In 2024, Esperanza Academy’s chaplain, Rev. Jacqueline “Jack” Clark, attended the Biennial Conference courtesy of a NAES grant. The workshops, presentations, and conversations with fellow Episcopal leaders continue to be a source of inspiration and guidance for her work at Esperanza, a tuition-free, lottery-based, all-girls middle school in Lawrence, MA.
Pastor Jack is deeply attuned to the unique context of leading chapel for girls of color at an urban Episcopal school where few students come from Episcopal backgrounds. She is committed to cultivating a spiritual life that is both authentically rooted in Episcopal tradition and meaningfully responsive to the diverse cultural and religious experiences of the school community. Differences in belief or practice—such as the affirmation of LGBTQ+ identities, the role of female leadership, Eucharistic customs, the language of prayers and hymns, or the overall structure of worship—can sometimes contrast with the faith traditions of students and their families.
This is a complex challenge without easy solutions. As Pastor Jack continues to uphold and share the school’s Episcopal identity, she does so with sensitivity, striving to create a chapel experience that is also inclusive and respectful. The Biennial Conference provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with other chaplains serving in similarly diverse communities and to learn from presentations focused on affirming, student-centered approaches to chapel and religious education.
Over her three years as school chaplain, Pastor Jack has made chapel into a space that is more accessible, meaningful, and engaging for students of all backgrounds. She has reimagined chapel as a setting where students are invited to explore spiritual questions, connect biblical themes to their lived experiences, and express themselves authentically. With a strong emphasis on student voice, music, movement, and personal prayer, the program reflects the diverse identities and perspectives of the school community.
This year, Pastor Jack deepened student involvement by working with two distinct groups based on their interests and strengths. The Chapel Leadership Team shapes the overall vision and structure of chapel services. They help select weekly themes, curate music (including songs in Spanish), and refine the format of worship. Their feedback, along with insights gathered through school-wide surveys, has led to more direct engagement with biblical texts, the inclusion of intentional guest speakers, and greater cultural relevance throughout the year. The students requested Bibles to keep and were able to choose from a list of different approved versions. Bishop Whitworth of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts will present these Bibles to students later this month.
The second student group focuses on implementation and leadership during the weekly services. These students take on active roles—leading prayers, teaching and leading songs, facilitating small-group discussions, and delivering short reflections or “chapel talks.” Together, these efforts ensure that chapel remains a vibrant, student-centered experience that honors both Episcopal tradition and the voices of Esperanza’s students.