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.