February Dispatches
Dispatches is a monthly update that seeks to keep you advised of news, developments, and resources that support our shared mission across the diocese.
Featured stories
Goats, Grace, and the Gospel: How a 160-Year-Old Barn is Hosting a Modern Spiritual Revival
In the quiet, scenic stretches of Brookline, New Hampshire, a restored 1860s barn has become a beacon of light for a burgeoning Anglican community. This is St. Nicholas House, a mission where the sacred and the everyday do not merely coexist; they breathe together. Led by the Reverend Dr. Brian Barry and his wife, Jackie, the ministry has evolved into a vital house of hospitality that serves as the spiritual heartbeat of the local neighborhood.
A "Boots-on-the-Ground" Priesthood
Father Brian’s presence extends far beyond the sanctuary, illustrating a deeply incarnational approach to ministry. During the week, he is embedded in the local school system, offering a steady hand and specialized expertise to children navigating behavioral difficulties. His commitment to the town's social fabric is equally visible in the winter months, where he serves among the local volunteers overseeing the community ice rink. It is a faith that does not wait for people to come to it, but meets them exactly where they are—whether in a classroom, on the ice, or on the farm.
The Barn and the Table
The physical center of this mission is the barn itself, a labor of love painstakingly restored by Father Barry and the growing congregation. It is a space that feels both ancient and alive, providing a sanctuary for a worshipping community that continues to expand.
The beauty of the ministry is perhaps most evident in the seamless flow of Sunday morning; once the liturgy concludes, the gathering moves naturally from the rustic charm of the barn directly into the Barrys’ own kitchen. There, the family’s incredible hospitality transforms a meal into a literal extension of the service, proving that the table of the Lord and the family dinner table are inextricably linked.
Milk, Maple, and Martial Arts
At St. Nicholas House, even the creation plays a role in the Gospel. The resident goats are "pressed into service" to meet local needs; recognizing that many neighbors struggle with lactose intolerance, the Barrys make fresh goat milk freely available to those who need it.
This cycle of care is a two-way street. After the holidays, local residents drop off their spent Christmas trees at the farmstead, providing a festive, pine-tasting treat for the herd. From the production of local maple syrup to summer farm camps and Father Brian’s karate lessons for local youth, every inch of the farmstead is utilized to bless the town.
A Season of Sacramental Growth
This flourishing spiritual life was recently celebrated during a recent episcopal visit from Bishop Andrew. The day was marked by the profound beauty of the sacraments, as the Bishop confirmed two adult members of the community, signaling the deepening roots of the Anglican faith in the region. In a particularly moving moment, Bishop Andrew and Father Brian stood together to baptize two young brothers, welcoming them into the family of Christ within the very walls this renewed community helped to restore.
Reflecting on the unique spirit of the mission, Bishop Andrew noted the profound impact of the Barrys' work:
"It is clear to anyone who steps onto this property that St. Nicholas House is both a gift and a necessity. If St. Nicholas House were not there with its doors perpetually open and its hearth always warm, Brookline would be missing a vital source of Jesus’ love, grace, and mercy. Through this tireless service, the kindness of Christ is not just a concept—it is being received, tasted, and lived out every single day."
A Hearth in Laconia for the Homeless: Where Bold Vision, Fervent Prayer, and the Love of Jesus Created a Sanctuary.
In the heart of Laconia, New Hampshire, stands a sanctuary that proves what is possible when a bold vision is made real through fervent prayer. This past December, Bishop Andrew visited the Isaiah 61 Ministry, a frontline mission serving the local homeless community. The visit came at the invitation of Mary Kathryn Ferguson, a woman whose prayerful and servant heart has anchored this work for many years.
A vital member of the thriving Incarnation ministry in Manchester, Mary Kathryn’s lifelong commitment to service is entering a formal new chapter; she is set to be ordained as a deacon in the Anglican Diocese of New England (ADNE)in the Spring of 2026.
A Foundation of Intercession
The Isaiah 61 Ministry—led by Dawn Longval—did not begin with a budget or a building; it began with a conviction. Bishop Andrew highlighted the profound spiritual history of the site, recalling how Mary Kathryn was involved in prayer walking the property back when there was nothing to see but a divine calling. It was a bold vision—one that believed Jesus intended to do something transformative for the vulnerable in Laconia—and it was built on a foundation of persistent, faithful intercession.
Today, that spiritual labor has manifested into a space where the atmosphere shifts the moment you arrive. Regarding the visit, Bishop Andrew noted:
"It was deeply humbling to witness such a ministry where the presence of Jesus was palpable as you walked across the threshold."
A Home Within the Old Antique Store
The ministry finds its home in a repurposed antique store, retaining an eclectic charm that feels like a living room rather than a facility. Still adorned with antique chairs—including a striking barber’s shop chair from the 1930s—the space offers a sense of character and dignity to every guest.
The physical warmth of the building mirrors the spiritual hospitality found within. A wide fireplace serves as the center of the room, with a large hearth inviting all to draw near and find reprieve from the New Hampshire cold. The ministry serves two substantial meals daily: a hearty breakfast and a warming lunch, which the Bishop enjoyed alongside the community. Practical needs are further met with excellence through shower facilities and a clothing center. Critically, the ministry’s reach extends through the night. Adjacent to the center is a night shelter that houses both men and women, providing a life-saving refuge during the dangerously cold nights that put the displaced at greatest risk.
Holistic Care for Body and Soul
Isaiah 61 operates on the belief that the love of Jesus touches every part of a person’s life. To support this, the ministry provides in-house medical care from a Nurse Practitioner, as well as legal advice to help guests navigate complex personal and systemic challenges. In this place of gracious and open welcome, many men and women are discovering the love of Jesus for themselves. As Bishop Andrew witnessed, Isaiah 61 is more than a social service; it is a living testimony to the power of a bold vision and the reality of a God who draws close to those in need.
How You Can Support
The ministry relies on the generosity and hands of the community to keep its doors open and its hearth warm. There are many ways to get involved, from volunteering to provide lunches for the 80–85 people served daily, to organizing the clothing closet or assisting with laundry and kitchen help.
Current material needs include fall and winter clothing, thermal underwear, sleeping bags, handwarmers, and bottled water. To support the ongoing mission financially or to learn more about specific volunteer needs, please visit their website at isaiah61cafe.org.
Dandelion Worship & Artist Retreat!
We are building community with artists who want to use the arts to share the grace of Jesus with those outside the church. Of course, we want to bring healing and encouragement to those inside the church too. But when you aim beyond yourselves, you end up doing both!
We began by hosting an artist retreat last weekend with artists in the Northeast, some new and some with whom we have already partnered, where the musicians would write collaborative worship songs. We are grateful for a grant through Creo Arts that allowed us to offer this retreat for free! We used Incarnation Center in Connecticut and kept the fireplace lit through a rainy weekend.
We wanted to feed people with the Gospel for them first. The first night I preached on the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume in Mark 14/Matthew 26… and John 12 (with a little Luke 7). That led into a group art project where each person poured acrylic paint on a large piece of primed plywood. Their “perfume” was colorful, chaotic, and disarmed those who poured. It was a tangible way to shift from travel into a creative mindset. Before the end of the retreat, Dan Miller touched it up to pull it together. We all agreed it actually stands on its own now! The “Color Blob,” as it was affectionately coined, will likely become a welcoming table for future art outreaches. It is filled with our prayers, our grateful response to Jesus’ love for us. It will continue to be a way to disarm and invite people into his love.
Sean cast the vision to use the art we create in an arts night at a church and then go out into our communities. The arts night would provide a safe place to practice. The outreaches would provide the trajectory to share this art with our neighbors. He continued to reiterate this throughout the weekend. At first folks were surprised that the art didn’t just end in the retreat. Then a little intimidated. Then emboldened and pumped to partner.
We worshipped and waited on words and direction from the Holy Spirit the first night. We wanted to be encouraged; we wanted a timely Word to fill others who are hungry and thirsty. We got many pictures and Scriptures: light flooding from scars, massively crushing waves that bring new life in their wake, and Jesus’ immense love like a father holding a baby close to his chest.
Then each night, some retreated to bunk beds seeking sleep, some chatted around the fire, and many continued to sing in worship late into the morning hours.
Saturday was a work day. Folks brought their gear! I supplied art materials, but Dan Sylvia also brought plenty to share! Tables of paint, charcoal, paper and canvas lined the entrance for folks to use. The musician group had three electric pianos, amps, a Viper (electric violin-cello-base!), electric basses, and of course, guitars. We didn’t expect so much gear but it was perfect. Two goals of this retreat were to write a collaborative worship song and for the visual artists to dream about how they might do live-art in worship. On Saturday FIVE new songs were written! We went crazy to each of them. They hit the heart and lift the head. One person even said, “This is the new Oceans!” Bp. Drew likes to say that creativity is a mark of the Spirit; the Spirit was at work in all of us.
The visual artists enjoyed meeting one another. Some made finished, beautiful pieces. Others are still in process. The artists each carried powerful testimonies and skill. All the visual artists wanted to listen in on the music being made. Music influences our mood and art so much. Dan Miller and I began to dream how we might design a performance art piece that uses the themes in the music to share the grace of Jesus. We had at least 3 ideas that we shared. It wasn’t a problem of too little creativity; it was a flourishing, an outpouring. Now for the editing, refining, and focusing time. Sean and I were blessed that the people seemed more interested in partnering, not less so, as the weekend went on.
On Saturday, Sean led a meditation on the Beatitudes. He showed how the woman who anointed Jesus with oil embodied each one. It was a powerful insight that spoke to us all. Jesus’ love is for broken people; he makes us bold through his forgiveness and ability to bring life from death. We were each the forgiven, grateful woman testifying to his extravagant love through extravagant oil - in paint and song form.
We ended the weekend by worshipping to the songs that were written. They really work! Then there was a spontaneous time of vulnerability where we invited anyone who needed prayer to share with the group and receive it. We were honored that people felt safe and free to do so. We ended with Communion. The Anglican Book of Common Prayer liturgy really sung as the final chorus, a crescendo of all that Jesus’ body and blood did and does for us. Sean had no voice the whole time, but that pushed him to help others write instead. I didn’t make much art but I got to pray for a ton of people. Sean and I felt our pastoral muscles get flexed all weekend; it was great.
We were so grateful to each person who came. We are so grateful to the Lord who surprised us with the caliber of art and camaraderie. We are grateful that Creo Arts wants to inspire and contribute financially to such things! And thank you to you for your faithful support of Dandelion. You are on the front lines as the Lord grows these seeds.
The Color Blob is on the move!
Upcoming events
ADNE Prayer Ministry Training Conference
Friday–Saturday, April 17–18, 2026
All Saints Cathedral | Amesbury, MA
Discover the heart of healing prayer and learn how to minister with confidence, compassion, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit at the ADNE Prayer Ministry Training Conference. Building on the success of Becoming Whole New England, we are pleased to welcome Amanda McGann and Tamara Cameron of the Isaiah Forty Foundation.
This training will explore the biblical foundations of healing prayer, why Jesus invites all believers into this work, and how to pray in ways that honor people’s stories and create safe, Spirit-led spaces. Whether you are part of an existing prayer ministry, considering starting one, or simply want to learn how to pray for family and friends, this conference is designed for you.
ADNE Spring Teen Retreat
May 15–17, 2026
Pilgrim Pines | Swanzey, NH
Grades 6–12
Students are invited to a weekend of faith, fun, and friendship at the ADNE Spring Teen Retreat. Through engaging talks rooted in John 6, worship, and shared experiences, students will explore tough questions, big miracles, and what it means to be deeply known and loved by Jesus.
The weekend includes outdoor adventures, games, creative activities, worship, great food, and plenty of time to connect with new and old friends—all in small groups organized by grade.
New England Missions Trip
Wednesday, July 15 (5:00 PM) – Tuesday, July 21, 2026 (8:30 AM)
7th Seed Farm Retreat | Burlington, VT
Grades 9–12 | Limited to 20 students
Join us for a hands-on missions experience in Vermont focused on service, creativity, and community. Students will help run a farm camp, serve individuals experiencing homelessness, and partner with local ministries through worship and service projects.
The trip will include creative arts, farming and food preparation, outreach meals, worship with a local church, and time to enjoy Vermont’s natural beauty—all while learning what it means to serve others with humility and joy.
Art Exhibit: By the Power of the Spirit
Paintings by Carmela Martin
Opening Reception: Sunday, February 1, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church | Danvers, MA
On display through March 1, 2026
The Arts Ministry of Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church invites you to Light in the World, an art exhibit featuring paintings by Carmela Martin. This collection reflects on the work of the Holy Spirit through color, form, and prayerful imagination.
All are welcome to attend the opening reception and view the exhibit throughout the month of February.
Priority: Global Mission
2026 Uganda Mission Application is Open!
The applications for the Uganda Mission trip are live on the ADNE website. Please go to stories to find more trip information and a link to the application. The deadline has been extended to February 28th, 2026. If you would like more information, please join us for a zoom meeting on Saturday morning, February 14th at 10 am. Email Canon Leah at leah.turner@adne.org for a zoom link.
Global Mission at Home
Global mission encompasses more than just going to a foreign land: It also means mission here among the every people, tribe, nation, and tongue the Lord has brought to these shores. It means celebrating the lives and people we work with, worship with, and go to school with in our communities.
One such celebration occurred with Faith Anglican Community Church of Bridgewater and representatives of Grace Anglican Church of Bridgewater. Since November of 2016 these two congregations have learned to live together, share property, combine youth groups, and bring together two world views that became family. Eventually the two congregations purchased property together and formed Grace and Faith Anglican Parish. Like all families, there has been disagreement, but through love and a determination to live the gospel, they have persevered to become a living witness to Revelation 7:9. Each year Faith Anglican gathers to give thanks to the Lord for all the good he has done, and to remember from where they came, and the blessings he has bestowed. It is a celebration of food, music, dance, testimony, and cake!
It is an example of sharing and living the gospel here, in our diocese, of the good God has done. It is global mission at home.
Priority: Leadership development
The Power of Invitation
“An announcement to everyone is an invitation to no one.”
The first church staff I joined (as a youth summer intern) taught me this lesson. It was a larger church, with several staff people, and never enough volunteers to cover all of the needs. That’s not so surprising. Many of our churches have gaps in the volunteer rotation, or one person that does way too much.
Our impulse is usually to make more announcements. To point out the need to the group and hope that someone agrees to take the job that nobody seems to want.
There is a better way. Jesus gives us a better way.
Jesus invited
During his teaching ministry, Jesus welcomed the crowds. He allowed people to put their hands up and volunteer. But his disciples were invited. Jesus recognized the gifts, skills, and character (or potential) in the twelve, and called them to be “fishers of men.”
In John’s gospel (John 1:46), Philip instructs his doubtful brother Nathaniel to “Come and See.” A few chapters later, the woman at the well gives the same invitation to her village. Jesus’ leadership strategy was not to offer courses or challenges. It was to invite people individually into the work of the Kingdom.
In a marketing world, where our attention is a hot commodity, personal invitation is a powerful countercultural strategy. When organizations compete for thousands of views, impacts, clicks, likes, shares, and purchases, we can feel reduced to a commodity. No wonder there is an epidemic of loneliness in modern societies. Our connections are burdened by the weight of economic growth.
Invitations are affirming (for everyone)
Personal invitations can be awkward, but they are so important. If “the medium is the message” (and it is), personal invitations communicate value in a way that an email blast never could. For the organization, a personal invitation communicates value. “I’m part of something worth doing, and I’d love for you to be a part of it as well.”
1 John opens with a testimony of personal fellowship with God through experience, and an invitation to fellowship together. In our church communities, when we invite someone to attend a service, join a volunteer ministry, join a staff, or attend a group meeting or event, our invitation declares that the group is worth the time and effort it takes to participate. Our mission is worth pursuing. We have seen and heard, and want to share.
More than that, a personal invitation declares that the person we are inviting is worthy. People thrive on affirmation, and an invitation tells them that they are seen and valued. They have something to contribute. They are wanted for more than clicks or likes or to fill an empty role with a warm body. When we invite, we can name the good we see in someone. Especially when we invite someone into a role that has responsibility, or onto a team, we can name the reasons that we believe they would be good for the role. Even if they decline the invitation, this is a powerful way of “building one another up” (1 Thes. 5:11)
Invitations are Inefficient
So if personal invitations are so powerful and effective, why aren’t they in constant use in our churches? Maybe they are in yours. We have been talking about the power of invitation for launching small group gatherings in my church, and are seeing some great responses.
But they are inefficient. They take time, thought, and care. They require setting up conversations or calls, or writing a carefully worded email. At times, they can be vulnerable - we risk someone declining a things that is very important to us.
But they are worth it! The Good Shepherd was not concerned with efficiency, but left the many to go find the one. As the Lord is building the living stones of the Church into a temple of His presence, he is still concerned with the inefficient invitation to personal growth.
I realize the irony of writing this in the ADNE Newsletter. This quick article is no way a personal invitation. It is an announcement to everyone and an invitation to no one. But I know that I have been invited lately to see the unique gifts of the people around me. They have things to offer that may or may not fit in the roles that I think need to be filled. I can invite them, affirm them, and see the Lord move.
You’ve got people around you to invite. Maybe to attend, maybe to join you in ministry of some kind. It’s quite possible that a thoughtful, personal invitation will be just the encouragement they need to “come and see” what the Lord is doing.
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THE MINISTRIES AND PRIORITIES OF THE ANGLICAN DIOCESE OF NEW ENGLAND.
The Anglican Diocese in New England wants to be on mission together: every parishioner, every leader, and every church. As a family of churches reaching across the breadth of New England, God is calling us to serve in the reawakening of the Northeast.
We can do so much more in God when we work together.