Our Bishop, The Rt. Rev. Kara Anne Marie Wagner Sherer

Baptized in the Episcopal Church, my life and faith have been shaped by many communities. From an early age I have been blessed by a deep and abiding sense of God’s love for me. My Christian life is rooted in my belief that nothing can separate anyone from the love of God. I am strengthened by my family, my spouse John, and daughters Madeleine and Elsie. My education and first vocation, teaching, shaped my commitment to the formation of our whole selves made in God’s image. My call to the priesthood began as a teenage preacher in a small church. As the rector of St. John’s in Chicago for the last eighteen years, I have shepherded the growing and deepening community life that can come of a long pastorate. My greatest joy as a priest is witnessing the Holy Spirit breaking down barriers that keep us from knowing and loving God and each other.

I have always heard Jesus’ call to “come and follow” through my communities. In your profile I hear your call for a strong leader to support and challenge you to grow in love, generosity, and hope. You are richly blessed with the gifts and resources necessary to respond to God’s call. Your geographic, economic, racial, and political diversity positions you to reach out to all your neighbors. It would be my joy to support and encourage a shared vision, to draw into the heart of God all who long for love.