The Convocation Refugee Grant Program (CRGP) got an upbeat lift this spring when the Theodicy Jazz Collective put on a benefit concert and global song workshop at the House of the Redeemer in New York, hosted by the Board of Foreign Parishes (BFP).
“It was a joyful and enlightening experience to attend BFP’s first benefit for the Convocation Refugee Grant Program for The Episcopal Church in Europe,” said Kate Adams of the Episcopal Church Foundation.
“We were delighted to share our music with members of the Board of Foreign Parishes and representatives from churches in Europe. We especially enjoyed meeting Bishop Mark and learning more about the important refugee work being done in Europe,” said Dr. Andrew K. Barnett, founding director of the group.
The Theodicy Jazz Collective is a liturgical jazz ensemble that incorporates sounds from jazz and gospel music traditions and rhythms from Latin America and Africa. Their performance at the House of the Redeemer was also an interactive workshop that explored these melodies, texts, rhythms, and harmonies while encouraging everyone to join in creating the rhythms and sing along.
“It was a great night, and we offer our gratitude to the Board of Foreign Parishes for hosting us,” Barnett said. Adams commented that it said felt like “a constant prayer and global communication.”
Prior to the concert and workshop, Edington gave the guests an overview of the CRGP, including a numerical synopsis of the program’s major activities and results in 2025. This was followed by a clip from the Convocation’s recent documentary on “Welcoming and Walking with Refugees.” The first chapter of the documentary highlights programs being offered by and for Ukrainian refugees at The Church of Saint Augustine of Canterbury (Wiesbaden); upcoming chapters will focus on additional project sites throughout Europe.
“The video demonstrating the impactful ministry of their work in the Ukraine also demonstrated the ‘Holy Spirit moving at ground level’,” Adams noted. “Everyone needs to become aware of this vital ministry.”
“This video created a deeply faithful and personal frame for the spectacular program created and brought to life by the Theodicy Jazz Collective,” said another attendee. “I’m always grateful for the opportunity to hear about the ministries of parishes and communities across the Convocation. They offer a powerful reminder about the global membership and global impact of The Episcopal Church.”
“This was a really enjoyable opportunity to share with new friends some of the refugee work being done by the Convocation in Europe and such a joy to do it to the music of the Theodicy Jazz Collective” said Nancy Treuhold, president of the Board of Foreign Parishes.