Episode 9

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Published on:

18th May 2025

The Franciscan Way: A Conversation with the Reverend Dr. Amy Slaughter

The Franciscan Way: A Conversation with the Reverend Dr. Amy Slaughter

In this episode, Jon and Lauren host Reverend Dr. Amy Slaughter, who shares her journey and experiences as a priest in the Episcopal Church and a novice in the Anglican Third Order of the Society of St. Francis. Amy discusses the impact of Franciscan spirituality, the merging of two Episcopal congregations to form St. Francis Episcopal Parish and Community Center, and the importance of community building and conflict resolution. She emphasizes the significance of joy, spirituality, and connection in fostering a thriving, diverse parish that also engages with the local Spanish-speaking community. The discussion highlights how these practices not only deepen her personal faith but also strengthen her leadership and sense of community at St. Francis.

00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome

00:33 Discovering the Anglican Third Order

04:31 The Franciscan Influence

09:15 Community Engagement and Outreach

18:29 Challenges and Surprises in Ministry

21:42 Final Thoughts and Advice

St. Francis Episcopal Church & Community Center website: https://stfrancismd.org/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/stfrancismd


Audio version of this episode is available at podcast platforms linked to https://listening-for-clues.captivate.fm/listen

The Good News! podcast series is part of the ListeningforClues portfolio. Catch us at https://listeningforclues.com/

#St. Francis Episcopal Church and Community Center#EDOM #podcast #deacons #Good News! #listeningforclues.com


About the Rev. Dr. Amy Slaughter:

Amy has over 25 years experience in teaching, organizing and leadership development in faith communities, schools and non-profits. Building relationships and equipping people to come together to act on issues that matter to their communities is a key driver in all she does. Amy is an Episcopal priest and currently serves as Rector of St. Francis Episcopal Parish & Community Center in Timonium, Maryland.

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About the Podcast

Listening for Clues
Good News! People making a difference.
Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey on Good News! with Deacons Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, as we hear from amazing guests who are making a real difference in the world, and invite you to do so as well. Visit us at listeningforclues.com or send a message to listeningforclues@gmail.com

About your hosts

Jon Shematek

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Jon Shematek is an Episcopal Deacon, retired after serving thirty years in seven varied parishes in the Diocese of Maryland. Jon is also a retired pediatric cardiologist; he practiced medicine for years and also served as the Chief Medical Officer of a multi-specialty medical group and a large health insurance plan. Jon’s current ministry is being formed by his interests in photography, graphic design, teaching, and web-based communications. He currently serves as the webmaster at the Episcopal Cathedral of the Incarnation in Baltimore, Maryland.

Lauren Welch

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Lauren Welch is an Episcopal Deacon, retired after serving thirty years in two parishes in the Diocese of Maryland and on Diocesan Staff in various roles as well as serving in leadership positions with the Association for Episcopal Deacons. Lauren’s secular employment included thirty years as a Medical Technologist functioning as blood bank supervisor, and ten years as chaplain at two Baltimore hospitals and a retirement community. Lauren continues her passion and interest in healing energy work as a Reiki Master and Spiritual Director. Lauren is listening to where the Spirit is calling her in the labyrinth of life, responding one step at a time.