April 2, 2020
Coming on the heels of Mardi Gras, the coronavirus pandemic is hitting Louisiana hard, with the state becoming one of the most heavily impacted in the nation.
In the midst of this, the Rev. John Kellogg (’08) and the Rev. Shannon Manning (’97) are working to support the needs of the 47 congregations that make up the Episcopal Diocese of New Orleans. Kellogg serves as Canon Missioner to the diocese and the Diocesan Disaster and Preparedness Coordinator, and Manning serves as Canon to the Ordinary.
“This virus has made a significant impact on the New Orleans area and new cases are starting to show up in other parts of the state,” Kellogg said. “The Diocesan office is working hard to support our congregations as they assess and respond to the needs of their communities.”
As Canon to the Ordinary, Manning works alongside the Right Reverend Morris Thompson, Bishop of Louisiana. Her focus includes pastoral care of clergy and congregations, keeping clergy informed of the ever-changing landscape of the diocesan response, supporting creative alternatives to worship, and supporting the most vulnerable people and institutions.
In addition to his duties with the diocese, Kellogg is also priest-in-charge of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Harvey, LA.
“At St. Mark’s, we’re doing our best to serve those in our community who are marginalized and in particular need,” he said. “Our monthly food pantry is now operating on a weekly basis and we’re trying to provide as much assistance to our community as we can.”
Manning and Kellogg offer a common piece of wisdom for us all: “No matter your income, or where you’re from, or what you do for a living or what your belief system is—we are all connected in this.”