South Carolina Members Meeting with Union of Black Episcopalians This Week

The Union of Black Episcopalians is holding its 49th annual conference July 23-26 in the Philadelphia area, and three members of our diocese have sent word that they are attending. The conference theme is “Like a Mighty Stream Let Justice Roll: Absalom, Jehu and Beyond.”

President Franklin Evans, Rev. James Yarsiah, Rev. Dr. Wilmot Merchant

Dr. W. Franklin Evans, President of Voorhees College, addressed the conference today. Voorhees is one of two historically black colleges and universities (HCBUs) affiliated with The Episcopal Church.

Also attending from our diocese is the Reverend James Yarsiah, Voorhees Chaplain and Vicar of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church on the campus; and the Reverend Canon Dr. Wilmot Merchant, II, Rector of St. Stephen’s, North Myrtle Beach. 

This year’s UBE conference is a unique joint gathering with the African Descent Lutheran Association, and both churches’ presiding bishops are participating. Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America will be the celebrant and Presiding Bishop Michael Curry of The Episcopal Church will preach at tonight’s service at St. Thomas African Episcopal Church, Philadelphia.