09/09/2026
St Martha’s Chapel Clarifying Statement from Executive Archdeacon & Vicar General Deborah Meister
It appears that a number of people were upset by a recently-posted article regarding St Martha's Chapel. I would like to apologize that what was written did not accurately reflect the fact that this decision was taken by the Board, not by a small number of its members, and I am sorry for the confusion that may have caused.
To be clear, the Board of St. Martha's Chapel has opted to take time to strengthen ecumenical relationships and reflect upon the future direction of that ministry before moving ahead with the process of calling the next chaplain.
I apologize to those who did not feel that the written language reflected the nurturing they had received in this ministry. I assure you that I value those who serve this vibrant community and I will continue to support this work.
Since its inception, St. Martha's has done strong work under the leadership of the Rev. Gwenda Wells, the Rev. Rhonda Waters, the Rev. Jean-Daniel O’Donncada, and Pastor Sarah Wicks-Potter, and has been seminal in the faith lives of many young adults who have gone on to play key roles as lay and ordained people of faith. We look forward to engaging in discussion with our ecumenical partners to ensure that St. Martha's can continue to nurture the faith of young adults for many years to come.
Deborah+
Note that under the direction of Bishop Victor David Mbuyi Bipungu, in response to any harm caused and with the hopes of moving towards reconciliation with St Martha's and continued collaboration with Ecumenical partners, the original post has been removed.
