When the Rev. Adam James Shoemaker is ordained and consecrated the ninth bishop of Long Island next month, he will become the first Episcopal bishop of Arab and North African descent in The Episcopal Church’s 237-year history.
Shoemaker believes he’s an “imperfect vessel” for this distinction, but his life experiences as an Egyptian American have shaped his faith journey to focus on racial justice and reconciliation and embrace diversity in The Episcopal Church.
“I think my story has humanized so many of the differences that can sometimes divide – sometimes in tragic ways – and given me a heart for all that diversity,” Shoemaker told Episcopal News Service. “It’s been a lifelong journey for me to come fully into my sense of self. It’s been a journey of prayer and introspection.” To read more, click here
