Brooklyn Bridges

2023 Brooklyn Bridges Conference Report

The Rev. David Parsons

We Are Resilient TOGETHER

At this time, two congregations are participating actively in ministry and mutual support. Pastor Christian Scharen of St. Lydia’s and Pastor David Parsons of St. John-St. Matthew-Emanuel are in regular contact. We provide pulpit supply and participate in mutual ministry and social justice activities together.

We Are Hopeful TOGETHER

On Saturday, February 25th, members of St. Lydia’s and St. John-St. Matthew-Emanuel stood in solidarity and witness outside Congregation Beit Simchat Torah in Manhattan, in response to a planned national “Day of Hate” targeting Jewish synagogues and institutions.

Outside Congregation Beit Simchat Torah in Manhattan shows (l.-r.) Pastor Parsons, Rev. Nicole Garcia of the National LGBTQ+ Taskforce, Rev. Liz Edman, New York State Gov. Kathy Hochul, and Pastor Scharen.