A Brief History
Social Justice and Advocacy at the Forefront, 1973–1990
William Carl Frey (1973–1990) became the eighth Bishop of Colorado. A man of deep spiritual conviction and powerful speaking abilities, Frey set about growing the church. Shortly after Frey's becoming bishop, the Diocesan Center on 16th Street was sold and the more modest Diocesan Center was constructed on Cathedral Square. His passion for human rights—a passion that prompted his expulsion from Guatemala, where he was Bishop from 1967 to 1971—continued with his commitment to the poor and disadvantaged. His requests for gifts of usable coats and clothing created overwhelming mounds of donations in the reception area of the Diocesan Center. The basement became the offices of the newly formed Episcopal Pastoral Center as well as offices for the Central Denver Community Service, a precursor organization of Metro Caring.
In 1983 the diocese leased space for the Episcopal Pastoral Center at 22nd Ave. and Lawrence St. in downtown Denver. With support from members of the diocese and gifts large and small, a capital campaign raised sufficient funds to purchase and renovate 2223 Curtis Street, which became the Saint Francis Center, a diocesan institution. Saint Francis Center provides a number of services for people struggling with homelessness.
In 1983 the proceeds of the sale of the nonprofit Presbyterian/St. Luke's Healthcare Corporation in 1985 were used to create The Colorado Trust. The Trust is a foundation dedicated to the health of the people of Colorado. An annual draw has since 1984 supported the Colorado Episcopal Foundation, which provides funding for congregations to benefit programs and to stimulate new congregations across the diocese.
Consecrated Suffragan Bishop in 1980, William "Dub" Wolfrum served until 1991. With his wit and wisdom, Dub left an indelible "bootprint" on the church in Colorado.
The creation, in 1988, of a system of Five Regions—Northwestern, Southwestern, Sangre de Cristo, High Plains, and Front Range—each gathered under a resident canon missioner, has enabled congregations to convene, each in their own region.
