On the Ground: Humanitarian Responses to courthouse ICE arrests in El Paso In this week's update from the Diocese of the Rio Grande, Bishop Michael Hunn speaks with Ana Reza, the Border Chaplain, and Deacon Sondra Jones about the ongoing ICE raids and deportation quotas affecting asylum seekers in El Paso. The discussion highlights Ana and Sondra’s efforts in providing support, prayer, and accompaniment to those facing unexpected detentions despite following all legal procedures. The episode als...
Jun 14, 2025•33 min•Ep. 61
Addressing Termination of Diocesan Shelter Program Funding by DHS Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande discusses the receipt of a second letter from Homeland Security, terminating their shelter and services program grant. The bishop explains their compliance with federal laws and grants, their efforts to appeal the decision, and the importance of clarifying that their work with asylum seekers has always been legal. He emphasizes the principle of due process and the legal rights o...
May 03, 2025•8 min•Ep. 59
Contemplating Grief and Loss: A Reflection on Jesus' Death Following the Gospel Reading for the day, read by Canon JP Arossa, Bishop Michael Hunn delves into the Holy Gospel according to Matthew, recounting the events following Jesus' crucifixion and burial by Joseph of Arimathea. The sermon explores the profound themes of grief and loss, drawing parallels between our human experiences and God's own grief at the death of Jesus Christ. It invites the audience to reflect on the harrowing notion of...
Apr 19, 2025•8 min•Ep. 58
In this episode, we delve into how elderhood offers a unique spiritual opportunity to reflect on one's spiritual bucket list and identity beyond profession and family roles. Our discussion also covers the spiritual practice of preparing for the end of life, including planned giving and legacy planning within the church. We explore the importance of advanced directives, funeral planning, and the creation of a comprehensive guide to aid individuals and families in navigating these pivotal decision...
Apr 19, 2025•22 min•Ep. 55
Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Jan Hosea at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as we delve into the essence of spiritual identity and Elderhood. Discover the history and current character of St. Mary's congregation, renowned for their welcoming and pastoral care. Learn about the transition from a life centered on 'doing' to one focused on 'being,' and how this shift can lead to deeper spiritual fulfillment. Jan also shares insights about a new six-week program ded...
Apr 12, 2025•18 min•Ep. 53
Join us as we share both exciting and bittersweet news from the Diocese of the Rio Grande. Reverend Canon Lee Curtis announces that his wife, Hannah, has been accepted to continue her studies in person at the Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas. This means the Curtis family, including their two boys, two dogs, and a turtle, will be moving to Austin in August. Consequently, Reverend Canon Lee Curtis will no longer serve as Canon to the Ordinary for the diocese. We are beginning the search ...
Apr 10, 2025•4 min•Ep. 57
Welcome to Simply Christian Life! In this episode, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande continues his profound conversation with Christina Rathbone, author of 'The Asylum Seekers'. Delving into US asylum policies and her transformative experiences at the border, Rathbone highlights how principles learned on the front lines can be applied to parish ministry. Discover how deep, personal relationships and small, tangible actions can lead to a flourishing community rooted in love and...
Apr 05, 2025•33 min•Ep. 54
Understanding Asylum Seekers: Interview with Rev. Christina Rathbone About Her New Book In this episode of The Simply Christian Life, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande introduces an interview with Reverend Christina Rathbone, the first border chaplain of the Diocese. Christina discusses her book 'The Asylum Seekers' and shares profound insights from her ministry at the US-Mexico border. They explore the realities faced by asylum seekers, the importance of small, real acts of l...
Mar 28, 2025•22 min•Ep. 52
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 ...
Mar 14, 2025•5 min•Ep. 51
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 he...
Feb 15, 2025•37 min•Ep. 50
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 w...
Feb 01, 2025•26 min•Ep. 48
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. H...
Jan 31, 2025•11 min•Ep. 49
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 Ep...
Jan 25, 2025•20 min•Ep. 47
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...
Jan 18, 2025•37 min•Ep. 46
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 responsibiliti...
Dec 08, 2024•44 min•Ep. 45
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 t...
Nov 23, 2024•25 min•Ep. 44
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 offer...
Nov 09, 2024•3 min•Ep. 43
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 findi...
Nov 05, 2024•44 min•Ep. 42
All Together Now! Reimagining Church: Strategic Intentions, Fractals, and Flocking In this fourth episode of our mini-series on reimagining the Episcopal Church, we delve into how integrating strategic intention, fractals, and flocking can transform our communal and relational dynamics. The discussion highlights the importance of shifting from individualism to a collective mindset, ensuring that we thrive together at every level—individuals, congregations, and dioceses. By fostering interconnect...
Nov 02, 2024•15 min•Ep. 41
Weekly Update: Roswell Relief, Election Guidance & Diocesan Convention In this week's update from the Diocese of the Rio Grande, we extend our thoughts to those affected by flooding in Roswell and discuss the diocese's collaboration with Episcopal Relief and Development. As the presidential election approaches, we offer guidance for maintaining peace and community trust, including tips on faith, responsible voting, and managing media consumption. Also featured are updates on the upcoming Dio...
Oct 27, 2024•17 min•Ep. 40
The Power of Flocking: The Seven Nearest… In this episode, Bishop Michael Hunn applies the concept of 'flocking' as described by adrienne maree brown in her book 'Emerging Strategy’ to live in the Episcopal Church. By examining how birds, bees, and fish use flocking for defense, energy conservation, and resource finding, the video draws parallels to church congregations. It proposes an innovative approach where each church member focuses on connecting with the seven people nearest to them, foste...
Oct 19, 2024•10 min•Ep. 39
Ferns, Fractals and Faith : Scaling Patterns in the Episcopal Church In this episode, Bishop Michael Hunn explores the concept of fractals and their relevance to the Episcopal Church. Fractals illustrate how patterns exist at every scale in reality—from small to vast, like a shell spiral compared to a galaxy. This idea translates to organizational theory in the Church, where patterns of behavior and belief, like individualism, are present at every level. We discuss how individualism manifests wi...
Oct 15, 2024•8 min•Ep. 37
Celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day in the Diocese of Rio Grande In this special message from Bishop Michael Hunn, the Diocese of the Rio Grande is invited to honor Indigenous Peoples Day by deepening their understanding of indigenous history and cultures in New Mexico and West Texas. Bishop Hunn shares recommended readings to learn about the Puebloan and Diné peoples, examines the impact of colonialism, and encourages respect and stewardship of the natural world. He highlights important books an...
Oct 13, 2024•11 min•Ep. 38
Embracing Strategic Intention in the Episcopal Church This video introduces a series about reimagining the Episcopal Church using insights from adrenne mares brown's, 'Emergent Strategy.' The focus is on 'strategic intention,' a concept that emphasizes staying true to core values over rigid planning, especially in uncertain times such as political elections. Bishop Michael Hunn encourages congregations to adapt to unforeseen challenges by understanding who they are and their fundamental mission,...
Oct 12, 2024•10 min•Ep. 36
Join Canon Lee Curtis, Canon to the Ordinary of the Diocese of the Rio Grande, as he follows up on Bishop Hunn's recent discussion about the essential nature of bishops and dioceses. Curtis explores the relational role of bishops, the importance of maintaining relationships within the church, and how feedback from our environment informs church structure. This episode delves into indigenous economic theories to inform relationships in the church, challenges the myth of self-sustainability, and e...
Sep 28, 2024•19 min•Ep. 35
The Role and Future of Bishops in the Episcopal Church In this thought-provoking update, we delve into a concerning trend within the Episcopal Church regarding the role and function of bishops. We explore the financial challenges leading to the merging of dioceses, the sale of diocesan offices, and the push for larger diocese structures. The video calls for a conversation about the true purpose of a bishop, the historical evolution of the role, and the need for a pastoral, rather than administra...
Sep 21, 2024•19 min•Ep. 34
Weekly Update - Diocese of the Rio Grande: September 2024 Join us for the Diocese of the Rio Grande's weekly update for the third week of September 2024. Celebrate Lee Curtis's nomination as Bishop Suffragan in the Diocese of West Texas and catch his exclusive interview. Get exciting details about the upcoming Diocesan Convention in November packed with fun, fellowship, and inspiring workshops. Hear from Tim O'Malley about efficient energy use as seasons change, and dive into the latest Borderla...
Sep 14, 2024•10 min•Ep. 33
Sep 13, 2024•7 min•Ep. 32
In this episode, join us for an insightful interview with Janna Lopez, the founder of Neighbors Helping Neighbors from Las Vegas, New Mexico. Janna shares the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating Calf Canyon and Hermit's Creek fires of 2022. Learn about the community's resilience, the challenges of navigating governmental aid, and the immense environmental and economic impacts of the fires. Discover how the Diocese of the Rio Grande, with support from Episcopal Relief and Developme...
Sep 04, 2024•24 min•Ep. 31
Weekly Update: Mission Trips, Wildfire Recovery, and Remembering Bishop Dave Bailey - Labor Day 2024 In this weekly update for Labor Day 2024, we catch up after a busy summer filled with general conventions and vacation time. Highlights include inviting you to join the Boquillas and Beyond mission trip, a recap of a youth mission trip in Taos, updates on wildfire recovery efforts in Ruidoso, NM and progress on our diocesan four-phase project. We also take a moment to honor the life and ministry ...
Aug 31, 2024•20 min•Ep. 30
