Deacon Lydia Bailey

Grounded in an experience of God’s love pervading all people, all creation, I was ordained to the Sacred Order of Deacons in 2013. However, my ministry began long before then. Since 2007 I’ve been on full-time staff as the coordinator of volunteers at the 2100 Lakeside Men’s Shelter, operated by Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry. The shelter is the largest shelter in Ohio, serving nearly 3,000 men who are homeless each year. Through organizing volunteers, I am living into my diaconal vocation of being a “bridge person,” advocating for people experiencing homelessness by connecting corporate social responsibility groups, faith communities, and engaged citizens in volunteer work at the shelter. In addition, I serve on the board of Diocese of Ohio’s Episcopal Community Services.

I love serving at St. Christopher’s by the River since 2016. The people, liturgy and Gospel bring me alive with reverence and sunny hearted community. I’ve much appreciated parishioners volunteering at the shelter in several capacities- not the least of which is serving a monthly lunch.

I was honored by The Center for Community Solutions with a 2025 “Greater Cleveland High 5 Award” for my work at the shelter including creating the “Portraits of Strength” and “Portraits of Homelessness” exhibits, which highlight individuals experiencing homelessness and the importance of second chances.

I received my BA from Reed College, Portland, Oregon fostering a deep awareness of environmental justice issues that continue to be part of my theology today.

When not at work or church, you might see me walking our dogs in the woods or listening for the first bird at sunrise, cup of coffee in hand – happy for another day to begin again with God.