A Joyful Day of Fellowship and Fun at Deacon Day 2025

Can’t Stop the Rain — Or the Fun

At the beginning of the summer season, deacons and diaconal candidates of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington (EDOW) gathered at All Souls Episcopal Church in Northwest DC for a day of pleasure, fellowship, and neighborhood spirit. What started as an out of doors celebration within the church courtyard rapidly shifted indoors to the Narthex resulting from a sudden downpour. The rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of these in attendance—actually, it solely strengthened the camaraderie and flexibility that marked the day.

A heartfelt thanks to All Souls’ for graciously internet hosting us, and a particular shout-out to the Eagle Scout Award recipient, who gathered her Scouts to assist transfer the fried rooster, falafel, grape leaves, and desserts indoors, making certain the feast continued uninterrupted. The air was full of the scent of scrumptious meals and the promise of nice firm.

Flat Jesus and Lions, Tigers, and Bears — Oh My!

The festivities started with Morning Prayer, which targeted on the wonders of Creation, setting a peaceable and uplifting tone. Afterward, contributors engaged in a spherical of “Getting to Know You Better,” the place laughter and dialog flowed freely, creating significant connections. Deacon Donna launched us to “Flat Jesus,” her fixed companion in life and storytelling, as she shares the story of Jesus with others. If you look rigorously on the footage from the day, you will notice he was certainly on the scene.

The enjoyable continued with a “Paint and Sip” session, that includes Spirit Animals. From lions to beavers, butterflies to otters, owls to dolphins, and even foxes and bears, we explored which animal finest represented our spirit. Not solely did we uncover religious traits equivalent to braveness, management, pleasure, faithfulness, compassion, concord, and transformation, however we additionally recognized these with inventive expertise and people on the trail to development amongst us. The pleasure of portray was enhanced by the steering of Anita Matthews and her household, who led the session with heat and enthusiasm, serving to us carry our spirit animals to life.

A Round of Gratitude

A particular shout-out to “Deacon Honey Dudes” Brian Stinchcomb and Stewart Thomas—whose love and quiet vitality have been felt all through the day, creating smiles and laughter wherever they went. Their contributions made the day much more memorable.

The occasion concluded with Archdeacon Steve Sealy, who, together with his signature wit and heat, thanked the planning committee by presenting them with cow-shaped dairy creamer cups, calling them “the cream of the crop” and reminding us of the blessings of fine management and teamwork.

Deacon Day was a stupendous reminder of the facility of neighborhood—of the bonds that maintain us collectively in pleasure, rain, and all the pieces in between. A good time was had by all, and we left with full hearts, new connections, and a renewed sense of fellowship.

Here’s to subsequent yr, once we can as soon as once more collect, share, and uncover the spirit animals inside us all!

The Rev. Alethea Long-Green
Deacon, Trinity Episcopal Church, DC