On the tenth day of Christmas, I saw nine bishops come sailing in to St. Paul’s Commons, Echo Park, where I’m hosting our annual Province VIII bishops retreat on behalf of our fearless leader, the Rt. Rev. Gretchen M. Rehberg. Pictured last night on the brink of a festive vegan dinner are Bishops Jennifer Reddall, Elizabeth Bonforte Gardner, Megan McClure Traquair, Mark Lattime, Robert L. Fitzpatrick, Phyllis Spiegel, Susan Brown Snook, Lucinda Ashby, and Jos Tharakan.

Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of your faithful people is governed and sanctified: Receive our supplications and prayers which we offer before you for all members of your holy Church, that in their vocation and ministry they may truly and devoutly serve you; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.