Biking to save lives

[This article is based on a note from Scott Gunn, deputy from Rhode Island.]

In the aftermath of General Convention most bishops and deputies are back home and busy getting on with the work of the church.

One prime example is Bishop Mark Hollingsworth. He and a team from the Diocese of Ohio are riding across the United States from Anaheim to the Church Center in New York City, a journey of nearly 3000 miles.

In late July and early August.

Why would a sane person do this, one might ask.

They are doing it to raise awareness and support for Episcopal Relief & Development's NetsforLife program, a vital, life-saving ministry.

Here in the Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth we have talked a lot about mission, about turning our attention away from our own needs and to those of others. Bishop Hollingsworth’s bike team is one example of what’s possible when we get creative. And while not everyone is able to ride a bike cross country, we can all follow their ride here: http://ohionets4life.ning.com.

Stops in Kansas and Missouri are about as close to us as their route comes, but if you know anyone who lives along the route, tell them about the ride so they can cheer them on!

Here’s what we in Fort Worth can do.

We can all pray for them.

We can open our wallets to support NetsforLife. To make an online donation, just click this link: http://www.netsforlifeafrica.org/.

We can support this ride, and then email someone who doesn't go to church. Tell them what you did and why.

There, in two easy steps, evangelism and mission accomplished.