12/02/2021
For the past few weeks Jayan and I (Rev. Katie) have been praying and discerning the next steps for Transfiguration. This has led us to realize a few things for our ministry. One of which is Jayan stepping away as co-leader in order to focus more on his formation into the priesthood. This decision is right and good for Jayan and we both believe is what is needed at the moment. I am grateful for all the work emotionally, spiritually, and physically he has put into the vision of this ministry. I will miss him in the daily ins and outs of the ministry of Transfiguration.
The Spirit is still alive and well in North Minneapolis and so is Transfiguration commitment to being about restful and restorative space for BIPOC and Q***r folks.
Please read Jayan's own words about his departure below.
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Message from Jayan, one of our co-leaders:
Dearly beloved, as most of you will probably know, I’ve been co-leading Transfiguration Minneapolis with Rev. Katie while continuing my own training for the priesthood in the Episcopal Church. It’s pretty unusual for a seminarian to take a lead role in establishing a new faith community, but with the bishop’s blessing, I took on this work because I am deeply passionate about the vision that drives Transfiguration. I truly believe that for us to dismantle racism, we must hold spaces for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks to simply rest, rejuvenate, and heal together. I encountered this rest and healing in the person of Jesus through the ancient traditions of the Episcopal Church, and I’ve been excited to share that experience with other BIPOC in ways that center their particular experiences.
But leading a new ministry (even with a partner) is difficult, and I’ve found myself struggling to balance my role as co-leader with my role as a student/baby priestling. In conversation with the bishop, Rev. Katie, and my family, we’ve arrived at a consensus that it’s time for to step down from my role with Transfiguration and focus on studying, apprenticing, and learning to do the ministry I feel called to do. It’s difficult to part with a ministry I’m passionate about in a neighborhood I’ve fallen in love with. But as the bishop reminded me, my main job in this moment is to dig the deep wells that will sustain me in ministry like this for years to come. So I trust that this is the right decision for me and, ultimately, for the ministry of Transfiguration.
That ministry will continue, as Rev. Katie continues to discern with others how we can support the healing and care that God is already raising up in North Minneapolis through the work of amazing community leaders. We remain committed to walking with the people of North Minneapolis, imagining together how to hold sacred space for rest, meditation, and renewal. God is at work here, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for Transfiguration as Rev. Katie and others continue to discern the movement of the Spirit. I’d ask your continued prayers and support for the ministry and for myself in this transition.
Peace and hope,
Jayan
