July 5 -- The First Full Day

The First Legislative Session

The day started with our first Legislative Session at 8:00 am which mostly dealt with various resolutions and announcements to get the House of Deputies appropriately "organized." Rather tedious, but necessary I suppose for the smooth running of our deliberations over the next few days.

Opening Eucharist

We then walked from the Convention Center to the JW Marriott, one the hotels connected to the Center by a system of elevated walkways. As the temperature here has been over 100° (and today I'm told that Indianapolis set a new record), these walkways have been quite the blessing.

Anyway, about 2,000 of us gathered for our opening Eucharist in the ballroom of this hotel. Amazing to worship with so many people! Very well organized, as well, with great music and very efficient distribution of Holy Communion (hey, as a priest I notice these things!).

More Hearings Regarding the Church Pension Fund

Three more hearings today, in fact: 11:15 am - 12:45 pm; 2:00 - 4:00 pm; and 7:30 - 9:00 pm. Yikes! At the first two hearings the committee sorted out resolutions regarding pension plan requirements for lay employees, focusing on plans for Episcopal school employees. In short, the committee drafted a substitute resolution that allows schools to phase in coverage from 2014 through 2018. This will reduce the "sticker shock" of a plan that otherwise would have to be introduced in full this January while still ensuring that lay employees receive benefits comparable to those enjoyed by clergy. I think the committee did a fine job, and I hope that both Houses approve the legislation they've proposed.

One More Legislative Session

We had a two-hour session from 4:30 - 6:30 pm, and I'm beginning to get a taste of how the legislative process really works. We had a couple of resolutions (well, we've had more than that but most of them were pretty straightforward) that resulted in some debate. The process is deliberate, orderly, and (so far, at least) interesting to watch. Who knows, there may be an issue (or two) coming up about which I'm moved to either support or oppose at one of the eight microphones stationed in the meeting room for that purpose.

Other Bits and Pieces

Along the way today I had a bit of time to enjoy a liturgical arts exhibit featuring vestments, altars, and more. Very cool. I also spent a few minutes in the Exhibit Hall, especially enjoying the opportunity to visit with a woman who is a postulant in one of the Episcopal Church's monastic orders. I also attended (for a few minutes anyway) a reception hosted by the Chicago Consultation, a group that, according to their website, "supports the full inclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Christians in the Episcopal Church and the worldwide Anglican Communion." You can learn more about them here.

Whew! I'm having a blast. Tomorrow the fun begins anew at 7:30 am. Later!

Blessings,

Gary