We are just a few days away from our Midterm elections and then to the 55th Diocesan Convention. We have lots of things going on in the diocese since we gathered in person two years ago. But first, I want to invite you to pay attention to the upcoming midterm elections.

It is our solemn duty as citizens and good neighbors to vote. We are a nation that prides itself on being a Democracy. Our political affiliations may differ; however, if we believe in our governing style as democratic, it is time for you and me to vote. We can not take our freedom lightly or be discouraged by any what's happening around us. We do not have that kind of a lexuary.

You and I are obliged to our nation and to our world to live the principles of good governance, good neighborhood, good relationships. Real politics is the art of good relationships. If my politics leads me to uncharitable, unkind, uncaring acts, then I am not a politician. I am an opportunist. So, I invite you

• To stand for justice and truth.
• Show mercy and live humbly.
• Support the weak and faint-hearted.
• Care for creation.
• Protect the unprotected and marginalized.
• Be the champion that supports the cause of humanity.
• Help each other to respect the dignity of all people.
• As Presiding Bishop says, "if it is not about love, it is not about God."
• Remember that every day and especially in the coming days.

We have a moral and spiritual obligation to vote and let our form of government know what our wishes are. It is easy to get discouraged with the politics, politicians, political ideologies, law suites and violence around us. If you and I do nothing about stopping these human behaviors, if we do not elect the right and best leaders to lead and guide us, we become part of the problem and not the solution. So, today I want to invite you to please exercise your God given gift of freedom and vote on November 8th for candidates you think would best serve our nation and then accept the result as faithful citizens of a nation that is proud of her history.

After you cast your vote, return home, rest a couple of days, and then I invite the clergy, delegates, and leaders of your parish to come for another exercise of our freedom in the church context. Let us gather, celebrate, and encourage one another. Let us be ready for a year of celebration.

I am very excited for the Diocesan Convention. We have lots of people working hard to make it a meaningful and memorable celebration. From Emmanuel, Placerville to St. Michael's in Boise, we have small and big congregations represented at the convention. We will strive to Livestream the business sessions for those who would like to attend them from home.

Even though I have attended several conventions and clergy conferences for a long time, this will be my first Diocesan Convention to facilitate. Well, I am going to give myself permission to make mistakes and learn from this experience to better myself for the years of conventions I will be leading. So, be kind and generous not only to me, but to all those who have worked hard to make this a wonderful time of celebration. The staff, volunteers, clergy, deans, and a lot of other people are involved in making this a celebration, and that's exactly how I wish these coming days to be.

The whole focus of the convention will be Rebuild My Church. We are going to rebuild our church in Idaho by living, loving, and life-giving embrace of every human being we encounter until the day we die. I can't wait to meet you all in person in one place. God Bless you abundantly. See you soon.

Bishop Jos Tharakan

XIV Bishop of Idaho