On October 18th and 19th, the Diocese of Utah held its annual Rooted in Jesus event! We thank all who made it to the Episcopal Retreat & Conference Center: your presence and participation brought vibrant energy to every moment.
The first night overflowed with joyful worship as attendees gathered in the Parish Hall to listen to the Camp Tuttle Band. Their range of cover songs had everyone engaged and singing along. Midway through, Sylvia and Donnel from Music That Makes Community captivated us with their original, accessible compositions. Using their unique song-sharing techniques, they created an environment where all could participate easily. The evening ended beautifully as Music That Makes Community played a soothing flute melody, closing the first night on a reflective note.
The second day offered a range of inspiring, instructive activities designed to foster vitality in our worship communities. We opened with a worship session led by The Rev. Dani Lee from St. Mary’s in Provo with music by Music That Makes Community. After the opening worship, attendees engaged in a plenary session with Music That Makes Community that provided further insights into building a sustainable, spirited community of worship. Our midday break featured a delicious lunch prepared by diocesan staff and helpers, whose hard work truly fueled the rest of the day.
Click above to watch a video production highlighting vitality at churches in our diocese.
Since the screening, viewers have been eager to share their or a loved one’s experiences with the Uintah Indian School in Whiterocks. One individual donated a notebook of childhood poetry from their time at the school; another donated a box of old photographs, including images related to the production.
Attendees then watched a video on worship vitality in our churches, produced by Craig Wirth, which highlighted various approaches to vitality across the diocese. Workshops followed, exploring diverse topics essential to church vitality. These sessions equipped participants with practical skills and inspiration to take back to their congregations, sparking new ideas and fostering a supportive network among attendees.
The event concluded with a special Eucharist—a unique and intimate service that embodied the event’s theme of community and connection. The space was set in a back-and-forth style arrangement allowing participants to share a direct connection with one another while renewing their commitment to Christ. This beautiful setup included a table adorned with homemade Communion bread, bringing a heartfelt touch to the service. Communion took on a new, communal meaning embodying a true spirit of vitality and fellowship.
Click above to watch the specially-arranged Eucharist from Day 2.
A heartfelt thank you to our workshop presenters, the Camp Tuttle Band, Sylvia and Donnel of Music That Makes Community, and all diocesan staff who worked tirelessly to plan, cater, and bring this event to life. Your dedication made the Rooted in Jesus: Vital in Worship gathering a success. And to our attendees—thank you for joining us in this shared journey of worship and community-building.
