Advocacy
Love is the law
To Episcopalians it seems pretty clear what Christians are supposed to do
Jesus said “Love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment.
“And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”
The first thing, then, after love of God—indeed the only thing— is to love our neighbors as ourselves. Not just some of them; not just the ones we feel comfortable with; not just the ones who have the same colored skin as us, or the same sexual preferences, or who don’t smell; but every single one of them.
In fact as Episcopalians, we believe that no Christian life can be complete if the person living it does obey this command and act on it.
In this section of our web site you will find content that is primarily intended to support those who actively pursue justice and spread the message of God's love in our name.
What the Diocese believes on social issues
The position of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego on any issue is ultimately determined by vote of the delegates at the Diocesan Convention. When necessary between conventions, the Diocesan Council may endorse a particular policy, but that endorsement lapses unless confirmed by the immediately subsequent Convention (see Governance for more details).
Over the years delegates at the Diocesan Convention have expressed the Diocesan position on many of the most vital social issues through formal votes.
What the Diocese does about social issues
Episcopal Community Services
The main social service agency of the diocese is Episcopal Community Services, a non-profit that is dedicated to "serving God by serving those in need." Its programs work to meet basic human needs or to provide youth opportunities. For more information, visit the Episcopal Community Services web site.
Companion Diocese
We partner with the Diocese of El Salvador in an effort to walk alongside them in our spiritual lives. Learn more here.
Micro-Credit Program
Through Episcopal Relief and Development, we have established a new micro-lending program in Tijuana, Mexico. Families receive small business loans that they pay back according to an exacting schedule, with interest.
Refugee Network
Our Episcopal Refugee Network based in San Diego helps resettled refugees adjust to life in North American society. ERN provides translators, basic household needs, education, tutoring and financial assistance. Learn more on the Episcopal Refugee Network.