“First Baptist of Weaverville,” I said, answering the wife’s question.
We’d just been at the same meeting when we saw each other at the bank. I’ve always had a soft spot for octogenarians; so naturally, I stopped for a quick chat with them.
“St. John’s Episcopal,” the woman responded, gesturing to herself and her husband.
“Episcopal? My daughter attends an Episcopal church,” I told them. I explained that she’s in college in D.C. and, not finding a good fit among the churches of Baptist heritage, she chose a small Episcopal congregation within walking distance of her school.
The couple shared briefly about their life in ministry, alluding to the joys and frustrations common to all denominations. We exchanged other niceties and said our goodbyes.
“Oh one more thing,” she said, calling me back. “Tell your daughter, that we have found that Baptists make the very best Episcopalians!” She pointed out that in general, Baptists have a great grasp of scripture; once they learn the liturgical traditions of the Episcopalians they have it all. “Really,” she repeated, “They have it all!”
I chuckled as they walked away. And that, I thought, is why we think Episcopalians make such great Baptists!
“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism . . . ” Ephesians 4:4-5 (NRSV)
