union in community and economic development, and Dr. Mombo's own work in empowering women through theological study. She shares her extensive experience serving on high-level Anglican Commissions, including discussions around human sexuality within the Communion. Dr. Mombo offers a nuanced perspective on the complexities of these debates, emphasizing the need for empathy, understanding, and solidarity over division. She concludes with powerful advice for young women aspiring to be future church leaders, particularly on navigating patriarchal structures and embracing theological empowerment.

This is the second episode of Episcopal Divinity School’s (EDS) series hosted by Distinguished Scholar, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan: Voices from the Anglican Communion.

Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.

 

Credits:

Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic

Podcast produced by Polymnia

 

Postcolonial Anglicanism: Bishop Victor Atta-Baffoe on Ghana, Global Church Leadership & EDS Impact

Join Dr. Kwok Pui Lan and the Rt. Rev. Victor Atta-Baffoe '92, the fourth bishop of Cape Coast, Ghana, for a discussion on global Anglicanism and his journey from EDS seminarian to bishop. Bishop Atta-Baffoe shares how his Episcopal Divinity School (EDS) education shaped his influential roles as Dean of St. Nicholas Seminary and as a bishop in the Anglican Communion.

Bishop Atta-Baffoe shares the poignant history of Cape Coast Castle and its connection to the slave trade, offering a critical postcolonial perspective on the church's past. He delves into the joys and challenges of his ministry, focusing on the realities of poverty, gender inequality (where 70-75% of church members are women, yet they often constitute only 10-15% of convention attendees), and the urgent need for contextualized theology and inclusive leadership in the Global South.

As Chair of the Commission for Theological Education in the Anglican Communion, Bishop Atta-Baffoe also addresses the critical challenges facing theological education worldwide. He champions celebrating diversity and fostering trust within the communion, emphasizing that the church's true mission lies in addressing pressing issues like poverty, climate justice, and human dignity over internal divisions. Learn about his prophetic vision for a more united, mission-focused Anglican Church in the first episode of our series hosted by EDS Distinguished Scholar, Dr. Kwok Pui Lan: Voices from the Anglican Communion.

Interested in learning more about how to live postcolonial Anglicanism? Consider joining EDS this fall for an online course taught by Dr. Kwok and the Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, PhD: Living Postcolonial Anglicanism: Pastoral Perspectives from the Global Church.

 

Credits:

Music Credit: Documentary Music by ColorFilmMusic

Podcast produced by Polymnia

Becoming Small Churches that Say “Yes” to Meeting Community Needs

The Rev. Leyla King, Canon for Mission in Small Congregations for the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas, sits down with guests the Rev. Kevin Diehl, Rector of St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church in San Francisco, the Rev. Suzanne Smith, Rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Alvin, Texas, and Ed Carrette, Community Missioner also at Grace Church with Rev. Smith.

Kevin describes how St. John's, a small church in the Mission District of San Francisco, has partnered with the Gubbio Project to provide essential services to the homeless population in their neighborhood, transforming their sanctuary into a vital community resource. Suzanne and Ed share how Grace Church, facing declining membership, reinvented itself as a church that says "yes" to community needs. They describe how a simple blessing box evolved into a thriving weekly mobile food pantry, serving thousands of people in their community.

The conversation explores the importance of:

• Embracing a "reckless openness" to community needs: Both churches emphasize the importance of being open to new opportunities and willing to take risks to serve their communities.
• Building strong partnerships: Kevin and Ed highlight the crucial role of partnerships with other organizations, such as the Gubbio Project and local food banks, in amplifying their impact.
• Integrating faith and action: The guests discuss how their faith in God and commitment to the mission of Christ inform their community service, with examples such as incorporating liturgical elements into their food pantry ministry and viewing community service as an integral part of their discipleship.
• Overcoming internal resistance: The conversation addresses the challenges of overcoming internal resistance within the congregation, such as fear of change and concerns about financial sustainability.

This episode offers practical advice and inspiring examples for small churches seeking to make a lasting impact on their communities.

Episode Links:

• Grace Episcopal Church, Alvin
• The Episcopal Church of St. John the Evangelist, San Francisco
• The Gubbio Project

 

Credits:

Music Credit: I Love to Tell the Story, Benjamin Grove, keyboard

Podcast produced by Polymnia

Justice with Creation and with One Another

In this episode of the Small Churches Big Impact Collective, host the Rev. Rebekah Hatch, Canon for Lay & Ordained Vocations in the Episcopal Church in Connecticut, speaks with the Rev. Candice Combs, pastor of New Life Lutheran Church in Dripping Springs, Texas - a unique congregation that worships exclusively outdoors.

Rev. Combs shares how New Life, a congregation focused on grace, discipleship, children, and creation, has found its own unique expression of faith. By embracing an outdoor worship space, the congregation has cultivated a deeper connection with nature and fostered a sense of community that values resilience, flexibility, and the inclusion of all God’s people.

The conversation explores how this unique worship style, grounded in a deep respect for creation, informs New Life's understanding of social justice. Rather than focusing solely on external activism, New Life prioritizes building a just and inclusive community within the church itself, fostering trust and understanding among its members and within the New Life community.

This episode offers a refreshing perspective on how small churches can find innovative ways to live out their faith, demonstrating that social justice begins with cultivating a just and welcoming community within the church itself.

Key Takeaways:

• Unique Worship Style: New Life's outdoor worship fosters a deeper connection with nature and cultivates a sense of community resilience.
• Focus on Inclusion: The congregation prioritizes inclusion and welcomes all people, emphasizing grace and understanding within this community of faith.
• Justice as Community Building: New Life recognizes that building a just and inclusive community within the church is a foundational step towards addressing social justice issues beyond the church walls.
• Embracing Vulnerability: The outdoor worship setting encourages vulnerability and a deeper connection to the natural world, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and compassion.
• Creative Approaches to Ministry: New Life demonstrates that small churches can find innovative and creative ways to live out their faith, adapting to their unique context and embracing new possibilities.

Episode Links:

• New Life Lutheran Church of Dripping Springs 
• Wild Church Network
• Church of the Wild: How Nature Invites Us Into the Sacred, by Victoria Loorz
• Upwild.org - the joint ELCA/Episcopal Wild Church in Michigan
• thebtscenter.org/guides-for-lectio-terra: the practice of listening for the voice of the sacred in nature

 

Credits:

Music Credit: I Love to Tell the Story, Benjamin Grove, keyboard

Podcast produced by Polymnia

Building Collaborative, Justice-Focused Ministries at the Community Level

In this episode, the Reverend Allison Sandlin Liles, Vicar of St. Stephen's in Hurst, Texas, sits down with the Reverend Dr. Elizabeth Mae Magill, pastor of the Small Church Collaborative which includes Rindge Congregational Church in Rindge, New Hampshire and Ashburnham Community Church in Ashburnham, Massachusetts. Liz shares her experiences leading two  “micro-congregations” and building a collaborative ministry with a neighboring church of a different denomination.

Liz  emphasizes the importance of prioritizing community engagement, including identifying local needs and organizing community-based ministries. Drawing on community organizing principles—a set of strategies that empower communities to identify and address their own issues, such as grassroots mobilization, building power, and developing leadership—Liz  has successfully empowered her congregations to become agents of change within their communities.

Liz’s success in addressing social justice issues is evident in her work on racial justice and LGBTQ+ inclusion. In Rindge, New Hampshire, she facilitated community conversations on racial justice, leading to the formation of a local group dedicated to addressing racial inequities. In Ashburnham, Massachusetts, she championed the display of a rainbow flag at the church, sparking a community conversation about LGBTQ+ inclusion and leading to the creation of a support group for LGBTQ+ seniors.

Faced with limited resources and declining membership, Liz found innovative ways to engage her community, such as organizing community meals, utilizing social media for outreach, and collaborating with existing community organizations.

This episode offers valuable insights for pastors, church leaders, and anyone interested in exploring innovative and impactful models of small church ministry.

Episode Links:

• Ashburnham Community Church in Ashburnham, MA
• First Congregational Church in Rindge, NH
• Five Loaves, Two Fish, Twelve Volunteers: Growing a Relational Food Ministry by Elizabeth Mae Magill
• Living Stones Partnership

 

Credits:

Music Credit: I Love to Tell the Story, Benjamin Grove, keyboard

Podcast produced by Polymnia