By Robert Brune
DELHI — This past Sunday, Saint James Church Lake Delaware welcomed a momentous visit from the Right Reverend Jeremiah Williamson, the newly elected Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Albany, marking what many parishioners and clergy are calling a “new era of healing” within a historically divided diocese.
Though St. James Church maintains a friendly relationship with the Episcopal Diocese of Albany, it is not formally “in union” with it due to its unique founding. The church was privately established and funded in the early 20th century by Angelica Gerry, and while it participates in the broader life of the Episcopal Church, it does so without voting rights at diocesan conventions.
“We were thrilled to have Bishop Williamson visit,” said Pastor Paul and Jesse Moore in a joint statement. “We have admired how he is bringing healing and unity to a rather battered diocese. His presence and gentle wisdom have demonstrated such love to the other parishes of this region, and we were grateful to experience it too.”
Bishop Williamson, who was elected in 2024, has taken on the role of shepherd to a diocese that has endured years of internal conflict and theological rifts. His predecessor, Bishop William Love, resigned in 2019 after refusing to comply with the Episcopal Church’s policies on same-sex marriage. That resignation left the diocese without a bishop for nearly five years, during which it was overseen by provisional leadership and struggled to find consensus on key spiritual and cultural issues.
In stark contrast, Bishop Williamson has leaned into his role with a pastoral focus. He has made it a priority to visit parishes across the upstate region weekly, engaging directly with clergy and congregants and offering what many have described as a steady, unifying presence.
For the congregation at St. James, which has historically existed somewhat outside the formal governance of the diocese, the visit was particularly meaningful.
“We are welcome to attend all church conventions,” noted the Moores, “but we do not have a vote. Still, Bishop Williamson’s visit reminded us that our place within the wider Episcopal family is valued.”
In his sermon on Sunday, Bishop Williamson touched on themes of reconciliation, listening, and the sacred responsibility of nurturing community across differences. Attendees noted the warmth of his presence and his attentiveness during the informal fellowship following the service.
“He’s not a politician,” said one longtime parishioner. “He’s a pastor. And that’s what we need right now.”
Williamson’s visit to St. James comes amid broader efforts within the diocese to re-establish trust and dialogue among parishes with diverse theological and social perspectives. Many hope that his emphasis on humility, compassion, and service will continue to steer the Diocese of Albany into a more inclusive and collaborative future.
For churches like St. James, steeped in tradition but open to growth, Bishop Williamson’s leadership feels like a long-awaited bridge.
“It was a blessing to be reminded that, regardless of our technical status within the diocese,” said the Moore’s, “we are seen, we are heard, and we are loved.”
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