Public Statements Archives

Bishop’s Task Force on Homelessness: Living into our Baptismal Covenant

From Don Fornoff, Task Force on Homelessness Member: Dear Ones, In 2019 the Task Force Presented at Convention some thoughts and facts about the homelessness situation in Washington state. None of the facts surrounding the unhoused have changed. A homeless person has a name but no permanent residence. Think about that. John Smith of XYZ, WA can conduct his life safely and securely. John Smith of _____ WA has no place to relate to, and personal business is harder to

Statement Regarding Washington Referendum 88

It was recently brought to our attention that one of the authors of the statement against Washington Referendum 88, Vote on I-1000 Affirmative Action Measure has listed “Episcopal Diocese” in their official byline. Please note that this does not in any way reflect the views of the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia. According to The Episcopal Church’s Policy for Action (https://www.episcopalchurch.org/files/ogr_policy_for_action_booklet.pdf), we are to “reaffirm support for affirmative action and fair employment practices.” If you have any questions about this, please

Important Information Regarding the Former Site of St. George, Seattle

On August 9, 2019, representatives from Tent City 3 approached our Diocesan Property Manager, the Rev. Dennis Tierney, about the possibility of relocating to the site of the former St. George’s Episcopal Church in the Lake City neighborhood of Seattle. Plans for Tent City 3’s next site had fallen through, and the group needed to move to a new location in eight days. This was the third request since July of 2019 by groups seeking to use the site for

Las Vegas

We are all shocked and horrified by the deadly shooting in Las Vegas that claimed the lives of 59 people and wounded more than 500. Gun violence and this senseless loss of life is an issue that is close to Bishop Rickel’s heart. Bishop Rickel would normally have already issued a statement and reflection on the tragedy. Bishop Rickel is currently away on a week-long, clergy backpacking trip and is out of cell phone and internet range. A statement from