The Rt. Rev. Sean Rowe, the newly appointed presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church, delivered a powerful sermon at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., on February 2, 2025, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in the Christian faith. His message centered around the theme that immigrants, refugees, and transgender individuals are not just peripheral figures but are, in fact, "at the center of the Gospel story."
In his sermon, Rowe reflected on the biblical account of the presentation of Jesus at the Temple, as described in Luke 2:22-40. He articulated a vision of a world turned upside down, where societal norms are challenged by the teachings of Christ. "We struggle with how to make sense of what all that means," he stated, highlighting the disconnect between worldly powers and the radical love embodied in the Gospel.
Rowe pointed out that contemporary society often prioritizes wealth and political allegiance over compassion and community. "We’re told by the kings and the rulers of the day that the rich shall be first," he lamented. He urged the congregation to recognize that divisions based on race, class, gender identity, and sexuality do not align with God’s Kingdom. "Those divisions are not of God," he declared, emphasizing that in God’s Kingdom, marginalized groups are not pushed to the edges but brought to the forefront.
His call for unity and understanding resonated deeply with the audience, as he urged them to see the struggles of those often deemed "other" as a reflection of God’s Kingdom. "Those who have been considered at the margins are at the center. They are the bearers of the salvation of the world," he proclaimed, receiving applause from the congregation.
Rowe also warned against the rising tide of incivility, urging the faithful to extend peace to those with whom they disagree. "We need to greet with a sign of peace those who voted for the candidate we couldn’t stand," he advised, advocating for a spirit of reconciliation that transcends political and social divides.
This sermon comes on the heels of notable events at the National Cathedral, including the recent Service of Prayer for the Nation, where Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde made headlines by addressing then-President Donald Trump directly. Budde’s remarks about compassion for marginalized communities sparked mixed reactions, with some praising her boldness while others criticized her for politicizing the service.
In a time where political discourse is often divisive, Rowe’s message of inclusivity and love serves as a reminder of the core tenets of Christian faith—compassion, acceptance, and the radical call to love one’s neighbor, regardless of their background or identity.
As The Episcopal Church continues to navigate the challenges of modern society, Rowe’s leadership and vision may pave the way for a more inclusive and compassionate faith community. His emphasis on the centrality of marginalized voices in the Gospel is a call to action for all believers to reflect on how they can embody Christ’s love in their own lives.
For more insights and updates on the evolving landscape of Christian leadership and inclusivity, visit The Episcopal Church’s official website and stay informed about the latest developments in faith communities across the nation.