Words From The Warden

Voices
Over the past few weeks, I have had the privilege of participating in several Diocesan activities. These experiences have provided valuable insight into our faith community and its ongoing efforts.

One Saturday, I joined a group of individuals from sixteen different churches at the Procter Center, which serves as the Diocesan Farm and Conference Center. Together, we engaged in learning sessions focused on the lay preaching program. The day was dedicated to reviewing the year-long educational curriculum for lay preaching.

It was enlightening to hear the stories and motivations behind each participant's involvement. Each person shared what they hoped to contribute to their respective parish. Many attendees came from parishes where they share a priest with one or more other parishes, creating a unique sense of community and responsibility and a need for lay preaching.

There was a shared feeling among everyone present of being called to “do more” in their walk of faith. The desire to deepen their engagement and serve their parish was evident throughout the group.

Despite the encouragement and sense of purpose among participants, I listened to the voices within me that this particular program is not something I feel called to pursue.

The following weekend, several vestry members, Pastor Julia, and I attended the inaugural Small Church Summit at Procter. This gathering offered valuable opportunities for learning and sharing, and one significant insight I gained was the importance of intentionality and listening to our calling. With God’s guidance, any church—regardless of its size—can grow in faithfulness, health, and effectiveness.

During the summit, we were reminded of the message from Jeremiah 29: both we and our churches find ourselves in a period marked by crises, catastrophe, and disruption. This season requires us to embrace the challenge of “settling into being unsettled.” Instead of seeking comfort in the familiar, we are called to adapt and respond to the uncertainties we face.

Ultimately, the question that resonated throughout our time together was: What is God calling us to do? This invitation asks us to discern our purpose and mission, trusting that God will lead us as we navigate these unsettled times. We will trust his voice.

On the Fourth Sunday of Easter, we reflected on the Gospel of John 10:1-10, where Jesus speaks about the sheep not following the voice of a stranger. In his sermon, Rev. David Bowers emphasized how easily we can become distracted by the many voices that surround us. He pointed out that if we try to follow every voice we hear, confusion is inevitable.

Rev. Bowers’ message invited us to consider which voices we allow to shape our beliefs and actions. Should we listen to those around us who either criticize us or build us up? And how do we discern between the voices within ourselves—those that encourage us and, more often, those that cast doubt on our worth or abilities?

This reflection calls us to careful discernment, urging us to seek out and follow the voice of truth and love, rather than the noise of distraction or negativity. It reminds us that, just as the sheep recognize and trust the voice of their shepherd, we are called to listen for the voice of Christ that leads us toward faith, purpose, and authentic service.

During my years as a Big 10 football official, I was regularly surrounded by more than 90,000 voices, each eager to tell me what to do or remind me of my perceived mistakes. Despite the overwhelming noise, I quickly realized that most of it was simply background chatter. Early in my officiating career, I learned that during a game, only one voice truly mattered—the voice of the head coach. Rather than trying to listen to the opinions of 90 players, 12 assistant coaches, and countless others, I established a clear approach: I would focus solely on the head coach’s input, respond thoughtfully to anything he had to say, and avoid being distracted by the other hundreds of voices along the sidelines.

A friend of mine often says, “Sports is life with the volume turned up!” This phrase has always resonated with me, especially when reflecting on the many voices and distractions that fill our days. Just as the intensity of a sporting event amplifies every emotion and reaction, so too does life become more vivid and demanding when we are tuned into something greater than ourselves.

When I listen to Jesus calling, it feels as though the volume of life increases. The challenges and possibilities become sharper, inviting me to engage more deeply. Attentiveness to God’s voice means stepping onto the path to become Christ’s Disciple, embracing the journey with purpose and determination.

There is a unique power in following the gentle, familiar voice that knows my name. When I respond to this loving call, I am reminded, “I can do all things.” Trusting in God’s guidance provides strength and reassurance, empowering me to face life’s obstacles and opportunities with faith and confidence.

Peace,
Henry Zaborniak, Senior Warden