Only in Lent Madness will you find a 19th century pioneering bishop squaring off against a 12th century monk. Which, you guessed it, is precisely what we have today as Henry Beard Delany faces Aelred of Rievaulx in the second matchup of Lent Madness 2017.
In yesterday’s “Ash Thursday” kickoff, Stephen soundly defeated Alban, 62% to 38% in heavy voting. Indeed, with over 9,600 total votes cast a new Lent Madness turnout record was set! We also love that over 450 people added comments to the post. With his victory, Stephen became the first saint to advance to the Round of the Saintly Sixteen, where he’ll face the winner of Henry Budd vs. Cecilia. Somewhere Bob Dylan is singing, “Everybody must get stoned.”
Still wondering how to keep up with all the players saints? You need a Saintly Scorecard 2017! While the paper book has passed into the realm of collectors’ items, the ebook is available. Pick one up for your Kindle or iPad today! For only $2.99 you’ll have the inside track on all things Lent Madness!
Finally, in case you’ve ever been kept up at night wondering about the inner workings of the Supreme Executive Committee, you’re in luck! Tim and Scott recently appeared on the popular Priest Pulse podcast. In addition to discussing all things Lent Madness, they even touch on the roots of their longstanding feud. Enjoy!
Henry Beard Delany
Born a slave into a Methodist household in Georgia, Henry Beard Delany was freed at the end of the Civil War. As a teenager, Delany moved to Florida with his family, where he learned bricklaying and carpentry. Delany received a scholarship from a local Episcopal parish to attend St. Augustine’s College in Raleigh, North Carolina—a college founded by Episcopal clergy to educate emancipated African-Americans.
Delany studied music and theology, joining the faculty after graduation and teaching building trades. Together, he and his students built the chapel, library, and hospital for the college. He attended an Episcopal church and was ordained a deacon in 1889 and priest in 1892. Upon his ordination, Delany became the vice-principal of the college. His wife Nanny Logan, also an alumna of St. Augustine’s, taught and served as matron at the college. They had ten children, including noted authors Sadie and Bessie Delany. During the later part of the nineteenth and early part of the twentieth century, the southern dioceses of the Episcopal Church were wrestling with the status of African-Americans within the church. While there were historic African-American congregations—like St. Ambrose where Delany was nurtured and ordained—they were routinely refused full parish status due to fears that a sizeable block of African-American delegates to diocesan conventions might upset the status quo.
Delany was part of the Commission for Work among Colored People, the leading association of African-American clergy and lay leaders in the Episcopal Church. In 1908, he was appointed as Archdeacon for Negro Work in the Diocese of North Carolina. When the church decided to maintain segregated missionary districts for African-Americans, Delany was unanimously elected by the diocesan convention as Suffragan Bishop for Negro Work. On November 21, 1918, he was consecrated bishop in the chapel at St. Augustine College—a house of worship he had designed and helped to build with his own hands. He worked tirelessly throughout the Carolinas, planting and nurturing African-American congregations until his death on April 14, 1928.
Collect for Henry Beard Delany
Almighty God who frees your people with a mighty hand and outstretched arm: Grant strength to all your servants who, inspired by the example and prayers of Henry Beard Delany, hold fast, bearing witness to the truth of your love and justice in the face of oppression; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Aelred of Rievaulx
Aelred of Rievaulx was born in northern England in 1110. Thanks to a biography written shortly after his death, much is known about his life and travels.
After spending several years at the court of King David I of Scotland, Aelred entered the Cistercian abbey of Rievaulx, in Yorkshire, at the age of 24. In 1147, Aelred was elected abbot and led the abbey through a period of growth and expansion, growing the abbey to about 140 monks and 500 laymen.
A prolific writer who authored several volumes on spirituality, Aelred is also remembered as a tireless traveler and political negotiator. In addition to visiting the abbey’s five daughter-houses in England and Scotland, he also traveled annually to the general chapter of the Cistercians at Cîteaux (France). In 1138, he traveled to the Scottish border to help negotiate the transfer of a castle to King David of Scotland. Four years later, he traveled to Rome for an audience with Pope Innocent II as part of a group who opposed the election of William, King Stephen’s nephew, as Archbishop of York.
Aelred’s writings include histories and biographies, spiritual treatises, and sermons. For his talents as both an author and a church manager, Aelred has been called the “St. Bernard of the North” (in reference to Bernard of Clairvaux, a French Cistercian abbot). Although never formally canonized, he has been venerated as a saint since the 1400s. His feast is marked in the calendars of various churches on January 12, the traditional date of his death.
After reading his correspondence and a biography by a fellow monk, author John Boswell and a few other scholars have suggested that Aelred may have been gay. Because of this conjecture, and inspired by Aelred’s writings on friendship, Integrity U.S.A. and some other LGBT organizations have adopted Aelred as their patron saint, as well.
Collect for Aelred of Rievaulx
Almighty God, you endowed the abbot Aelred with the gift of Christian friendship and the wisdom to lead others in the way of holiness: Grant to your people that same spirit of mutual affection, that, in loving one another, we may know the love of Christ and rejoice in the gift of your eternal goodness; through the same Jesus Christ our Savior, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Henry Beard Delany vs. Aelred of Rievaulx
- Henry Beard Delany (78%, 6,291 Votes)
- Aelred of Rievaulx (22%, 1,799 Votes)
Total Voters: 8,090
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I voted Henry Beard Delany because his name sounds like a pirate.
Good reason, Oliver!
A pirate who captured our hearts for Christ!
What a great observation, thank you!
Great observation Oliver! By the way, when I encourage my friends to check out Lent Madness one of the first things I tell them is that they have to make sure they read your comments!!
Ahoy, Oliver.
“Always be yourself,
Unless you can be a pirate-
Then always be a pirate”
I liked that Amey
Yay Oliver you are back and I like your thinking behind your vote!
And still nine years old!
Wish I could do that.
Oliver, you warm my heart!
Hello Oliver,
good to hear from you again this year. I voted for Henry Beard Delany also because he raised two awesome daughters Sadie and Bessie.
Yes! How could I not vote for the father of the Delany sisters?
I, too, loved ‘Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters’ First 100 Years’ so had to vote for Henry Beard Delany.
Ditto!
I loved “Having Our Say”! He must have been a great dad to have raised such amazing daughters! Glad I voted for him!
I voted for Henry Beard Delany. His daughters’ books were featured in our parish’s February book club discussion!
Oliver, I agree with you
Good thought process Oliver!
Welcome back, Oliver!
Oliver, I agree with Deirdre that he did indeed capture our hearts for Christ!
Oliver! So good to see you back!
Arggggggggggggggggggg
Oliver your so amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love pirates argh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I chose Henry Delaney because he is a pirate arrrrrrgh
My great-great-great grand uncle was a pirate, Oliver. His name wasn’t particularly piratical, though.
Good to see you again, Oliver
Welcome back, Oliver. It’s good to have another perspective presented.
Oliver, that’s as good a reason as some of the adults, I believe! I voted for him also, despite my attachment to Aelred because of his work on friendship, because I don’t believe we know enough about Delany as we should & this gets his name & short bio out to lots of people. I’ve read a couple of his daughters’ books, & they lived to be over 100 years old, but I knew nothing of him. Now both you & I know more, right?
Nice idea, Oliver, and well in the spirit of Lent Madness. However I voted for Aelred as he was a Brit and so am I.
Sending you Christian (& piratical) greetings across the ocean.
BEST REASON EVER
I did too but because I liked the work he did and the book his daughters wrote
Oliver how can you still be nine years old?
I voted Aelred of Rievaulx because there was such alot of love attached to him.
True!
Welcome, back, Oliver.
Oliver, you warm my heart!
Great to have you back, Oliver! I always look forward to your comments. I hadn’t thought of the pirate sounding name, but I voted for Henry because he was a builder. I think it is awesome that he built the church where he later served.
Glad you’re part of the voting public this year!
Welcome back, Oliver. I’m so happy you are posting this year.
Oliver, your posts are the best of all! Keep posting, Oliver! XOXOX
I love this, Oliver!
Welcome back, Oliver!! I like your viewpoint and I think he sounds rather like a rakish pirate as well. Father of ten? Don’t you know he gave a great sermon?!
I had to vote for Henry, having read Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters’ First 100 Years, by Sarah L. Delany and A. Elizabeth Delany.
Ann: After reading your comment, “Having Our Say…” might be the next library book I check out. I actually worked with an Ann Garvin, so your name brought back fond memories of the Ann I know and our shared employer. Are you by chance from Michigan?
It is I! Good to hear from you, Christi~
Me, too!
Thanks for point out that connection!!!!
I read “Having Our Say” by the Delany sisters years ago and did not remember anything about their father. What a wonderful story – and he has my vote!
I voted for Delany because even though it wasn’t written in the blog, what he MUST have endured as a man of color at that time had to take great strength and courage would have required a great deal of Faith.
I too, will be hitting up the library for the Delany sister’s book❤
Those were my thoughts about Delany also–we know what life was like for non-whites during his lifetime.
Rhonda, well put! And that faith must have helped him greatly after coming from a life of slavery! Partly why I also voted for Bishop Delany
The book is definitely worth the read. I figure a fellow who raised two such amazing women deserved my vote!
I see that Aeldred is being outvoted 3:1, which is roughly what I expected. So I voted for him, of course,
Me too! Let’s hear it for the Middle Ages!
Golden oldies.
Me too. I’m going with the ancients this year?… so far, winning with losing!
I tend to vote underdog …
Is there a prize for whomever has voted for the most number of “losers”?! I would have won last year and like you, seem to gravitate to the underdogs. Sigh.
I also seem to gravitate to the underdog, even if I don’t know that he/she is going to be the underdog.
Tough choice, but Aeldred got my vote today. As a gay man I was touched by Integrity’s choice.
Tough one today – I had a hard time choosing! Ultimately went with Delaney, but it could have gone either way.
I had the same dilemma, but also voted for Delany
I agree, Kriston. My NC roots won out, but I also went with someone who worked with his hands, his mind, and his heart. It was, however, a thought-stirring choice.
Many of .them could go either way. That’s what makes it so interesting
Hey Kriston,
Me too! And I kept thinking of James Solomon Russell from our diocese, so Delaney has my vote!
“Bi-vocational ministry,” eh? Priest and builder.
He was “working on a building” for His Lord. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSMR7EiYbQM
love your wording on this that is why my vote going to Delany.
Ann, I agree. Loved the book!!. I almost voted for Delany without even reading the competition. Then decided that wasn’t fair.
I chose Henry Delany because of his work with the students, teaching them a useful trade, and for his work establishing minority congregations in the Carolinas. His Christian love is shown through his good works.
Had to vote for Henry. Loved the book his daughters wrote! They spoke so lovingly about their father. He must have been quite a man!
My name is Henry and I have a beard. And I have a friend named Delaney.
Having never heard of Henry Beard Delaney I am impressed by his energy, commitment and courage, not least in the face of continuing oppression. My vote goes to him, with sincere apologies to Aelred who never received official recognition of his considerable talents and worth, and who I suspect is unlikely to progress to a golden halo.
I have to agree with you, totally. His clearsightedness was able to see past oppression. A truly saintly man. Let us not forget that, like our Lord, he was a carpenter.
I had to go Delaney since I’m only an hour drive from St Augustine. He’s a local!
I grew up in Fernandina. Wondered if Henry went there.
That sounds like a road trip destination now…to find out!
Had to vote for Delaney….I’m from South Carolina!
I, too, had to vote for Delaney because I am in South Carolina as well. I must wonder if he is related to the Delaney family who played such a significant role in integrating South Carolina schools by helping the families in Summerton sue for a school bus in Briggs v. Elliott, which was folded into Brown v. Board. Heroes who persevered against great odds, and lost much in the process personally, but gave us much more.
I once again base my vote solely on unique names. Aelred! Unique! Henry. Not so much! Go Arlred!
Aelred wrote the most beautiful work on friendship, which I read in grad school and fondly remember. I was all set to vote for him, but the example of Delany’s work and career caught my heart. Go Delany.
It truly takes a special kind of devotion (to God and to people) to work your whole adult life within an institution that is ambivalent about your presence. I am full of admiration and sadness as I cast my vote for Henry Beard Delany.
That’s exactly why I voted for him. He is, for this reason, much more patient and devoted than I could have ever been.
That’s why I voted for him too. I also find it very moving that he was consecrated bishop in the chapel of a house of worship that he had designed and helped to build with his own hands. Plus the pirate thing. Arr! Thanks, Oliver!
I was thinking to myself, can I simultaneously vote yes for Delaney while voting no for the church at this time…and there is still great work to be done!
Amen
Well said Eva. Truly a great man. Humble, compassionate. A man of faith and works.
A tough choice today. I ultimately voted for Henry Beard Delaney because I serve a very racially mixed congregation that has mostly figured out how to be black and white together loving one another.
This was a tough one, but I had to go with Aaelred since one of the main reasons I made it to the Episcopal Church is because I am accepted FULLY.
Lots of reasons to vote for both of these Saints. But Jamie, you convinced me. I have many friends including an influential former Rector, who found the Episcopal Church for much the same reason. Thinking of them this morning.
Jamie- I could have written your comment myself. Delaney’s story is incredibly compelling, but I have a soft place in my heart for Aelred because of the Integrity connection.
He was Roman Catholic
YES!
Tough call today but decided the modern saint needed my vote.
Even though I have been to Rievaulx Abbey which is a beautiful and peaceful ruin.
Unfair matchup! Apples and oranges. (Vote Aelred!!!!!)
Is there such a thing as a fair matchup in Lent Madness? Very rarely do I read both bios and decide immediately that one is far more worthy of advancement than the other. (Even Christina the Astonishing, one of the most unconventional saints ever to grace the LM matchup.)
I agree with you, Fred, that these two people are completely different. And that’s one of the things that makes LM so enjoyable for me.
Sometimes you get Apples and Apples, sometimes Oranges and Oranges and sometimes Apples and Oranges….That’s why it’s called “MADNESS”
Rievaulx Abbey in Yorkshire, England is a very special place to me. It’s open to the public through English Heritage. Aelred’s influence and leadership and spiritual inspiration is still alight today.
It was a tough choice today…but I think that is the genius of it…learning about these giants and then having to choose a favorite! Tough indeed.
Sylvia
I voted for Henry…what a life for Christ he led.
I voted for Bishop Delany. As a U.S. history teacher, I love learning about less known Americans who have built the country. He worked tirelessly in an incredibly difficult time for African Americans to bring Christ’s solace and inspiration to many African Americans. His perseverance seems likely to have helped the Episcopal Church become the inclusive institution it is today.
You have stated my thoughts so well. I chose Delaney as well.
Very well said. I too voted for the bishop and look forward to reading his daughters book
I have to say, this was a tough one!
I voted for Delaney because he did so much to nurture African-American participation in the church in the face of great challenges.
This was a toss up for me. Sometimes I vote with who I want to win, but sometimes I do a portion of my bracket based on who I think will win. In this case I’m casting for the latter reason. Good servants of God, both!
I voted for Henry Beard Delany because I figure he had to be truly a saint to be “unanimously elected by the diocesan convention as Suffragan Bishop for Negro Work” in North Carolina and to receive the other honors and appointments that he did in spite of the societal prejudice that he had to have encountered.
I worked for 2 yrs at an Episcopal HBC so I know how important such institutions of higher learning have been for African-Americans and the racism that is still present in society and Church. So I voted for Henry Beard Delany….
Good morning, Debbie! As a member of the Anti-Racism Committee of the Diocese of New York, I could not betray my fellow anti-racists by not voting for Henry Beard Delany, but I am happy to learn more about Aelred and look forward to voting for him in future years.
My vote went to Delaney – what an amazing man of many talents! (Plus, I loved his daughters’ book).
I voted for Henry Delany for several reasons. He was a bricklayer in Florida. I live in Orlando on a brick street. Maybe he laid some bricks in Orlando. I went to St. Mary’s (then a Jr. College) in Raleigh. All in all, he sounds like a good man.
I vote Aelred. In this bitter partisan time, we need a negotiator.
And a traveler.
I voted for Aelred, whose writings on friendship have shaped my work as a spiritual director.
I voted for Henry who worked tirelessly for the betterment of people of color.
I voted for Bishop Delaney. What an example of working tirelessly in the vineyard in spite of your own denominational hiearchy not really wanting to claim you entirely as their own and were, systematically, oppressing blacks in their own location. A tough one, because Aelred was a working for peace, too, but no contest, ultimately. Great stories for the day!
I see-sawed from one of these great Christians to the other and finally went with Delany, who wasn’t welcomed by the majority of the denomination but kept working within its structure without expressing resentment. That his children loved him is another plus.
650 today. Interesting match up as usual making voting a challenge
Glad to see Oliver is back. I was concerned. Voted for Delaney for many reasons but love his writer daughters
I was surely tempted to vote for Aelred just because of his name that I cannot pronounce and knowing he will not get many votes. This pairing is not really fair to Aelred. I voted for Delany because I could see in my minds eye what he had done and I commend him for his struggles. He must have been a wonderful man.
Delany. Working for God in the face of racism is no easy task.
Talk about building a heavenly city! Henry Delany worked with his students to build a chapel and a hospital among other things for the college. He taught useful trades AND cared
for the soul. Jesus and Joseph would probably have felt at home with Henry and his students.
Don’t like this match up one bit. It feels like we are being asked to pick between the causes their names are identified with, rather than their witness. This is more particularly true of Allred.
Henry it is!
Oh, not again. You guys! I was sure it would be Aelred. I’ve been to Rivaulx–so beautiful!–and been intrigued by him for years. But Bishop Delaney’s story is at least as compelling and so proximate, as I have lived in VA and NC for many years.
Two men who represent to many of us groups who have lived under oppression and championed love’s triumph over hatred. Aelred took protest to the seat of power. Delaney literally built an educational engine for helping his people rise.
I must pray over this one.
Aelred.
Alea jacta est. I went with my heart and first inclination, as yesterday, but without the same result: I expect to be be quite happy voting for Delany in the next round, and repent of misspelling his name above. Mea culpa.
Slavery has left such deep, festering and still unhealed wounds in America that I was tearing up as I read Derek Olsen’s account of his life and wept openly as I read the Collect, this despite the allure of Aelric’s busy life, boundless charity, and fervent spirituality. My vote went to Bp. Delany. I look forward to learning more about him in the next round!
So awesome to see Henry Beard Delany today!!!! I have read all about the Delany sisters and even saw a play about them! Love and admire the entire family
Sarah and Sadie Delany are the daughters of Henry Beard Delany. They lived past 100 years of age and wrote a wonderful memoir called “Having Our Say” which was made into a movie in 1999. I vote for Bishop Henry and his daughters!
Should read Aelred, but my spell checker rebels!
For Henry Beard Delaney (and his wife, Nanny)
(to the tune of Amazing Grace, of course)
Confronting evil, arrogance
And false self-righteousness;
The Grace of God called forth a saint
Who served amidst the mess.
A former slave of “Christian” folk
He studied, learned and taught.
He built and loved and still endured
The fears racism wrought.
(It seems a shame his wife is not
A choice that we can make.
She raised 10 children, worked and taught,
She too, is quite a saint.)
So vote for this strong faithful man
But don’t forget his wife!
They’ve earned our honor and respect
And Golden Halos bright.
Nicely played your grace.
Beautiful lyrics, I had to sing them.
Love it, Diana! I thought the same thing about his wife, but less poetically.
Great poem/song tribute to Bishop Delany and his wife.
Thank you Diana! I had to sing it as well. Between your post and Oliver”s, how could I not vote for Henry.
I believe the SEC missed one here: “His wife Nanny Logan, also an alumna of St. Augustine’s, taught and served as matron at the college. They had ten children, including noted authors Sadie and Bessie Delany.”
TEN CHILDREN! My money would have been on Delany’s wife, Nanny Logan.
LOL, Bob!
I voted for Aelred – went out found some of his writing, found it meaningful with universal message of love.
I voted for Henry because he studied music and I am a singer 🙂
This librarian had to go with Henry the library-builder. But I would love to see Aelred in whatever year there is Lent Madness: Redemption!
As a librarian, I, too voted for Henry!
I came here to vote for Aelred by Delany captured my heart.
Same here Ann.
Likewise, this was such a hard choice but I choose Aelred too.
Wow a tough one. If not for Bishop Delany and his work the work I do today would not be possible and Michael Curry a dream. Thank you thank you thank you. Men like Aelred are from a time of great deeds as part of their lives, how ever did they do it?
I came here to vote for Aelred but Delany captured my heart.
Like one of the other commenters I almost voted for Henry without reading the competition. What an amazing story and such an inspiration especially today in the face of renewed racial tensions.
Bishop Delany, because he overcame, like Absalom Jones.
At our parish we just finished a Bkack History Month book discussion on “Having Our Say” by the Delany sisters, so voting for him was a breeze. The bio forgot to mention that he was actually the first black man elected bishop in the Episcopal Church.
Bishop Delany got my vote too. His accomplishments considering the day and age in which he lived are nothing short of miraculous. However, I’d probably have liked to grab an ale with Allred.
Henry seems to me to be a saint for our times. And… how many priests actually built the churches in which they serve?
Continuing my 3 year, 100% streak of voting for the saint that NEVER advances…
I wanted to vote for the monk, but have a week old brand new grandson named Henry! Had to choose him!
“Friend cleaving to friend in the Spirit of Christ”. I vote Aelred today for a friend ordained on Aelred’s feast day.
Like our Lord, Henry was a carpenter. His clearsightedness was not clouded by oppression.
The two contenders for today should have been able to meet each other. Both would have been subjected to prejudices of society in their time on earth. I must go with Delany, however, because he was so very versatile in his service to God and was also able to rise through the ranks from carpenter to bishop. Hallelujah!
Delaney is, of course, the sentimental favorite to win. He was one of the first “token Negroes” adopted by the Church in a deeply racist era. Delaney’s actual achievements, however, in no way compare with those of Aelred. The issue of token Negroes is a hot topic today, while promoting friendship among monks in medieval monasteries is not on anybody’s radar. I vote for Aelred, because he cherished and promoted caritas in a bleak era, when friendship among monks was actively discouraged. As for the speculation about homosexuality, I suspect that has more to do with our current obsessions than with Aelred’s intentions.
Kay, Very interesting thoughts on the information given. I like them!
To call Delany a token negro diminishes his accomplishments. He was much more than that, if you read more about him and the children he brought up. Three or four of them made the NY Times obituaries when they died, by the way.
i feel very sad for you, that you cannot appreciate the efforts of a saint in the church without reducing his well-deserved reputation to mere tokenism.
I didn’t read Kay’s comment as some of you did. By “token Negro,” I think she was speaking in the way those in the 19th century might have viewed him, giving grudging acceptance. I can barely imagine the grace and dignity he must have had to exercise. Thank you, SEC, for drawing our imaginations into the lives of these holy people.
I agree. I don’t think she was denigrating him at all. Those were the times.
Henry had strong religious beliefs and did not sway even though his church put cultural limitations on him.
Henry Beard Delaney is my choice today for all the reasons. Ann Fontaine says it well: he “captured my heart.”
Grew up in SC , never heard of Delaney and his work. Fantastic accomplishments in that time. GOD’s hand truly with him.
Henry Beard Delaney for sure. A Methodist by birth, a bricklayer and carpenter who was a tremendous scholar and leader…what a guy! And he had great children, especially Bessie and Sadie. Henry for the win!
Tough to vote between 2 non-WASPs. (Well, wHasps if you include an indication of Heterosexual.) Gay people get no love!, as I know very well from experience. So, I voted for the underdog. Love Delaney’s story, but the “token” homosexual needs some acknowledgment.
Henry Beard Delaney! Courage in the face of oppression. “Born a slave & freed at the end of the Civil War, Henry Beard Delany ((February 5, 1858 – April 14, 1928) as one of the first African-American bishops in the Episcopal Church, and was instrumental in the struggle of minorities to take their place in the highest positions of leadership in a church often hostile to their presence. Delany was a strong advocate for the integration of African American Episcopalians into the wider church despite the Jim Crow laws of the day and the efforts of many leaders of the white majority in the church who viewed the presence of men like Delany as threats to their power and authority.”
Having just taught about Delaney (and Demby) in our Feb adult formation classes (black history in the Episcopal Church) I had to vote for him here.
Henry Beard Delaney resonated with me. A quiet Saint/ hero on so many fronts. Working with his hands building & creating, he did the same building in his family, community & his faith. Allred’s story seems more obscure to me – probably the historical context – but still a worthy contender.
That southern parish which provided the funds for Henry Beard Delany’s education would be St. Peter’s in Fernandina Beach, Florida. That is my church, and therefore my vote goes to Henry Beard Delany’s.
I voted for Henry for his tireless work in the church and for the fact that he was a bricklayer and used those gifts for glory as well as his spiritual gifts. I am married to a bricklayer who has used his gifts to care for our church buildings, work which is very important.
I voted for Delany–though my heart is generally medieval–because he is such an important part of the growth and education for African Americans in the United States. He is the sort of bold, educated man that we all need as a role model for our walk with Christ.
After reading some of the earlier comments, I more fully appreciate the contributions of Allred, but I’m still favoring Delaney. The HBCU is much in the news lately. Although we may dislike the tokenism of the early Episcopal Church, Delaney was doing what he could with what he had where he was, and that is admirable. And I love the writings of his daughters!
Oops. That should read Aelred-thank you autocorrect.
Learning that Aelred is a patron saint for Integrity increases my interest in him.
However, I am voting for Henry Beard Delany. I am always shocked and saddened when I read the history of African Americans in our church. That he was a wonderful leader and yet had to face segregation in his spiritual home!
I agree, Aileen, that it breaks my heart to hear of the racism so many of our members have had to endure. And, sadly, still do in some circles. 🙁
A much harder choice than I thought it would be!
Medieval leanings here, but Delaney’s story captured my vote today. Good writing, celebrity bloggers!
I voted for Delany, a slave to a bishop is quite a climb, and he did it with grace and love always helping others along the way.
“Aelred of Rievaulx: Unknown Artist, possibly by Elredo de Rieval, Public domain via Wikimedia Common”
“Elredo de Rieval” is the Spanish version of “Aelred de Rievaulx,” so unless that’s a self-portrait, “Elredo” is not the artist.
Aelred got my vote today by a very slim margin. What tipped the balance was his campaign against nepotism in the church and the fact that he comes from the same general region where my father is from.
If placed against a different saint, I might well have voted for Aelred. But Henry was enslaved from birth and segregated after emancipation by the church that educated him. I have to take a preferential option for the marginalized, especially in these times.
Although I love Yorkshire and especially Rievaulx, I voted for Bishop Delaney.He lived with love for all people through one of the most difficult times in our country. We surely need such wise and devoted men in our lives today.
Although I love Yorkshire and especially Rievaulx, I voted for Bishop Delaney.He lived with love for all people through one of the most difficult times in our country. We surely need such wise and devoted men in our lives today.
Yay, Oliver’s back!!!
I had to go with Aelred. In the first round, it seems like the contemplative saints just don’t get the crowd’s attention. Both very holy people, for sure (and I’m glad to know about Henry Beard Delany now!). For me, without the monastic movement, the whole Christian project might have disappeared in the middle ages! (Full disclosure: my name is Benedict)
I take your point, Benedict. I haven’t voted yet. Very torn between a modern saint, whose travails I can only imagine, vs a saint who did so much in the early days of our church. Both seem to be about reconciliation with the prevailing powers. Very hard choice.
Alas, Aelred never stood a chance against Henry Beard Delaney. No far, SEC!! For your penance, you must offer a prayer in the haunting ruins of Aelred’s beloved Rievaulx Abbey.
I drove by St. Augustine College many times when I lived in NC so it’s Delaney for me.
I always vote for the underdog! But Oliver, I former teacher I love your comment and insight!
I cast my vote for Saint Aelred. Bravo Middle Ages!
A hard choice, but I voted for the father of the wonderful Delany sisters!
That should have been “Delany” and “fair”. Wish we could edit our posts. Please work on that for next year, SEC.
Aelred shows the spirit of encompassing christian love and service, He was involved in high level negotiations and passed over for sainthood. He deserves a halo in our century.
It is always hard to choose. But if you don’t vote for the saint who is more local to you, who do you vote for? Educator, priest, builder, architect, Henry gets my vote.
Dear SEC, how can my husband and I both vote in Lent Madness? Can I use another email account (gmail) for one of us? Our main account is Yahoo Acct but I have another Acct that is Google gmail. It’s not a problem as we usually agree on the same saint, but today not. And we want his opinion to count! Let us know. We don’t want to incur the wrath of the SEC!
Sally From Dallas, just be sure to vote from different email accounts.
Or if you have separate computers (or 1 computer & 1 smart phone) at least one of you can go to LentMadness.org on the device the other one did not use to vote, and cast his/her vote there.
Like if you vote via email from your computer and he has either another computer or a smart phone, then he would use that to vote online at LentMadness.org each voting day, but not your computer as that would look like double voting.
Hope that helps.
I had already decided on Henry, but had I been conflicted, Oliver’s comment would have sealed the deal!
Difficult choice. In the end I decided I couldn’t vote for Henry Beard Delaney, because he acceded to the church’s policy of segregation. It may well have been a relief for African-American church people not to have Caucasians breathing down their necks all the time, but the Episcopal Church was wrong to choose segregation.
Beth, I agree that the Episcopal Church was wrong to choose segregation. But what was Delany supposed to do about it? He was in no position to determine policy in that matter. Instead, he worked with what he had within a flawed system and accomplished great things.
I am so glad to see that Oliver is back. He offers such great insight. I voted for Henry Beard Delany but found that it, as usual, was difficult since they were so different.
In the past we have had vigorous quarrels (I mean, earnest discussions) about whether the more modern saints were being favored over the more ancient ones. So I was mindful of that before casting my vote. The more ancient saints are burdened (fleshed out?) with a lot of lore that appealed to people in the past but are more suspect to us now. (Popping eyeballs, grilling on racks, and the ever popular St Denis carrying his own head.) We have also seriously examined whether we prefer “deacon” types (social workers) over “priest” types (contemplatives). We tend to vote for activists who take Christ to the ramparts of disease and social justice. So I am upholding that fine tradition of preferring the flesh-and-blood innovator and challenger of Xian norms. I liked the black priest who helped build a church and witnessed to changes in the church at a time when slavery continued to warp both the society and the church. I am mindful that slavery and white supremacy continue to warp our society today, and we are presently suffering the horrible consequences of living in a sadly weakened democracy (sad!), precisely because of the pernicious effects of ongoing, active racism. Hate is real in our society right now. I am scheduled to take a workshop in non-violent resistance at the end of the month; I am a member of my parish’s RERT (Rapid Emergency Response Team) which will quickly go to any other parish or situation where (especially) Hispanics are being targeted and harassed by hate groups or by ICE, to witness and put our bodies between hate and life. (I suppose we will do corny “activist” stuff like “sing Xian songs”–I don’t know). I only know the fear I feel is less than the fear some others in our society feel right now. So I voted for earnest, hard working witness in American society. I was less than swayed by the tepid, unsupported suggestion that Aelred “may have been gay.” Delany WAS black at a time when blacks were not full members of our society. I pray all ethnicities and religions will be accepted as full members of our society soon. Hence my vote for Delany. Apologies for the homily. We live in parlous times demanding active witness.
Amen. And I would love to know more about your parish’s rapid response team’s work.
What a difficult and thought-provoking choice. Ultimately, I chose Delany, because I felt like I was also voting for his entire family. Aelred and his writings on friendship caused to reflect on how much I cherish my friends, so in tribute to him I’ll be getting in touch with some I haven’t talked to in a bit later today.
Thank you!
Had to go American! Sending love to the LGBT community!
Has the SEC now succumbed to PC?
I think I saw them both with MacBooks in one of the videos.
LOL!
As soon as I saw the name I had to vote for him, Henry. He was a man of integraty.
Voting for Aelred because we need his voice in this Sad Sorry world, Highly recommend people read Spiritual Friendship and the Mirror of Charity.
Lets hear it for Mrs. Delany! 10 children
Yes!!!!!
The Delaney name is revered throughout the Carolinas and his daughters accomplishments are now in the literary canon. My mother was a St. Aug graduate and her homeplace was a few blocks away. He was a saint and I hope he will be a “winner take all !” He was the exemplar for all Black Episcopalians suffered through and endured for the Faith.
Love the story and history of Henry! Knowing all we know about slavery and the years after spaces were free, his is an amazing story of faith and the power we have when we trust in God. I love that he was a tradesman! My Dad was a bricklayer and a devout Catholic and family man. Henry started from humble beginnings filled with strife, but used his talents and faith to make such a wonderful contribution. Just raising 10!!!! children makes him a saint in my eyes! He has a gentle face and proud demeanor in the picture that is featured and I love ❤️ his story! He’s a Saint through and through. He shares a name with my future son-in-law to boot!!
Aelred for the win, today. Being a gay monk couldn’t have been easy.
The strength of character and grace in Henry’s story speaks so loudly to my heart of what faith can accomplish in moving forward. We all live in times where there are oppressions of the outer life. The characteristics change from age to age, but the dynamics are the same, and the ability to keep working forward without falling into cynicism or bitterness speaks a voice of hope for us all. Blessings for Henry.
I have also been to Rievaulx Abbey. It is indeed a peaceful place. Henry’s life is very impressive but I had to go with Aelred. As a dog lover, I always go for the “underdog!”
I’m with Aelred: his visit to Scotland in 1138 was at a time of war between England and Scotland, and this was an attempt to bring some peace into the situation. “Blessed are the peacemakers”
Wow already enjoyed politics and traveled to politic for the church Henry beard Delany suffered politics to build within the church and indeed suffered.
This was an unexpectantly hard vote for me. As a member of the GLBT community I wanted to vote for Aelred. But as I read Henry’s bio, It came to me how many times I had to read the term “colored” and “negro” as if a sub set of humanity. I wondered how it felt to Henry? Because in my generation the “L” word was always connected to something dirty it took me a long time before I was willing to apply it to myself. Did Aelred feel the same?
Either way the vote goes these men seemed to know where they stood in Christ and said “Yes I’ll go for you”
I voted for Delaney because of his collect – prayer for love and JUSTICE! As one of the many children of Archbishop Tutu I must support this!
1
Sorry Aelred, but my North Carolina roots, and over six and a half decades of calling North Carolina home (with apologies to Mike Cross), beat out my Anglophilic tendencies today! (I promise, my allegiance to the East Carolina University Pirates had NOTHING to do with my vote!)
Aelred of Rievaulx for his beautiful words to all of us: “He who does not love his own soul will in no way be capable of loving the soul of another”
Consider this when voting today – Aelred traveled great distances, over and over again, to represent and do the hard work necessary to be part of the larger community of Christians across Europe. Looking for a saintly miracle? There you go! I believe that simple fact makes him extraordinary in a way we truly can’t appreciate in our era of air travel, Skype and email. His important voice was heard and thanks to additional miracles, preserved, for us. Henry Delany’s contributions are genuinely extraordinary, but don’t take the easy route of voting for the story you relate to best. Stretch out – think early Medieval! Aelred may even inspire you to help you keep a Lenten discipline to disconnect a little electronically – with participation in Lent Madness being a clear and important exception!
SEC, this matchup is way out of whack! Of course Henry Beard Delany is going to win, and overwhelmingly. I voted for him myself. Aelred sounds cool, though, and I wish there’d been more details on him. I see that many commenters refer to his writings on friendship. Would love to have seen some quotes from those.
I voted for Delaney because of his perseverance. It could not have been easy after the Civil War to make your mark.
Bless the Delaney Sisters
Both so worthy, but Henry must get my vote. His story is a somewhat painful reminder of the time when my beloved and welcoming church struggled with the presence of African Americans in their congregations. That is worth remembering in these troubled times. Very humbling. God Bless Henry for his struggles. But love to Aelred; we could all use more of the spirit of “Christian Friendship” in our world.
Delaney was a gimme for a NC Episcopalian. I enjoyed learning about him.
This Carolina girl is voting for Bishop Hammerin’ Hank.
“Fight the good fight of faith, that you might finish your course with joy.” This familiar blessing came to mind as I read Bp. Delany’s bio and marveled at this man’s strength, courage and faithfulness is spite of odds more daunting than I can imagine.
voted for Delany – liked that he took advantage of the educational opportunities presented to him AND, of course, glad to have Oliver back! (who must be at least 12 by now!!!)
Bishop Delany, in addition to being the father of Bessie and Sadie Delany, is the grandfather of noted science fiction author Samuel R. Delany, author of the classics Babel-17 and Stars in my Pocket Like Grains of Sand. Read them as well as Bessie and Sadie’s Having Our Say.
Bishop Delany, in addition to being the father of Bessie and Sadie Delany, is the grandfather of noted science fiction author Samuel R. Delany, author of the classics Babel-17 and Stars in my Pocket Like Grains of Sand. Read them as well as Bessie and Sadie’s Having Our Say.
Second day of voting, and already a tough one. HBD gets my vote, but Aelred got my attention.
We are sadly minus our seminary bracket – anxiously watching the mail (???)
Give Forward Movement a call (800-543-1813) and the friendly folks can track it down for you.
REMEMBER READING THE DELANEY SISTERS .AND NOW TO BE INTRODUCED TO THEIR ADMIRABLE FATHER…but … I MUST GO FURTHER BACK IN HISTORY TO ALERED…
I voted for Delaney partly because he remained a loyal member of the Episcopal Church despite it’s oppression of African Americans. In this day, when the response to disagreement is to leave, he is an example of what can be accomplished when you stay, and do the holy work placed before you. I admire him greatly for that.
I whole heartedly agree with Tammie. Aelred is decided the more inspiring for me, but I know he doesn’t have a chance over Delany. Medieval saints hardly every win over their more modern opponents. This is definitely not a fair match. Poor Aelred doesn’t even have a good picture! How is he suppose to compete!? He at least got my vote.
The Right Reverend Delaney taught that living in Christ matters more than where you live, and works and faith go hand in hand. Aelred had great political skills and was a community leader, but have to hand this up to the Bishop
What an impressive mission to the African-American congregations! Delany gets my vote without a pause.
Tough call, and a abit of an odd matchup, but such is life in the early rounds. Henry Beard Delany’s story is quite inspirational. The pirate angle is enticing too. Plus thanks to the comments I know have a book on request at the Library “Having our Say”
I had to vote for a man who was born into slavery, was faithful to his church in spite of its flaws, worked tirelessly for Christ and was eventually ordained bishop in the chapel he had helped to build with his own hands. Besides, I read “Having Our Say” years ago and was so impressed with his daughters. It isn’t mentioned here, but as I recall, all ten of those children earned college degrees. I agree that Nanny deserves a shining halo of her own!
Henry Delaney, since I know someone who taught at St. Augustine! But a tough choice.
Both competitors worked to hard to increase God’s church in their own ways. I had to give my vote to Aelred because of his political and diplomatic skills and amazing that we know all this given it was the 12th century. I had to honor the LGBT issue, and by doing so, to honor some wonderful clergy that I know and love.
So far I’m 2 for 2, voting for the losing side. I’m voting for Aelred because he was an early cleric who did a lot for the church and for those around him. He thought towards the future.
An odd matchup. I liked both of them immensely; I ultimately voted for Delaney because of the lovely mix of skills he had and the wonderful things he accomplished using these skills. God +hand skills = a winner for me.
The Brit lost yesterday, so voted for him today. Support the underdog.
This was a really tough match-up. In the end, I gave my vote to Aelred, who wrote so beautifully about the gift of friendship. His words are immortal and can inspire us in these times. “Charity may be a very short word, but with its tremendous meaning of pure love, it sums up man’s entire relation to God and to his neighbor.”
Henry Beard Delaney!!!
Yes, I think it has to be Delany. He is a much better reminder that the Church needs to fight against racism and other forms of discrimination here and now. Thank you so much for making me think carefully!
I admire Delany, not only for his devoted ministry to African-Americans, but also for his loyalty to the Episcopal Church. Over the years, people close to me have left the EC for various reasons, and gone to other churches. I don’t judge them for that. God leads different people in different directions. But Delany, in spite of the Episcopal Church’s frequently sinful treatment of African-Americans, stayed faithful to it. This moved me very much because, for all it’s faults, I love it still.
I was tempted by Aelred, but in the end went with Delaney. My dad was a brick mason, but more importantly, the Church was afraid those “Negro churches” would upset the status quo – and who hasn’t wished for that!
I could certainly wish our churches would upset the status quo a whole lote more. That would probably have a wider appeal and be truer to the message of the Gospels,
I am sad that Alban wasn’t the winner! His story was so dramatic, so fascinating, if a tad bizarre, (heads rolling…) well I must press on nevertheless and see if my vote goes better this week…
As a proud mother of gay and straight children, I had to vote for Aelred!
This was a tough choice for me only because I have been to Rievaulx and found it so beautiful that I would have joined the monastery (if it were still the 12th century). I voted for Henry.
This was a difficult choice. I was fascinated by the presence of separate Bishops for “negroes” in light of the ACCs recent decision to have separate Indigineous bishops. It will be interesting to watch how all this unfolds.
I, too, was astonished by that sad bit of church history. Lord, have mercy. 🙁
I had to vote for the beard, as I have one, but also because he was a hard worker, building both real structures and spiritual ones, and raised fine children; it must have been a difficult time, but he stayed with the faith and devoted himself to the church. I must say I was not terribly impressed with the acts of Aelred, in comparison.
A toss up, at first. But I leaned toward Henry and voted for tis ‘modern’ saint. After reading all the contributions that preceded mine, I now know it was the right choice. Like Diana, I believe his wife merits some credit, as well! and them there are the Delaney sisters! I had not known about their parentage. Henry and Nanny continue to affect the world through them, as well! What a marvelous testimony to their upbringing! Godspeed, Henry! PS. Welcome back, Oliver! You brighten my day and make me smile!
Who can relate to a 12 th century person, saint? I just can’t get into it. Maybe I should read Aelred’s writings , if I had time and knew where to find them.
I voted for Henry. It makes me feel good that many did help the slaves get educated and by the church
Who can relate to a 12 th century person, saint? I just can’t get into it. Maybe I should read Aelred’s writings , if I had time and knew where to find them.
I voted for Henry. It makes me feel good that many did help the slaves get educated and by the church
If you read the earlier comments, some of the titles of Aelred’s works are listed. Next step would be to Google the titles. They are old enough they’ll be in the public domain, so are probably online and available for downloading/printing. Project Gutenberg (which you can Google) may very well have them online.
I like beards
I didn’t know about Delany. Understandably a popular choice. I did think the blurb on Aelred rather pitifully undersold the beauty and significance of his book On Spiritual Friendship which reproduces the ancient Celtic Christian tradition of Anamchara through the lens of Cistercian spirituality. Whether or not he was gay, though an intriguing question for which we will never know the answer, is not really the point. GO AELRED!!!!!!!!
How could a former vocational educator not vote for Bishop Delany?! Not only did he and his students build important additions to their college, he was a true leader for African-Americans. He was one of the most important figures in history and especially the Episcopal Church. He truly is an inspiration for us all. Of course his wife was a saint too! Sadie, Bessie and eight others — amazing grace.
“Delany received a scholarship from a local Episcopal parish to attend St. Augustine’s College in Raleigh, North Carolina—a college founded by Episcopal clergy to educate emancipated African-Americans.” I voted for Delany. Oh, how I wish the Episcopal Church were more active in supporting Historic Black Colleges and Universities. Now especially — they need funding and leadership support.
Beards are cool
I vote for Bp. Delany as well. His dedication to the Church, despite the Church’s racist treatment of him and other African Americans is remarkable.
Since I love the Episcopal church so much, it’s hard to believe it was also involved in discrimination. But we have admitted it and have tried to rectify that. For that reason, and others, I cast my ballot for Henry Delany.
I voted for Bishop Delany also. His reputation and accomplishments are timely reminders for all of us who seek and support diversity within our church, as well as in our society. I was gratified to learn that he was the dad of the lovely Delany sisters:)
I identify in many ways with Henry Beard Delaney. I was born in North Carolina; I studied music in college and grad school, and still sing at age 79. After being ordained in the United Methodist Church, I was the first woman pastor in two different churches before becoming a hospital chaplain. My beloved uncle, a clergy in the United Brethren Church, was also a bricklayer. Not to mention my remembering reading excerpts of his daughters’ book in the New York Times…must get that book for my Lenten reading. But most of all I revere him for continuing to serve God and his neighbor, lovingly and well. (I’m also being inspired to read Aelred’s writings!)
Delaney got my vote, I agree he & his wife are inspiring.
I had never heard of either of them, but Aelred sounded too much like a Monty Python skit, so I voted for Delany. Is that a good reason?
I voted for Henry as I believe his work lead to the enventual ordination of Bishop Gale Harris as our first Bishop of color. I am fortunate to have been at several services with her and attend a retreat at a Camp in N.H. named in her honor . It did a lot to include blacks in our church life.
I assume you mean Bishop Barbara Harris, who will one day win the Golden Halo. 😀
Voted for Delaney. What an awesome story – and loved his daughters’ book. Glad Lent Madness is back. Betty Morris
So glad to see Oliver back and sharing his wisdom with us!!
I live in Hawaii so my vote comes late in the process but I’m so glad my vote still counts!!
For Delany, today!!
Did I miss the chance to vote for St Cecilia? The patron saint of MUSIC, duh! Consider this my vote, on behalf of all patio pants in the RSCMA King’s Course 🙂
Participants, not “patio pants”, sorry. Stupid samsung…..
@Lousia Campbell; I think we should all be wearing “patio pants” as we devoutly participate in Lent Madness.
BTW– I can’t seem to get that Dylan song about “Everyone Getting Stoned” out of my head. Thanks for the brain worm.
I’m glad you added that corrective, Louisa. I was totally befuddled by your vote on behalf of patio pants!
…and I assume the wearers are singing in the King’s “Chorus”? I love it. All God’s children..or at least the singing Episcopalian variety… should wear patio pants! You gave me a joy and avchuckle! Thank you!
…and I assume the wearers are singing in the King’s “Chorus”? I love it. All God’s children..or at least the singing Episcopalian variety… should wear patio pants! You gave me a joy and a chuckle! Thank you!
Her turn hasn’t come yet.
I voted for him, but was Delany really “born a slave” or born a human into the institution of slavery? I know I am mincing words, but words matter.
Yea! Oliver is back! Delaney it is!
Welcome back Oliver. Nice to see you again. The choice today was much more difficult than I first imagined. Both men did wonderful things and worked tirelessly for Christ. While I love the fact that Aelred viewed friendship as a gift and encouraged it, in the end I voted for Bishop Delany because of how far he came at a time when all the odds were against him and he was viewed as a second-class citizen. He and his wife Nanny are joint saints in my eyes.
Two wonderful saints once again. I voted for Henry Delaney because of his strength, perseverance and nobility in serving Christ and his church in spite of the totally unjust and un-Christian obstacles put in his way by a sinful church itself.
But PLEASE, someone (Derek?), correct the English of the collect for his day. It should be “Almighty God, who FREE your people,” not “who frees,” since the collect is addressed to God in the second person!
Delaney. Aelred is a tough competitor, but I gotta vote for a Saint that can work with his hands!
I also voted for Bishop Delaney, but I assume that (being a medieval monk) Aelred would have also spent time working with his hands as well.
I do so love learning about these strong people of God.
Have to go for the North Carolina bishop who overcame so much hardship due to his pigment and his times, Henry Beard Delany. He led us to greater grace.
In addition, Bishop Delany has a grandson, Chip (Samuel R) Delany, whom I know as an award winning science fiction writer and have learned is also a well-known gay writer, editor, and a professor at Temple. Very cool guy!
Had to vote for the patron saint of LGBT
This was PAINFUL. Initially I was just going to vote for Aelred because I’ve always felt a connection to him. I’ve even visited the remains Rievaulx.
But as soon as I saw the photo of Delaney I switched sides. We spend too much time on dead white guys. It’s long past time we recognized the dead men & women of color who have shaped the church as we know it today.
This is fun. I haven’t participated in Lent Madness before. Thanks!!
Had to vote for another person born in Georgia and raised Methodist!
I collect antiquarian books. I found Bishop Delany’s personal copy of the Book of Common Prayer while book hunting. I bought it and donated it to the archives of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina. That seemed only right. Of course, I had to vote for this saint who served the people of color in the NC diocese with such faith and in such difficult times. Jim Crow was ugly, but faith was greater.
Anyone who could help raise that many kids has to be a saint
I voted for Henry Delany. He was a prime example of blooming where he was planted. The church at large flourished for his perseverance. A man attuned to God and to his fellow man. Go Henry!
I chose Bp Delaney not just for his inspiring story, but for also raising 10(!) children! That must be some kind of record.
Greetings from Australia.
I enjoy it when there’s a difficult choice like this. Had an personal interest in both of their historical contexts. Often leaned to either the social justice advocates like Bp. Delany or the scholars like Aelred.
Visited Rievaulx on my most recent visit to the UK.
Enjoyed the piratical and Pythonesque side issues.
Voted for Bp. Delany.
Great to be back and find Oliver here!
Henry Beard Delaney was appealing to me. I was born in Florida, went to college in
Georgia and love North Carolina. Seemed destined to vote for Henry, which is also my grandson’s name.
How could I not vote for Aelred; his feast day is my birthday!
Interesting comments. I voted for Delaney because his story spoke to my soul.
Are we supposed to vote for the saint we like better or the saint we think more people will vote for?
Good question. I go with who I like. Some go with which Saint shares a name with themselves or a relative or a friend. Some go with who is more ancient or more modern. Today the wonderful Oliver, who is amazingly still 9, said he chose the Bishop because his name sounded like that of a pirate. And I’m sure Saint Stephen the Deacon’s cause yesterday was greatly helped by a number of Deacons and Stephen Ministers voting for him. In the past the Brothers Wesley stimulated much interest in Lent Madness from Methodists and this year I expect a large turn out of Lutherans voting for Martin Luther in advance of celebrating the 500th anniversary of the Reformation this October.
Deciding who to vote for and why is part of the Madness of LentMadness.
HBD is my choice today. Raleigh, N C has elected bishops who excel in living the Gospel. I am waiting prayerfully for the next follower of Jesus.
I knew who I was supposed to vote for before I even started reading Aelred’s bio. Bishop Henry built up God’s church both literally and figuratively whilst fighting oppression and helping his saintly wife with the raising of 10 children, and for that he gets my vote.
We need more people like the good Bishop now in our own time who persist against injustice.
Hi all voted for Aelred I spend time with the trappists in Ky every year, the best days of the year 4 days in complete silence surrounded by books. I didn’t know the LGBTQ had a patron saint simply wonderful
I will certainly tell my special friends and relatives
Got to go with Aelred. It was really harsh to travel back then so respect.
Also love a medieval saint.
“In my mind, I’m goin’ to Carolina” (JamesTaylor). My mother, Alice Cheek Sanders Marvin, and grandmother, Alice Mutter Cheek Sanders Edwards, lived in Raleigh, North Carolina. I graduated from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill in 1977. Henry Beard Delaney has my admiration and vote!
This was a tough choice. I really liked both of these Saints.
I voted for Henry Beard Delaney also. First from having read and loved Having My Say by his delightful daughters years ago. But also because I learned later that my great great grandfather was one of the founders of St. Augustine’s. It was founded not only by 6 members of the Episcopal clergy but also by 6 lay members, John Wilkes among them. (St. Aug’s invited me to one of their Founders Day celebrations, where we learned of the good work they are doing there to this day.) Bit of trivia…. John Wilkes has a connection with not only St. Aug’s and Henry Beard Delaney, but his grandfather (with the same name) was one of Elizabeth Ann Seton’s benefactors after her husband died. So Henry Beard Delaney has something less than six degrees of separation from Mother Seton… how many of our “contestants” can make a similar claim to one another?
It is a good thing Our Lord is ineligible for Six Degrees the way his mother is ineligible for LentMadness or all the Saints would be two degrees at most of each other.
My name is Zoey and I am six years old. I like Henry Beard Delany because my cousins name is Delaney!
(Mum is typing for her)
Hi Zoey!
Welcome to Lent Madness.
Great to hear from another “under 10.” Their words of wisdom are as deep as many a theologian. Stick with us, Zoey
I think it’s important to say that Henry Delaney wasn’t “born a slave.” He was born a person. He was also enslaved. A recent reflection by Byron Rushing (the Episcopal Church’s VP for the House of Deputies and lay leader of many years) on Absalom Jones made this point more eloquently than I can. How we phrase such things matters.
Totally agree.
There is a Rievaulx Stadium in Billingham, but no team of any stature plays there.
I voted for Henry Delany. I’m a member of St. Ambrose Church in Raleigh. Awesome man of God. I have the privilege of worshipping with his descendants. Ahoy, Oliver!!
Good choice Oliver! I voted for Delany too but not because of his name but because he did amazing things & worked hard for his people too!
Bekka 10yo
Having your say us now on my must read list! What a piece of American history to learn.
This such a wonderful learning experience!!
I have been to the ruined Abbey of Rievaulx in Yorkshire and it is mystical, so I had no choice but to vote for Aelred.
I have so many sustaining spiritual friendships that I had to vote for the underdog.
I look forward to Delany moving on. Voted for Aelred out of Christian friendship and support of the patron saint of the LGBTQ+ community.
Like all the rest of us “He might have been gay
I voted for Delany partly because he must of had to overcome so many difficulties due to racial intolerance, and at the same time maintain compassion and love in his heart, just as the Lord would have done; and also because his daughters were writers…I love reading and am a writer myself!
I voted for Henry Beard Delaney because he was a carpenter like Jesus.
I have been back and forth……but voted for Aeldred because the association of his writings and their affect on the LGBT community.
Delany for faithfulness to God’s mission in a difficult situation.
I voted for several reasons.
1. My husband graduated from St Augustine 1986
2. Read the book about the Delany sisters 3. He lead a very demanding life (10 kids)