On May 5, 2007, the Episcopal Diocese of California came together to begin the work of creating a common vision. Borrowing from the words of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the event was called Building a Beloved Community. The day began and ended in worship, and Bishop Marc Andrus' sermon framed the work of the day.

On Wednesday, September 27th, 56 people with a shared interest in ethnic and multicultural ministries came together in a "Visioning Day" to develop a strategic plan for those ministries in the Diocese of California. The Rt. Rev. Marc Handley Andrus, Bishop of California was engaged in every aspect of the Visioning Day, leading prayer and participating in table conversations. Near the end of the day he reflected on the work the group did together. These are his reflections and remarks to those gathered.