"Celebrating Black Church Identity in Post-Pandemic Recovery: A Case Study of Historic Saint Luke's Episcopal Church New Orleans"
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Authors
Wiggin, Jane-Allison Elaine
Issue Date
2024-12
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
School of Theology Thesis 2024 , University of the South , New Orleans , Saint Luke's Episcopal Church , Post-Pandemic
Alternative Title
Abstract
This case study focuses on the post-pandemic recovery process from 2021-2024 at Historic Saint Luke's Episcopal Church in New Orleans, Lousiana. Its parish history is detailed beginning in 1855 through the multiple 21st century disasters that have affected the church. The navigation of the relationship with the diocese is included. St. Luke's unique historical connection with and devotion to the educator, evangelist, and juvenile justice advocate Blessed Frances Joseph Gaudet is highlighted. St. Luke's identity as a Black Episcopal church living into an extended season of Pentecost with its multiethnic, multiracial, multicultural congregation is explored. The sanctuary's physical depictions of the dignity of Black lives through Biblical sacred art are decribed in detail as an antidote to Black erasure. An action-reflection model of methodology engaging in trauma-informed pastoral care and leadership is offered.
The church's current post-pandemic state is at a crossroads with potential for further recovery as well as continued financial obstacles. It is showing signs of congregational growth as an increase of individuals joining who are specifically looking for a vocally anti-racist church and an authentic experience of Jesus Christ that is not aligned with white supremacy and Christian Nationalism. St. Luke's model of distinctly celebrating it Black identity in liturgy, cultural celebrations, and newcomer integration support is post-pandemic and post-traumatic growth. Changes in the wider Episcopal Church, U.S. Census Data, and postcolonial Angelicanism, and their connections to Historic St.Luke's, are explored.
Description
Citation
Publisher
University of the South