The 76th General Convention has come and gone now, and it is what it is. I am deferring a listing of its decisions for now, because it occurs to me that I am uncertain what they are-- I lost track of what the House of Bishops did with many of the resolutions from House of Deputies. That list will have to come later.
Meanwhile, I thank the people of the Diocese of West Virginia for the honor they have bestowed upon me in electing me to be their deputy at the last two General Conventions. Serving with my fellow deputies has been a most enjoyable privilege. I think more of our clergy and laity ought to have the opportunity to serve their church in General Convention.
Toward that end, I am announcing now that I have no plans to seek election as Deputy to General Convention 77 meeting in Indianapolis in 2012. I hope that information will help others, including some of the younger or newer clergy in our diocese, to offer themselves as candidates.
Thank you, West Virginia, for entrusting me with this responsibility.
Donald
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Friday, July 17, 2009
And We're Out ---
Beth Marquart
From House of Deputies President Bonnie Anderson:
"The mood has been extremely, extremely -- I don't think there's a wordcalled ubuntu-ish, but if there were, that is how I would describe the moodof this General Convention. We did not all agree 100percent. We have been struggling. We have heard each other. We have been so careful to make sure that we have listened to and responded to the needs of our church.”
This has been an extraordinary experience, thanks be to God.
Please remember us in your prayers as we make our way home. Please also remember my friend and mentor, Lawton Posey, in your prayers. He had a cochlear implant today. Thanks ---
From House of Deputies President Bonnie Anderson:
"The mood has been extremely, extremely -- I don't think there's a wordcalled ubuntu-ish, but if there were, that is how I would describe the moodof this General Convention. We did not all agree 100percent. We have been struggling. We have heard each other. We have been so careful to make sure that we have listened to and responded to the needs of our church.”
This has been an extraordinary experience, thanks be to God.
Please remember us in your prayers as we make our way home. Please also remember my friend and mentor, Lawton Posey, in your prayers. He had a cochlear implant today. Thanks ---
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Day 9
Beth Marquart
Today I’m a free agent because all of the deputies of our laity deputation are seated on the convention floor.
My plan today is loose, the floor sessions convene at 9:30am and the plan in both houses is to approve the budget. One of the rules announced yesterday in the House of Deputies was that if one wishes to amend a line item by adding funds to it, one must also say what line item will be reduced to care for the increase, causing care and good stewardship to reign.
And speaking of the budget, PB&F, the committee that created it, is to be commended for their difficult work. Bishop Klusmeyer spoke about the huge gap between available funds and the proposed budget so I won’t reiterate any of that. But they worked hard and kept their eye, beneath their eyeshades with abacus at hand, firmly planted on the priorities named and adopted. As a result things like the Millennium Development Goals remain fully funded at 0.7% and domestic poverty in the Americas is also funded at 0.7% through Jubilee Ministries.
A recommendation has been made to reduce the 77th General Convention by 2 days which affords savings across the board as delegates, dioceses and the convention itself realize savings.
The CCABs (Committees, Commissions, Agencies and Boards) that meet between conventions and do the yeoman’s duty on the directives passed at GC have been challenged to make electronic meetings their norm and their travel budgets have been greatly reduced as a result.
Each of these actions, and many many more unnamed, point to the good stewardship and difficult decisions untaken by PB&F. Thanks be to God for their work.
And once more --- please follow the action on the Episcopal News Service, http://ecusa.anglican.org/ens/. Much good work has been accomplished at this 76th General Convention and we are not able to do service to it but the good folks at ESN are doing so. Another good source of timely news is the Episcopal Café, http://www.episcopalcafe.com/ . Actually, Episcopal Café is always a good source of news and posts a reflection every day.
So, I think I may go to the House of Bishops and sit in the visitors gallery. The process they employ is very prayerful and intentional. I witnessed it yesterday and was struck by these aspects amidst their disagreement which was characterized as loving and respectful of one another.
Thanks for electing me as an alternate to this 76th General Convention. I would not have missed it for anything; the experience has been worth the 2 weeks of vacation time it took to be here. I will never forget the people I have met here. I will carry the worship experiences in my heart and the acts of kindness and civilty extended to one and all, across the board. I hope you’ll send me again --
Today I’m a free agent because all of the deputies of our laity deputation are seated on the convention floor.
My plan today is loose, the floor sessions convene at 9:30am and the plan in both houses is to approve the budget. One of the rules announced yesterday in the House of Deputies was that if one wishes to amend a line item by adding funds to it, one must also say what line item will be reduced to care for the increase, causing care and good stewardship to reign.
And speaking of the budget, PB&F, the committee that created it, is to be commended for their difficult work. Bishop Klusmeyer spoke about the huge gap between available funds and the proposed budget so I won’t reiterate any of that. But they worked hard and kept their eye, beneath their eyeshades with abacus at hand, firmly planted on the priorities named and adopted. As a result things like the Millennium Development Goals remain fully funded at 0.7% and domestic poverty in the Americas is also funded at 0.7% through Jubilee Ministries.
A recommendation has been made to reduce the 77th General Convention by 2 days which affords savings across the board as delegates, dioceses and the convention itself realize savings.
The CCABs (Committees, Commissions, Agencies and Boards) that meet between conventions and do the yeoman’s duty on the directives passed at GC have been challenged to make electronic meetings their norm and their travel budgets have been greatly reduced as a result.
Each of these actions, and many many more unnamed, point to the good stewardship and difficult decisions untaken by PB&F. Thanks be to God for their work.
And once more --- please follow the action on the Episcopal News Service, http://ecusa.anglican.org/ens/. Much good work has been accomplished at this 76th General Convention and we are not able to do service to it but the good folks at ESN are doing so. Another good source of timely news is the Episcopal Café, http://www.episcopalcafe.com/ . Actually, Episcopal Café is always a good source of news and posts a reflection every day.
So, I think I may go to the House of Bishops and sit in the visitors gallery. The process they employ is very prayerful and intentional. I witnessed it yesterday and was struck by these aspects amidst their disagreement which was characterized as loving and respectful of one another.
Thanks for electing me as an alternate to this 76th General Convention. I would not have missed it for anything; the experience has been worth the 2 weeks of vacation time it took to be here. I will never forget the people I have met here. I will carry the worship experiences in my heart and the acts of kindness and civilty extended to one and all, across the board. I hope you’ll send me again --
Entering the Home Stretch, from Donald Vinson
We still have a great deal on our agenda here in Anaheim, but the shadow of a certain time for adjournment Friday evening is looming. At end of session yesterday, my committee, now Small Congregations, met briefly to refer all three of our resolutions, which have passed the House of Bishops unscathed, to the Consent Calendar. This means that we consider them non-controversial matters that can be passed in a bundle to save time, disallowing debate on the individual measures. Otherwise, they might never reach the floor of Deputies, and might just die (our resolutions started with the Bishops.) A couple have some particular significance, because they are about the support of the church for Indian missions, including Navajoland, which were created in 1970 to assuage the conscience of the church, but which have never been properly funded. We also created several new dioceses back then that have never been viable financially. Some are teetering on bankruptcy today.
Clearly, the church needs to do a wholesale reconfiguring of diocesan boundaries, particularly in light of the four "departed" dioceses, now populated by a small "remnant," which are not viable on their own anymore. While at it, why not offer others the opportunity to make adjustments that would strengthen them? But that is work to be done for the next GC, not for this one.
The report of PB&F is a grim one. We are just about out of money. Cuts are being made everywhere, and the blood is on the floor. Our task today is not going to be a happy one, I expect.
But there is much to be done. This convention is far from being a one-issue meeting, despite the impression left by the press. By the end of session tomorrow, I will work with fellow Deputies to produce a list of significant actions folks at home might like to hear about.
It will be a long day on 5 hours sleep, as I still wake up on Eastern time.
Clearly, the church needs to do a wholesale reconfiguring of diocesan boundaries, particularly in light of the four "departed" dioceses, now populated by a small "remnant," which are not viable on their own anymore. While at it, why not offer others the opportunity to make adjustments that would strengthen them? But that is work to be done for the next GC, not for this one.
The report of PB&F is a grim one. We are just about out of money. Cuts are being made everywhere, and the blood is on the floor. Our task today is not going to be a happy one, I expect.
But there is much to be done. This convention is far from being a one-issue meeting, despite the impression left by the press. By the end of session tomorrow, I will work with fellow Deputies to produce a list of significant actions folks at home might like to hear about.
It will be a long day on 5 hours sleep, as I still wake up on Eastern time.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
General Convention Impressions
I am pleased to serve as a deputy for our General Convention. This has been a very enlightening experience for me as a young priest full of hope for the Episcopal Church.
First, I have found the legislative process to be quite tedious. There are many here (none in our deputation) who seem to simply enjoy the sound of their voices. These folks regularly stand at the microphones to raise an “important” point that really is of no consequence. Folks such as those previously mentioned offer me the opportunity to pray for grace and patience, to accept them fully for who they are and whose they are. For indeed, we are all children of God seeking to do God’s work.
Regarding Resolution D025, as previously mentioned on our blog and various internet sites, I voted in favor of D025. I believe that D025 is our most faithful and loving way to move forward. That being said, I am prayerful that folks will not think in terms of “winners” and “losers.” It is quite clear from the tenor of of this legislative body that D025 is indeed the way to go; however, there are folks who are greatly pained by the passing of this resolution. I believe it would be fruitful for all involved to pray for one another and the life of our church.
I have enjoyed the collegiality among our deputation and the experience worshipping with marvelous music as well as the visual arts. The preaching has been outstanding. The church deserves excellence. I believe we are to give God our very best whatever event we undertake. As we live in today and expect a glorious future, I am hopeful that we won’t seek mediocracy, but will rather live into excellence with one another.
May we continue to acknowledge God’s blessings in all that we do!
God’s Grace,
Eric L. Miller+
Reflections from Cheryl
Cheryl Winter
First of all, many thanks to Beth for posting this for me – I am here in Anaheim without access to computer or internet.
This is my 5th General Convention. The tenor of this one is very different than in the past. I have sensed a generous spirit even in the midst of disagreement. This has not been at all true in the past, in my experience. I welcome it. It gives me hope for our church as we move into the future to which God has called us.
Other deputies have reported on the crazy daily schedule, the D025 resolution and the glorious worship. Let me tell you about the presence of young people at this convention.
There is the Official Youth Presence. This group is made up of 2 young people from each of the 9 provinces of TEC. They have seat and voice on the floor of the House of Deputies. On each of the resolutions that have brought discussion, members of the Youth Presence have spoken with great skill and passion. They have spoken on both “sides” of the matter being discussed. They have encouraged the “older” church to listen to them and to take them seriously. This representative group gives me hope for the future of the church. And our own Jason Beschinski here as a chaperone to the Youth Presence.
In addition to this official presence there is a significantly larger representation of under the age of 30 deputies than in 2006. They bring a perspective to the official and unofficial discussions about the life of the church, present and future.
Tonight many of us will attend an “emergent church” worship experience provided by the Diocese of Los Angeles. It promises to be an exciting and energizing experience. More on that tomorrow!
Keep praying for us and our church.
First of all, many thanks to Beth for posting this for me – I am here in Anaheim without access to computer or internet.
This is my 5th General Convention. The tenor of this one is very different than in the past. I have sensed a generous spirit even in the midst of disagreement. This has not been at all true in the past, in my experience. I welcome it. It gives me hope for our church as we move into the future to which God has called us.
Other deputies have reported on the crazy daily schedule, the D025 resolution and the glorious worship. Let me tell you about the presence of young people at this convention.
There is the Official Youth Presence. This group is made up of 2 young people from each of the 9 provinces of TEC. They have seat and voice on the floor of the House of Deputies. On each of the resolutions that have brought discussion, members of the Youth Presence have spoken with great skill and passion. They have spoken on both “sides” of the matter being discussed. They have encouraged the “older” church to listen to them and to take them seriously. This representative group gives me hope for the future of the church. And our own Jason Beschinski here as a chaperone to the Youth Presence.
In addition to this official presence there is a significantly larger representation of under the age of 30 deputies than in 2006. They bring a perspective to the official and unofficial discussions about the life of the church, present and future.
Tonight many of us will attend an “emergent church” worship experience provided by the Diocese of Los Angeles. It promises to be an exciting and energizing experience. More on that tomorrow!
Keep praying for us and our church.
Final Text of D 025
FINAL VERSION - Concurred
Resolution: D025
Title: Commitment and Witness to Anglican Communion
Topic: Anglican Communion
Committee: 08 - World Mission
House of Initial Action: Deputies
Proposer: Ms. D. Rebecca Snow
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 76th General Convention reaffirm the continued participation of The Episcopal Church as a constituent member of the Anglican Communion; give thanks for the work of the bishops at the Lambeth Conference of 2008; reaffirm the abiding commitment of The Episcopal Church to the fellowship of churches that constitute the Anglican Communion and seek to live into the highest degree of communion possible; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention encourage dioceses, congregations, and members of The Episcopal Church to participate to the fullest extent possible in the many instruments, networks and relationships of the Anglican Communion; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention reaffirm its financial commitment to the Anglican Communion and pledge to participate fully in the Inter-Anglican Budget; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention affirm the value of "listening to the experience of homosexual persons," as called for by the Lambeth Conferences of 1978, 1988, and 1998, and acknowledge that through our own listening the General Convention has come to recognize that the baptized membership of The Episcopal Church includes same-sex couples living in lifelong committed relationships "characterized by fidelity, monogamy, mutual affection and respect, careful, honest communication, and the holy love which enables those in such relationships to see in each other the image of God" (2000-D039); and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention recognize that gay and lesbian persons who are part of such relationships have responded to God's call and have exercised various ministries in and on behalf of God's One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church and are currently doing so in our midst; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention affirm that God has called and may call such individuals, to any ordained ministry in The Episcopal Church, and that God's call to the ordained ministry in The Episcopal Church is a mystery which the Church attempts to discern for all people through our discernment processes acting in accordance with the Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention acknowledge that members of The Episcopal Church as of the Anglican Communion, based on careful study of the Holy Scriptures, and in light of tradition and reason, are not of one mind, and Christians of good conscience disagree about some of these matters.
EXPLANATION
This resolution provides clarification in light of the Windsor Report (2004) and subsequent discussions in the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion.
The first resolve reaffirms resolution A159 adopted at the 75th General Convention General Convention, in 2006. While much attention has been focused on official statements and resolutions from the primates meetings, Lambeth Conference 2008, and Anglican Consultative Council meetings in 2005 and 2009, our participation in the Anglican Communion consists of a much richer tapestry of ministries and networks as well as personal relationships. Hence the second resolve encourages Episcopalians, individually and in dioceses and parishes, to build relationships with our sisters and brothers around the Anglican Communion by participation in these networks and ministries.
Another sign of the Episcopal Church's commitment to the Anglican Communion is financial. In 2007, The Episcopal Church budgeted $661,000 for the Inter-Anglican budget, which sustains the work of the Anglican Consultative Council and the Anglican Communion offices in London. The 2007 financial report of the Anglican Consultative Council (the latest available on the Anglican Communion website) reports a total income from Inter Anglican Budget contributions as £1,134,745 ($1,864,574.36, using 2009 currency rates). In other words, The Episcopal Church contributes a substantial portion of the Inter Anglican Budget. This resolution reaffirms our financial commitment.
Our relationships in the Anglican Communion have been tested by the question of the ordination to the episcopate of individuals living in a same-sex partnership. Resolution D-039 of the 73rd General Convention, in 2000, acknowledged that the membership of the Episcopal Church includes persons living in same-sex relationships; established an expectation that "such relationships will be characterized by fidelity, monogamy, mutual affection and respect, careful, honest communication, and the holy love which enables those in such relationships to see in each other the image of God"; and further denounced "promiscuity, exploitation, and abusiveness in the relationships of any of our members." Three years later, the 74th General Convention reaffirmed this expectation. These standards thus provide guidance for access to the discernment process for ordination to the episcopate.
The acceptance of the ministry of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons is not settled in The Episcopal Church or in the Anglican Communion. While the church continues to discern God's will in these matters, it is important to remind ourselves that sacramental theology since the time of Augustine of Hippo has affirmed that the validity of sacraments does not depend on the character of the ordained person celebrating those sacraments.
Resolution: D025
Title: Commitment and Witness to Anglican Communion
Topic: Anglican Communion
Committee: 08 - World Mission
House of Initial Action: Deputies
Proposer: Ms. D. Rebecca Snow
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 76th General Convention reaffirm the continued participation of The Episcopal Church as a constituent member of the Anglican Communion; give thanks for the work of the bishops at the Lambeth Conference of 2008; reaffirm the abiding commitment of The Episcopal Church to the fellowship of churches that constitute the Anglican Communion and seek to live into the highest degree of communion possible; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention encourage dioceses, congregations, and members of The Episcopal Church to participate to the fullest extent possible in the many instruments, networks and relationships of the Anglican Communion; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention reaffirm its financial commitment to the Anglican Communion and pledge to participate fully in the Inter-Anglican Budget; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention affirm the value of "listening to the experience of homosexual persons," as called for by the Lambeth Conferences of 1978, 1988, and 1998, and acknowledge that through our own listening the General Convention has come to recognize that the baptized membership of The Episcopal Church includes same-sex couples living in lifelong committed relationships "characterized by fidelity, monogamy, mutual affection and respect, careful, honest communication, and the holy love which enables those in such relationships to see in each other the image of God" (2000-D039); and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention recognize that gay and lesbian persons who are part of such relationships have responded to God's call and have exercised various ministries in and on behalf of God's One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church and are currently doing so in our midst; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention affirm that God has called and may call such individuals, to any ordained ministry in The Episcopal Church, and that God's call to the ordained ministry in The Episcopal Church is a mystery which the Church attempts to discern for all people through our discernment processes acting in accordance with the Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention acknowledge that members of The Episcopal Church as of the Anglican Communion, based on careful study of the Holy Scriptures, and in light of tradition and reason, are not of one mind, and Christians of good conscience disagree about some of these matters.
EXPLANATION
This resolution provides clarification in light of the Windsor Report (2004) and subsequent discussions in the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion.
The first resolve reaffirms resolution A159 adopted at the 75th General Convention General Convention, in 2006. While much attention has been focused on official statements and resolutions from the primates meetings, Lambeth Conference 2008, and Anglican Consultative Council meetings in 2005 and 2009, our participation in the Anglican Communion consists of a much richer tapestry of ministries and networks as well as personal relationships. Hence the second resolve encourages Episcopalians, individually and in dioceses and parishes, to build relationships with our sisters and brothers around the Anglican Communion by participation in these networks and ministries.
Another sign of the Episcopal Church's commitment to the Anglican Communion is financial. In 2007, The Episcopal Church budgeted $661,000 for the Inter-Anglican budget, which sustains the work of the Anglican Consultative Council and the Anglican Communion offices in London. The 2007 financial report of the Anglican Consultative Council (the latest available on the Anglican Communion website) reports a total income from Inter Anglican Budget contributions as £1,134,745 ($1,864,574.36, using 2009 currency rates). In other words, The Episcopal Church contributes a substantial portion of the Inter Anglican Budget. This resolution reaffirms our financial commitment.
Our relationships in the Anglican Communion have been tested by the question of the ordination to the episcopate of individuals living in a same-sex partnership. Resolution D-039 of the 73rd General Convention, in 2000, acknowledged that the membership of the Episcopal Church includes persons living in same-sex relationships; established an expectation that "such relationships will be characterized by fidelity, monogamy, mutual affection and respect, careful, honest communication, and the holy love which enables those in such relationships to see in each other the image of God"; and further denounced "promiscuity, exploitation, and abusiveness in the relationships of any of our members." Three years later, the 74th General Convention reaffirmed this expectation. These standards thus provide guidance for access to the discernment process for ordination to the episcopate.
The acceptance of the ministry of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons is not settled in The Episcopal Church or in the Anglican Communion. While the church continues to discern God's will in these matters, it is important to remind ourselves that sacramental theology since the time of Augustine of Hippo has affirmed that the validity of sacraments does not depend on the character of the ordained person celebrating those sacraments.
Thanks for your Participation
by kevin kelly
Thanks to everyone who's keeping up with us on the blog, on wvmission, and by email. Just so you know, if you email one of us about the blog, we try to share that message with the rest of the deputation. We're really pleased to know that people are following our blog, and we appreciate the feedback we're getting. It really makes us feel connected to the diocese and to the people we're missing out here on the left coast. We're also pleased that we can say our blog is a global one. Well, that might be a bit of a stretch, but we know Zach Drennen is keeping up with us in Kenya, so we figure that counts as global.
One other thing - we're starting to get squeezed by the calendar. Friday is our last day, and we still have much legislation to get through, including a joint session this afternoon with the House of Bishops to hear the presentation from PB&F. That's not a new take on an old sandwich; it's Program, Budget & Finance, and you can guess from the title what they do. I think people are feeling the pressure from the long week behind, the little time left to us, and the amount of work left to accomplish. While it would be a stretch to say that the generous spirit of ubuntu that prevailed earlier in the Convention has been replaced with a less generous spirit, it is true that a certain amount of testiness has entered the tone of some members of the House. I'm happy to say that attitude has not manifested itself among our deputation.
Please keep the Convention in your prayers as we enter the home stretch.
Thanks,
kevin
FROM: Charles (Charlie) Hunsaker
I have been somewhat disappointed to see criticism of votes within the Diocese even before the close of the Convention. I voted in favor of Resolution “Commitment and Witness to Anglican Communion" (D025) based upon my own personal journey of discernment on the matter and my overall view of what is next best for TEC.
I was an am comfortable with my vote.
However, I would never be comfortable criticizing another’s differing vote. Based upon my own analysis and the thorough respectful discussion of the matter within the House of Deputies, I am cognizant of the substantive reasons to vote differently from me. I known my vote may cause additional disunion between TEC and the Anglican Communion. I know that my vote may cause some in TEC, our Diocese and our Parishes additional pain and consternation. I witnessed first hand the loss experienced at my own Parish six years ago when a number of families left. I still miss them.
I urge all in our Diocese to move forward with love and respect. Much work is yet to be done. An environment of personal attack and disrespect will make such work more difficult or impossible to succeed.
I have been somewhat disappointed to see criticism of votes within the Diocese even before the close of the Convention. I voted in favor of Resolution “Commitment and Witness to Anglican Communion" (D025) based upon my own personal journey of discernment on the matter and my overall view of what is next best for TEC.
I was an am comfortable with my vote.
However, I would never be comfortable criticizing another’s differing vote. Based upon my own analysis and the thorough respectful discussion of the matter within the House of Deputies, I am cognizant of the substantive reasons to vote differently from me. I known my vote may cause additional disunion between TEC and the Anglican Communion. I know that my vote may cause some in TEC, our Diocese and our Parishes additional pain and consternation. I witnessed first hand the loss experienced at my own Parish six years ago when a number of families left. I still miss them.
I urge all in our Diocese to move forward with love and respect. Much work is yet to be done. An environment of personal attack and disrespect will make such work more difficult or impossible to succeed.
from Donald Vinson
CLEARING SOME COB-WEBS
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 from Donald Vinson
I hope it might be helpful to some to clear up some apparent misconceptions about activities out here in Anaheim.
ON THE GENERAL CONVENTION SCHEDULE:
For all of us, the schedule is tight. Sessions begin by 9:30 and run until at least 6:00, and there are always evening activities to attend. Just getting meals takes some time. Some of our Deputies are not assigned to committees, but for those who are, meetings take even longer. My committee is “Church in Small Communities,” and one thing we just did was change our name to “Committee for Small Congregations.” We had only three resolutions to deal with, and though a few members yammered heroically to fill the time with off-topic talk to make up for lack of business, we have completed our work. Deputies also have an alternate for each order (Beth Marquart and Richard Heller), and we take turns having a session or day off so that they can have time on the floor of Convention. That gives all of us some much-needed rest, and some time to reflect.
For Bishop Klusmeyer, there are no such mercies. He was assigned to “Program, Budget, and Finance” (“PB&F”), which meets from 7:00 a.m. until well into the night, in addition to the sessions of the House of Bishops. He has no Alternate to give him a break. I am certain he will report thoughtfully to the Diocese once he is able to gather any thoughts, but unlike some bishops on less active committees, he has had no leisure to do that yet.
ON REPORTING OUR DEPUTATION’S VOTES
“Votes by Orders” are a matter of public record and can always be found on a number of internet sites. However, our Deputies are committed to openness about our work, and have never declined any request for such information, despite implications to the contrary. If anyone asks us how we voted, we answer, to the best of our ability (things are flying by fast!) If reports on this blog are delayed a day or so, that is because we were busy working.
ON BISHOP AND DEPUTIES
In this I speak for myself only. Yesterday, I voted with the entire Deputation, clergy and lay, to affirm D 025 as it was amended by the House of Bishops, which resulted in its final enactment. (The text will be posted separately.) While I know there will be repercussions to that act in the United States and abroad, I would submit that we have already been feeling similar quakes and would be anyway, no matter what we did on that particular question. B 033 from 2006 did not spare us schism—it happened anyway. I am comfortable with my decision, and I believe the resolution was as amicably and non-aggressively worded as it could be, while still affirming the structural independence and moral imperative of our church.
I am told that Bishop Klusmeyer chose to vote differently in the House of Bishops, and I am comfortable with his decision, too. Since my election as Deputy, I have joined the Bishop’s staff, so he is now my boss. He has never, at any time, suggested or implied to me or, to my knowledge, to any other Deputy, that we ought to vote a particular way on any matter before the House of Deputies, or that our vote should ever conform to his. He has treated us all, as far as I can tell, with respect, affection, and generosity of spirit.
On this one matter, we have a difference of opinion, and it is an important one. However, to imply that Bishop Klusmeyer’s decision has been made thoughtlessly, carelessly, or immorally is presumptuous and unfair. I am honored to serve with a Deputation in which there is such a bond of friendship, mutual respect, and trust. I can testify to the Diocese at large that this Deputation does know how to agree and disagree without being disagreeable with one another.
ON CIVIL DISCOURSE
I do understand the disappointment of some that all of their leaders do not unanimously subscribe to their own convictions (though personally, I cannot remember that ever happening to me.) However, I would submit that even those of us who believe we have achieved perfect moral clarity should remember that even we have not always been so crystal clear in our own rightness, and should allow space for others to grow and evolve in their views as we have done. At the very least, aggressive provocation is a bad tactic and usually produces results opposite to those espoused. Beyond that, though, we owe to our brothers and sisters, who are traveling the same pilgrim road as we are, the respect and civil regard due to all people of good will. I am not asking anyone to agree falsely: I am asking that we express our disagreement without personal rancor and derogation.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 from Donald Vinson
I hope it might be helpful to some to clear up some apparent misconceptions about activities out here in Anaheim.
ON THE GENERAL CONVENTION SCHEDULE:
For all of us, the schedule is tight. Sessions begin by 9:30 and run until at least 6:00, and there are always evening activities to attend. Just getting meals takes some time. Some of our Deputies are not assigned to committees, but for those who are, meetings take even longer. My committee is “Church in Small Communities,” and one thing we just did was change our name to “Committee for Small Congregations.” We had only three resolutions to deal with, and though a few members yammered heroically to fill the time with off-topic talk to make up for lack of business, we have completed our work. Deputies also have an alternate for each order (Beth Marquart and Richard Heller), and we take turns having a session or day off so that they can have time on the floor of Convention. That gives all of us some much-needed rest, and some time to reflect.
For Bishop Klusmeyer, there are no such mercies. He was assigned to “Program, Budget, and Finance” (“PB&F”), which meets from 7:00 a.m. until well into the night, in addition to the sessions of the House of Bishops. He has no Alternate to give him a break. I am certain he will report thoughtfully to the Diocese once he is able to gather any thoughts, but unlike some bishops on less active committees, he has had no leisure to do that yet.
ON REPORTING OUR DEPUTATION’S VOTES
“Votes by Orders” are a matter of public record and can always be found on a number of internet sites. However, our Deputies are committed to openness about our work, and have never declined any request for such information, despite implications to the contrary. If anyone asks us how we voted, we answer, to the best of our ability (things are flying by fast!) If reports on this blog are delayed a day or so, that is because we were busy working.
ON BISHOP AND DEPUTIES
In this I speak for myself only. Yesterday, I voted with the entire Deputation, clergy and lay, to affirm D 025 as it was amended by the House of Bishops, which resulted in its final enactment. (The text will be posted separately.) While I know there will be repercussions to that act in the United States and abroad, I would submit that we have already been feeling similar quakes and would be anyway, no matter what we did on that particular question. B 033 from 2006 did not spare us schism—it happened anyway. I am comfortable with my decision, and I believe the resolution was as amicably and non-aggressively worded as it could be, while still affirming the structural independence and moral imperative of our church.
I am told that Bishop Klusmeyer chose to vote differently in the House of Bishops, and I am comfortable with his decision, too. Since my election as Deputy, I have joined the Bishop’s staff, so he is now my boss. He has never, at any time, suggested or implied to me or, to my knowledge, to any other Deputy, that we ought to vote a particular way on any matter before the House of Deputies, or that our vote should ever conform to his. He has treated us all, as far as I can tell, with respect, affection, and generosity of spirit.
On this one matter, we have a difference of opinion, and it is an important one. However, to imply that Bishop Klusmeyer’s decision has been made thoughtlessly, carelessly, or immorally is presumptuous and unfair. I am honored to serve with a Deputation in which there is such a bond of friendship, mutual respect, and trust. I can testify to the Diocese at large that this Deputation does know how to agree and disagree without being disagreeable with one another.
ON CIVIL DISCOURSE
I do understand the disappointment of some that all of their leaders do not unanimously subscribe to their own convictions (though personally, I cannot remember that ever happening to me.) However, I would submit that even those of us who believe we have achieved perfect moral clarity should remember that even we have not always been so crystal clear in our own rightness, and should allow space for others to grow and evolve in their views as we have done. At the very least, aggressive provocation is a bad tactic and usually produces results opposite to those espoused. Beyond that, though, we owe to our brothers and sisters, who are traveling the same pilgrim road as we are, the respect and civil regard due to all people of good will. I am not asking anyone to agree falsely: I am asking that we express our disagreement without personal rancor and derogation.
On one hand....
Beth Marquart
Some of you have emailed about what D025 is and does in relation to B033, which was passed at the 2006 GC. A careful – or even a casual - read of D025 indicates that B033 has not been overturned and so on one hand we have a call for restraint and on the other agreement that God calls those whom God calls.
I’m also hearing from some of you about the abundance of response to our action from across the Anglican Communion and in the secular press as well. Some of what I’ve read is pretty accurate, other reports are way over the top and still others so restrained as to offer no insight. But, one of my favorites may be found here: http://www.sevenwholedays.org/2009/07/14/when-tom-wright-gets-it-totally-wrong/ as it pretty much reflects my understanding of our actions and where we are while responding to Bp. Tom Wright’s over-the-top op-ed in the London Times.
The only thing I can report for sure is this: I am the Anglican Communion. I am very comfortable with the action we took. I believe the Spirit of God was among us, encouraging us, loving us, enveloping us all in a spirit of grace, compassion and understanding regardless of how we voted. I pray that this spirit remains with us as we work through what this action means to our GLBT brothers and sisters, the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion. I pray for healing from the pain this action has caused some of our sisters and brothers.
We’ve passed and denied many other resolutions as well! Too many for this small space, but do keep track http://ecusa.anglican.org/ens/
Some of you have emailed about what D025 is and does in relation to B033, which was passed at the 2006 GC. A careful – or even a casual - read of D025 indicates that B033 has not been overturned and so on one hand we have a call for restraint and on the other agreement that God calls those whom God calls.
I’m also hearing from some of you about the abundance of response to our action from across the Anglican Communion and in the secular press as well. Some of what I’ve read is pretty accurate, other reports are way over the top and still others so restrained as to offer no insight. But, one of my favorites may be found here: http://www.sevenwholedays.org/2009/07/14/when-tom-wright-gets-it-totally-wrong/ as it pretty much reflects my understanding of our actions and where we are while responding to Bp. Tom Wright’s over-the-top op-ed in the London Times.
The only thing I can report for sure is this: I am the Anglican Communion. I am very comfortable with the action we took. I believe the Spirit of God was among us, encouraging us, loving us, enveloping us all in a spirit of grace, compassion and understanding regardless of how we voted. I pray that this spirit remains with us as we work through what this action means to our GLBT brothers and sisters, the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion. I pray for healing from the pain this action has caused some of our sisters and brothers.
We’ve passed and denied many other resolutions as well! Too many for this small space, but do keep track http://ecusa.anglican.org/ens/
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
PS: Resolution D025
Beth Marquart
And this afternoon we voted on D025 as amended by the House of Bishops. Again the vote was by orders, as follows:
Beth Marquart (in place of Debbie Short) - Yes
Charles Hunsaker - Yes
Amy Seitz - Yes
Sissy Poland - Yes
Cheryl Winter - Yes
Richard Heller (in place of Kevin Kelly) - Yes
Eric Miller - Yes
Donald Vinson - Yes
Debbie Short was off the floor this afternoon so I replaced her.
I was struck during the Committee of the Whole, and again as D025 was debated, by how respectful and attentive everyone has been of one another regardless of their position on this topic. I have also been struck by how articulate everyone is - but then again a whole lotta these folks are preachers and several more are lawyers - and then combine these two..... :)
And this afternoon we voted on D025 as amended by the House of Bishops. Again the vote was by orders, as follows:
Beth Marquart (in place of Debbie Short) - Yes
Charles Hunsaker - Yes
Amy Seitz - Yes
Sissy Poland - Yes
Cheryl Winter - Yes
Richard Heller (in place of Kevin Kelly) - Yes
Eric Miller - Yes
Donald Vinson - Yes
Debbie Short was off the floor this afternoon so I replaced her.
I was struck during the Committee of the Whole, and again as D025 was debated, by how respectful and attentive everyone has been of one another regardless of their position on this topic. I have also been struck by how articulate everyone is - but then again a whole lotta these folks are preachers and several more are lawyers - and then combine these two..... :)
Resolution D025
by kevin kelly
I sent this out to wvmission but thought i'd put it here as well.
I am taking today's sessions off, and Richard Heller is sitting in my place in the House of Deputies. In response to some questions about our deputation's vote on D025, i checked with Debbie, our Chair, who discussed the question with the rest of our deputation. They all agreed to let people know how we voted. It was a vote by orders, which means it's public record. The vote was as follows:
Debbie Short - Yes
Charles Hunsaker - Yes
Amy Seitz - No
Sissy Poland - Yes
Cheryl Winter - Yes
Kevin Kelly - Yes
Eric Miller - Yes
Richard Heller (In place of Donald Vinson) - Yes
Donald said to let you know that though he was not on the floor during that session, he would have voted in the affirmative. It was approved by greater than a 2 to 1 margin in both orders.
The House of Bishops approved it yesterday, with an amendment. I think their vote was 99-45, with 2 abstentions. At least, that's the report from episcopalcafe.com. Abstentions are not allowed in the House of Deputies, by the way. From what i understand of the amendment, i expect it to pass easily in the HoD.
You can find the text of the resolutions, along with a whole lot of commentary on what they mean just by googling "D025 general convention." There's a lot of debate about whether or not this overturns B033 from 2006. I'll leave that for you to decide. If you look at the two of them together, though, B033 and D025, i think you get a good sense of where our Church is at the moment.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Private and Public
by kevin kelly
In the Episcopal Church, we put a lot of stock into the idea of corporate worship. We have the Book of Common Prayer; one person cannot celebrate the Eucharist alone; we even prefer to make a confession with our congregation on Sunday morning rather than privately with a priest. Be that as it may, we do have a personal experiences even in the midst of a corporate celebration, experiences that, though private, are all the more powerful because they take place in the midst of our community. I'd like to share with you one such moment i had at the Sunday Eucharist at General Convention.
Many of you know by now that i was in an automobile accident four weeks ago. Two weeks ago i learned that as a result of that accident, i have a broken neck. I'm in a cervical collar and hopefully will heal okay. We'll have to see what the neurosurgeon says in another month or so. While i'm thankful that i wasn't injured worse than i am and that i have access to treatment, the collar is difficult, and most days i'm in pain. Some days are better; some are worse.
For several days leading up to Convention, i had been hoping that i might have the chance to ask our Presiding Bishop if she would lay hands on me for healing. I figured it was unlikely i would ever again be in a situation where i would have both the need and the opportunity to ask her to do so. I don't know her, though, and for the first few days, i never had a chance to speak to her. I did run into an old friend of mine from my Diocese of Georgia days, Stacy Sauls, who is now the Bishop of Lexington. I told him my situation and asked if he would speak to Bishop Jefferts Schori to me. I sent me a message later that it was arranged, that she wanted to do it before the service on Sunday. In the meantime, i had signed up to serve as a Eucharistic minister for that service.
About 9:30 that morning (the service would start at 10), Bishop Sauls had me meet him just to the side of the dais on which the altar sits. He led behind the heavy curtain behind the platform, where Bishop Jefferts Schori was waiting. Despite the noise and bright lights on the other side of the curtain, it was quiet and dimly light where the three of us stood. I thanked the Presiding Bishop for doing this for me and asked if i could explain why this was so important to me.
I told her about growing up in the deep South, about the prejudices i carried with me when i went to seminary. When i went in 1991, i was then convinced that neither women nor gay people could possibly be priests in the Church, although most people, i suspect, i had no idea i felt that way. Midway through that year, though, i realized that of the seventy-some people in my class, if i were to choose someone to be my priest, i could think of three. Two were women; the third was gay. I clearly had some re-thinking to do. I went on to tell her that in 2006, after she was elected Presiding Bishop, the thing that made me the happiest was remembering that we pray for our Presiding Bishop by name every Sunday. That means that for the first nine years of her life, my daughter Kate (whose full name is Kathryn) would hear us praying for the Presiding Bishop of our Church who had the same name. She would never know a time in her Church when any office, any position would be unavailable to her.
I told Bishop Jefferts Schori that i knew her position within the Anglican Communion sometime had to be discouraging when she ran up against prejudices and attitudes like the ones i used to carry with me. I told her that if there was hope for me to change, there was hope for anyone. She smiled and hugged me, then took my hand and Bishop Sauls hand and asked if we could pray together. I think it surprised Stacy to be included, but it pleased me greatly. He had spent enough time to know what it was like there, and as the father of two adopted Chinese children, had encountered prejudice i can only imagine.
After this private moment, i returned to the hall for Eucharist. Donald and Beth have already written about that service, so i won't repeat what they said, except to say it truly was glorious. As i mentioned before, i was serving as a Eucharistic minister. Initially, i was stationed at the back, but about halfway through the ministration of communion, my group was moved up to the front to help. I spent the next few minutes giving Holy Communion to a whole slew of vested bishops, to deacons, and to lay people, one of whom came up with her leader dog. The fullness of those two events - the private one behind the altar and the public one in the midst of a complete expression of the ministers of the Church - was exquisitely beautiful. It was a powerful sign of the particular grace found in the manner of our worship.
That Eucharist was an experience i will never forget and frankly one i find it hard to write about. It is difficult to articulate just how extraordinary it was, and i am deeply grateful to have been here. My encounters with God, mediated through the people and the sacraments of the Episcopal Church, continue to have a profound transformational effect on me. I am pleased to know that God isn't through with me yet.
Resolution D025....
Beth Marquart
Halleluiah!
Today, the House of Bishops voted for Resolution D025 which states that "God has called and may call" to ministry gays in committed lifelong relationships. During Sunday’s legislative session the House of Delegates approved a similar statement and are expected to adopt the version the House of Bishops passed before the end of General Convention.
For more information check out the Episcopal News Service, http://ecusa.anglican.org/ens/
Halleluiah!
Today, the House of Bishops voted for Resolution D025 which states that "God has called and may call" to ministry gays in committed lifelong relationships. During Sunday’s legislative session the House of Delegates approved a similar statement and are expected to adopt the version the House of Bishops passed before the end of General Convention.
For more information check out the Episcopal News Service, http://ecusa.anglican.org/ens/
All God's Children Got a Seat in the Choir
Beth Marquart
I just read Donald's post about the Eucharist's and echo all that he has said. The worship is varied and wonderful and amazing and Christ centered.
I have been singing with the choir at most of the Holy Eucharist's. And it has been an amazing experience. The way it works is there is always the ‘core’ choir made up of members of the Bishop’s Choir of the St. John’s Cathedral in LA.
Then most days there is also another choir – one day the Children’s Choir of the Diocese of LA sang, another was those of Spanish-speaking descent, another the Episcopal Gospel Choir.
And then there are those, like me, who belong to the ‘pick up’ choir. We come running in 10 minutes before the Eucharist is scheduled to begin, find a seat and sing the melody line of whatever the other choirs are doing or we clap and sway in time as best we are able.
Yesterday a monk from Eastern Washington turned around and complimented me on my ability to enunciate my ending consonants so precisely and somehow we got talking about the Yankees being in town and his preference for the Mariners….but, I digress.
Here are the things I’ve gained from singing in the choir, along with the other of God’s children:
- The choir always has great seats and this is no different. We have a wonderful view of the altar, the lectors and preachers. Yesterday we saw dancers, bearing jewel-toned flags, surround the altar. We also heard the Korean Children’s Drum Corp drum the Bishops into the worship space and watched Presiding Bishops Browning, Griswald and Jefferts-Shori take their places behind the altar.
- The variety of musical expression reminds me, as a classically trained musician, that music well done is, well, music well done! We went from full out gospel to a traditional hymn back-to-back and it was good.
- I’ve met people from all over the country and beyond.
- I am contributing the Celebration of the Holy Eucharist in a way that comforts me.
Amen, Amen
I just read Donald's post about the Eucharist's and echo all that he has said. The worship is varied and wonderful and amazing and Christ centered.
I have been singing with the choir at most of the Holy Eucharist's. And it has been an amazing experience. The way it works is there is always the ‘core’ choir made up of members of the Bishop’s Choir of the St. John’s Cathedral in LA.
Then most days there is also another choir – one day the Children’s Choir of the Diocese of LA sang, another was those of Spanish-speaking descent, another the Episcopal Gospel Choir.
And then there are those, like me, who belong to the ‘pick up’ choir. We come running in 10 minutes before the Eucharist is scheduled to begin, find a seat and sing the melody line of whatever the other choirs are doing or we clap and sway in time as best we are able.
Yesterday a monk from Eastern Washington turned around and complimented me on my ability to enunciate my ending consonants so precisely and somehow we got talking about the Yankees being in town and his preference for the Mariners….but, I digress.
Here are the things I’ve gained from singing in the choir, along with the other of God’s children:
- The choir always has great seats and this is no different. We have a wonderful view of the altar, the lectors and preachers. Yesterday we saw dancers, bearing jewel-toned flags, surround the altar. We also heard the Korean Children’s Drum Corp drum the Bishops into the worship space and watched Presiding Bishops Browning, Griswald and Jefferts-Shori take their places behind the altar.
- The variety of musical expression reminds me, as a classically trained musician, that music well done is, well, music well done! We went from full out gospel to a traditional hymn back-to-back and it was good.
- I’ve met people from all over the country and beyond.
- I am contributing the Celebration of the Holy Eucharist in a way that comforts me.
Amen, Amen
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Awesome Worship, from Donald Vinson
AWESOME SUNDAY EUCHARIST
I’d be very disappointed if worship at General Convention were NOT superb. And I’d be disappointed if we did NOT have a fabulous processional, since that seems to be what we do naturally. But what we had here in Anaheim would have knocked my socks off, had I worn any. It was awesome.
The convention choir starts singing 10 or 15 minutes prior to the Eucharist, so the mood is building as the people enter. Today, the tables were gone and the seats were in rows, accommodating more thousands. The procession was punctuated in segments by streamer-bearers holding very long, flexible poles topped with long, colorful ribbon streamers. There was a troupe of dancers waving shimmering, translucent flags in tropical blue and green, which they whirled in sync. At the end of the first processional hymn, there was an outburst of drumming and cymbals from a Chinese drum ensemble. These young people led the next section of the procession, followed by a second processional hymn with all the bishops of the church in rochet and chimere—quite a spectacle. Then more streamers and the United Thank Offering women in procession. Finally, the Presiders, Katherine Jefferts-Schori with the two previous presiding bishops, Frank Griswold (whom Linda and I had just reminisced over Mike’s ordination with on the elevator) and Edmund Browning. The flag troupe was dancing on the dais as they arrived in their midst.
People who know me might think I would be retching in the aisle—but no, not at all. I was mesmerized. In such a large space, with so many people gathered, everything has to be over-the-top in order to work at all.
We’ve had wonderful preaching all along. Ray Suarez of PBS McNeil Lehrer Report yesterday, Katherine today. (Our own Frank Brookhart was co-presider yesterday). Today, there was more music in total, and more of it was of a traditional nature. Traditionalists take heart: the choral offertory anthem was Mozart, in Latin no less, beautifully sung (Ave Verum Corpus). But there was excellent Black Gospel, too, and the service music was from Lift Every Voice and Sing and Wonder, Love, and Praise—and I liked all of it! the Psalm has been done a bit differently each time, but all are easy to catch onto, and very effective. Some use cantors (excellent) and some are sung by the whole congregation. The choir includes some superb soloists, too. Elizabeth von Trapp sang today, and will offer a free concert tonight, which we plan to attend.
In this setting, people applaud. I know, church ladies and gentlemen, it is appalling, in church. But you just have to. Somehow it seems right for the occasion.
In the communion line, I met my old friend Ron DelBene, whom I haven’t seen for 2 decades. He hasn’t changed a bit, and it was great having a hug right there at the table of the Lord.
Recessing out was similar, in reverse, with applause for the 3 PB’s as they passed. I don’t know if folks back home realize this, but Katherine Jefferts-Schori is virtually venerated here at General Convention, and that probably means around the church as well. I’ve never seen the like of it. What her position means to women in the church, and many men as well, can scarcely be exaggerated.
Speaking of veneration, at Integrity Mass, I witnessed a custom apparently common in some places, but new to me: the Gospel Book, carried in this case by a woman bishop, I believe, is held aloft, but “showed” to the people on either side of the aisle. Sometimes, those who can reach out to touch it briefly as it passes, to indicate their reverence for the Word. What might be kind of schmaltzy in some settings is moving and meaningful in these large gatherings of the faithful.
In sum, Sunday Eucharist was explosive stuff. Souls were saved. Lives were committed to Christ. The devil was beaten back. All with no altar call.
I’d be very disappointed if worship at General Convention were NOT superb. And I’d be disappointed if we did NOT have a fabulous processional, since that seems to be what we do naturally. But what we had here in Anaheim would have knocked my socks off, had I worn any. It was awesome.
The convention choir starts singing 10 or 15 minutes prior to the Eucharist, so the mood is building as the people enter. Today, the tables were gone and the seats were in rows, accommodating more thousands. The procession was punctuated in segments by streamer-bearers holding very long, flexible poles topped with long, colorful ribbon streamers. There was a troupe of dancers waving shimmering, translucent flags in tropical blue and green, which they whirled in sync. At the end of the first processional hymn, there was an outburst of drumming and cymbals from a Chinese drum ensemble. These young people led the next section of the procession, followed by a second processional hymn with all the bishops of the church in rochet and chimere—quite a spectacle. Then more streamers and the United Thank Offering women in procession. Finally, the Presiders, Katherine Jefferts-Schori with the two previous presiding bishops, Frank Griswold (whom Linda and I had just reminisced over Mike’s ordination with on the elevator) and Edmund Browning. The flag troupe was dancing on the dais as they arrived in their midst.
People who know me might think I would be retching in the aisle—but no, not at all. I was mesmerized. In such a large space, with so many people gathered, everything has to be over-the-top in order to work at all.
We’ve had wonderful preaching all along. Ray Suarez of PBS McNeil Lehrer Report yesterday, Katherine today. (Our own Frank Brookhart was co-presider yesterday). Today, there was more music in total, and more of it was of a traditional nature. Traditionalists take heart: the choral offertory anthem was Mozart, in Latin no less, beautifully sung (Ave Verum Corpus). But there was excellent Black Gospel, too, and the service music was from Lift Every Voice and Sing and Wonder, Love, and Praise—and I liked all of it! the Psalm has been done a bit differently each time, but all are easy to catch onto, and very effective. Some use cantors (excellent) and some are sung by the whole congregation. The choir includes some superb soloists, too. Elizabeth von Trapp sang today, and will offer a free concert tonight, which we plan to attend.
In this setting, people applaud. I know, church ladies and gentlemen, it is appalling, in church. But you just have to. Somehow it seems right for the occasion.
In the communion line, I met my old friend Ron DelBene, whom I haven’t seen for 2 decades. He hasn’t changed a bit, and it was great having a hug right there at the table of the Lord.
Recessing out was similar, in reverse, with applause for the 3 PB’s as they passed. I don’t know if folks back home realize this, but Katherine Jefferts-Schori is virtually venerated here at General Convention, and that probably means around the church as well. I’ve never seen the like of it. What her position means to women in the church, and many men as well, can scarcely be exaggerated.
Speaking of veneration, at Integrity Mass, I witnessed a custom apparently common in some places, but new to me: the Gospel Book, carried in this case by a woman bishop, I believe, is held aloft, but “showed” to the people on either side of the aisle. Sometimes, those who can reach out to touch it briefly as it passes, to indicate their reverence for the Word. What might be kind of schmaltzy in some settings is moving and meaningful in these large gatherings of the faithful.
In sum, Sunday Eucharist was explosive stuff. Souls were saved. Lives were committed to Christ. The devil was beaten back. All with no altar call.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
We Are Too Timid, from Donald Vinson
WE ARE TOO TIMID
One of my favorite aspects of General Convention is daily Eucharist. On their own, they are worth coming for.
In TEC, we don’t have many mega-churches. Most of us say we are content with that. We wouldn’t go to one anyway, we say. Give us small to middlin’ “family” style congregations where everyone knows everyone and “you are missed when you don’t attend.” I may have said that myself at some point.
General Convention Eucharists have a couple of thousand in attendance. They are held in great convention halls, with the people at round tables. The Eucharistic Ministers alone make a procession larger than most of our West Virginia congregations. Printed worship booklets are provided with texts and music. Sometimes (gasp) hymn lyrics are projected onto large screens; otherwise, artwork is projected. Sound and light systems are crucial.
Because even as TEC, we are an international and certainly and multi-cultural church, scripture readings are sometimes in Spanish or even an Indian language. Music selections range from ancient chant to traditional hymnody to Gospel, to African, South American, Indian, and contemporary-style hymns and service music selections. Sometimes, they are in their original languages, with English translation provided. They tend to be simple, tuneful, and upbeat. Accompaniment is top-notch, but there is no pipe organ—we’re talking electronic keyboard, drums and such here. We do have a volunteer Convention choir, which is magnificent.
At the Integrity Eucharist, the sanctuary was raised in the center of the room, and there were no projection screens. There were large, colorful pavement candles at the four corners and a huge copper bowl on the altar for the blessing over the water: we did the renewal of baptismal vows, and there was a long and boisterous procession around the room, framed in colorful streamers, as Bishop Robinson blessed the people with the holy water. The special choir there was fabulous, but what they sang was not Mozart! It was a beautiful and complex African hymn.
I guess what I am saying is that, if this is mega-church, lay it on me. As long as I have a few small groups to participate in (study, ministry, fellowship, etc.) where I would know people well and be known, it doesn’t matter to me that I don’t know everyone present for worship. In fact, there is something to be said for worship as a large-scale community experience. Something miraculous happens in the singing, in the preaching, and particularly in the Communion line. God definitely shows up.
I’m also noting that this worship experience, while it does contain many elements ancient and traditional, has a thoroughly contemporary feeling about it. It is not a remembrance of what church historically has been: it is and experience of worship now. It is fresh, creative, joyful, colorful, uplifting, inspiring, comforting, and challenging all at once.
In our home congregations, we sometimes take a dab or a swipe at modernity and congratulate ourselves on how innovative we are. I am convinced we are far too timid. To get the effect we would desire (presenting the hope of the Gospel to more and different people), we need to pull out the stops and do the hard work necessary to produce meaningful and truly innovative liturgies for people today.
At the heart of it, we are afraid. We feel threatened and fragile, a diminished and endangered fragment of our former status (which was never all that great, proportionally speaking). But we are so afraid of losing what we still have that we lack the courage to reach boldly for the rich harvest that I believe God is calling us to gather—people who don’t look like, act like, or think like the people who have been Episcopalians in the past.
Our church, especially in dioceses like West Virginia, is elderly and dying all around us, right now. We are going to lose what we have been, no matter what we do. Why can’t we get out of the confines of that leaky old boat, and play in the water with Jesus?
One of my favorite aspects of General Convention is daily Eucharist. On their own, they are worth coming for.
In TEC, we don’t have many mega-churches. Most of us say we are content with that. We wouldn’t go to one anyway, we say. Give us small to middlin’ “family” style congregations where everyone knows everyone and “you are missed when you don’t attend.” I may have said that myself at some point.
General Convention Eucharists have a couple of thousand in attendance. They are held in great convention halls, with the people at round tables. The Eucharistic Ministers alone make a procession larger than most of our West Virginia congregations. Printed worship booklets are provided with texts and music. Sometimes (gasp) hymn lyrics are projected onto large screens; otherwise, artwork is projected. Sound and light systems are crucial.
Because even as TEC, we are an international and certainly and multi-cultural church, scripture readings are sometimes in Spanish or even an Indian language. Music selections range from ancient chant to traditional hymnody to Gospel, to African, South American, Indian, and contemporary-style hymns and service music selections. Sometimes, they are in their original languages, with English translation provided. They tend to be simple, tuneful, and upbeat. Accompaniment is top-notch, but there is no pipe organ—we’re talking electronic keyboard, drums and such here. We do have a volunteer Convention choir, which is magnificent.
At the Integrity Eucharist, the sanctuary was raised in the center of the room, and there were no projection screens. There were large, colorful pavement candles at the four corners and a huge copper bowl on the altar for the blessing over the water: we did the renewal of baptismal vows, and there was a long and boisterous procession around the room, framed in colorful streamers, as Bishop Robinson blessed the people with the holy water. The special choir there was fabulous, but what they sang was not Mozart! It was a beautiful and complex African hymn.
I guess what I am saying is that, if this is mega-church, lay it on me. As long as I have a few small groups to participate in (study, ministry, fellowship, etc.) where I would know people well and be known, it doesn’t matter to me that I don’t know everyone present for worship. In fact, there is something to be said for worship as a large-scale community experience. Something miraculous happens in the singing, in the preaching, and particularly in the Communion line. God definitely shows up.
I’m also noting that this worship experience, while it does contain many elements ancient and traditional, has a thoroughly contemporary feeling about it. It is not a remembrance of what church historically has been: it is and experience of worship now. It is fresh, creative, joyful, colorful, uplifting, inspiring, comforting, and challenging all at once.
In our home congregations, we sometimes take a dab or a swipe at modernity and congratulate ourselves on how innovative we are. I am convinced we are far too timid. To get the effect we would desire (presenting the hope of the Gospel to more and different people), we need to pull out the stops and do the hard work necessary to produce meaningful and truly innovative liturgies for people today.
At the heart of it, we are afraid. We feel threatened and fragile, a diminished and endangered fragment of our former status (which was never all that great, proportionally speaking). But we are so afraid of losing what we still have that we lack the courage to reach boldly for the rich harvest that I believe God is calling us to gather—people who don’t look like, act like, or think like the people who have been Episcopalians in the past.
Our church, especially in dioceses like West Virginia, is elderly and dying all around us, right now. We are going to lose what we have been, no matter what we do. Why can’t we get out of the confines of that leaky old boat, and play in the water with Jesus?
integrity
Beth Marquart
“How can you initiate someone and then treat them like they are half-asses baptized?” Bishop Barbara Harris, Integrity Eucharist July 9, 2009
Bp Harris said is so much more clearly and wittily and with cleverly, sharply honed edges but my question - who the hell do we think we are to deny another human, another person, full participation in the life of the church - is the crossroad I have come to after yesterday.
I was seated in the House of Deputies the past 2 days and will be again today. Yesterday, the House of Deputies Committee of the Whole convened and we listened to 27 people tell their stories in relation to B033. Nineteen spoke to modifying or rejecting it, the remaining 8 spoke to the need to preserve it. The speakers were selected randomly through a lottery system; those with the lowest numbers were allowed to speak. My number was not among the lowest numbers and so I listened, puzzling over how people of God could possibly give up – sacrifice – one group of people in order to remain in relationship with another. I know, I know – allowing the Presiding Bishop…Lambeth….buying time….scism…. and my question, “Who the hell do we think we are….” was formed.
And it was informed and re-informed during the Integrity Eucharist last evening. There were 1200 people – joyful people – in that room and each moment of the Eucharist was holier than the last. I do not have words to describe my sense of joy, how welcomed we were, my sense of hope, the music – from African call and response to Jesus Loves Me - this was church. This is the church to which I wish to belong. The one where you and me and everyone else is truly welcome because of who we are, not who we aren’t. This is the Episcopal Church.
I pray that I’m seated in the House of Deputies when the resolution in response to B033 comes to the floor so that I can cast my vote to reject B033 and welcome all to the table in full participation. That is full participation because I echo Bp Harris’ question: how can you initiate someone and then treat them like they are half-asses baptized…
“How can you initiate someone and then treat them like they are half-asses baptized?” Bishop Barbara Harris, Integrity Eucharist July 9, 2009
Bp Harris said is so much more clearly and wittily and with cleverly, sharply honed edges but my question - who the hell do we think we are to deny another human, another person, full participation in the life of the church - is the crossroad I have come to after yesterday.
I was seated in the House of Deputies the past 2 days and will be again today. Yesterday, the House of Deputies Committee of the Whole convened and we listened to 27 people tell their stories in relation to B033. Nineteen spoke to modifying or rejecting it, the remaining 8 spoke to the need to preserve it. The speakers were selected randomly through a lottery system; those with the lowest numbers were allowed to speak. My number was not among the lowest numbers and so I listened, puzzling over how people of God could possibly give up – sacrifice – one group of people in order to remain in relationship with another. I know, I know – allowing the Presiding Bishop…Lambeth….buying time….scism…. and my question, “Who the hell do we think we are….” was formed.
And it was informed and re-informed during the Integrity Eucharist last evening. There were 1200 people – joyful people – in that room and each moment of the Eucharist was holier than the last. I do not have words to describe my sense of joy, how welcomed we were, my sense of hope, the music – from African call and response to Jesus Loves Me - this was church. This is the church to which I wish to belong. The one where you and me and everyone else is truly welcome because of who we are, not who we aren’t. This is the Episcopal Church.
I pray that I’m seated in the House of Deputies when the resolution in response to B033 comes to the floor so that I can cast my vote to reject B033 and welcome all to the table in full participation. That is full participation because I echo Bp Harris’ question: how can you initiate someone and then treat them like they are half-asses baptized…
Friday, July 10, 2009
General Convention Day Three
GENERAL CONVENTION OBSERVATIONS, DAY THREE
HAVING A GREAT TIME—WISH YOU WERE HERE
We’re at a brief moment right now of proceeding quickly through a multitude of little resolutions that have to do with rules and order, but nothing yet of any real substance. Maybe this is a good day to reflect upon some of the things I’m liking about the way this General Convention is going.
• Anaheim is an excellent place to have a General Convention, even in the shadow of Disneyland. The Marriott is bright and comfortable. The Hilton, where committees are meeting, it just across the street. The Convention Center, where sessions, worship, and exhibitors are located, is next door, or at the end of the street.
• We’re actually using our hospitality room this year, because it is comfortably arranged as a gathering place. From our perch on the 17th floor of the Marriott, we can watch the nightly fireworks show at Disney and wind down after busy days.
• Our exercises on personal story-telling are better than expected. Phyllis, our “coach” from Southwest Virginia, is a nice younger priest doing a good job. We did actually use the practice with strangers yesterday in session, and I think it was positive.
• Worship is a high point, as expected. More on that separately later.
• Having the Archbishop of Canterbury present for a couple of days has been a treat.
• We are suspending our rules of order to have some periods of open dialogue on some of the more contentious issues we face, instead of formal debate. That is going to be much less tense, and I hope, more helpful to us.
• A group of us rode out to a Thai restaurant last night and had a non-hotel meal, for a nice break. We now have our own taxi driver (with van, no less) to call directly whenever we want to go someplace.
One of the things I enjoy about Convention is the Exhibitors’ Hall. It is open only when I cannot go there. Go figure.
I was complaining earlier about the removal of my Committee’s resolution from the Deputies’ calendar. I found out later it was just due to an error—it was supposed to have been sent to the Bishops first, not to Deputies; it will be back to us if approved by the Bishops. Fine. But why couldn’t that have been said out loud? Also, no announcement was ever made about the Archbishop of Canterbury’s appearance, causing frustration and consternation that was totally avoidable with a 30-second announcement from the dais. So communication issues continue to plague us, completely unnecessarily.
My Committee (Church is Small Communities) is now finished with its assigned business, having dealt with two resolutions and produced one of our own, unless the Bishops amend one of ours and it gets sent back to us, or someone refers something new to us. Maybe that will leave some gaps in schedule for me to shop at Exhibitions—a very important part of General Convention. Otherwise, how will I get a new Episcopal Church belt and matching collar and lead for Oscar?
HAVING A GREAT TIME—WISH YOU WERE HERE
We’re at a brief moment right now of proceeding quickly through a multitude of little resolutions that have to do with rules and order, but nothing yet of any real substance. Maybe this is a good day to reflect upon some of the things I’m liking about the way this General Convention is going.
• Anaheim is an excellent place to have a General Convention, even in the shadow of Disneyland. The Marriott is bright and comfortable. The Hilton, where committees are meeting, it just across the street. The Convention Center, where sessions, worship, and exhibitors are located, is next door, or at the end of the street.
• We’re actually using our hospitality room this year, because it is comfortably arranged as a gathering place. From our perch on the 17th floor of the Marriott, we can watch the nightly fireworks show at Disney and wind down after busy days.
• Our exercises on personal story-telling are better than expected. Phyllis, our “coach” from Southwest Virginia, is a nice younger priest doing a good job. We did actually use the practice with strangers yesterday in session, and I think it was positive.
• Worship is a high point, as expected. More on that separately later.
• Having the Archbishop of Canterbury present for a couple of days has been a treat.
• We are suspending our rules of order to have some periods of open dialogue on some of the more contentious issues we face, instead of formal debate. That is going to be much less tense, and I hope, more helpful to us.
• A group of us rode out to a Thai restaurant last night and had a non-hotel meal, for a nice break. We now have our own taxi driver (with van, no less) to call directly whenever we want to go someplace.
One of the things I enjoy about Convention is the Exhibitors’ Hall. It is open only when I cannot go there. Go figure.
I was complaining earlier about the removal of my Committee’s resolution from the Deputies’ calendar. I found out later it was just due to an error—it was supposed to have been sent to the Bishops first, not to Deputies; it will be back to us if approved by the Bishops. Fine. But why couldn’t that have been said out loud? Also, no announcement was ever made about the Archbishop of Canterbury’s appearance, causing frustration and consternation that was totally avoidable with a 30-second announcement from the dais. So communication issues continue to plague us, completely unnecessarily.
My Committee (Church is Small Communities) is now finished with its assigned business, having dealt with two resolutions and produced one of our own, unless the Bishops amend one of ours and it gets sent back to us, or someone refers something new to us. Maybe that will leave some gaps in schedule for me to shop at Exhibitions—a very important part of General Convention. Otherwise, how will I get a new Episcopal Church belt and matching collar and lead for Oscar?
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Reflection Day 2 - Almost 3.....
At some point today I stopped being shocked by the size-of-it-all here at GC and became aware of the Ubuntu, I in You, You in Me where the collective wisdom is greater than the individual. This is the theme of this convention and I see it around me and am aware of it around me and in the midst of me.
I spent some time this afternoon resting at a table in the food court (where Wayne Rollins found me, but that is another story), cup of coffee in hand with not quite enough time to head back to the hotel to catch even 10 zzzzz’s and not nearly enough energy to keep going. I found myself studying a huge quilt panel which told 6 stories of people who died of HIV/AIDS in the late 80s and early 90s. I was struck by the set of the information table placed before the quilt – it looked like an altar; 2 red candles burning, one to the left, the other to the right and a huge, contemporary floral arrangement throwing up its huge leaves in celebration of life and love and hope. Ubuntu --
George, the volunteer at the HIV/AIDS booth, and I spent some time talking quietly about the work they do, the variety of responses to the quilt – people stop to pray, cry, tell their stories. In fact, I shared a story of a friend lost to HIV/AIDS and the celebration of another friend who has lived with the virus for 20 years. Ubuntu –
George, with great sorrow, told about young people who have no memory of the terror this disease held for us all and how cavalier they are about being able to live with it, since ‘no one dies of it any more.’ Ubuntu --
And all God’s children do have a seat in the choir – even me! Ubuntu ---
During this afternoon’s session we told our stories to another person whom we did not know. I spent time with Ann, a delegate from Lexington, warily at first because the topic was B033; our story in relation to it; our church’s story in relation to it and where we go from here. We discovered that for very divergent reasons we agreed that we, as individuals, as members of our local parishes and delegates to GC believe it is time to move on, by overturning this resolution. And we, the collective, GC-wide we, will work our way through this in the days to come. Ubuntu ---
Thank you for electing me as an alternate to GC. Ubuntu ---
I spent some time this afternoon resting at a table in the food court (where Wayne Rollins found me, but that is another story), cup of coffee in hand with not quite enough time to head back to the hotel to catch even 10 zzzzz’s and not nearly enough energy to keep going. I found myself studying a huge quilt panel which told 6 stories of people who died of HIV/AIDS in the late 80s and early 90s. I was struck by the set of the information table placed before the quilt – it looked like an altar; 2 red candles burning, one to the left, the other to the right and a huge, contemporary floral arrangement throwing up its huge leaves in celebration of life and love and hope. Ubuntu --
George, the volunteer at the HIV/AIDS booth, and I spent some time talking quietly about the work they do, the variety of responses to the quilt – people stop to pray, cry, tell their stories. In fact, I shared a story of a friend lost to HIV/AIDS and the celebration of another friend who has lived with the virus for 20 years. Ubuntu –
George, with great sorrow, told about young people who have no memory of the terror this disease held for us all and how cavalier they are about being able to live with it, since ‘no one dies of it any more.’ Ubuntu --
And all God’s children do have a seat in the choir – even me! Ubuntu ---
During this afternoon’s session we told our stories to another person whom we did not know. I spent time with Ann, a delegate from Lexington, warily at first because the topic was B033; our story in relation to it; our church’s story in relation to it and where we go from here. We discovered that for very divergent reasons we agreed that we, as individuals, as members of our local parishes and delegates to GC believe it is time to move on, by overturning this resolution. And we, the collective, GC-wide we, will work our way through this in the days to come. Ubuntu ---
Thank you for electing me as an alternate to GC. Ubuntu ---
Province III Luncheon with VTS
Pictured left to right are Sissy Poland, Kevin Kelly, Dean Markham, and Cheryl Winter. Yes, for those of you who are wondering, i am in a cervical collar. I was in a car accident three weeks ago involving a drunk driver and found out last week i have a neck fracture. I don't recommend it, by the way.
Day Two: Ubuntu
THE GENERAL CONVENTION: DAY TWO
UBUNTU
Descartes: “I think; therefore, I am.”
Ubuntu: “I am, because you are; you are, because I am.”
Much is being made, this General Convention, of Ubuntu, a traditional African way of relating that is touted as being inclusive, mutually respectful, and just. Ubuntu’s faith is based in the collective wisdom of the community rather than the energy, drive, and ambition of the individual. It emphasizes the good of all, not the power of a few. It recognizes our inter-dependence, rather than one’s independence.
These concepts could, presented fairly, be very helpful and corrective. I’m a big fan of inter-dependence and justice. Still, one of the advantages of being my age (there aren’t many) is the perspective of having seen catch-words and phrases come and go over the years, making scarcely a ripple of change in the way things are actually done. Apparently, Ubuntu is somewhat like Aloha, an all-occasion sort of word. I can’t help feeling that, a handful of years from now, we’ll wonder what Ubuntu was all about. It’s all a kind of fashion-statement. Here’s a summary of the present status of in’s and outs.
Africa is good: Europe is bad. The United States is VERY bad.
Color is good: white is bad.
Feminine is good: masculine is bad.
Community is good: individuality is bad.
Indigenous is good: mainstream culture is bad.
I do not claim that white men of European ancestry have done such a bang-up job of running the world and managing its resources over the last half-millennium that they should continue to be given free and exclusive reign over it. Far from it. I do claim that, however fair it might be to hand over the scepter to women of color for the next five hundred years, that would not serve us all that much better (and besides, it ain’t going to happen!) I like to see power being shared more widely and broadly. I like to see white males of the Establishment changing not only their attitudes, but their ways, and some of them being toppled from their pedestals of power. I like the concepts of nationalism, rugged individualism, and capitalism, which—let’s face it, comprise our true religion far more than Christianity ever has done—challenged fairly.
But both Ubuntu and its immediate predecessor catch-word (which we hardly hear any more) Endaba bother me, in that no one ever mentions their negative side. Likewise, it is almost socially unacceptable in some quarters to mention the positive side of western individualism. We need to keep both before us as well as their opposites.
Western individualism did not bring us slavery or poverty. The world had both of those already, and Africa has both still. Western individualism brought us democracy, the termination of slavery (through abolitionism, which was a minority movement), and the creation of the middle economic class. Western individualism did not invent the inferiority of women: it allowed the women’s movement to bring about greater liberties for women.
The actual practice of Ubuntu in African society devalues women almost entirely. It also inhibits the open expression of ideas that question those of the group’s leadership. It leaves no room for dissent or loyal opposition. It thwarts experimentation by an individual or a few, which could flop ignominiously, or provide a major new advance to the benefit of all. In the end, it is essentially authoritarian, not democratic. Incidentally, I’m seeing some of that last right here at General Convention 76: it is not cool to question the agenda of the leadership of the House of Deputies.
In other words, exchanging one partial truth for another partial truth won’t save us. I’ve heard “the spirit of Ubuntu” invoked here in Anaheim as if it were synonymous with the Holy Spirit. It isn’t. Ubuntu conveys some truth: it is not The Truth. As there are negatives to western culture and philosophy, masculinity, and individualism, so there are negatives to African, native American, and Eastern cultures and philosophies, to feminism, and collectivism as well. We should not be looking to replace one flawed cultural outlook with another. We should be looking for balance.
We should also be looking for meaningful and productive change, not just jargon. I find it amusing that, in all of this talk of Ubuntu, we at General Convention continue to act like the United States Congress (because we are structured and governed that way). If we don’t change our structures and rules, we can never change our way of acting.
UBUNTU
Descartes: “I think; therefore, I am.”
Ubuntu: “I am, because you are; you are, because I am.”
Much is being made, this General Convention, of Ubuntu, a traditional African way of relating that is touted as being inclusive, mutually respectful, and just. Ubuntu’s faith is based in the collective wisdom of the community rather than the energy, drive, and ambition of the individual. It emphasizes the good of all, not the power of a few. It recognizes our inter-dependence, rather than one’s independence.
These concepts could, presented fairly, be very helpful and corrective. I’m a big fan of inter-dependence and justice. Still, one of the advantages of being my age (there aren’t many) is the perspective of having seen catch-words and phrases come and go over the years, making scarcely a ripple of change in the way things are actually done. Apparently, Ubuntu is somewhat like Aloha, an all-occasion sort of word. I can’t help feeling that, a handful of years from now, we’ll wonder what Ubuntu was all about. It’s all a kind of fashion-statement. Here’s a summary of the present status of in’s and outs.
Africa is good: Europe is bad. The United States is VERY bad.
Color is good: white is bad.
Feminine is good: masculine is bad.
Community is good: individuality is bad.
Indigenous is good: mainstream culture is bad.
I do not claim that white men of European ancestry have done such a bang-up job of running the world and managing its resources over the last half-millennium that they should continue to be given free and exclusive reign over it. Far from it. I do claim that, however fair it might be to hand over the scepter to women of color for the next five hundred years, that would not serve us all that much better (and besides, it ain’t going to happen!) I like to see power being shared more widely and broadly. I like to see white males of the Establishment changing not only their attitudes, but their ways, and some of them being toppled from their pedestals of power. I like the concepts of nationalism, rugged individualism, and capitalism, which—let’s face it, comprise our true religion far more than Christianity ever has done—challenged fairly.
But both Ubuntu and its immediate predecessor catch-word (which we hardly hear any more) Endaba bother me, in that no one ever mentions their negative side. Likewise, it is almost socially unacceptable in some quarters to mention the positive side of western individualism. We need to keep both before us as well as their opposites.
Western individualism did not bring us slavery or poverty. The world had both of those already, and Africa has both still. Western individualism brought us democracy, the termination of slavery (through abolitionism, which was a minority movement), and the creation of the middle economic class. Western individualism did not invent the inferiority of women: it allowed the women’s movement to bring about greater liberties for women.
The actual practice of Ubuntu in African society devalues women almost entirely. It also inhibits the open expression of ideas that question those of the group’s leadership. It leaves no room for dissent or loyal opposition. It thwarts experimentation by an individual or a few, which could flop ignominiously, or provide a major new advance to the benefit of all. In the end, it is essentially authoritarian, not democratic. Incidentally, I’m seeing some of that last right here at General Convention 76: it is not cool to question the agenda of the leadership of the House of Deputies.
In other words, exchanging one partial truth for another partial truth won’t save us. I’ve heard “the spirit of Ubuntu” invoked here in Anaheim as if it were synonymous with the Holy Spirit. It isn’t. Ubuntu conveys some truth: it is not The Truth. As there are negatives to western culture and philosophy, masculinity, and individualism, so there are negatives to African, native American, and Eastern cultures and philosophies, to feminism, and collectivism as well. We should not be looking to replace one flawed cultural outlook with another. We should be looking for balance.
We should also be looking for meaningful and productive change, not just jargon. I find it amusing that, in all of this talk of Ubuntu, we at General Convention continue to act like the United States Congress (because we are structured and governed that way). If we don’t change our structures and rules, we can never change our way of acting.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Day One - First Impressions of a First Time Deputy
Okay, today is actually Day 2, so i'm a day late posting this, but i'll just blame that on the difference in time zones. I have just a few initial impressions about The General Convention i wanted to share with you. The first is, it's big. There are a bunch of people here. I knew that going in, but it still makes an impression when you see the whole body of the Convention gathered for our different functions. And for such a big event, things are mostly going really smoothly. Clearly, the folks in charge have done this before. That said, it's a lot more normal than i thought. From what i've heard about General Convention, i guess i expected to see people walking on stilts, or trailing shawls and beads behind them, or something, but mostly it's just folks. The people here look pretty much like every other group of Episcopalians i've seen before, and they mostly dress normally. Well, mostly. Okay, see this one in particular...
You might recognize her as Amy Seitz, one of our Deputies. She's actually taking part in a skit meant to teach us how things work on the floor of the legislative session, and here's she pretending to be Deputy Cinderella from the Diocese of Bippity Boppity Boo, trying to submit a substitute resolution about... well, never mind what it was about, it was funny and instructive. Most of the other deputies weren't wearing crowns, at least not yet.
One last thought about being here. I've heard from folks who've attended these before that one of the best things about General Convention is that you get to see all your old friends from the Church who are now spread all over the country and beyond. I have to admit that i was a little apprehensive about that, because i didn't think i'd been around long enough to know that many people. I was wrong. It's been a very pleasant surprise to see so many people that i recognize, some of whom i haven't seen in ten or fifteen years. And, as so often happen with good friends who haven't seen each other in a while, we just pick up right where we left off, as if no time had passed.
I am eager to see how the next ten days go, how many old friends i'll get to reconnect with, and how many new friends i'll meet before i leave.
kevin
P.S. - Remember, you can post comments to any of the stories we post on this blog. We hope you will.
Exhausted in Anaheim
GENERAL CONVENTION DAY ONE
Just arriving in Anaheim after an exceedingly long day of travel (one-hour fog delay at Tri-State Airport resulted in an eight-hour delay in arrival) is an occasion for more than the usual thanksgiving. I’m grateful the first day of committee work and orientation are relatively low-stakes, because I fear we’d all be snarling at one another out of simple fatigue-crankiness if we had to deal with more serious business right off. Even in my present jaundiced view, though, I can recognize that this convention is getting off to a better start than the last one. One reason is the schedule: it is front-loaded with committee meeting time, but light on legislative session time early on. Later, that ratio will flip. This is having the effect of hustling resolutions along to the floor quickly so that they will not all pile up at the end, as we complained of in ’06. I’m told that some of the most “interesting” and controversial matters are advancing rapidly in their committees so that even they will come up much earlier than would have been the case before. We have to be on our toes at every legislative session, it seems, which is fine by me.
My committee is “Church in Small Communities,” and I’m enjoying it despite my sleepiness. We are two committees meeting together: Bishops and Deputies have parallel bodies. Bishop Tom Ely of Vermont is Bishop Chair, and I’m impressed with his leadership. Deputy Chair is Ivette Linares of Puerto Rico, who is learning her role, but very personable. We have only two resolutions to process, but we are asking to have a portion of a third referred to us. We held a hearing on one, A 116, last night and sent it on to the House of Deputies with some amendments which, in my opinion, improved it considerably.
The amendment process at GC is just like the one at Diocesan Convention level. We began with informal conversation working toward consensus. Then, when we were ready, we moved to formal consideration of amendment language. I observe, for whatever this means, that bishops speak out more than Deputies, and that priests speak up more than laity, men and women about the same. As usual, I was determined to keep my mouth shut, but as usual, unsuccessful, as there were a couple of wording issues that needed a little tweaking.
We had spent our first session getting to know one another, which was a time-consuming process. However, it pays off later when it comes time to express a difference of opinion, however slight. When the members have some knowledge of one another and have had some cordial words together (and some of us are acquainted from earlier life), it makes a big difference in how one can make an alternate suggestion, and in how that feedback is received. There is much less chance for misunderstanding or resentment being produced.
So we are off and running. I’m writing this at 5:00 a.m., the latest I was able to stay in bed. I’m assured by Ben James that I will eventually adapt to the time change—on the day I leave for home. Might as well brew some coffee; our opening session begins at 8:00!
Donald Vinson
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Deputy Bios
Debbie Short - I am looking forward to attending General Convention in Anaheim this summer. This will be the 5th GC I have attended. It truly is an honor to be elected and I take this responsibility seriously. I retired from serving as Canon for Congregational Development a year and a half ago. I was on the diocesan staff for 14 and a half years. What a wonderful privilege and opportunity it was to serve the people of WV. I met so many incredible folks and made lasting friendships. I was Executive Director of Women’s Resource Center, a shelter for victims of domestic violence and abuse and their children, for 10 years before coming to the diocese. I love retirement and enjoy traveling, reading and spending time with my family, especially my granddaughters, Kathleen and Anna. I continue to do spiritual direction as well as serve as a mentor for ETS.
Charles Hunsaker - I am married to Marie and am retired from a financial services corporation after approximately 40 years of service. This is my second General Convention. I also serve as Treasurer of the Diocese currently in my second term. Marie and I attend Good Shepherd in Parkersburg when we are not traveling in our motor home. During our travels we have enjoyed visiting many Episcopal Churches across our Country.
Beth Marquart is a member of
Cheryl Winter has served as rector of St. Timothy's in Hurricane since 1993 and is Dean of the Kanawha Deanery. She has served on many committees and commissions in the diocese of WV since her ordination in 1988 inlcuding the Standing Committee and Diocesan Council. Cheryl also served as the Diocesan Deployment Officer for several years and continues to provide consulting services to congregations in transition. This will be her 5th consecutive General Convention as a Deputy. She will serve on the Constitution Committee.
Kevin Kelly - I am the rector of Trinity Church in Huntington, where i have served for the last eight years. Before that, i served congregations in the dioceses of Atlanta and Georgia. I am a graduate of Virginia Theological Seminary. This will be my first time serving as a deputy to The General Convention and my first time even attending one. My wife Christine and i have three children - Jack is nine; Sam is seven; and Kate is three.
Donald Vinson serves as Canon for Congregational Development and Dean of Equipping the Saints in the Diocese. During his fifteen years in West Virginia, he has served as rector of St. John’s Church, Huntington; Standing Committee (President); Board of Examining Chaplains (Chair); Commission on Ministry; Commission to End Racism; Bishop Nominating Committee (Vice-chair). He is a graduate of The General Theological Seminary (1987), and has also served in the Dioceses of Easton and Alabama. He is married to Linda; they have two sons, Daniel (married to Chantal) and Philip. He was a Deputy to General Convention 75 in Columbus in 2006.
Eric L. Miller - I am delighted to be serving as a deputy from the Diocese of West Virginia to the 76th General Convention. This will be my first General Convention experience; I missed the chance to observe Convention in Columbus, Ohio three years ago for the joys of officiating at my brother’s wedding. I serve as rector of St. Stephen’s in Beckley and am passionate about preaching and sharing the good news of God in Christ. We share the love of Christ through serving one another and the world. I am excited to see the Church on the macro level and hope to witness many new ministries and ways of Christian transformation.
Richard Heller - I am the first clergy alternate for the Episcopal Diocese of West Virginia. Along with having three small rural churches shared with my wife, The Rev. Dr. Lisa Heller, I am a full time hospice chaplain serving southern Ohio. We, two children and my wife, live on a fifty acre farm. Where, the sounds of life and the spirit of God prevail. The last half of my life is based on serving people and helping them work through grief and trauma. The first half of my life was in finance and economics. I hope I can bring to this forum additional balance and
spiritual thrust to do G-d's will in all of His business.
Welcome to the West Virginia General Convention Blog
Welcome to the official blog of the Diocese of West Virginia's deputation to The 76th General Convention of the Episcopal Church. The General Convention runs from 8-17 July in Anaheim, California. In the sidebar to the left of this page you'll find a link to The General Convention website, which provides you with all sorts of information about schedules, legislation, housing, etc.
Before we leave for California, we'll be posting a short bio of each member of our deputation, just so you have some idea who is representing our diocese. During the Convention, we'll post updates about what's been happening at Convention or about anything else we think might be interesting. A couple of things you might want to know now - we will not have access to the internet or our cell phones during the legislative sessions, although we will at other times. This blog is set up so that you can post comments to it; feel free to let us know what's on your mind while we're in Anaheim. We would also ask that from time to time, you remember The General Convention and our Bishop and deputation in your prayers. Here's a form from The Book of Common Prayer:
Almighty and everliving God, source of all wisdom and understanding, be present with those who take counsel at The 76th General Convention for the renewal and mission of your Church. Teach us in all things to seek first your honor and glory. Guide us to perceive what is right, and grant us both the courage to pursue it and the grace to accomplish it; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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