St. Barnabas Episcopal Church - Blog

Creative Workshop Salton City

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 03:18:36 GMT

Community Art Workshop Near Borrego Springs

A new Creative Workshop in Salton City is bringing families together each week, just a short drive from Borrego Springs. The first gathering welcomed nearly a dozen children, offering a simple but meaningful space for creativity, connection, and community.

Hosted in partnership with Rostros y Corazon Vamos Juntos and supported by St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Borrego Springs, the workshop is part of a growing effort to expand outreach and provide opportunities for families across the region.

A Weekly Space for Creativity

The workshop takes place every Friday from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at 2198 Cleveland Ave in Salton City. Open to all ages, the program is designed to be welcoming, accessible, and family-friendly.

Participants can take part in hands-on creative activities while spending time together in a supportive environment. The goal is simple—create a space where kids and families can gather, express themselves, and build community.

Growing Community Participation

The strong turnout during the first session reflects interest from local families and highlights the need for consistent, community-based activities in the area. Organizers hope to continue building participation in the coming weeks.

How to Support

Community members can support the workshop by spreading the word or donating new art supplies. Donations help ensure the program can continue to grow and reach more families.

To donate supplies or get involved, contact:
info@stbarnabasborregosprings.org

Financial donations can be made here:
https://www.gotoborregosprings.com/rostros-y-corazon-vamos-juntos

The Creative Workshop continues every Friday evening in Salton City, offering a new opportunity for families in and around Borrego Springs to come together through art.

A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP SUSAN: A CALL TO PRAYER

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 05:03:09 GMT

Today, the President of the United States posted on social media a threat to kill an entire civilization. I hope and pray that this threat does not materialize. Such a threat of wanton destruction of a civilization violates every Christian principle, including the long tradition of “just war” theory in Christian theology. We follow a Lord who commanded us to love others as he has loved us. Threats to civilians and civilian infrastructure are serious failures of obedience to the Lord of love.

In such a time, it is tempting to feel powerless. Most of us do not believe we can influence the president’s state of mind or intentions directly. There are, however, steps we can take in these moments. One action you may choose to take is to contact your elected representatives and urge them to pursue peace and restraint, using a website such as https://democracy.io , which lets you look up and message your representatives directly. And I believe that prayer is effective. I therefore ask you to join me in prayer for peace, that the violence in Iran does not escalate to a level that poses a serious threat to civilians or a civilization.

Below are several petitions from the Great Litany, which we often pray on the first Sunday in Lent, followed by one of my favorite prayers from the Book of Common Prayer. Though it is Easter season, it is always a good time to pray these prayers.

Let us pray.

That it may please thee so to rule the hearts of thy servants, the President of the United States, and all others in authority, that they may do justice, and love mercy, and walk in the ways of truth,

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please thee to make wars to cease in all the world; to give to all nations unity, peace, and concord; and to bestow freedom upon all peoples;

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please thee to support, help, and comfort all who are in danger, necessity, and tribulation,

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please thee to have mercy upon all mankind,

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord.

O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

In Christ,

The Rt. Rev. Susan Brown Snook

Easter Sunrise Borrego

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:59:53 GMT

The annual Easter Sunrise Service in Borrego Springs took place on Easter morning behind the United Methodist Church on Church Lane. Hosted by the Borrego Ministers Association, the outdoor service brought together local congregations, residents, and visitors for a shared Easter celebration at sunrise. Members of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church participated in the service as part of the Borrego Ministers Association.

Annual Easter Sunrise Service in Borrego Springs

The Easter Sunrise Service is a long-standing Borrego Springs tradition held each Easter morning behind the United Methodist Church and hosted by the Borrego Ministers Association.

St. Barnabas Took Part in the Service

Members of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church participated in the service alongside others from the Borrego Ministers Association and the community.

A Community Gathering at Sunrise

Residents and visitors gathered early, bringing chairs and dressing for the cool desert morning. The annual service continues to reflect community participation and cooperation among local churches in Borrego Springs.

Easter Message from St. Barnabas

“Christ is risen. Indeed he is risen. Happy Easter from the priests and people of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church. May you experience the new life and joy of the Risen Lord.”
Fathers David Madsen and Michael Plekon

Low-Cost Spay and Neuter Clinic in Borrego Springs

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 06:59:43 GMT

A low-cost spay and neuter clinic will take place on Monday, May 4, 2026, at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church.

Animal Action League will provide low-cost spay and neuter services for cats and dogs. Available services also include vaccinations and microchipping. These services help reduce unwanted litters while supporting the long-term health, safety, and identification of pets in the Borrego Springs area.

To make an appointment, call the Animal Action League office at (760) 366-1100 for English or (760) 366-1105 for Spanish.

Location: St. Barnabas Episcopal Church.

Shape Note Singing at St. Barnabas

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:06:34 GMT

A community Fasola (shape-note) sing was held March 29 at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Borrego Springs. Singers gathered in the church, where the acoustics supported unaccompanied group singing.

Shape-note singing, also known as Sacred Harp, is a participatory a cappella tradition. Singers sit or stand in a hollow square by vocal part, and songs are led one at a time by participants from the group. Music is sung first on the syllables fa, sol, la, mi, then with lyrics.

The March 29 sing followed standard practice. Attendees brought tunebooks and called songs by page number. Leaders stood in the center to set tempo and conduct. No instruments were used.

The group included both experienced singers and newcomers. The format allowed anyone present to join, regardless of musical background.

Reach out if you are interested in attending the next event!

Easter Life By Fr. Michael Plekon

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:01:33 GMT

Most Christians, except for the Eastern Orthodox, will celebrate Easter on April 5 this year. For an increasing number, Easter has to do with chocolate or real rabbits, an Easter egg hunt, maybe even dyeing of eggs—but why? Easter is the feast of the Christian year, bigger than Christmas, because without the raising of Jesus from death what would be the point of Christmas? As I say that, I remember that Christmas is about gifts, trees. Lights, family and feasting. Oh yes and the baby Jesus. Again today, many would ask in all honesty, what’s so important about a baby’s birth over 2000 years ago.

Easter is an old English name for the spring goddess. It is the result of those who brought Christianity to what is now England wanting to use the language and culture of that place. UK. In many languages, the word for Easter is one or another variation of Pascha , which in turn is the Greek for Pesach or Passover, the great Jewish festival of the passing over from slavery and death under the Egyptians to freedom and new life. God did all this, so the first Christians continued the name for Jesus’ passing over from death to life. But then as now, the Easter experience starts with Jesus and extends to all of us. The icon or image of the Resurrection, called the “harrowing of hell” in earlier times, shows Jesus leading Adam and Eve and all their children—you and me—out of the realm of death to new life forever with God. This we confess each Sunday, in the Creed, in the eucharistic prayer and in taking the bread and cup of the Eucharist—the bread of life and cup of salvation. Perhaps more than any other feature of Jesus’ good news it was this promise and gift of life always with God, new life, that attracted so many in the ancient world. What about now, today?

Other religious traditions such as Judaism and Islam also revere one God and believe that God wants us to be with him, and with each other, past death. It is a deep, basic yearning in the human heart. Death is certain, like taxes, right? And aging, and illness. Yet we don’t throw the gift of life, of love and family and friends, of learning and celebrating away just because there is an end for each of us. Too bad if you doomscroll your days and nights away. Is it not better to at least wager a belief that God will stick to his promise. The new archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullaly, said this in her sermon as she was installed on the feast of the Annunciation, March 25. God always has something new to offer us, God is full of surprises.

Just as the teenage girl Mary of Nazareth, despite fear and panic at God’s messenger Gabriel and the news that she would have a son who would save the world—that’s some news!—Mary held on to the faith, the trust that God would make good on his promises. Mary was there and asked her son to help out the host family when the wine ran out at a wedding in Cana. She followed him around Palestine as he healed and taught and gathered his friends to have a meal every night—where our Eucharist comes from. She was strong enough, though breaking apart inside, to see him suffer and die on the cross. But also be one of the women who came to the tomb only to find it empty. Tradition says Jesus first appeared to her when he was raised. He was in the end a good son!

Against what their eyes and ears told them, Jesus’ mother and friends saw that he kept his promise to be with them, to always live with them. This is the heart of Easter. Not a magic trick of a dead body being revived. Rather Easter is the hope that God has that we all live forever with him and with each other. No matter how bad the news around us, no matter how disappointing our political leaders may be.

No matter the sad things we all have to face—sickness and loss—in family and friends, God said he would always be with us, as one of us. Christ is risen!

First woman enthroned as Archbishop of Canterbury

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 18:24:48 GMT

A historic moment for the Church of England as Sarah Mullally is installed as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, the first woman to serve in the role

In Memory of Jan Jones

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:31:35 GMT

In Loving Memory of Jan Jones

Jan Jones was a longtime member of St. Barnabas and a dedicated presence in the Borrego community. As chief nurse practitioner at Borrego Clinic for many years, she cared for countless individuals, examining, diagnosing, and guiding them toward healing. She was truly a healer.

Jan also shared her gifts within the church, singing in the choir and serving on the vestry. Even as her own health declined, she continued to care for others, including Wendy Quinn during her illness.

We remember Jan for her warm smile, gentle humor, gracious spirit, and deep care for those around her.

A memorial service will be scheduled and shared soon.

May the Lord receive her into the communion of saints, and may her memory be eternal.

Holy Week by Fr. Michael Plekon

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 23:55:33 GMT

Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday recalls the joyful parade of Jesus, seated on a donkey, into Jerusalem. This was a way of celebrating great warriors, heroes, leaders and when people shouted out Hosanna or hurray to the Son of David, Jesus, they were doing just that. It was also part of the celebration to wave branches of palm trees, flowers, perhaps even throw down clothing as a sign of regard for the one being welcomed. What a contrast this scene is to the Jesus who will do a servant’s work of washing feet at table, to the battered remnant of a man pushed along the road to be crucified. For a moment it seems Jesus is welcomed and loved by the people. So today we received palm branches that are blessed and hold them up as the gospel is read.

by Fr. Michael Plekon

All Christians see the days before Jesus’ death, burial and being raised as a holy week. Much of the liturgy we have for it, especially the last Three Days, comes from observances in Jerusalem recorded by a Spanish nun, Egeria, in the 300s. Still today, the processions on Palm Sunday and later after Good Friday are carried out by Christians of diverse church backgrounds in the Holy City. For some, Palm Sunday’s cries of “Hosanna” float over to the “Hallelujahs” of Easter Sunday. So much is missed if one does not come to the services during the week. Indeed, it is a lot to go to church not once but three more times in a week, but those who do come away with a deepened sense of what we celebrate around Easter every year.

Maundy Thursday

The gospels record other things happening as the week wore on but the next major day is Maundy Thursday. It’s called that from the Latin word mandatum, command. At the service, after the gospel describing it is read, the clergy wash the feet of the people, imitating Jesus doing that for his friends before supper. He tells them it is a sign of his “new commandment,” that they love each other. This is the very heart of the faith we hold and try to live, not easy, but we know it’s right. The supper follows, what we do every Sunday. The bread and cup are shared and in that Jesus is present, why we say communion or the Eucharist are the body and blood of the Lord.

Good Friday

Good Friday does not appear to be good, no matter which gospel account one reads. This is the center of the services, three reading one of the Passion accounts, a reader as the narrator, another representing various characters in the text and finally a reader repeating Jesus” words. There are a couple readings in addition to the gospel passion story, and there are prayers for the world, for all people in their moments of suffering and need. Lastly, we receive communion from the leftovers of Maundy Thursday. The gospel ends with Jesus’ body being taken down from the cross. One of the drawings here shows his mother holding her dead son, this scene being call Pieta, the holy lady. In the icon/prayer corner there is a beautiful glass icon of the taking down of Jesus from the cross by the late Liesel Paris. There is also a large wooden cross that dominates the church on this Friday, with the crown of thorns dangling on it. People are welcome to come and pray, touch it.

Holy Saturday

The night before Easter there was a vigil or watch service celebrated in Jerusalem, a waiting for the Resurrection. We still keep this Easter vigil. A new fire was kindled, a special Easter candle lit from it, with the acclamation three times: “The light of Christ. Thanks be to God.” Then there is a singing of the proclamation of Easter, also called by its first word in Latin, Exsultet: Let the earth and heaven rejoice. It is a summary of how the raising of Jesus is central, a promise of life unending with God and each other. Then there are several readings. In traditional practice, these readings and psalms and prayers in between went on for hours! This was to cover the time it took for people to be baptized, for this is when you were washed and anointed, as our young people were back in December. There were dozens to be baptized in ancient times. Finally, the gospel account of the empty tomb is read and it is Easter, completed by the sharing of holy communion, giving thanks and being joined to Christ and each other.

Easter Sunday

Easter Sunday starts here in Borrego at sunrise with a BMA sponsored service that gathers the people and churches out behind the Methodist Church. There are hymns , prayers, readings including another of the gospel accounts of the Resurrection. There is Eucharist/holy communion right after the sunrise service. Later, at 9:30 there is a festive Easter Eucharist. Every Sunday is really a little Easter. The story is one of suffering, pain, death, but think that this is what God decided to come down and experience with all of us, for us. Thus, the Hallelujah on Easter Sunday is our faith that God is always with us, that death is not the end of everything, that we always will be together with God and each other. As a writer friend put it, it is always Easter everywhere. The acclamation all throughout the Easter season says it all: Christ is risen, indeed, he is risen.

Join Service by Zoom or in person!
Every Sunday at 9:30 am

St. Barnabas Episcopal

www.stbarnabasborregosprings.com
C h urch Country Club Dr
Borrego Springs CA 92004

In Memory of Margaret Liggett (1939–2026)

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 22:46:20 GMT

Margaret Liggett
March 1939 – February 2026

Margaret Liggett died in February 2026. She was born on March 18, 1939, in Colorado and was recognized as gifted from an early age.

After high school, Margaret entered the Community of St. Mary, the oldest Episcopal order of sisters. Following university, she taught at the women’s preparatory school run by the order and later served as School Head, as well as both a local and regional superior.

After leaving religious life, Margaret’s administrative and technical talents led her to work at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and later in information technology at Digital Wizards in San Diego.

For many years, Margaret was a devoted member of the community at St. Barnabas. She served as senior warden and office administrator, and much of parish life passed through her hands. She edited the Carillon, managed stewardship campaigns, maintained membership and email lists, organized continuing education, and helped keep parish life running smoothly. Margaret was present at potlucks, parish meetings, celebrations, and the quiet, ongoing work that holds a church together.

At her memorial, those who spoke made clear just how deeply her life was woven into St. Barnabas. It was said that she loved worship, loved Sunday services, and that it was fitting to remember her there, in the church that had become so much a part of her life. She was also honored for the many ways she served God and the church over the years. Among those present was the Reverend Canon Gwen Lynch, Canon to the Ordinary in the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, who shared Bishop Susan’s prayers of thanksgiving for Margaret’s life and faithful service.

Clergy and parish leaders including the Rev. Dave Madsen (Rector), the Rev. Michael Plekon, Louise Jee, and Jan Naragon were part of the service, along with multiple friends and family members who joined by Zoom.

Margaret lived for a number of years with her companion, Mary Pickering, in Mission Bay and was active in litigation with the City of San Diego over eminent domain actions affecting their mobile home park. Later she moved to Borrego Springs intending a quieter life of reading, contemplation, and prayer. Instead, she quickly became deeply involved in parish life and soon became closely identified with the St. Barnabas community.

Those who knew Margaret remember not only her intellect and faith, but also her wit and humor. At her service, one speaker described her as “a giant figure in a frail body,” while another recalled her as a person with “an incredible sense of lightness about everything, including God.” She was remembered as stoic on the outside, but with a deeply humorous heart.

Others shared memories that widened the picture of her life. One recalled Margaret’s childhood on a farm outside Rifle, Colorado, where she and her sister rode horses into the hills after finishing their chores.

Another remembered hearing, before ever arriving in Borrego Springs, that Margaret was the finest tutor someone at St. Mark’s had ever known. Speakers also noted her scientific accomplishments, including published work and dedicated service with the Paleo Society, where she was praised for her vigor, intelligence, loyalty, and care for others.

One story shared at the service captured Margaret especially well. In a local comedy performance, she made her way across the stage with perfect comic timing, declaring herself “as swift as a gazelle,” then adding, “an old one,” “with arthritis,” and “run over by a Land Rover/” "A week ago" It was a moment people still remembered, and it reflected the good sport and sharp humor that stayed with her through difficult years.

In the last couple of years, her health declined, and she moved to a care facility in San Marcos. Even as her body grew weaker, those around her continued to speak of her strength, loyalty, intelligence, and faithful presence.

Margaret’s life was marked by faithful service, friendship, intelligence, and humor. She was a true servant of Jesus and a steadfast friend to many.

She is survived by many family members, friends, and parishioners whose lives she touched.

MEMORIAL SERVICE ST. BARNABAS

MARCH 15th

IF THEY ASK JUST SAY THE LORD NEEDS IT

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 18:57:01 GMT

Mark 11:1-11

Jesus liked to tell parables It seemed to him a good way to get a message across. People relate to something that is recognizable in their context, relevant to the marketplace; relevant to the work places they are familiar with; the culture and time in which they live. Parables are a good way to share a message. Everybody loves a good story, and everybody loves to hear a good story from a good storyteller.

So, after Jesus tells them a story, a parable to the crowd, he goes on ahead to Jerusalem, and we are told that when he comes near Bethpage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, he sends two of his disciples ahead of him saying, “Go into the village and you find tied there a donkey colt that has never been ridden. Untie it and bring it here, and if anyone asks you why and for what reason you are doing this, simply say this: “The Lord needs it!”

So, as they follow the errand Jesus sent them on, they are questioned, and asked: “Why are you untying this colt”? They reply with these words: “The Lord needs it”! You know, don’t you wish that everything was that easy in ministry; when the Lord tells you to do something, and you go and do it and someone says: “Why are you doing this father Dave? Or why are you doing this Father Michael? Or why are you using this song in the worship service Music Naomi? Wouldn’t be wonderful if all we had to say was Jesus told me to, and besides that, the Lord needs it. “The Lord needs it”! That really should be enough for everybody right?

You know it doesn’t always work out that way, does it? It seemed to work out really good for Jesus in this story, but then again you and I are not the Messiah that is going to ride into Jerusalem on a back of a colt that has never been ridden. One thing that we miss in this passage, unless you understand colts and mules, you just don’t hop on a colt that has never been ridden.

I really don’t know anything about training donkey colts for riding. I was doing some reading about mule and donkey trainers and training one for riding can be complicated, different than a horse, and maybe easier than a horse because of temperament, but will take considerable time and talent to train properly. Was Jesus an experienced rider? Trainers say that you cannot attend a three or four-day clinic and then start riding your colt the very next day. So, this is just as impressive as the way the colt that had never been ridden is acquired for Jesus.

They bring the colt to Jesus, and after putting Jesus on the colt, He rides into Jerusalem as people throw their cloaks or what we would refer to now probably as jackets, sweaters or hoodies on the ground in front of Him. The multitude begins to praise God joyfully with a loud voice, saying: “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. Peace in heaven, glory in the highest”!

“Jesus is coming into the city!” Our Lord is making His way into the heart of the city; into the heart of the kingdom of God established here on earth; into the heart of the church that is yet to be into the hearts of the lives of all of us.” Jesus is coming into the city! It is a time to wave the palms. Our Lord, our King, our Messiah, who is coming into the city is a time to rejoice.

Let us rejoice and be glad of the coming of our Lord and Savior. In the tragic days that followed Palm Sunday, the soul-searching days, the triumphant days and the exuberant days of praise for Easter that is coming…New life!

Fr. Dave+

Bishop’s Statement After the Attack on Iran

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 03:30:46 GMT

by Susan Brown Snook

Beloved in Christ,

Like many of you, I awoke this morning to the news that the United States and Israel had launched military strikes against Iran.

Amidst deep concern about the possibility of a wider conflict in the Middle East, I ask for prayers for all those affected by the current conflict: innocent civilians in several countries who are at risk of harm; members of the military who have been deployed to the area to support the strikes (including the crew of the San Diego-based aircraft carrier the USS Abraham Lincoln); and also a group of pilgrims to the Holy Land from the Episcopal Diocese of Connecticut who are reportedly sheltering at St. George’s College in Jerusalem while missile alarms go off around them.

Archbishop Hosam Naoum, the Primate of the Anglican Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East, asked for “urgent, unceasing prayer” in a pastoral letter today, and called for Christians to “let our message be the unchanging promise of Christ’s peace: to build each other up (1 Cor. 8:1),” and for Christians to be bridge builders and reconcilers in this conflict. Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe wrote today to ask the church for prayers especially for the people of the Diocese of Iran and for all of the Iranian people, saying, “In recent weeks, we have mourned as the regime in Iran has killed peaceful protesters, and watched with alarm at both its increasing repression of the Iranian people and the escalating response of the US government.”

I ask all our congregations and people to pray for a quick end to this conflict and for protection of all innocent people who are in harm’s way. I join you in prayer that the conflict may not widen to encompass other countries and peoples.

-------

I offer this prayer, which was sent out this morning by the Rev. David Madsen and the Rev. Michael Plekon, the priests at St. Barnabas, Borrego Springs:

Heavenly Father,

You call us to be people of peace—steadfast, courageous, and grounded in your love.

Even as we seek to walk the way of peace, our hearts are heavy for all who live in danger today.

We pray for the people of Iran and the people of Israel.

We pray for the service women and men of the United States.

And we pray for every person, in every land, who finds themselves in harm’s way, whether by conflict, fear, or circumstance beyond their control.

Hold them in your light.

Guard their lives.

Guide the leaders of nations toward wisdom, restraint, and compassion.

And make us instruments of your peace—steadfast in hope, generous in mercy, and committed to the flourishing of all your children. Amen.

May the peace of God, which passes all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

In Christ,

The Rt. Rev. Susan Brown Snook

Letter from Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe on Military Strike on Iran

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 03:20:20 GMT

The Most Revd Sean Rowe, Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, has shared a letter about the military strikes on Iran.

February 28, 2026

Dear people of God in The Episcopal Church,

Here in the United States, we awoke this morning with alarm to the news that the United States and Israel have launched a large military strike on Iran. This violent attack comes despite weeks of negotiations that many of us had hoped would prevent armed conflict in this fragile region, which is home to so many religious traditions and faithful people.

Bishop Jeffrey Mello of Connecticut and a group of pilgrims from that diocese are in the Holy Land now, and when we spoke this morning, he let me know that they are safe at St. George’s College in Jerusalem. I ask you to pray fervently for them and their safe return.

Pray, too, for all the people of the Holy Land, and especially for the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East and its leader, Archbishop Hosam Naoum. I had planned to be with Hosam today and tomorrow when he made a long-planned visit to our church. Many Episcopalians who had hoped to see him and assure him of our support will feel his absence keenly in the coming days. I commend to you the letter that he has sent to the people of his diocese this morning.

As news reports tell us of fear and panic in Iran, I ask you to pray especially for the people of the Diocese of Iran and for all of the Iranian people. In recent weeks, we have mourned as the regime in Iran has killed peaceful protesters, and watched with alarm at both its increasing repression of the Iranian people and the escalating response of the U.S. government. As Christians who follow a Prince of Peace, we mourn that today’s attacks will surely mean further hardship for the most vulnerable Iranians and, as retaliation inevitably follows, suffering that will spread across the entire region.

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one Father; to whom be dominion and glory, now and for ever.

Amen.

The Most Rev. Sean Rowe
Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church

See the pastoral letter from the Most Revd Hosam Naoum, Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem and Primate of the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East, regarding the escalation of conflict in the Middle East.

A Prayer for Peace and for All in Harm’s Way

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 19:32:05 GMT

Heavenly Father,

You call us to be people of peace—steadfast, courageous, and grounded in your love.

Even as we seek to walk the way of peace, our hearts are heavy for all who live in danger today.

We pray for the people of Iran and the people of Israel.
We pray for the service women and men of the United States.

And we pray for every person, in every land, who finds themselves in harm’s way, whether by conflict, fear, or circumstance beyond their control.

Hold them in your light.

Guard their lives.

Guide the leaders of nations toward wisdom, restraint, and compassion.

And make us instruments of your peace—steadfast in hope, generous in mercy, and committed to the flourishing of all your children.

Amen.

Father Dave Madsen and Father Michael Plekon
Saint Barnabas Episcopal Church
Borrego Springs, CA

Lent-Encounters with Jesus, Part One

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 17:14:55 GMT

By Fr. Michael Plekon

We have passed Ash Wednesday and are on our way through the season of Lent, heading toward holy week and Easter. Lent is many things, a time for doing good things, thinking the good thoughts God thinks, of forgiveness, sharing, love. It is also a school and this year we will be learning from a series of encounters Jesus has with individuals, all recorded in the gospel of John. Each of these is an intense meeting and exchange from which we have much to learn. We will look at three of these here and the rest in another article.

First, Jesus confronts the Evil One, Satan, the devil. Well, of course, we would think that Jesus has to take on the public enemy number one! What is important to note is that the Evil One comes looking for Jesus, not the other way round. Isn’t that the case for us too? When we least expect it, there is the pull toward lashing out, wanting to hurt another, wanting to take care only of ourselves, perhaps even hoping to destroy someone we detest. Jesus is confronted with three temptations—turn stones into bread, throw yourself off the temple roof and hope the angels will save you, and finally, bow down to the Evil One and admit evil is stronger than good. Jesus says no to all of these. He’s not a magician, hoping to attract followers with his miracles. So stones are not turned into bread nor is there an effort to fly off the temple. And Jesus knows evil is no match for what is good, kindness trumps hate, we care for the stranger and those in need. We don’t just love our own little world of family and friends. Doing what is good, what God does, is a miracle, and we give others a new hope and life in this. By the way, the account of Jesus’ encounter with the Evil One is from Matthew’s gospel, from which we will hear all the rest of this year, later on.

The second encounter is from John’s gospel. It describes when a leading member of the Temple clergy comes to visit Jesus, under the cover of darkness. This was for fear of what his colleagues might think, so there’s some cowardly behavior here on the part of a religious leader, a teacher, who should be able to show greater integrity. No problem on Jesus’ part. Nicodemus is welcomed. For someone with great learning. Nicodemus seems at first clueless at to what Jesus tells him in response to his questions. He should know better that the spirit blows where it wills, and that God certainly can be present in this teacher, Jesus, as God spoke through Elijah, Moses, Isaiah and the rest of the prophets. Whether Nicodemus was playing dumb or really could not get it, Jesus’ patience persists. In one of the most famous lines in the gospels, Jesus assures Nicodemus that God is all about love. God so loved the world that he sent his only Son, so that all would be drawn closer to God. God condemns no one—something many cannot accept even today. Jesus emphasizes God’s abundant love to Nicodemus, with patience and compassion. There’s a lesson here, not only for Nicodemus but for ourselves.

A third encounter, again from John’s gospel, is the beautiful story of Jesus’ long conversation with the Samaritan woman from the village of Sychar. The Eastern Church preserved her name as Photini, the one who brings light to all around her. Tired out from travel on foot and preaching, Jesus finds himself at the town well in Sychar, one that went all the way back to the patriarch Jacob. He asks Photini for a drink. She’s come to fetch water for her household. She’s astonished that a rabbi, a teacher like Jesus, a Jew, has asked her for this as Jews despise Samaritans.

The two of them drift into an amazing conversation, first not about water from Jacob’s well but the living water, which stands for God’s presence and love. Water is huge in a desert, don’t we know! The conversation turns to who is Photini’s husband—she has been married before. Jesus isn’t judging her. He respects her, allows her to be honest about herself and her life. His honesty meets hers. She sees the light. She begs him for the living water, which she now knows is his teaching, his friendship.

They talk further and she hears that from now on the Spirit will be present everywhere, for all people. God has no favorites, only beloved children. And back into the town she runs, telling everyone that she’s met a teacher like no other, the Chosen one of God, the Messiah. She has become an apostle or messenger and her neighbors come to welcome Jesus. They ask him to stay and teach. They exclaim that after her bringing the news they too have come to see him as the Promised one.

What do we learn here? An honest, thoughtful woman risks talking to someone she likely fears, only to find great friendship and acceptance, love. Is there a lesson for us here? I think so.

The rest of our Lenten encounters will follow in Part two.

In Memory of Wendy Warren Quinn (1946–2026)

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:23:16 GMT

Wendy Warren Quinn
1946–2026

Wendy Warren Quinn of Borrego Springs, California, passed away on January 12, 2026, at the age of 79. She had recently been diagnosed with stage IV cancer and shortly thereafter contracted COVID and pneumonia.

Wendy was born in Saginaw, Michigan. She graduated from Glendale High School in California and attended Pomona College. Her first marriage was to Michael McFarland. In 1980, Wendy married James “Jim” Quinn, and they shared many years together until his passing in 2016.

Her professional life reflected decades of dedication, precision, and service. Wendy spent much of her career as a legal and executive secretary, including long-term service with General Dynamics, Space Systems Division in San Diego, where she supported senior leadership and legal departments. Earlier in her career, she worked in municipal and corporate law offices throughout Southern California and served in roles requiring exceptional organizational skill and discretion.

After Wendy’s retirement, she and Jim moved from San Diego to Borrego Springs, a place they came to love deeply. Wendy was an active and generous member of the community. She volunteered at the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center, supported American Legion Post 853, and faithfully took minutes for Borrego Water District meetings. She valued civic engagement and believed in quietly contributing where help was needed.

Outside of her volunteer work, Wendy enjoyed traveling, camping, and spending time with friends. She especially loved her dog, Yoti, who was a constant companion.

Wendy is survived by her sister, Betty Iversen, and her niece, Tracy Hasenkamp, along with extended family and many friends who will miss her steady presence and thoughtful kindness.

A service to honor Wendy’s life is being planned, and more information will be shared soon. Wendy will be interred at St. Barnabas Church in Borrego Springs.

Donations in her memory may be made to Animal Action League (Non-profit Spay & Neuter Clinic) ( animalactionleague.net ) and American Legion Post 853 ( ca853.org ).

MEMORIAL SERVICE WILL BE HELD AT ST. BARNABAS

 MARCH 7th-11am

BYOB Community Concerts 2026

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 05:08:07 GMT

Feb 11th

Couple Skates

Feb 4th

Melanie of Desert Eire , joined by Jinny Perrin on flute

BYOB (Bring Your Own Bowl) is a weekly community lunch and live music gathering held on Wednesdays at noon. Guests bring a bowl to enjoy freshly made soup, connect with neighbors, and listen to local musicians in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Each week features a different performer, making BYOB a simple midweek tradition built around food, music, and community.

St. Barnabas at Rotary Mardi Gras

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 03:35:06 GMT

St. Barnabas parishioners were out in force at the Borrego Springs Rotary Mardi Gras fundraiser at Rams Hill Golf Club. The evening brought together community members in support of Rotary’s scholarship and service efforts, with many familiar St. Barnabas faces in attendance.

A generous King Cake winner later shared the cake with Fr. Michael, who brought it back to St. Barnabas to be enjoyed during Sunday coffee hour. It was a simple and sweet extension of the evening’s community spirit.

Colin Whitman’s Diminishing Returns Screens at St. Barnabas

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 23:59:15 GMT

On February 8, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church hosted a community screening of Diminishing Returns, followed by a question-and-answer discussion with the film’s director, Colin Whitman.

While screening submissions for the Borrego Springs Film Festival, Jan Naragon encountered Diminishing Returns and arranged a local screening. The film later appeared in the festival in January, and director Colin Whitman returned to Borrego Springs on February 8 for a screening and Q&A at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church.

A Short Film With a Powerful Story

Diminishing Returns is a 15-minute documentary that follows Ernesto, an immigrant living in Los Angeles who collects recyclable bottles and cans to help pay for his daughter’s chemotherapy treatments in the Philippines. The film focuses on a single day in Ernesto’s life.

Whitman explained during the discussion that the project began with no clear plan for a finished film.

“I wanted something that would be self-contained and small,” he said. “I didn’t know it would turn into this.”

The film was shot over approximately six hours, with Whitman following Ernesto as he moved through the city collecting recyclables.

“ This is literally one day of footage,” Whitman said. “We didn’t know where he was going to go, so we just followed him.”

A Call From Mom

The discussion included an unexpected moment when Whitman answered a call from his mother, which the audience received with visible appreciation.

From Observation to Advocacy

During the Q&A, Whitman described how a chance encounter developed into a long-term relationship. Over time, he became Ernesto’s emergency contact and advocate, helping navigate medical care, housing, and paperwork.

“Our lives became intertwined in a way I didn’t expect,” Whitman said. “That’s both positive and complicated.”

Whitman shared an update on Ernesto’s current condition, explaining that he is now 77 years old and has experienced multiple heart attacks.

“He collapsed on a bus and ended up in intensive care,” Whitman said. “That’s when we realized how fragile everything was.”

A Story That Reflects a Larger Reality

Audience questions expanded the conversation beyond the film itself. Whitman noted that Ernesto’s experience is not unusual and reflects the reality of many families supporting loved ones across borders.

“ About ten percent of the Philippines’ GDP comes from remittances,” he said. “That’s roughly $38 billion a year sent back home.”

He added that nearly all of Ernesto’s income is sent immediately to support his daughter’s medical care.

“Everything he makes goes straight to her,” Whitman said. “As it would for any parent.”

Seeing the People Around Us

Audience members reflected on how the film changed the way they view people they pass every day. One participant commented on how easily stories like Ernesto’s go unnoticed.

Whitman agreed, emphasizing that the film’s purpose was not to provide answers, but to invite attention.

“Everybody has a story,” he said. “It starts with slowing down, asking questions, and really seeing the person in front of you.”

A Shared Space for Reflection

The screening provided space for community conversation following the film. The event concluded with informal discussion and light refreshments.

Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe: Support emergency migration ministry

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 16:45:05 GMT

Feast of John Chrysostom
Jan. 27, 2026

Dear people of God in The Episcopal Church:

As the situation in the United States grows more fraught, The Episcopal Church is working to find new ways to care for God’s people in our immigrant communities. Many of you have asked how you can help.

Please join me in making a generous donation that will allow us to provide emergency funding for ministry with migrants. Your gift will allow us to rush financial support to dioceses that are loving and caring for immigrants in these difficult times.

GIVE TODAY

Last week, we sent funds to our siblings in the Episcopal Church in Minnesota to support Casa Maria, a place for vulnerable neighbors to receive food and clothing and network with others. Your gift will help support ministries like this across The Episcopal Church.

As we approach the season of Lent, I will invite us all into a season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving as we turn toward Christ’s ministry of justice, reconciliation, and love during divisive times. Please watch for these invitations in the coming days.

About 1,500 years ago, John Chrysostom, whose feast we celebrate today, had his own share of trouble with the forces of this world. In a famous homily, he said, “If Christ is with me, whom shall I fear? Though the waves and the sea and the anger of princes are roused against me, they are less to me than a spider’s web.”

The anger of princes is raging around us, but Christ is with us, and God is calling us into the waves. Please give as you are able and pray for the witness of the church in these times, and for a hedge of protection around the people we serve who live in fear.

Yours in Christ,

The Most Rev. Sean Rowe
Presiding Bishop
The Episcopal Church

Honoring Fr. David and Naomi Madsen at St. Barnabas, Borrego Springs

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 08:29:51 GMT

It should have been said at our annual meeting but wasn't. So as a priest at St. Barnabas, Borrego Springs, I want to lift up Fr. David and Naomi Madsen, celebrate their love and care for all of us, their relentless work in so many ways to nurture us as a community.

Honoring Fr. David and Naomi Madsen for Their Steady Care at St. Barnabas, Borrego Springs

Our music is enhanced by Naomi's work with Llouise on hymns and she goes further with a group of singers to offer preludes and communion anthems. We all learn from Father David's preaching and good humor during his sermons. He leads the vestry, develops their working agendas, coordinates with the various ministries here. He is co-chair of Rotary, a director of the BMA, visits our members in the hospital and care institutions and hospital. In everything he is a good shepherd, pastor of the flock at St. Barnabas.

We are grateful for Fr. David and Naomi and want them to know of this and our love.

~ Fr. Michael Plekon

Ashes-to-go and Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 06:46:31 GMT

by Michael Plekon

Every year, Christians move through the months with different seasons and festivals. The Christmas-Epiphany season is just finishing, and before that, in December, was Advent, is a time of preparation and anticipation of the Christmas feast of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem.

This year, on Ash Wednesday, February 18, Christians will start the season of Lent, a forty-day period of prayer and good works. It leads up to Holy Week, when Jesus’ last supper, his trial, crucifixion, death and burial are commemorated on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday. Jesus’ resurrection is celebrated on Easter Sunday, April 5. Borrego churches and the BMA gather behind the Methodist Church for a Sunrise Service. St. Barnabas has a simple Eucharist right afterwards and a festive service at the regular 9:30am time.

Why ashes? The Hebrew Bible has many references to ashes as a sign of sorrow and repentance for the evil one has done. Job places ashes on his head to acknowledge his failing in faith (42:6) Tamar also. (2 Sam. 13: 19) The entire people use ashes to express their desire to turn away from sin and back to God. (Numb. 19:9) And there are quite a few other examples. In our time there are gestures of admitting guilt and asking forgiveness, something that happens in courthouses after a trial concludes. In our families and circles of friends, at times we need to humble ourselves and ask forgiveness of those we have wronged. And accept the forgiveness of others as well.

The ashes are put on a person’s forehead with the words, “Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” (Gen. 3:19) Usually there are other things about which people ask for prayers—relatives who are ill, friends facing tough times with finances, work, relationships.

Contrary to what some might think, ashes and Lent are anything but gloomy or self-imposed sorrow. The word “lent” comes from an Old English word for the spring slowly coming, lencten. Yes, it connotes the lengthening of the days, more sunshine and warmth, which in years long ago meant release from cold, planting of crops, and the joy of spring and summer. Easter and its Jewish precedent, Passover/ Pesach, bears some of the same meanings—release from bondage, life triumphing over death. The encounters with folks on the Christmas Circle and in church are anything but morose, whether they drive up and stay in their vehicles or park and walk up, or line up for ashes after the BYOB music or at the afternoon service. There is joy, maybe even a lightness in their step. The clergy of Borrego will be there at The Circle in shifts starting at 8am, continuing till noon. And ashes will be available as mention, at church. In addition to taking daily prayer mor seriously, there are many things one can do in Lent. It used to be assumed that alcohol and desserts would be given up. This is fine if you so choose. Giving more for food insecurity, volunteering at food banks, even seeking out family and friends to make sure you are at peace with them—all of these are wonderful Lenten practices. Happy Lent.

A Joint Letter from 154 Bishops of The Episcopal Church: Whose Dignity Matters?

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 06:39:25 GMT

A letter to our fellow Americans.

We, the undersigned bishops of The Episcopal Church, write today out of grief, righteous anger, and steadfast hope.

What happened a week ago in Minnesota and is happening in communities across the country runs counter to God’s vision of justice and peace. This crisis is about more than one city or state—it’s about who we are as a nation. The question before us is simple and urgent: Whose dignity matters?

In the wake of the tragic deaths of two U.S. citizens, Alex Pretti and Renee Good, we join Minnesotans and people across the nation in mourning two precious lives lost to state-sanctioned violence. We grieve with their families, their friends, and everyone harmed by the government’s policies. When fear becomes policy, everyone suffers.

We call on Americans to trust their moral compass—and to question rhetoric that trades in fear rather than the truth. As Episcopalians, our moral compass is rooted firmly in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

This is what we know. Women were shoved to the ground, children torn from their families, and citizens silenced and demeaned for exercising their constitutional rights. These actions sow fear, cast doubt, and wear us down with endless noise.

We cannot presume to speak for everyone or prescribe only one way to respond. For our part, we can only do as Jesus’ teaching shows us.

A Call for Action

This is a moment for action. We call on people of faith to stand by your values and act as your conscience demands.

We urge the immediate suspension of ICE and Border Patrol operations in Minnesota and in any community where enforcement has eroded public trust. Because the rule of law is weakened, not strengthened, when power is exercised without restraint.

We also call for transparent, independent investigations of the people killed—investigations centered on truth, not politics. Justice cannot wait, and accountability is essential to healing.

We call on the elected officials of our nation to remember the values that we share, including the rule of law. Rooted in our Constitution, it ensures that law—not the arbitrary will of individuals—governs us all, protecting individual rights, ensuring fairness, and maintaining stability.

A Shared Commitment

Every act of courage matters. We must keep showing up for one another. We are bound together because we are all made in the image of God. This begins with small, faithful steps.

As bishops in the Episcopal Church, we promise to keep showing up—to pray, to speak, and to stand with every person working to make our communities just, safe, and whole.

We are committed to making our communities safer and more compassionate:

So children can walk to school without fear.
So families can shop, work, and worship freely.
So we recognize the dignity of every neighbor—immigrant communities, military families, law enforcement officers, nurses, teachers, and essential workers alike.

You may feel powerless, angry, or heartbroken right now. Know that you’re not alone.

Each of us has real power: community power, financial power, political power, and knowledge power. We can show up for our neighbors, support small businesses and food banks, contact elected officials and vote, and learn our rights so we can speak up peacefully without fear.

Choosing Hope

This crisis is about more than one city or state—it’s about who we are as a nation. The question before us is simple and urgent: Whose dignity matters?

Our faith gives a clear answer: everyone’s.

Safety built on fear is an illusion. True safety comes when we replace fear with compassion, violence with justice, and unchecked power with accountability. That’s the vision our faith calls us to live out—and the promise our country is meant to uphold.

In the face of fear, we choose hope.

By the grace of God, may this season of grief become a season of renewal. May courage rise from lament, and love take root in every heart.

Faithfully,

† The Rt. Rev. Kristin Uffelman White, Bishop of Southern Ohio

† The Rt. Rev Gladstone B. Adams, III, X Bishop of Central New York (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Laura J. Ahrens, Bishop Suffragan of Connecticut

† The Rt. Rev. Diana D. Akiyama, Bishop of Oregon

† The Rt. Rev. David A. Alvarez, VI Bishop of Puerto Rico (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Lucinda Beth Ashby, Bishop of El Camino Real

† The Rt. Rev. David C. Bane, IX Bishop of Southern Virginia (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. J. Scott Barker, Bishop of Nebraska

† The Rt. Rev. Cathleen Bascom, Bishop of Kansas

† The Rt. Rev. Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows, Bishop of Indianapolis

† The Rt. Rev. Nathan D. Baxter, Bishop of Central Pennsylvania (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Mark Beckwith, X Bishop of Newark (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Barry L. Beisner, Bishop Provisional Missionary Diocese of Navajoland

† The Rt. Rev. Patrick W. Bell, Bishop of Eastern Oregon

† The Rt. Rev. Scott Anson Benhase, OA, X Bishop of Georgia (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Mark Allen Bourlakas, Assistant Bishop of Virginia

† The Rt. Rev. Thomas E. Breidenthal, IX Bishop of Southern Ohio (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Jennifer Brooke-Davidson, Assistant Bishop of North Carolina

† The Rt. Rev. C. Franklin Brookhart, Assisting Bishop of Los Angeles

† The Rt. Rev. Kevin S. Brown, Bishop of Delaware

† The Rt. Rev. Thomas J. Brown, Bishop of Maine

† The Rt. Rev. Susan Brown Snook, Bishop of San Diego

† The Rt. Rev. Diane M. Jardine Bruce, Bishop Suffragan of Los Angeles (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, Bishop of Washington

† The Rt. Rev. Elías García Cárdenas, Bishop of Colombia

† The Rt. Rev. Paula E. Clark, Bishop of Chicago

† The Rt. Rev. Angela Maria Cortiñas, Bishop Suffragan of West Texas

† The Rt. Rev. Matthew Cowden, Bishop of West Virginia

† The Rt. Rev. James E. Curry, Bishop Suffragan of Connecticut (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Michael B. Curry, XXVII Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Joe Morris Doss, X Bishop of New Jersey (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, Assisting Bishop of Massachusetts

† The Rt. Rev. DeDe Duncan-Probe, Bishop of Central New York

† The Rt. Rev. J. Zache Duracin, Bishop of Haiti (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Mark D.W. Edington, Bishop in charge of the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe

† The Rt. Rev. Dan Edwards, XII Bishop of Nevada (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. C. Christopher Epting, VIII Bishop of Iowa (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Douglas Fisher, Bishop of Western Massachusetts

† The Rt. Rev. Jeff W. Fisher, Bishop Suffragan of Texas

† The Rt. Rev. Robert L. Fitzpatrick, Bishop of Hawai’i

† The Rt. Rev. James E. Folts, VIII Bishop of West Texas (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Jonathan H. Folts, Bishop of South Dakota

† The Rt. Rev. R. William Franklin, Assisting Bishop of Long Island

† The Rt. Rev. Sally French, Bishop of New Jersey

† The Rt. Rev. J. Michael Garrison, X Bishop of Western New York (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Alan M. Gates, XVI Bishop of Massachusetts (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Wendell N. Gibbs, Assisting Bishop of Southern Ohio

† The Rt. Rev. Mary D. Glasspool, Assisting Bishop of Massachusetts

† The Rt. Rev. Susan E. Goff, Bishop Suffragan of Virginia (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. William O. Gregg, VI Bishop of Eastern Oregon (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Daniel G. P. Gutiérrez, Bishop of Pennsylvania

† The Rt. Rev. Douglas Hahn, VII Bishop of Lexington (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Michael Hanley, X Bishop of Oregon (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. John T.W. Harmon, Bishop of Arkansas

† The Rt. Rev. Gayle Elizabeth Harris, Assistant Bishop of Virginia

† The Rt. Rev. Scott B. Hayashi, XI Bishop of Utah (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Susan B. Haynes, Bishop of Southern Virginia

† The Rt. Rev. Matthew Heyd, Bishop of New York

† The Rt. Rev. Rayford B. High, Jr., Bishop Suffragan of Texas (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Mark Hollingsworth, Jr., XI Bishop of Ohio (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Barry R. Howe, VII Bishop of West Missouri (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Carlye J. Hughes, Bishop of Newark

† The Rt. Rev. Michael B. Hunn, Bishop of the Rio Grande

† The Rt. Rev. Robert W. Ihloff, XIII Bishop of Maryland (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. James I. Jelinek, VIII Bishop of Minnesota (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Don E. Johnson, III Bishop of West Tennessee (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Deon Johnson, Bishop of Missouri

† The Rt. Rev. Anne B. Jolly, Bishop of Ohio

† The Rt. Rev. Charles I. Jones, VII Bishop of Montana (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. David Colin Jones, Bishop Suffragan of Virginia (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. W. Michie Klusmeyer, VII Bishop of West Virginia (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, SOSc, Bishop of Rhode Island

† The Rt. Rev. Chilton Knudsen, VIII Bishop of Maine (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. James E. Krotz, IX Bishop of Nebraska (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Philip N. LaBelle, Bishop of Olympia

† The Rt. Rev. Stephen T. Lane, Bishop Provisional of Western New York,

† The Rt. Rev. Mark Lattime, Bishop of Alaska,

† The Rt. Rev. Jeffrey Lee, XII Bishop of Chicago (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Edward L. Lee, Jr., Bishop of the Great Lakes (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Frank S. Logue, Bishop of Georgia

† The Rt. Rev. Craig Loya, Bishop of Minnesota

† The Rt. Rev. Kym Lucas, Bishop of Colorado

† The Rt. Rev. Shannon MacVean-Brown, Bishop of Vermont

† The Rt. Rev. F. Clayton Matthews, Bishop Suffragan of Virginia (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. J. Scott Mayer, Bishop of Northwest Texas

† The Rt. Rev. Dorsey McConnell, VIII Bishop of Pittsburgh (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Jack McKelvey, VII Bishop of Rochester (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Jeffrey W. Mello, Bishop of Connecticut

† The Rt. Rev. Juan Carlos Quiñonez Mera, Bishop of Central Ecuador

† The Rt. Rev. Rodney Michel, Bishop Suffragan of Long Island (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Betsey Monnot, Bishop of Iowa

† The Rt. Rev. Robert O’Neill, X Bishop of Colorado (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Todd Ousley, Bishop Provisional of Wyoming

† The Rt. Rev. Jacob W. Owensby, Bishop of Western Louisiana

† The Rt. Rev. George E. Packard, Bishop Suffragan of Armed Forces and Federal Ministries (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Bonnie A. Perry, Bishop of Michigan

† The Rt. Rev. Kenneth L. Price, Jr., Assisting Bishop of Southern Ohio

† The Rt. Rev. Brian N. Prior, X Bishop of Minnesota (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Lawrence C. Provenzano, Bishop of Long Island

† The Rt. Rev. John Rabb, Bishop Suffragan of Maryland (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Rayford J. Ray, Bishop of Northern Michigan

† The Rt. Rev. David G. Read, Bishop of West Texas

† The Rt. Rev. Jennifer Reddall, Bishop of Arizona

† The Rt. Rev. Poulson Reed, Bishop of Oklahoma

† The Rt. Rev. Gretchen Rehberg, Bishop of Spokane

† The Rt. Rev. David Rice, Bishop of San Joaquin

† The Rt. Rev. Austin K. Rios, Bishop of California

† The Rt. Rev. Ann Ritonia, Bishop Suffragan of Armed Forces and Federal Ministries for the Episcopal Church

† The Rt. Rev. Bavi (Nedi) Rivera, VII Bishop of Eastern Oregon (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Phoebe A. Roaf, Bishop of West Tennessee

† The Rt. Rev. Gene Robinson, IX Bishop of New Hampshire (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Samuel S. Rodman, Bishop Diocesan of North Carolina

† The Rt. Rev. Catherine S. Roskam, Bishop Suffragan of New York (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Kathryn M. Ryan, Bishop Suffragan of Texas

† The Rt. Rev. Audrey C. Scanlan, Bishop Diocesan of the Susquehanna

† The Rt. Rev. Alan Scarfe, IX Bishop of Iowa (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Carrie Schofield-Broadbent, Bishop of Maryland

† The Rt. Rev. Gordon P. Scruton, VIII Bishop of Western Massachusetts, (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Brian Seage, Assisting Bishop of Texas

† The Rt. Rev. James J. Shand, X Bishop of Easton (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Kara Wagner Sherer, Bishop of Rochester

† The Rt. Rev. Allen Shin, Bishop Suffragan of New York

† The Rt. Rev. Mark S. Sisk, XV Bishop of New York (Retired)

† The Most Rev. Melissa M. Skelton, Bishop Provisional of Olympia (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Rob Skirving, Bishop of East Carolina

† The Rt. Rev. John McKee Sloan, XI Bishop of Alabama (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. William E. Smalley, VIII Bishop of Kansas (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Andrew D. Smith, XIV Bishop of Connecticut (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. George Wayne Smith, X Bishop of Missouri (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Douglas E. Sparks, Bishop of Northern Indiana

† The Rt. Rev. Phyllis Spiegel, Bishop of Utah

† The Rt. Rev. Marty Stebbins, Bishop Diocesan of Montana

† The Rt. Rev. E. Mark Stevenson, Bishop Diocesan of Virginia

† The Rt. Rev. William H. Stokes, XII Bishop of New Jersey (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. George Sumner, XII Bishop of Dallas (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Eugene Taylor Sutton, Assisting Bishop of Washington

† The Rt. Rev. G. Porter Taylor, VI Bishop of Western North Carolina (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. John Harvey Taylor, Bishop of Los Angeles

† The Rt. Rev. Jos Tharakan, Bishop of Idaho

† The Rt. Rev. Brian Thom, Bishop of North Dakota

† The Rt. Rev. Morris K. Thompson, Jr., XI Bishop of Louisiana (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. John S. Thornton, XI Bishop of Idaho (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Martin G.Townsend, IX Bishop of Easton, MD (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Megan Traquair, Bishop of Northern California

† The Rt. Rev. Michael L. Vono, IX Bishop of the Rio Grande (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Pierre W. Whalon, IX Bishop in charge of the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Keith B. Whitmore, V Bishop of Eau Claire (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Julia E. Whitworth, Bishop Diocesan of Massachusetts

† The Rt. Rev. Arthur B. Williams, Jr., Bishop Suffragan of Ohio (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Jeremiah D. Williamson, Bishop of Albany

† The Rt. Rev. Ruth Woodliff-Stanley, Bishop of South Carolina

† The Rt. Rev. Wayne P. Wright, X Bishop of Delaware (Retired)

† The Rt. Rev. Rob Wright, Bishop of Atlanta

† The Rt. Rev. George D. Young, III, III Bishop of East Tennessee (Retired)

diosohio.org

St. Barnabas Borrego Springs Brings Relief

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:13:12 GMT

St. Barnabas Episcopal Church & Borrego Ministers Association

When desert temperatures soar in Borrego Springs, heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous. Recognizing this urgent need, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church , in cooperation with the Borrego Ministers Association , launched the Emergency Air-Conditioning Program to protect vulnerable residents from life-threatening heat.

Funded by a Courageous Love Grant from the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego , the program partners with a local HVAC company to deliver, install, and track portable air-conditioning units in homes facing cooling emergencies. Units are loaned temporarily until a permanent repair or replacement can be arranged, ensuring no one is left without relief during critical heat events.

This collaboration reflects Borrego’s deep community care—neighbors working together to keep everyone safe when the desert heat strikes.

Living with Turmoil

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 01:33:24 GMT

By Fr Michael Plekon

In the past week we saw videoclips of interaction between ICE officer Jonathan Ross and a woman in a car, Renee Good. Within seconds she was dead from the multiple shots he fired point blank at her. The media is full of rage and condemnation of this lethal force by a federal agent with little apparent cause. As well there are claims that federal agents have complete immunity, can act however they chose with impunity. They are above the law because they are carrying out the administration’s policies of arresting and deporting illegal aliens and, so it now appears, combatting opposition to these policies in the form of protest.

I don’t intend to go further with this tragic case. I do ask you, as I ask myself, how are we to live in a country that seems to be growing even more angry and suspicious of each other, and disdainful of those with whom we disagree. Protests on the Christmas Circle are peaceful. Prayers are lifted in our churches about all of this. There are groups who discuss how best to act within the law to make our demands for justice known to those who represent us at the county, state and federal levels. We celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on January 19, someone I have written about here in this paper.

Dr. King was a Baptist pastor as well as a social reformer and educator. He knew Ghandi and the way of non-violent protest. He understood America to be made up of a diversity of peoples, religions, cultures and political points of view. While he was passionate in opposing the racism that eventually killed him, he said that his work was not only for African Americans who descended from slaves but for all Americans, indeed, all people. So wide was his humanity, as wide as the mercy of the God he preached and followed.

To live with the mess that is our country and world at present, we must have things to stand up for. Here we must question ourselves about what in fact these are. Are we only feeling anger and not understanding? Are we able to look beyond the miseries of the moment to live for ourselves, our children, grandchildren and those yet to be born? Do we see that our country, soon to celebrate its 250th birthday, has represented what is just, good and beautiful—in two world wars and their aftermath, through the Great Depression, even after a bloody Civil War.

As you see, I am after what is good, true and beautiful here. While we will be able to vote in November, keep informed and protest, and yes, pray, is there more we can do? In my congregation, we talk about standing up for God’s ways and doing what God does. Even if you edit God out of this, I don’t think you’d reject-- being generous with those in need, trying to heal conflict and hurt, forgiving rather than holding a grudge, listening rather than refusing to hear another or shouting them down. Dr. King embodied these ways of being, as did Ghandi, Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, Dorothy Day and Rabbi Heschel, to name a few. Would this not add to justice and peace, despite the turmoil?

Evangelism at the Crossroads

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 06:49:10 GMT

Reclaiming evangelism as good news lived, not pressure applied. The word evangelism doesn’t need to be replaced. It needs to be reclaimed.

A crossroad is an ordinary thing — two roads meeting. But spiritually, crossroads are where our values and our choices intersect. Some are dramatic. Most are quiet. Yet at every one of them, the cross of Christ stands with us. Not as guilt. Not as threat. As presence. A steady light.

These crossroads show up every day: the grocery store conversation, the neighbor who needs acknowledgment, the family member who tests your patience. This is where faith becomes visible. This is where the gospel takes on flesh — in kindness, listening, courage, and truth-telling.

When Jesus Challenged Rome’s Version of Virtue

To understand evangelism, it helps to remember the setting of the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus wasn’t speaking into a neutral world. He was speaking into the shadow of Rome — an empire that preached peace through dominance, hierarchy, and exclusion. Rome had its own moral vocabulary: strength, victory, control.

Jesus offered a counter-vision.
Blessed are the poor in spirit.
Blessed are the meek.
Blessed are the peacemakers.

This wasn’t soft spirituality. It was a direct challenge to the empire’s definition of what a “good” person looks like. And it still challenges our assumptions today — especially our assumptions about evangelism.

Evangelism isn’t a message we push. It’s a presence we offer.

Reclaiming a Misused Word

For many people, evangelism feels like pressure — a sales pitch, a recruitment strategy, a push to get people into church. But Jesus never pressured anyone into anything. He healed. He fed. He restored dignity. He listened. He stood with the exclusion. People experienced good news long before they understood it.

This is why the word evangelism doesn’t need to be replaced.
It needs to be reclaimed.

Evangelism is meeting real human needs with the compassion and courage of Jesus — so people encounter good news, not pressure.

Evangelism isn’t about getting people into church.
Evangelism is about getting the church into the world.

It’s how you treat the cashier having a rough day.
It’s how you show up for a neighbor who feels invisible.
It’s how your life quietly says, you matter.

Evangelism happens wherever dignity is restored, wherever compassion interrupts indifference, wherever love gets the final word.

Called Out, Sent Out

The word ecclesia means “the called-out ones.” Called out of fear, apathy, and self-protection. Called into healing, feeding, listening, welcoming, and liberating. Jesus calls each of us differently, but always toward love — right where our lives already touch the world.

If St. Barnabas Episcopal Church disappeared tomorrow, would Borrego Springs notice? I believe it would. Because the gospel you live isn’t confined to a sanctuary. It’s carried in your friendships, your compassion, your presence.

Where the Gospel Takes Flesh

Paul once wrote that the cross looks foolish to some. And in a world shaped by Roman values — ancient or modern — it still does. But to those being transformed, the cross reveals a different kind of power: not the power that dominates, but the power that heals and frees.

This is the heart of the Sermon on the Mount:
How shall we live when the values of Jesus collide with the values of empire?

At every crossroad, Jesus calls us to reflect the light already working within us. When we respond, our lives become good news for someone else.

~ Father Dave Madsen

Sidebar: A message from the guy that wrote this piece. I choose to view faith as lived more than spoken. I trust small acts of compassion and steady presence to carry the good news farther than any argument ever could.

Who Is My Neighbor? A Documentary Screening at St. Barnabas

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 21:17:14 GMT

On February 8 at 1:00 pm, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church will host a screening of Diminishing Returns, a 20-minute documentary followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Colin Whitman. The event is open to the community and will take place in the church sanctuary.

Event Details

Film: Diminishing Returns
Date: February 8
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: St. Barnabas Episcopal Church
Program: Screening followed by a Q&A
Afterward: Coffee and snacks available

Why are we doing this?

If you spend time in Borrego Springs, chances are that you like movies and that you may be in a book club. How often do you finish watching a movie and want to talk about it with someone else? We at St. Barnabas are providing you a chance to merge movies and discussion with a screening of a 20-minute documentary, Diminishing Returns, followed by a Q&A with the L.A.-based filmmaker, Colin Whitman.

We pride ourselves in promoting justice and kindness in our local neighborhood. But where do the boundaries of our neighborhood end? How far can we go to aid people who are holding onto their way of life by their fingernails? Do we even know who they are? This film touches on the question “who is my neighbor?” as well as themes of living alone, navigating two cultures, family ties, and others. It’s gotten a lot of interest in other film venues as a parable for navigating the perceived distance between “us” and “them.”

If you see Diminishing Returns at the film festival, you may get something new out of it the second time. The mark of a good film!

Colin Whitman met Ernesto, the subject of the film, while he was walking his dog in his own neighborhood. He took the initiative to strike up a conversation and uncovered a surprisingly sweet and suspenseful story of a perfect stranger and his family overseas. Ernesto is not so different from us as we might assume. Come and see to find out more about Ernesto and the effect the Colin’s film had on his life.

~ Jan Naragon

What to expect

The film will be shown at St. Barnabas in the Sanctuary at 1 pm on February 8. Admission is free (donations accepted). Well-behaved dogs welcome. Enjoy this 20-minute ‘thinky’ documentary in a more intimate setting than the film festival, then mingle afterward with the filmmaker in a Question and Answer session. Follow that with coffee and cookies and more time to ask questions that you forgot earlier in the beautiful courtyard at St. Barnabas. Head home feeling inspired.

Film Synopsis

Diminishing Returns follows Ernesto, who collects recyclables in Los Angeles to help pay for his daughter’s chemotherapy treatment in the Philippines. The short documentary offers a direct look at caregiving, sacrifice, and resilience across borders.

All are welcome to attend

Whether you come for the film, the conversation, or the community, we hope you’ll join us for an afternoon of insight, connection, and inspiration.

Sermon by The Rt. Rev. Susan Brown Snook

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 04:20:31 GMT

"I read a story about a group of atheists who put up huge billboards to celebrate Christmas. Well, maybe not celebrate, but comment on Christmas. The billboards featured a large picture of Santa Claus with the words “Keep the merry” and a picture of the crucified Jesus with the words “Dump the myth.” “Go ahead and enjoy a happy winter holiday,” these billboards seem to say, “but don’t fool yourself with any fantasies that a god might be involved in it.”

Infuriating as this may be, sometimes you can almost understand why atheists would look at some of our Gospel stories and decide that they seem fantastic, mythical, unrealistic.

Today’s beloved story of the three Wise Men, for instance, evokes outlandish, improbable pictures in our minds of men on camels wearing exotic turbans and silken robes, carrying bejeweled boxes full of inappropriate baby gifts.

And looking at this very odd story, we too might even be tempted to throw up our hands and say, “Such a strange story couldn’t possibly be true.” But before we dismiss this Wise Men story as quaint pageantry, we should maybe explore what’s here and why Matthew wanted to tell us the story.

So we have four Gospels, one of which doesn’t tell us a Christmas story at all, and three of which tell the Christmas story in very different ways. And we need to understand that while all three versions carry truth, each of these Gospel writers chose to tell us about different things to make points of their own.

On Christmas Eve, we hear Luke’s Gospel story with angels and shepherds and a manger, with all the soft edges and sweet carols that we associate with Christmas. Luke’s Gospel is Christmas for the poor and the lonely and those who are aching for love. On Christmas Day, we hear John’s version, which doesn’t mention Bethlehem or Mary or Joseph or the birth of a child at all, but rather soars off into the doctrine of creation and the divine light that existed with God before time began, the light of and for all people. This is Christmas for theologians.

Well, today, we come crashing down to Earth again with Matthew’s version of how Christ was born…

That’s why Jesus was born. That’s why the whole world brings gifts to his door. That’s why God lives among us still and empowers us to change this world. That’s why God rose from the dead and still lives in us today. And that story is true."

January 4th at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church

A Celebration at St. Barnabas with Bishop Susan Brown Snook

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 20:08:39 GMT

On January 4, 2026 , St. Barnabas Episcopal Church welcomed The Rt. Rev. Dr. Susan Brown Snook , Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego , for a Sunday afternoon service marked by celebration, welcome, and shared purpose.

Before the service began, The Ven. Cindy Campos , Archdeacon of the Diocese of San Diego, introduced herself and shared brief updates on diocesan ministry. She spoke about work beyond the border, including Comunidad de Luz in Tijuana, which serves migrant women and children through education, care, and support. She also highlighted the Emergency Air Conditioning program, a St. Barnabas initiative serving the Borrego Valley with support from a diocesan grant.

Ahead of the service, Bishop Susan met with those being baptized and received, offering guidance on how the service would unfold and setting a welcoming, pastoral tone for the afternoon.

During the 3:00 PM service, one person was baptized and seven individuals were received into the Episcopal Church. As clouds moved across the sky outside, moments of sunlight filtered into the sanctuary, gently brightening the space as the service progressed.

Bishop Susan delivered the sermon which emphasized the ways that hope springs from times of extreme distress. She welcomed the new members, and celebrated communion, joined by Fr. David L. Madsen, Rector, Fr. Michael Plekon and lay leaders Jan Naragon Llouise Jee and Paula Huls, reflecting the shared leadership of the parish.

St. Barnabas choral musicians provided music throughout the joyful service, supporting congregational worship and bringing tears to more than one person’s eyes. The ensemble was led by Naomi Madsen and included Sherry Harapat, Dick Helvig, Jeanne Plekon, and Llouise Jee.

Following the service, the celebration continued with a shared meal, conversation, and time together, marking a meaningful day in the life of the St. Barnabas community.

Epiphany By Fr Michael Plekon

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:41:00 GMT

We hear this word when someone has had an amazing experience or a breakthrough revelation. Coming down Yaqui Pass at sunset years ago, Jeanne had an epiphany about Borrego. That is why we got here and remain. There was an indescribable beauty to the sunset on the Santa Rosa mountains. Little did we know what would await us here, St. Barnabas, and so much more.

The word is Greek and it means exactly what I just wrote, a seeing something you had never seen before, a revelation. On January 6, twelve days after Christmas, there is the feast of Epiphany. Scholars note it is a feast older even than Christmas, likely also tied to the new year and the beginning of longer days, more light. At first it was a celebration of the coming of God into the world, into space, time and humankind, what we now celebrate at Christmas. There were three important moments of revelation or showing that became linked with Epiphany. The first is the arrival of the wise men or three kings, following a star, at the place where the child Jesus, Mary and Joseph were staying. They were likely scholars from Persia, who saw in the star that they followed a sign of something wonderful happening. When they found the child Jesus, they worshipped him as God, offered gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. These were later linked to Jesus being both king and priest, the myrrh a foretelling of his death, as it was a burial spice. The wise men were not from Israel, they were outsiders, Gentiles. So, this was also a revelation of Jesus to the whole world beyond his own Jewish people.

The second moment was the epiphany that occurred when Jesus was baptized by his cousin John the Baptist. There was a voice from heaven that said “You are my beloved Son,” and a dove also appeared overhead. John realized as did some of his followers that this was no ordinary teacher but the one chosen to save the world, Jesus. That’s what “Jesus” means. Usually on the Sunday after Epiphany one or another account of Jesus’ baptism is read.

Lastly, the first of Jesus “signs” is part of Epiphany. This was his changing water into wine at a wedding feast in Cana in Galilee. Somehow, they’d run out of wine on the first day of the feast, a really horrendous situation. Mary, Jesus’ mother tells him of the embarrassment and pain, and Jesus tells the caterer to fill six huge stone jars with water and then take it to the head caterer. When he tastes, he exclaims this is the best wine ever. So, the revelation is that with Jesus’ arrival, we have God with us, as one of us. God’s ways or kingdom are going to be put into practice, first by Jesus, then by us all.

While these are beautiful moments, there are epiphanies every day too many to number: that you made someone smile, fell cared for, forgiven. That food was shared, that you lent an ear to someone’s pain, shared someone’s worry, or their joy. What a good way to start the new year

--Epiphany

Bearing Witness: Remembrance and Solidarity | Jan Naragon

Sat, 03 Jan 2026 19:55:55 GMT

Sermon by Jan Naragon

St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Borrego Springs

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, that he might bear witness to the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came that he might bear witness to the light.

Recently you've read about a leader in a much-contested part of the world who felt insecure in his power. Desperate to maintain the status quo, he cast a wide net to rid himself of the threat, killing thousands of children in the process. I am speaking of King Herod. This year, the Feast of the Holy Innocents falls on a Sunday. Holy innocents were the babies that were slain by the order of Herod after he was hoodwinked by the Wise Men.

Shortly, we'll say a prayer of lamentation to commemorate the thousands of innocent children whose lives were lost in the conflict between Hamas and Israel, more than 20,000 since October of 2023. Loss of potential, unimaginable anguish of so many parents. Yes, it's more than terrible. Maybe we want to do something, but what?

John's gospel offers an action item for us today in the Baptist bearing witness to the light. What is this bearing witness thing? The Ten Commandments speak of bearing false witness against one's neighbor. What about true witness? Bearing witness is an act of intentional remembrance. It is an act of etching something important into our oral history that can never be destroyed.

Our Bishop Susan recently was in the news for bearing witness, standing in solidarity with immigrant detainees outside of a federal courthouse. An organization of Palestinian Christians called Sabeel has been bearing witness weekly in the absence of press coverage of the events in Gaza and the West Bank. Listening and being present preserves the crucial historical moments that may fade with neglect, time, and juicier news.

How many of you have been in a situation where you felt powerless, where you could not act upon a perceived injustice and said, "Well, that's all well and good, but we know what really happened." Well, that's bearing witness.

John the Baptist knew what really happened. His ministry was the first step in making sure that Jesus got remembered, that the word was the light of men and women. That no matter what happened later, the darkness would not overcome the light.

Bearing witness doesn't require physical prowess or good health. It is an act of coming alongside to ensure accurate memory, to express solidarity, and to reinforce the equality of every child of God. Bearing witness does not cancel out the need for forgiveness. It brings the need for forgiveness into sharper relief.

Bearing witness begins with prayer. Every week, we pray for our distressed world. Remembering and expressing compassion through prayer opens the door of our awareness, bit by bit. Perhaps remembering and lamenting can lead us to speak truth to power.

A quote from Chris Tumulty: "In a season when many feel powerless, the act of gathering in prayer brings solidarity and strengthens the resolve of those working toward justice, reminding us that suffering should never go unacknowledged or unanswered."

Dame Jane Goodall said, "The big problem today is that so many people feel insignificant. They feel that the problems facing the world are so huge that there's nothing they can do, so they do nothing. And as an individual, maybe there isn't really that much, but when you get thousands, and then millions, all doing the best they can every day for other beings, then you get huge change."

Bearing witness when and where we can is in God's image, is Emmanuel, God with us. There was the true light which, coming into the world, enlightens every person. We are all keepers of the light.

Let's close with an excerpt from O Holy Night. Truly, he taught us to love one another. His law is love and his gospel is peace. Chains shall he break, for the slave is our brother, and in his name, all oppression shall cease. Amen.

New Years Welcome to St. Barnabas 2026

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 05:14:30 GMT

If yo u’ve ever stood in the Borrego desert at dawn, you know how the light arrives quietly, not demanding anything from you, simply offering itself.

That is the kind of welcome we hope to offer at St. Barnabas.

Here in this wide landscape, many people come to sort out their lives, to breathe again, or to listen to something deeper.

If that’s where you find yourself as a new year begins, you are not alone. And you don’t need to have a map in hand to walk through our doors.

You are welcome here — with your questions, your doubts, your hopes, and your story.

The desert has always been a place where people wander, wonder, and discover unexpected acceptance.

It’s a place where God has a way of meeting people not because they are certain, but because they are searching.

We try to be a church shaped by that same way of being spacious, honest, and grounded in love.

One of the gifts of the Episcopal tradition is that it doesn’t require everyone to think alike or believe alike.

Like the desert, it makes room. Our common prayer holds us together even when our perspectives differ. You don’t have to fit a mold to belong.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu once said, “God’s dream is that you and I and all of us will realize that we are family.”

In the desert, family often looks like whoever shows up with you at an oasis, where crossroads meet.

I say this as someone who has spent much of his life on the edges of religious communities — interfaith, curious, comfortable with mystery. And yet, in this church, I have found acceptance and a home.

The edges, I’ve learned, can be holy ground.

If you’re standing at the edge of mystery — or simply looking for a place where you don’t have to pretend, this is your invitation.

Your presence matters here. So do your questions.

As the new year unfolds, I hope you find renewal and belonging — and if you wander our way, a little desert church would be glad to welcome you in.

Father Dave Madsen+

By: Fr. Dave Madsen

A Charlie Brown Christmas Piano Concert

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 05:08:43 GMT

A Community Concert Marking 60 Years of a Holiday Classic

On Sunday, December 21 , St. Barnabas Episcopal Church hosted its 4th annual A Charlie Brown Christmas piano concert , welcoming more than 90 people from the Borrego Springs community.

The program was inspired by A Charlie Brown Christmas, now marking its 60th year since its original 1965 broadcast. The special is known for its quiet message and its distinctive jazz score by Vince Guaraldi , which has become closely associated with the holiday season.

Pianist Steve T. Hunter performed piano selections drawn from the music of the program, using the familiar melodies to reflect on the central question raised in the story — what is Christmas all about? Hunter’s musical background includes classical training, jazz and blues performance, studio recording, and decades of musical theatre playing and conducting.

During the concert, Fr. Michael Plekon took the part of Linus, referencing the well-known moment from the story when Linus explains the meaning of Christmas. Fr. Plekon spoke about the Christmas message traditionally drawn from the Gospel of Luke , reflecting on the Nativity and its significance in a way that echoed the spirit of that scene.

The concert concluded with the audience singing “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” bringing the afternoon to a shared close of music and reflection.

Donations were collected during the event to support community members in need , continuing St. Barnabas’ tradition of pairing seasonal programs with local outreach and care. Now in its fourth year locally, the concert has become a meaningful holiday tradition in Borrego Springs, bringing together music, faith, and community.

Christmas as Light in Darkness

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 06:34:09 GMT

By Fr. Michael Plekon

Every year in December we come around to a holiday that still for many is a holy day. It has different names in different languages and cultures—Yuletide, Jul, Weinachten, Noel, Navidad, Natale, Rizdvo and more. Christmas comes from “Christ’s Mass,” denoting the sacred service known in many churches and languages as the “Mass.”

There are feasts of other faith traditions that often come close to the end of the year. Hannukah is the Jewish celebration of the victory of the Maccabees and the restoration of the sacred lights on the menorah or candlestick in the Jerusalem Temple. Despite not being filled with enough oil, the lamps burned for eight days. There is the Hindu celebration of light in darkness, Diwali. And the African-American holiday of Kwanzaa.

Christmas also has other special days associated with it. December 6 is the feast of St. Nicholas, the original Santa Claus, a 4th century bishop renowned for his generosity to those in need. In some countries this is the day of the exchange of gifts. Likewise January 6 is the feast of Epiphany or the day of the Three Magi Kings, when in Hispanic countries gifts are given.

Central to Christmas is the celebration of Jesus’ birth. The gospel of Luke tells the familiar story of the parents, Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem to enroll in a census. While there, lodging in a stable, their son is born, wrapped in swaddling clothes and placed in a manger, a feed trough for domestic animals. Angels announced this birth to shepherds in the surrounding countryside. These herdsmen came and honored the newborn child, having heard a song from the angels: “Glory to God in the highest, peace to all people on earth.”

Later, in Matthew’s gospel, three astronomers, perhaps also royalty, came from further East to visit the child, following a star which led them to where the family was. This gospel does not mention the angels, the manger or shepherds, but notes that King Herod was fearful of the newborn as a threat to his power, asking the three astronomers to report back and disclose where the child was. They did not do this and went home on another route. The male children of Bethlehem were subjected to a massacre. Thus, the birth of Jesus was not without pain and suffering also.

Christmas evokes images of trees twinkling with lights and ornaments, dinner tables loaded with food, the faces of children lit up with glee, not just at their presents but also at the warmth of family and friends. Christmas is an event that was to bring peace to the world, the birth of someone who became a teacher and healer later in life, one whom his followers saw, in Matthew’s words as “God with us,” Emmanuel, God becoming a human being, part of our world, of space and time. But Jesus was born in a land under the occupation of the Roman Empire, in a society in which most people teetered on the edge of extreme hunger and poverty. The birth happened in a barn where domestic animals lived, and the first visitors were scruffy sheep herders, thought of as not trustworthy.

Two thousand years later, Christmas remains a moment in a world torn apart by suspicion, hatred, violence and anger. The holiday sees millions of dollars spent on gifts, parties, decorations, and entertainment. And yet, the story of how this birth came to take place remains one that faces us with a helpless infant, loving parents, the sense of joy from heavenly beings, the welcome of very humble as well as some very elite, privileged visitors. Christmas can still stand as a sign of light in the darkness, a message of joy and goodness despite everything that might appear as opposed to this.

You don’t need to be religious to see in this holiday something of hope and joy. Merry Christmas!

---

The Rev. Michael Plekon, PhD
Professor Emeritus: Sociology, Religion & Culture The City University of New York - Baruch College

Visiting Fr. George Keith

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 02:48:26 GMT

Fr. George Keith, a retired Episcopal priest who served St. Barnabas and worked closely with the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center, continues to be held in prayer by the parish and wider community. He is remembered by name at every Sunday service, reflecting the lasting impact of his ministry and presence in Borrego Springs.

Fr. George receives regular visits from the priests and people of St. Barnabas, as well as from Archdeacon Cindy Campos and local San Diego priest Fr. Richard Vevia. Recently, Jan Naragon and Fr. Michael Plekon spent time visiting Fr. George, offering prayer and companionship on behalf of the parish.

The photos below capture moments from that visit and the continued care that surrounds him.

Preparing the Way in a Desert That Knows How to Tell the Truth

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:53:38 GMT

We are leaving the last week of Advent and drawing near to Christmas, with Epiphany just ahead on the following Sunday. So what have we noticed about these past few weeks of waiting, watching, and, if we’re honest, trying not to lose track of which candle we’re supposed to light?

Advent has been walking us through the wilderness with John the Baptist, who didn’t choose a comfortable pulpit. He chose the erēmos , the desert of Judea. A rugged, barren stretch east of Jerusalem all the way down toward the Dead Sea. A place you don’t pass through on your way to anywhere else.

The desert is honest like that. It doesn’t flatter. It doesn’t distract. It simply says, “All right, what’s really going on in your soul?”

That’s where John appears, calling people to prepare the way of the Lord anywhere.

Which, depending on who you ask, sounds a lot like Borrego Springs.

Anyone who has driven east of town toward the Salton Sea knows that feeling: the land opens up, the noise falls away, and suddenly the desert asks you questions you didn’t plan. Not with guilt, but with clarity. Repentance, in his voice, is not a scolding; it’s a spiritual housecleaning. A chance to sweep out the dust of fear, resentment, and spiritual clutter so the light of Christ can get in without tripping over anything.

And the desert is a good teacher for this. Out here, nothing grows without intention. Life survives because water is shared, shade is offered, and roots learn to reach deep. Borrego Springs reminds us that transformation is possible even in harsh places, especially when compassion flows like a hidden spring.

Advent work begins inside us—softening the heart, forgiving ourselves, forgiving others—but it doesn’t stay there. It moves outward into the dry places of the world, where justice, mercy, and peace are desperately needed. Christ calls us to be streams of kindness in thirsty landscapes.

As we move toward Christmas and then into Epiphany, the season of revealing, we remember that John’s voice was only the beginning. As Martin Luther said, with John “a new voice is in town,” pointing toward the One to come who brings light into every shadow.

And here in our own desert, we know something about light. We know how it rises over the mountains and floods the valley. We know how it reveals everything, beautiful or otherwise. And we know how it can warm even on the coldest morning.

So as Advent gives way to Christmas, and Christmas leads us toward Epiphany, may we carry that desert clarity with us.

May we make room for joy.

May we welcome Christ’s peace. And may we become signs of hope in this rugged, beautiful place we call home.

By Father David Madsen

Baptism at St. Barnabas

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 00:47:58 GMT

Baptism Celebrated During Advent at St. Barnabas

On Sunday, December 14 , St. Barnabas Episcopal Church celebrated the baptism of four family members , officiated by Fr. Michael Plekon .

During the baptism, Fr. Plekon reminded the newly baptized that they are now family within the St. Barnabas church , emphasizing the shared commitment and sense of belonging that baptism represents.

Following the service, the celebration continued with cake and a gathering . A traditional money toss (la lluvia de dinero) —a celebratory custom in Mexican culture—added a joyful moment to the occasion.

The baptism brought together faith, cultural tradition, and community life at St. Barnabas in Borrego Springs.

A Sign This Christmas

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 03:51:52 GMT

There were shepherds out in the field keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a savior who is Christ the Lord, and this will be a sign for you. You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger, and this will be a sign for you."

In Luke's telling of the Christmas story, startled shepherds are the first to hear the good news of great joy that will be for all the people. In the sign that a new order is at hand, this astounding announcement comes from angelic beings to rural, earthly guardians of sheep. A savior born that day in nearby Bethlehem? What? How? And who are we to be told in such a remarkable way? This good news is almost too good to be true.

"And this will be a sign for you." God knows we struggle to see, to believe. The angels offer the shepherds a trio of things tangible: a baby, swaddling cloths, a manger. A sign that the shepherds are not dreaming, that generations of prayers have been answered that night, that God has penetrated the veil and come to all people.

In this incredible arrival of a human baby laid in a feeding trough, not in a plush crib, God signals a new way for us to see ourselves and one another. "And this will be a sign for you."

This Christmas, where are you looking for a sign? Is your heart too wounded, too jaded to even hope for evidence of God's presence? "I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people, for everyone." Radical inclusion, great joy despite the hatred, violence, and division that rake our neighborhoods.

In coming to us in human form, God upends our understanding and invites us into a life-altering story. God as helpless infant, born in dirt and straw to show us all things are possible, all people are welcome in and through God's love.

Like the shepherds, will we open our eyes and ears to see and hear the signs? God comes where we least expect it and exactly where we need to be found. This Advent, this Christmas, and always, the Episcopal Church welcomes you.

Listening for God’s message in this holy season.

Presiding bishop preaches at New York’s Trinity Church

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 23:34:44 GMT

[Episcopal News Service] Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe preached Dec. 7 at New York’s Trinity Church , describing the Gospel story of John the Baptist as a surprisingly appropriate set-up for the seasonal anticipation of the coming of Christ.

“No [better] way to get into that Christmas spirit than hearing about broods of vipers and chaff and unquenchable fire,” Rowe said with a smile, eliciting chuckles from the congregation. John the Baptist is “like the one relative” who is willing to tell “inconvenient truth” at the family’s dinner over his “locust casserole.”

But John the Baptist also was following his ministry in the wilderness and calling for repentance at “a good time to be a prophet,” Rowe said, when there was much for the people to complain about.

“The kingdom of God was appealing in a way that the world was not,” Rowe said, drawing connections to today’s troubled times.

“The wheat and the chaff grow together. None of us are entirely good or entirely bad,” Rowe said. “But the love of God — and this is the gift of judgment — the love of God is so bright, the love of God burns so strong, that when judgment comes it is about the chaff in all of us that will burn away, and all that will be left of us is what is of the kingdom, what is of God what is of love.”

Shape Note Singing Returns to Borrego Springs

Sat, 06 Dec 2025 05:56:40 GMT

Community Members Gather For A Shape Note Sing

Shape Note singing returned to Borrego Springs for the second time, building on the enthusiasm from last year’s event at the Borrego Springs Library. This year, community members gathered at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, where the acoustics allowed the music to echo beautifully throughout the space.

The event was organized by Jeanne Plekon, who opened with an introduction to Shape Note singing—its history, structure, and how the shaped notes (Fa, Sol, La, Mi) guide participants. After the introduction, the singing began with members of the San Diego Fasola Singers leading and welcoming community participation.

Shape Note, also known as Sacred Harp, is a participatory a cappella tradition in which singers stand around a hollow square, each side representing a different vocal part. No musical training is required, and newcomers are encouraged to join in. The result was a resonant, joyful sound that filled the church and created a memorable experience for both returning singers and first-time participants.

This gathering offered Borrego Springs another opportunity to explore this historic American musical tradition and to connect through music in a welcoming setting.

Advent at St. Barnabas

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 20:41:59 GMT

A Season of Reflection and Community

As the holiday season begins, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church invites everyone to gather for the four Sundays of Advent. These weekly services offer a peaceful space to reflect, reconnect, and prepare for the coming season with hope and intention.

Each service begins at 9:30 AM and is open to all—residents, visitors, families, and anyone looking for a meaningful way to mark this time of year.

Service Dates

Sunday, November 30
Sunday, December 7
Sunday, December 14
Sunday, December 21

Worship takes place at:

2680 Country Club Drive, Borrego Springs

Whether you attend every year or are stepping in for the first time, Advent at St. Barnabas is a thoughtful tradition that brings people together during a special time of year.

Thanksgiving Eve Service 2025

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 04:43:19 GMT

A Community Gathering in Gratitude

The 2025 Thanksgiving Eve Service brought churches, neighbors, and visitors together at Borrego Springs Community UMC for an evening centered on gratitude and connection. The gathering reflected the shared ministry of local faith leaders and the ongoing work of the Borrego Ministers Association, which supports residents throughout the year.

Pastor Mateo Mamea of Borrego Springs Community United Methodist Church opened the service with an invitation to enter the evening in a spirit of thankfulness, followed by an opening prayer from Rev. Michael Plekon. Scripture readings were offered by Cmdr. Dale Jones and Rev. David Madsen, with additional participation from Ellen Fitzpatrick and Diane Johnson . Pastor Mamea later shared the homily, encouraging gratitude as a daily practice.

Music played an important role throughout the service. Jennie and Gary Edwards performed “For the Beauty of the Earth,” and the combined choir—directed by Jinny Perrin —sang a beautifully unified anthem that added warmth to the evening.

Martha Deichler also spoke, sharing stories about the Borrego Ministers Association and its role in supporting local residents in times of need. Her message highlighted the shared compassion and cooperation among the community’s churches.

An offering was received to support the BMA’s year-round assistance programs, which provide help with emergency needs for individuals and families across Borrego Springs.

The service concluded with a final hymn and blessing, leaving those gathered with a renewed sense of gratitude and community. The evening reflected the strength of Borrego Springs’ faith community and the shared commitment to caring for neighbors.

Christmas

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 22:04:25 GMT

By Fr Michael Plekon

Once again, we enter the holiday season. For us it is the celebration of God’s becoming one of us, entering time, space, matter, our world. We can never say, after the birth of Jesus, that God’s up there in his heaven, far from us down here on earth. All powerful. But not much understanding what life, joy, sadness, growing older, getting sick, dying are about.

Maybe our culture has made us think only in “holy, jolly” terms about Christmas. There’s been anger that we don’t use the word “Christmas” enough. But, really, a lot of what’s online and in the stores is not about Christmas but more about a winter holiday of decorations, parties, festive dinners and the like. Or maybe very little celebration.

This isn’t some thought from Fr. Michael Scrooge. I will never tire of Christmas, in all the little details. The blizzard that imprisoned us, kept family from visiting years ago back in NY. Going out to cut a tree. All our kids and partners together trimming the tree, foodies joining forces for a culinary feast on Christmas day. And much further back our kids, when little, and their glee at the tree and gifts and more. Time does something to one’s memories and thoughts about Christmas. Many of us think of the grandparents, parents, even partners and siblings no longer with us to celebrate or even call/facetime/zoom with on the day.

And yet, and yet…aren’t they always with us, no matter how Christmas looks for us this year? Aren’t they still there as we look at the nativity creche, as we sing carols and hear the Christmas story in church and receive Christ in communion there? They indeed are. Jesus said his kingdom was not after we die, far above us somewhere. We all know the many moments of heaven we have experienced here on earth. Looking at your newborn for the first time. Looking over the years into the face of the partner you love. Loving and being loved. Putting Christmas into practice in how we live.

Once I read that our lives would be changed if we could keep just a tiny bit of Christmas all through the year. Isn’t that what the happy ending of Dickens “A Christmas Carol” is about? If you have not ever been to Lessons and Carols on Christmas Eve at St. Barnabas, do come if you are able, at 5pm this year, Wednesday, December 24. Christmas Day there’s also a Eucharist at 9:30am.You will hear the story of Christmas.

Beginning with the very creation of the world, because all history was a leadup to that night, in the stable, with the baby born, wrapped up and put to bed in the feed trough, with the farm animals around, and later shepherds and eventual royal wisemen.

Joy to the world, the lord has come, let earth receive her king, let every heart prepare him room, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing.

---

The Rev. Michael Plekon, PhD
Professor Emeritus: Sociology, Religion & Culture The City University of New York - Baruch College

When Jesus Moved Into Our Hood

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 20:59:01 GMT

By Father David Madsen

On a quiet desert street, Christmas lights flicker against the night sky. Children’s laughter drifts from a nearby playground, and neighbors gather around tables laden with burgers and pie. It is here, in the ordinary rhythms of our neighborhoods, that the extraordinary story of Christmas unfolds.

As The Message translation of John’s Gospel proclaims: “The Word was made flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood.” Jesus is not a distant abstraction. It is God choosing to dwell among us, right here, in our homes, our communities, even in the desert landscapes of Borrego Springs.

Think of your own neighborhood: the street corners where friends meet, the community gatherings that knit strangers into friends, the quiet resilience of those working for affordable housing or caring for the weary. Just as Christ entered Bethlehem, he enters our neighborhoods today, bringing light and love into the places we call home.

Some marvel at God’s transcendent power, the Creator who brings something out of nothing. Yet what moves me most is God’s love: a love that brings Christ next door, into our lives, into our hearts. That love is the true gift of Christmas.

We will be moving soon into the Twelve Days of Christmas, awaiting Epiphany. The nativity story lingers, reminding us that we are part of God’s eternal, yet present, plan. As the New Year dawns, we look forward with hope, trusting that God continues to make all things new.

The Word became flesh and still comes to us. God has not left us alone. In Christ, we find meaning, direction, and joy. Truly, God has moved into the neighborhood, turning ordinary streets into holy ground, and ordinary amazingly extraordinary.

So as we step into this new year, let us look for Christ not in distant heavens, but next door. Let us welcome him by welcoming one another, seeing every neighbor as part of God’s dwelling place. For when Christ moves into the neighborhood, love becomes the language of our “HOOD”.

“You Are Loved”

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 01:58:14 GMT

By Fr. David Madsen

Marcus Borg reminds us that Jesus didn't come to start a new religion. He came to transform lives. He came to reveal the heart of God, a heart that beats with the broken, the the outcasts, and the fugitives, and the forgotten. Borg writes, "The Christian life is not about believing in the afterlife. It's much more than that.

It's about entering into a relationship with the living God now." When Jesus says, "Today," he's just not talking about a future paradise. He's talking about presence, about union with him beginning now. The passage isn't just about a dying thief. It's about all of us. It relates to all of us. It's about the moments when we feel unworthy, ashamed, or too far gone.

You ever been there?

And it's about the truth that none of this disqualifies us from grace. Jesus didn't wait for perfection. He doesn't wait for us to be perfect. He responds to faith. He responds to relationship. He responds to us as we look on him. He looks on us. So if you've ever felt like you're not enough, not holy enough, not good enough, not ready enough, hear this. Jesus is still whispering as he did on the cross.

"Today, you will be with me, not because you earned it, but because you are loved." And we are truly to follow Jesus, if we are truly desiring to follow Jesus, not just admire Jesus, not just worship, but follow Jesus, then we must learn to extend that same radical grace to others. Amen

Shape Note Singing with San Diego Fasola Singers | March 2025

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 06:09:45 GMT

Shape Note Singing Filled The Library!

On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, the Borrego Springs Library hosted the San Diego Fasola Singers for a public Shape Note singing session. The event was led by Jeanne Plekon, with support from the San Diego Fasola crew and local participants including Beth Hart, Naomi Madsen and more. Attendance exceeded planned seating, and additional chairs were brought out to accommodate the audience.

What Is Shape Note Singing?

Shape Note singing, also known as Sacred Harp, is a four-part, a capella musical tradition that uses note shapes—triangle (Fa), circle (Sol), square (La), and diamond (Mi)—to help singers read and pitch notes. It was developed in New England during the 18th century and spread south through the Appalachian Mountains. Today, Shape Note singing continues in the U.S. and abroad, including in Ireland, France, Germany, Poland, Norway, and Sweden.

Format and Participation

As Jeanne Plekon explained during the session, “This form of singing is centered around a hollow square, with each side representing a different vocal part—treble, alto, tenor, and bass. The leader stands in the middle, and that role rotates after each song.”

Leaders choose the song, set the tempo, and can defer to the front row to find the right starting pitch. Jeanne noted that although songs are written in a specific key, the group can adjust it so that all voices are in a comfortable range: “That’s negotiable,” she said. “You slide it up or down until it works.”

Tempo is typically kept simple using either a two-beat (down-up) or three-beat (out-down-up) conducting motion. There is no formal training required, and everyone is encouraged to participate.

Notation and Practice

According to Jeanne, learning to follow the music requires a unique visual skill: “One eye stays on your line of music, and the other eye looks down at the words. You develop what I call ‘chameleon eyes.’”

Repeats and multiple endings are marked in the music, but the group decides how to handle them during the session. For example, Jeanne mentioned that while a song may call for a repeat after the first verse, singers might decide to repeat the last verse instead. Flexibility and group decision-making are part of the tradition.

The process usually begins with singing the shaped notes (Fa, Sol, La, Mi) before moving to the lyrics. “It’s okay to make mistakes,” Jeanne added. “If you get lost, just go ‘la, la, la’ and jump back in.”

Interested in Learning More?

Participants who want to explore Shape Note singing further can purchase The Sacred Harp songbook from originalsacredharp.com . The book is widely considered the foundational resource for this musical tradition.

The March 2025 Shape Note Event

Shape Note Singing Returns to Borrego | November 2025

>>>> Shape Note Singing Returns to Borrego | November 2025

St. Barnabas Borrego Springs Brings Relief

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 08:34:13 GMT

Emergency Air-Conditioning Program

St. Barnabas Episcopal Church & Borrego Ministers Association

This collaboration reflects Borrego’s deep community care—neighbors working together to keep everyone safe when the desert heat strikes.

Fr. Michael Plekon Honors His Father’s Heroism | 2025 Veterans Day Ceremony

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 05:37:41 GMT

Commander, members of the Post, veterans and all of you assembled here.
My thanks for inviting me to talk on this Veteran’s Day. I am Fr Michael Plekon, assistant priest at St Barnabas Episcopal Church here and co-chair of the BMA . I want to share with you the story of a 26 year old who was there in the first wave of Army Engineers on D-Day at Omaha Beach in Normandy on June 6, 1944. He was born Hrihori or Gregory Plekon in Nanticoke PA May 17, 1918. He died January 6, 1991. He was my father.

Since the teacher could pronounce Hrihori, he became first Harry, which he didn’t like, then later Henry. One of four brothers, like most of them, left the coal region as most of them did. On Easter in 1940, in Yonkers NY, my maternal grandmother heard a young priest chanting the service in church, went to him afterwards and found he was the son of a boy she’d grown up with in the village of Burkaniew in what’s now western Ukraine. She invited the priest over for dinner and he brought his brother Henry, who immediately fell in love with my grandma’s remaining daughter, Helen. But Henry and Helen had been waiting to do so since he enlisted in the Army when war broke out in 1941.

The real story today is that of my father’s courageous service. Like thousands of other soldiers, he was part of the long training in England for months. The ultimate goal was a massive invasion of occupied France, the largest attack in history.

Which brings us to June 6, 1944. The Army Engineers, who still do huge projects like clearing and demoing burnt structures in burned out Pacific Palisades, were the first line of the assault, there to clear barbed wire, and other structures on the beach that would block the infantry, tanks, jeeps and trucks. My father hardly ever spoke of that day or any other day in his service in WWII. But on the 40th anniversary of D-Day in 1984 he spoke to a local newspaper reporter. He was awarded the Purple Heart for being wounded in combat and the Silver Star. Here is the citation attached.

My father rejoined his 121st Engr Bn to rebuild bridges in Germany, liberate towns and I believe a concentration camp. He returned to his beloved, they married in May , 1946 and I came along in 1948, with two brothers to follow. My father bore within the scars of what had happened to him, the suffering and death he’d seen.

We only realized this much later in his life. He was in family life as he was in the service: quiet, humble, hard working. He and my Mom said our evening prayers with us. We were in church every Sunday, why I have been a priest for over 40 years.

Today we give thanks for his service and that of so many other courageous women and men. In Ukraine, during the struggle now against Russian invasion and oppression, there is a cry that is also a prayer and it is most appropriate for Veterans Day: Slava Hero’iim. Glory to the heroes, those who suffered and died to keep us free. May they inspire us to continue the struggle for our democracy and freedom in this Land. Amen.

The 52nd Annual Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:23:11 GMT

By Fr. Michael Plekon

The 52nd Annual Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego was held at St. Dunstan’s Church, San Carlos, on Friday and Saturday, November 7–8, 2025. Fathers David Madsen, rector of St. Barnabas, and Michael Plekon, along with delegates Beth Sanderson and Joan Leopold, Jan Naragon, and Andrea McKenna represented our Borrego Springs parish.

Nearly sixty clergy were present and voting, with twice as many lay delegates. Bishop Susan Brown Snook, head of the diocese, presided over all business sessions with Canon Jason Evans and the diocesan staff. She also preached and presided at the Eucharist that opened the convention on Friday.

There was a remarkable sense of community and friendship among the delegates from more than forty congregations across San Diego County, extending as far as Yuma. The youth of the diocese gave an impressive presentation of their work and even assisted in conducting the elections for delegates to the 2027 national church convention and various diocesan boards.

The 2026 budget was presented in detail and approved, and several inspiring ministry reports were shared. Among the most notable was the establishment of Comunidád de la Luz (Community of Light) in Tijuana—a former parochial school, convent, and chapel now serving as a refuge for migrants unable to cross the border. Families there receive food, shelter, medical care, and job training. Migrant missioner Roberto Vivar, who has visited Borrego Springs, led this effort.

Another highlight was the emergency loaner AC program based at St. Barnabas and supported by the Borrego Ministers’ Association (BMA), funded through a diocesan grant to help Borregans during the summer heat.

Also noted was the presence of clergy and laity from Episcopal, Catholic, Methodist, and other churches accompanying immigrants at the San Diego Immigration Court, where individuals are often detained simply for attending hearings or legal appointments.

In every report and gathering, the convention reflected how love for God translates into love and care for one another and for our neighbors in need—a true moment of joy and compassion in challenging times.

Remembering Craig Johnson

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 17:00:57 GMT

Craig Johnson, a beloved member of St. Barnabas and the larger Borrego Community died October 30, 2025. He had been in memory care for the last two years. Craig was born and raised in Chula Vista. He was a star in high school football and known for his motorcycles later in life as well as his art.

Craig was a big person, not just way over six feet tall, probably 6,6 but big as a generous volunteer at food banks, part of the art circles in town. He had been an elementary school teacher for decades, usually one of the few male teachers.

May he rise in glory and rest in the Lord with the saints.

By Fr. Michael Plekon

If Our Faith Doesn’t Lead to Compassion, It’s Not Faith at All

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:34:26 GMT

By Rev. Dr. David L. Madsen

Scrolling through social media lately, I’ve seen too many posts that break my heart, and, I believe, break God’s heart too.

Posts that mock the poor. That blame immigrants for their suffering. That use racial slurs or suggest that those who are unhoused or are simply lazy. These aren’t just unkind, they’re unholy.

Let’s be clear: the Bible doesn’t whisper about justice. It shouts.

“Whatever you did for the least of these,” Jesus said, “you did for me.”
“Share your bread with the hungry,” said the prophet Isaiah.
“Do not oppress the stranger,” said the law of Moses.

This isn’t political correctness. It’s spiritual integrity.

If we claim to follow Christ but post hate, we’re not walking in faith,

we’re walking in fear. And fear is a terrible teacher. It makes us

small. It makes us cruel. It makes us forget that every person,

housed or unhoused, gay or straight, citizen or newcomer, rich or

poor, is made in the image of God.

So here’s my plea:
Let’s speak with compassion.
Let’s post with humility.
Let’s live like we actually believe what we say on Sunday.

Because faith without love is just noise. And the world has enough noise already.

Community as Church Interview | Michael Plekon, PhD

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:35:16 GMT

A Sit-Down Interview with Michael Plekon, PhD

Exploring Renewal and Community in the Modern Church

Patrick Grannan of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church recently sat down with Michael Plekon, PhD , Professor Emeritus of Sociology and Religion at Baruch College, City University of New York, to discuss his latest book and his perspective on the future of Christian life and congregational vitality.

In the interview, Dr. Plekon explains that while declining church attendance is often portrayed as alarming, it is not necessarily the full story. He frames the challenge through the central Christian theme of death and resurrection , suggesting that times of decline can lead to transformation and renewal.

Dr. Plekon points to congregations that have rediscovered strength by returning to the community roots of Christianity —meeting real needs, engaging neighbors, and living out the gospel through action rather than proselytizing. His examples highlight a philosophy of evangelism grounded in authenticity and service.

He also reminds listeners that faith is more than a one-hour Sunday commitment ; it is a daily practice of presence, compassion, and community building—values that can lead to the resurrection of faith life in our time.

Church Times: Mullally Makes History

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 22:17:00 GMT

Read Full Article [...]

In Memoriam: Patrick Grannan

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 15:09:00 GMT

Author:

Fr. David Madsen, Rector – St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Borrego Springs

San Diego Episcopal church breaks ground on 78-unit affordable housing complex

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 17:22:13 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego began construction Friday on a a 78-unit affordable apartment complex in North Park, joining a growing list of community groups to repurpose their underutilized land for housing.

Located near the intersection of Gunn and 30th streets on the St. Luke’s Episcopal Church grounds, the homes in the future eight-story, Craftsman-style complex will be reserved for households earning anywhere from 30% to 80% of the area’s average income.

The project, which is a joint effort with St. Luke’s and developer Trestle Build, is the first to be realized under a church initiative that has been years in the making. Called Mission Real Estate, the program aims to encourage faith groups to transform their land for “mission-related” projects.

“This groundbreaking is more than a construction milestone,” Bishop Susan Brown Snook said during the groundbreaking. “It is a testament to the power of faith, the power of community collaboration and the power of innovation in tackling one of our community’s most important challenges: the challenge of affordable housing.”

The project is funded in part by a $3.9 million loan from the California Housing Finance Agency and was supported by the city of San Diego as part of its “Complete Communities: Housing Solutions” initiative, state and local officials said at the groundbreaking.

Church leaders break ground on new North park housing complex with local and state officials on March 28, 2025. (FOX 5/KUSI)

St. Barnabas Borrego Springs Timeline

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 21:41:34 GMT

1966

The Beginning
St. Barnabas begins as a Preaching Station in Borrego Springs under the Diocese of Los Angeles.

1974

Reestablished in Borrego Springs
The Diocese of San Diego reestablishes St. Barnabas.
Retired priest Rev. Robert E. Lenhard , known as the “Desert Priest,” takes up residence.
Services are held in private homes.

1975

First Eucharist
The first Eucharist service is celebrated on St. Barnabas’ Day at the Methodist Community Church.

1976

Mission Church
St. Barnabas becomes a Mission in the Diocese of San Diego.
Services move to St. Richard’s Catholic Church.
By-laws and budgets are adopted, the Women of St. Barnabas is formed, and outreach begins.

1984

Building a Permanent Home
Ground is broken for a new church on donated land.

June 1986

Church Completed
The church and Parish Hall are completed — fully paid for at the time of completion.

September 1986

First Service in the New Church

January 4, 1987

Consecration
St. Barnabas Episcopal Church is formally consecrated.

Late 1980s–2000s

Seasonal Years
Visiting priests lead services.
St. Barnabas functions largely as a seasonal “Snowbird” church.

2010

New Rector
Rev. Laura Brecht is called as Rector.

2010–2021

Community Leadership
Rev. Brecht serves both church and community, co-founding the Borrego Ministers Association.
Fr. George Keith also serves during this period.

2015–Present

Continuing Ministry
Fr. Michael Plekon assists and continues to serve.

2022

A New Chapter
Fr. David Madsen is called as Rector.

Following Francis (of Assisi)

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 05:05:00 GMT

By Fr Michael PlekonWhen Jeanne and I bought our place in Borrego almost 10 years ago, St Francis of Assisi came with it. Not the actual “little poor guy,” as he used to call himself, but a lovely statue of him in the front of the house, underneath the trees there. We have come to take him as a welcoming figure to our friends and others who come to the house.We celebrate him on the day of his “heavenly birthday,” his day of his death, October 4. And this ye [...]

All Are Welcome at St. Barnabas

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 01:28:36 GMT

Video Transcript

All right, if anyone ever tells you that you're too old, too young, wrong gender, wrong sexual orientation or wrong color to do what God has put in your heart and mind to do, they do not have the mind of God.

St. Barnabas is proud to join with the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego and the Episcopal Church in supporting Pride Month and in welcoming all persons to come join us as we worship God.

In our church everyone’s welcome. All are children of God.

Today is the day we commemorate and celebrate Pride. It’s been increasing over the years, people being willing to acknowledge in public pride—and we praise God for that. God loves us all, no matter our sexuality or lack of it.

This cup is for all. Share it.

Yes, I am proud to be a Pride supporter.

Fear separates us; love combines and unifies us. Love of all is what we want here in the Episcopal Church.

We send love to all peoples, and we reject all hate.

All are welcome at St. Barnabas. We are an inclusive congregation. Please come.

As an elderly lesbian, let me tell you: hold your heads up high and know that God loves you.

Everyone is welcome at St. Barnabas. God loves us, God loves you. God bless all God’s children.

As a priest in the Church—and I hope I’m speaking for all Episcopal churches, but I know I’m speaking for St. Barnabas—we accept all people in this church, whatever their sexual orientation, whatever their color, whatever their background.

We accept all people. It’s our baptismal covenant. All people are called by God.

At St. Barnabas we reject hate. We promote love. We reject exclusion. We promote inclusion. Everyone is welcome at St. Barnabas and in the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego and in the Episcopal Church.

Inclusion and Faith in Action

Led by Father Dr. David Madsen and Father Michael Plekon, Ph.D. and Fr. George Keith , the Pride reflection video was produced by Patrick Grannan and features heartfelt words from the St. Barnabas congregation , expressing their shared belief that God’s love embraces everyone.

Learn How to Get Started with IHSS

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 07:00:00 GMT

When: The first Tuesday of every month at 10:00 AM
Where: Zoom (IHSS staff available online)

IHSS Program – For those who qualify, Medi-Cal pays for caregiver services through IHSS. Independent caregivers are screened by both San Diego County and the State of California before being listed. To get started, call IHSS at 866-351-7722 .

Borrego Springs Caregiver Registry – The Borrego Springs Community Resource Center maintains a local registry of caregivers. This list includes qualifications, certifications, languages spoken, and references so families can select the right fit. A volunteer RN also provides ongoing caregiver support.

Private Pay Caregivers – Some families choose to hire caregivers privately, making payment arrangements directly with the provider.

Bathing and grooming
Dressing
Housecleaning
Shopping
Laundry
Meal preparation and cleanup

Borrego Springs Community Resource Center

Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others Download English Version Here >> cdc.handbook.eng.pdf

Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others Download Spanish Version Here >> cdc.handbook.sp.pdf

Praying In The Field Towards Evening

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Author:

Fr. David Madsen, Rector – St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Borrego Springs

A few days ago, as I was reading passages from Genesis, and I paused on the following verse concerning Isaac: “And Isaac went forth to pray in the field towards evening, and he lifted his eyes and saw, and behold, camels were approaching”. (Gen 24:63)When I read a passage like this I always try to picture it in its original context and then to attempt to apply a nugget of truth into the present tense.

How does this theme or inspired word become a living reality in my life today?

In the narrative context Isaac is waiting to see whether Abrahams’s servant Eliezer returns from Abraham’s “old country” from among his relatives with a bride in tow for Isaac. It’s a wonderful romantic story, and it turns out well for Isaac and his new “bride to be”, Rebecca. This “walking out in the evening to pray” can be looked at from several different perspectives. The phrase “to pray” can also be interpreted from Hebrew “to meditate”.

There are different traditions of this type of praying or meditating in Hebrew thought. It’s possible that Isaac had a custom of bowing down in the evening dusk to pray. It’s also possible that he prayed vocally, or perhaps turned his mind and heart to God in contemplative “prayer of the quiet”. Or perhaps he used multiple styles of prayer in his evening prayer practice.

What my take-away when I read this passage about Isaacs’s prayer practice is this:

Our walks in the field (or the special place we find to spend time in prayer, and at a time that best suits our schedule) are common and ordinary times and settings that take on an extraordinary meaning when we combine our desires with God’s desires.
The “thin line” that separates our world from God’s world becomes blurred and our world gets caught up in God, “the gift of contemplative prayer”, or as Genesis puts it, “praying in the field towards evening”.
God blesses the ordinary things in our lives and uses them for our benefit as a reminder that the Spirit is with us always, even in the rituals of spiritual practice that not many of us are experts in.

I will close this short article with a quote from John Wesley concerning “our walks in the field”: "Our walks in the field are then truly pleasant, when in them we apply ourselves to meditation and prayer we there have a free and open prospect of the heavens above us, and the earth around us, and the hosts and riches of both, by the view of which we should be led to the contemplation of the Maker and Owner of all." (John Wesley)

St. Barnabas Episcopal Church Celebrates 50 Years in Borrego Springs

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Author Fr. Michael Plekon, Retired – St. Barnabas Episcopal Church Saturday, February 22, 2025, the people of St. Barnabas celebrated 50 years of their presence in Borrego.Over 75 friends and members gathered at the church parish hall and patio for the party. Andy Macuga of Carlee's supplied the food, Steve Hunter, hours of wonderful jazz and popular songs on the keyboard. The Venerable Archdeacon of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, the Rev. Cindy Campos represente [...]

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