The Episcopal News Service Wrap-Up

Read their summary here.

July 12 -- The Last Day!

A Good Night’s Sleep Was Needed

Well, after a very good night’s rest (thanks to Nyquil, I must admit), I arose rested and ready. Still had a bit of an itchy nose this morning but managed not to unleash any particularly loud sneezes during worship or the legislative sessions.
 

8:00 to 11:00 am

Other than tweaking these just notes a bit, I wrote most of what follows as the day unfolded. So, here goes:

The Rules, They Are a Changin’

First we adopted a suspension of the usual rules of order designed to help move things along more quickly. Specifically, unless someone wishes to amend or speak against a proposed action, the vote will be taken without delay. This is designed to eliminate speeches in favor of resolutions which, while often articulate and heart-felt, are quite unlikely to change votes on uncontroversial matters.

Structure Resolution Fails

A motion to eliminate all but two standing commissions (Constitution and Canons; Structure) failed. Too bad. This had been recommended by the Structure committee that brought forward a much more daring resolution that passed unanimously. The ideas was to replace permanent commissions with task forces that would be smaller and more responsive to very specifically defined needs and responsibilities. And after either achieving its goal (or reaching a pre-determined "sunset" date), the task force would be disbanded. Sounded good and, to use a word too often heard here, quite "nimble."

Terrorists or Criminals?

Later we considered resolution D005, “Rule of Law for Terrorists.” This calls for terrorists to be treated as criminals rather than "as warriors in the context of a 'war of terror.'" After some impassioned debate, the resolution passed. Are those who commit acts of terror criminals or enemy combatants? According to us, they are merely criminals. I voted against the resolution.

The U.S. Needs Jobs

“Job Creation Legislation” calls for the President and Congress to approve "a bold new federal program, solely focused on the creation of new jobs." To me this sounds like a standing before a meeting and saying, "I'd like to make a motion" but never saying exactly what the motion is. This resolution, while addressing a real need in our country, falls short by not proposing a specific solution. If we're going to name a problem, doing so without also providing an answer is pointless and takes up way to much time in our deliberations. I imagine that somewhere along the way (i.e., during the hearing process) some very specific solutions were proposed then abandoned as being so specific as to invite rejection. As a result, we got something motivated by good intention but, in my view, weakened by its vagueness.

Health Care

Resolution A040: “Establish the Church as the Moral Voice of Health Care” offered a range of ideas worthy of our support. During the debate, a motion to strike language that specifically called for endorsing and supporting "full implementation of health care reform law in the United States" passed. The remainder of the resolution seems both appropriate and apolitical. The amended resolution passed without the language that at least a few of us found unnecessarily political and potentially divisive. After all, any resolution that refers to the Affordable Care Act (AKA ObamaCare) without even naming it is going to be seen as politically motivated by at least some in the Church.

2:15 to 6:30 pm

The Last Lap — and More Procedural Changes

After breaking for the Closing Eucharist and a lunch break, we returned for the final session. The first matter was a change in rules to reduce the time for each person speaking on a matter to one minute (yesterday you could take three minutes, then this morning it went down to two). Also total time to debate an issue was reduced to ten minutes (I believe it had been twenty minutes). All this because between 2:15 and 6:00 tonight we still have over 60 substantive resolutions to consider. And that's without consider resolutions on a "consent calendar"; these include uncontroversial motions that we vote on in a block to avoid time-sucking debate. From time to time, three (or more) deputations will ask for a resolution to be removed from the consent calendar so that we can consider it and debate it. That way, as long as we’re being attentive, the consent calendar is unlikely to be used as a mechanism to sneak something past the House without proper consideration.

Still More Procedural Stuff

Motions were advanced to change our procedure to no longer allow matters to be divided (by which we can vote on a resolution bit by bit instead of the usual procedure of simply voting on the whole thing); this passed. Another was advanced to no longer allow motions to amend. This went to a vote by machine, as the chair couldn't determine if the change in procedure was approved by the required two-thirds majority. So here's what happened: we took time to consider motions designed to save time. Oh, the irony of our procedure! We voted to continue to allow motions. 

Even MORE Procedural Stuff

Wait, I typed too soon! Someone just moved (and we approved) to change our procedure so that motions would not be allowed when considering actions coming to us from the House of Bishop,s and where we were asked simply to concur in their action. This one actually makes sense since if we did amend a resolution that came to us from the bishops there wouldn't be time for the bishops to consider our change and the resolution would therefore fail. So, if we don't want the resolution to pass, it will be faster to simply vote it down rather than let it fail because of a fatal and drawn-out combination of procedure and timing. Okay, so now I've really gotten lost in the weeds on all the parliamentary stuff; sorry about that. That's what happens when when one spends eight days immersed in this stuff.

We Episcopalians Have a Rich Liturgical Life — and We Love our Pets

Resolution A054: “Authorize Rites and Prayers for the Care of Beloved Animals” passed. This includes a "Service at the Loss of a Beloved Animal" and other prayers for use at the adoption, illness, loss, when pets are euthanized, and more.

Access to Holy Baptism and Holy Communion

Wait, didn’t we already consider this resolution? Well, yes the House of Deputies passed this and sent it along to the House of Bishops. They considered and sent it back to us in an amended form, striking the final sentence: "We also acknowledge that in various local contexts there is the exercise of pastoral sensitivity with those who are not yet baptized." A motion to refer the resolution to the Standing Commission on Mission and Evangelism failed. Now we voted to adopt the substitute offered by the bishops, and the amended resolution passed. This resolution, as now written, the reaffirms the importance of baptism.

Some of the Deputation from West Tennessee at the end of a long week and a half.
Look, most of us are still smiling!

And That’s Just the Tip of the Iceberg

I have described only a portion of what happened today, though I hope this blog has given you a taste of what it’s been like to be a Deputy at the General Convention of The Episcopal Church. Tonight we had a fun dinner (well, most of our deputation went out; one deputy and his wife had another dinner to attend) at a local Mexican restaurant where I had my annual bottle of Corona. 

This has been an enriching, frustrating, inspiring, delightful, exhausting experience. Later, once I’ve had a day or so to get back to Dyersburg and do a little more processing, I hope to offer some closing thoughts on my time in Indianapolis.

Thank you for reading; I welcome your comments below. (Oh, and apparently I didn’t configure Blogger correctly to accept your comments, but that feature should now work.)

Blessings,Gary +

July 11 -- Only One More Day to Go!

News of the Day

Today I'm fighting a bit of a head cold. Nothing serious, but the runny nose and the sneezing are starting to get a bit annoying. I've just taken some Nyquil to help me deal with the symptoms and sleep well for a long day tomorrow -- the last day of General Convention.

So, before the meds really take hold, here are my notes about some of the major actions taken today in the House of Deputies. (There was more that happened, of course, but I'm including these few just to give you a taste of what we've been working on.)

We Passed a Budget

Since General Convention meets only once every three years, we were asked to consider a three-year budget of about $111.5 million. This budget attempts to prioritize and categorize expenses according to the Five Marks of Mission adopted in 2009. Read about the Five Marks here.

Furthermore, the budget provides for block grants within specific areas, such as $2 million for starting new congregations. The budget makes a block of money available to be disbursed under the recommendation and oversight of the church leadership, particularly the Executive Council, which provides leadership for The Episcopal Church during the triennium (or three-year period) between General Conventions. Questions were asked and answers offered by the Program, Budget, & Finance legislative committee (usually referred to as "PB&F). Later in the day the budget passed with very little procedural drama.

If you are interested, you can download the budget by clicking here.

Access to Holy Baptism and Holy Communion Considered

This resolution dealt with "open table," the practice urged by some that Holy Communion be available to all regardless of whether or not person has first been baptized, as is the current requirement under church canons. The resolution also includes, "We also acknowledge that in various local contexts there is the exercise of pastoral sensitivity with those who are not yet baptized." A motion to strike this last sentence failed (as did a motion to amend the amendment). Pursuant to a request from the floor, we voted by orders. The motion passed in both orders: 77% in favor among the lay deputies; 64% in favor among the clergy deputies. This resolution, which now goes before the Bishops, would (in my humble view) weaken the canonical requirement of baptism as a prerequisite to receiving Holy Communion. If we're gonna change the canons let's change the canons rather than adopt what seems like a back door approach. Having said this, this is an issue that would benefit from continuing study and consideration. We'll see what the Bishops do with this tomorrow.

Church Called to Advocate for Public Policy to Reduce Climate Changing Emissions

This legislation calls on the US government to reduce our use of carbon-based fuels and encourages the use of renewable energy. An amendment passed which calls for all Episcopalians to urge members of Congress to pass such legislation. The resolution passed by a large margin in a voice vote.

The Dream Act Considered

This resolution urges the passage of federal legislation providing a path to citizenship for undocumented youth and young adults. The resolution further calls for The Episcopal Church to encourage scholarships for such youth. This passed by a wide margin. During the debate, some of the Official Youth Presence spoke on its behalf. They won't be at the Convention tomorrow (I don't know why not), but their members have occasionally spoken during debates, and have also done so articulately and with grace, humor, and care. I'll miss their contributions during tomorrow's session.

And Tomorrow?

We were told by the Secretary of Convention that we had about 60 resolutions to consider and pass along to the House of Bishops. If we're disciplined, we're told we can pass all these in the morning, in time for the Bishops to also consider the bits of legislation. Then, of course, we deputies will have to deal with all the resolutions that originated in the House of Bishops and which require our action. We'll meet from 8:00 - 11:00 am, break for a closing Eucharist at 11:30, have a quick lunch, and resume at 2:15 for our final session. God willing, we'll conclude all we need to complete by our closing at 6:30 tomorrow night.

Wow! Please pray for all of the Deputies and the Bishops as we conclude our work tomorrow.

July 10: Major Decisions from General Convention

A Big Day at General Convention

Okay, so after a long day yesterday I slept in today, skipping the daily Eucharist at 9:30. I was on hand for the legislative session that started at 11:15 am in the House of Deputies. After that, I switched places with Mark Rutenbar and became an Alternate rather than a Deputy. This meant I could pop in and watch some of the proceedings in the House of Bishops (see picture below).

Major Resolutions Passed Today

Participation in the Anglican Communion and the Proposed Anglican Covenant

One resolution considered today affirms the participation of The Episcopal Church in the Anglican Communion but doesn't address the proposed Anglican Covenant (see next resolution). The resolution commends the Continuing Indaba process (www.anglicancommunion.org/ministry/continuingindaba or www.continuingindaba.com). Supporters noted that relationships run deeper than anything that can be defined by -- or reduced to --  a piece of paper. The resolution passed.

A second resolution addressed the Anglican Covenant Process and refrained from deciding at this time whether or not The Episcopal Church should assent to the proposed Covenant (see www.anglicancommunion.org/commission/covenant/final/text.cfm). The matter is referred instead to a task force for ongoing monitoring and a report to be presented to the 78th General Convention in 2015. A motion was made to delete the portions of the resolution calling for another three-year wait before yet another report on the Covenant would be offered and considered, but the motion failed. As more and more Anglican churches and dioceses are declining to approve the Covenant meaning, our church's decision will likely have minimal impact, especially if we wait another three years to decide.

Debate continued but set aside because it was time to elect a new President of the House of Deputies.

Election of a New President of House of Deputies

The Rev. Gay Jennings was elected on the first ballot. I watched her chair a meeting of the legislative committee on structure with great skill, grace, and humor. Let's keep Gay in our prayers as she takes on the responsibilities of President of the House of Deputies.

The Structure of the Church

The resolution I saw finalized in committee yesterday was brought to the floor of the House of Deputies for consideration. After a special time of prayer led by one of the chaplains, a voice vote was taken. Those in favor of the resolution responded loudly. President Bonnie Anderson (she'll remain President of the House of Deputies until the conclusion of this Convention) then called for those opposed to the motion to respond. No one did; not a single "no" vote was heard on the floor. Extraordinary! Now it's off to the House of Bishops for their consideration. I hope they also agree to pass this resolution.

If passed by the Bishops, a task force of no more than 24 people will be expected "to present the 78th General Convention with a plan for reforming the Church’s structures, governance, and administration." To read a draft of the resolution, click here. I believe this resolution presents an amazing opportunity for us to reconsider who we are as church and what it means for us to be and operate as Episcopalians today and in the future. In the long run, I believe the passage of this resolution may be the most significant decision of this Convention. Others, however, may find my next topic of greater significance.

Liturgical Resources for the Blessing of Same-Gender Relationships

The other big news of the day came towards the end of the afternoon legislative as the House of Deputies considered a resolution already adopted (in amended form) by the House of Bishops: the blessing of same-gender couples.

After impassioned debate on both sides of the issue and a great deal of parliamentary procedural wrangling (which took up the better part of an hour!), a vote was finally taken by orders. This requires polling within each diocese's deputation, filling out a paper voting form, and voting electronically, once to record the vote of the lay deputies and again to record the clergy votes. This is every bit as slow and cumbersome as it sounds. Actually, no, it's even more slow and cumbersome than I can describe. What could have been accomplished in 30-45 minutes ended up taking over an hour and a half. We then waited for the results to be reported.

Finally the results were reported: the motion passed. It was approved in the lay order by 78% and by 76% in the clergy order. That's a pretty strong endorsement of what will be for some a controversial change to church practice and doctrine.

Much has already been reported on this legislation in major media, especially since the Deputies approved the exact same resolution passed yesterday by the Bishops. The media, however, may not always get all the details right. What has been approved are study materials and liturgy that may be available for provisional use if the bishop of a diocese allows. The liturgy is not a marriage rite for same-gender couples. It is, rather, a way for the Church to bless committed relationships between two persons willing to enter into a holy covenant.

This is a huge step for The Episcopal Church. And even though I watched from the sidelines as Mark voted in my stead, I was glad of the result. Not everyone is happy with this vote, but I believe our Church is acting with grace and care not only towards same-gender couples who wish to have their relationships blessed but also towards those bishops and dioceses who do not approve this expansion of our liturgical and pastoral resources as no one will be forced to use this new, provisional liturgy.

To read the Episcopal News Service article on this vote, click here.

Welcome to Indianapolis

General Convention Attendees Welcomed to Indianapolis

Should have posted this a couple of days ago, but here's a quick iPhone video of a Steel Drum Band that performed at the nearby baseball stadium on Sunday at a special event to welcome General Convention attendees to Indianapolis. I'd say it was cool, but actually the weather was still pretty hot out.

July 9 -- Another LONG Day

Worship -- and more Worship

One of the first things I did this morning was attend another wonderful Holy Eucharist service. One of the last things I did this evening was attend yet another wonderful Holy Eucharist service. The first was the official service of Convention; the second was offered by Integrity, the gay/lesbian group of The Episcopal Church. Bishop Gene Robinson preached, and Bishop Mary Glasspool celebrated. The music and prayers were lively, joyful, and a true celebration of God's love.

Significant Developments in the Church

Structure of the Church

But even before the first Holy Eucharist (and after a two-mile run), I attended a meeting of the legislative committee on structure and watched them finalize a resolution to establish a task force to consider issues related to the structure of The Episcopal Church. That may not sound like a big deal, but this task force will be expected to bring to the next Convention (in 2015) a new vision for how we Episcopalians can do a much better job of living into our calling as Christians and builders of God's Kingdom here on earth. There will be only 24 (or was it 30? I can't remember which!) members on the task force; it would be a kick to be one of them. A lot of work, to be sure, but a genuine kick all the same.

Inclusion of Transgendered Persons

The other big news is that the House of Deputies concurred in two resolutions from the House of Bishops that fully include people in the life of the church regardless of "gender identity and expression." This means that transgendered persons may not be discriminated against in the life of the church, and even if they wish to enter a process of discernment for lay or ordained ministry. This is a big deal, and in the debate we heard from at least one transgendered clergy person. I wonder what the news media will do with this story?

Israel and Palestine

We also considered two resolutions regarding Israel and Palestine. The first, which passed by a significant sounding margin in a voice vote, calls for increased mutual understanding and appreciation between Episcopalians, Jews and Muslims with regard to Israel and Palestine. The second was more controversial, referring to "illegal Israeli settlements" and calling for "more vigorous and public corporate engagement with companies in the Church's investment portfolio that contribute to the infrastructure of the Occupation." 

This second resolution could have been even more pro-Palestine and anti-Israel had an amendment passed which called for parishes to study materials that (at first glance, at least) appear to be very pro-Palestine rather than offering a more balanced presentation. I'm not saying that the Israeli position (especially regarding settlements in disputed areas in the region) is entirely just or positive, but then I'm not sure the Palestinians are entirely blameless and pure either. I suppose this is an issue about which I have more to learn.

And tomorrow?

Well, tomorrow (which is, as I write this, only 32 minutes away!) I plan to sleep in a bit, go to the morning legislative session, hit the Exhibit Hall one more time before they close for good at 2:00 pm, and take the rest of the afternoon off. The Rev. Mark Rutenbar is our designated clergy alternate, and I'm glad he'll get some more time of the floor of the House of Deputies (and, of course, I'll get a little time for R&R!). 

Blessings,

Gary +

July 8 -- Sunday at Convention

Sunday Morning!

With no legislative committee meetings scheduled for this morning, you'd think we'd be able to sleep in a bit. You'd be wrong, because the deputation from West Tennessee had a breakfast meeting at 8 am. Didn't talk much about the work of convention, but I did eat too much at the hotel buffet. 

Breaking Bread with 4,000

The usual Convention participants were joined by folks from around Indianapolis for the Sunday morning service, meaning about 4,000 folks were in the large banquet hall of the JW Marriott, in the hallway outside the room, and even in another overflow area. The music was glorious, and Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori preached a great sermon about how each of us needs to stand up (and she literally had us all stand up) and be prepared to bring the Gospel to the world and the people around us. 

An Indianapolis Welcome

The local diocese organized a great event at the baseball stadium across from the JW Marriott hotel. In addition to food and drinks, people from local churches had activities and displays to promote their various ministries. While quite hot out, this was a welcome and delightful diversion. A steel drum band performed, and the diversions even included a couple of classic Stutz automobiles, including the 1933 Bearcat pictured here, on display:

Back to Work in the House of Deputies

We met again starting at 2:15 but had very few resolutions that required our attention, meaning that we were in recess from about 3:45 until 5:00 pm. Even then there wasn't a lot of business to attend to. This makes me a bit nervous as I know we have some serious issues coming up. My concern is that our last couple of days are going to be packed with more than we should be reasonably expected to debate and decide in the time available.

In the meantime, we had one interesting issue come up. Three years ago General Convention voted to amend the Constitution of the Church to change how we approve the election of new bishops. Originally, as I understand it, the election of all new bishops had to be approved by General Convention. As Convention meets only once every three years, however, the Church allowed elections to be approved by the Standing Committees of the various dioceses instead, with one exception. If a Bishop is elected within 120 days of a General Convention, then the old method still applies. 

The change approved in 2009 eliminated the different procedure for bishops elected 120 days before Convention, meaning that all bishop elections would be approved in the same manner. As this was a Constitutional amendment, it had to be approved by two successive Conventions before it could take effect. So this afternoon we debated the amendment, voting by orders. This invokes a rather odd procedure by which clergy deputies vote separately from lay deputies. This takes place in what is possibly the most complicated way imaginable, requiring patience, detailed instruction, patience, clarification on procedures, and even more patience. 

Eventually the amendment was passed, though we didn't know the results for a couple of hours later.

Eating Too Much (again...)

Bishop Don Johnson took the entire deputation out for dinner at a local favorite, St. Elmo Steak House. The food was wonderful and plenty beyond reason. That didn't stop us from ordering desserts (which we shared): blueberry & peach pie (with ice cream, of course!) and divine bread pudding made with blueberries (and served with ice cream, of course!).

I'm gonna have to get serious about my diet again. Later. After Convention. And after my vacation in 10 days. Yeah, that's when I'll get back into my diet.

I wonder: will I wake up in time to go for a quick run and make to to legislative committee hearings that start at 7:30 am? We'll see!

July 7 -- Saturday at Convention

Gary Runs

No, I'm not running for any office (through we had the first of many elections today). Instead, I decided that instead of heading off to another 7:30 am hearing I went instead for a run. A little warm, a lot humid, and very much welcome. Ah, fresh air!

Five Minutes of Work

We met in two legislative sessions this morning and then most of the afternoon. All too often it felt like we were lost in parliamentary hell, that painful alternate reality where an organization manages to cram five minutes of work into an hour. In other words, legislation is a terribly inefficient process. Some of this is by design, of course, meant to reduce the chances that governing bodies will decide matters in too hasty a manner or that the voices of minority positions will go unheard.

This is both admirable and necessary. It can also be a huge pain in the a__ since we're left sitting in a way too chilly convention hall while we slowly reach decisions that at this point are not even final. (I'd explain why that is, but it's too late at night and the explanation would be both technical and boring.)

I only hope that we become more efficient in our legislative sessions. We have only just begun to consider resolutions, and the ones that have come forward have been pretty uncontroversial. The really meaty issues have yet to emerge on the floor of the House of Deputies.

Hearing on the Blessing of Same Gender Relationships

A witness offers testimony to a committee. You can see only about half of the 51 members of this legislative committee on liturgy and music.

Tonight I attended a hearing before the committee on Liturgy and Music on a resolution and draft study materials and liturgy for the blessing of same gender relationships. I expected a few fireworks. The organizers expected a lot of participants. 

Both expectations were wrong. The comments were quite civil and, in some instances, very moving. The large room was over half empty, perhaps indicating that this is no longer the incendiary issue it once was. (Either that or everyone was too tired after the slow-moving legislative sessions to bother attending.)

What is being proposed includes study materials use for local use and a liturgy that, if allowed by the diocesan bishop, may be used on a trial basis. The liturgy is careful to avoid the word "marriage," and for good reason. "Marriage" is a very loaded term that carries with it not only legal implications but also great meaning for many people. Instead the focus is on the "covenant" that is created between two people and which the church recognizes is blessed by God.

I'll have more on this when the committee sends the matter on to the floor.

Dinner with Old Friends

One of the great joys of General Convention is running into old friends, including my buddies Mike and Dianne from the Diocese of the Rio Grande (in New Mexico). After the hearing on the Blessing, we went to California Pizza Kitchen for a bit of wine and pizza. Oh, yeah! We had a great visit as though we'd been apart just a few days and not a few years. What a blessing I have in my friends!

July 6 at General Convention

Serving at Holy Eucharist 

After a legislative hearing I was attended went into Executive Session (meaning they kindly kicked all of us out of the room), I arrived early for the daily Eucharist. When asked, I gladly accepted the offer to be one of many folks to distribute Holy Communion. I ended up at the station right in front of the massive altar they've set up in a hotel ballroom, allowing me to sneak a couple of photos. Great experience sharing the Body of Christ with Deputies and Bishops of the church!

The view from near the front of the alter. The folks in the front row are using sign language as we offered the Sanctus.

They asked Eucharistic ministers to stand near their stations during the Eucharistic prayer. Best view I'll probably ever have of Holy Eucharist during General Convention. I have no idea who the Bishop is who celebrated the service.

Lay Health Plans

Attended two more committee meetings on the Church Pension Group during which the committee took up the issue of ensuring that lay employees have access to health plans consistent with the benefits enjoyed by clergy. We'll see if the Convention adopts the resolution drafted and crafted and polished by this committee, but we should. Lay employees in the church deserve no less care than the clergy.

Legislative Sessions

We had two of them today. Among the actions taken today are three that struck me as particularly significant:

The House of Deputies voted to:

• Endorse statehood for the District of Columbia (whose citizens are denied right to vote for representation in the Senate and House of Representatives);
• Affirm the compatibility of science and the Christian faith; and
• Sell the property at 815 2nd Avenue, New York (which currently houses the Church Center offices, including those of the Presiding Bishop).

These resolutions will be passed along to the House of Bishops. If adopted in the same form then these will have the force of law. We shall see!

Some Reflections

I am loving sharing in worship with hundreds of Episcopalians and sharing with other folks here one-on-one as stand in line for drinks, as we meet each other in the Exhibit Hall, and as we visit while walking from one place to another (and we do a lot of walking!). 

I love running into old friends, some of whom I haven't seen in over a decade. What a community we have in The Episcopal Church: large enough to extend well beyond our national borders yet small enough to reconnect with old friends.

I love seeing how the legislative process unfolds from taking testimony in committee meetings, to discussions and votes in those committees, to the process of debating and amending and deciding these matters on the floor of the House of Deputies. 

I love getting back to my hotel room after 12 hours (or more) and enjoying a little peace and quiet. And on that note -- good night!

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

July 4 -- My Intro to General Convention

Registration and Exhibits

General Convention doesn't officially open until tomorrow, though we got started with some preliminary matters today. This morning I registered and spent some time visiting the Exhibitors. On hand are books, vestments, ministry opportunities, seminaries, and a couple of guys selling cushioned inserts for your shoes. 

Special Present and Orientation

After lunch I attended a PB&F hearing (that's Episco-speak for "Program, Budget, & Finance"). This committee is probably going to be the busiest as they have to have prepare a budget for adoption by Convention. This means they have to consider two rather different proposals plus sort out the budgetary implications of the various resolutions that will be considered at Convention. 

Me and Stephanie Cheney at the PB&F hearing. Stephanie is a Lay Deputy from West Tennessee as well as a member of the Executive Council of The Episcopal Church. 

Here's the view of the PB&F hearing from my seat. Yeah, it's about as exciting as it looks in this photo!

After a quick break the House of Bishops and House of Deputies gathered for opening remarks from the Most Rev. Dr. Katharine Jefferts Schori, the Presiding Bishop, and Dr. Bonnie Anderson, President of the House of Deputies. The bishops then went to their orientation while the deputies learned about the various rules and procedures that will guide our time in legislative sessions.

For example, one of the rules is that every deputy votes on every resolution brought to the floor of the House. I will not be allowed to abstain (even if I'd very much like to!). Deputies are elected to listen and share in debate, discussion, discernment, and -- finally -- decision.

As you can see from the photo below, the deputation from the Diocese of West Tennessee is actually seated rather close to the front of the meeting space for the House of Deputies. I guess this means we'll have to behave ourselves.

Our view of the dais. Look closely and you can almost see the Presiding Bishop as she addresses a joint session of the Houses of Bishops and Deputies.

Lay Benefits Considered

I then attended a hearing of the Church Pension Fund committee dealing with the implantation of a Pension Fund and Health Plan for lay employees of the church. This was decided in 2009 with implementation to be completed by January 1, 2013. There are a few resolutions being considered to allow more time or more diocesan leeway in the implementation of these plans, especially the pension fund as it would apply to Episcopal-affiliated schools. The argument made by the schools is that while they are supportive of additional benefits for their faculty and staff, sudden implementation of a pension plan would impose a substantial financial strain that could adversely affect their programs. It was suggested that some schools might even decide to close down or end their affiliation with The Episcopal Church. There are more hearings scheduled on these issues tomorrow. I can hardly wait.

So far my thought is that institutions have already had three years to sort out how they are going to implement what General Convention 2009 decided. But if they need additional time or support, then I support allowing diocesan authorities a limited amount of discretion. For example, a plan could be phased in over a period of time, as long as a plan has been decided and implemented by the original January 1, 2013 deadline. We'll see what happens.

And tomorrow...

Tomorrow we begin bright and early with Deputy Certification starting at 7:30 and our first legislative session at 8:00 am. The day will also include Eucharist and legislative committee hearings. The last session could run as late as 9:00 pm. I'd better get some rest!

A Thoughtful Proposal from Bishop Kirk Smith

Bishop Kirk Smith

The Rt. Rev. Kirk Smith, Bishop of Arizona, has posted an thoughtful proposal as we prepare for General Convention. I invite you to read his thoughts on the "principle of abandonment" as a way for The Episcopal Church to become more agile and more focused on our essential ministry. Read his thoughts for yourself here.

An Overview of General Convention

This post is adapted from my letter in the July edition of the Saint Mary's parish newsletter.

“Almighty and everliving God, source of all wisdom and understanding, be present with those who take counsel for the renewal and mission of your Church.”

— Book of Common Prayer, 818

This month I have the incredible privilege and responsibility of sharing in the counsels of the Church by serving as a Deputy to the 77^th General Convention of The Episcopal Church. As you probably already know, The Episcopal Church meets every three years to consider and decide on issues related to common life, including worship, discipline, mission, outreach, budget, and so much more. Resolutions will be offered to and considered by two Houses: a House of Bishops and a House of Deputies. Each diocese may send up to four clergy and four laypersons to the House of Deputies. Resolutions that are adopted in the same language in both houses are binding on the Church.

One of the peculiar practices of our Church is that we don’t send representatives or delegates; we send deputies. As a deputy I am not expected (or even encouraged) to represent the will of my parish or my diocese. Instead, I am to consider resolutions and vote as I believe the Holy Spirit is leading me on behalf of the entire Episcopal Church.

As you might expect, since the Church only meets in this fashion once every three years, there will be a great number of resolutions to be considered. And they may not even be in final form when the Convention begins on July 5. Instead, legislative hearings, which will begin on July 4 and continue throughout the Convention, will consider each of the resolutions that are offered and perhaps amend them in a variety of ways before the final proposed legislation comes before the bishops and deputies for prayerful consideration and vote.

To prepare for this experience, I have attended a meeting of the West Tennessee Deputation as well as a meeting in North Carolina of the dioceses in our region of the country. I have learned about the legislative process I’ve described in brief and about my role and responsibilities as a deputy. Those of us in the deputation (which includes our own Scott Haight) have also had an opportunity to engage in what are likely to be the most debated and consequential issues of the General Convention.

These issues include consideration of the blessing of the relationship of same-gender couples. The materials proposed to General Convention include study materials and a carefully drafted trial liturgy. If adopted, we will have the opportunity as a parish to study and reflect on this issue.

A second issue concerns the structure of The Episcopal Church. Over the last decade, our active membership has slipped from over 2.3 million to just under 2 million persons. Meanwhile, our church structure has become, in the view of some, top heavy and unresponsive to the mission-oriented needs of our denomination. At best, we may adopt a procedure to study and recommend a possible reorganization in the future.

A third issue that will be debated includes pension and health plans for lay church employees. The last General Convention voted to require churches to include lay employees in a manner that brings them the same level of benefits that are enjoyed by clergy. The implementation of these worthy proposals, however, has hit a few snags that we will have to address.

There will be many other issues raised, discussed, debated, prayed about, muttered about, and eventually voted upon. Some of these you will no doubt read about or see in various media. But the national media will likely only report a small sliver of what’s really being discussed and decided without capturing the full discussion or the nuance behind our votes.

How then can you stay informed on the events of General Convention? Well, you can continue to check in here at my blog. You are welcome to read my notes as well as post your own comments. You should be able to respond to each other’s comments as well, allowing us to have a “cyber discussion” about the events of General Convention.

Of greater value than my own reflections are the list of links you can find on my blog. These Internet sites will offer exhaustive and extensive coverage of General Convention actions. The list is found on the right side of your computer screen.

I will be away from Dyersburg from July 3 through July 13. Please keep me, our bishop, and all the bishops and deputies in your prayers as we travel to Indianapolis for this Convention and especially as we prayerfully gather in discussion, debate, and decision.

Province IV Synod

Last week I joined most of the deputation from the Diocese of West Tennessee for the Synod Meeting for Province IV, the group of dioceses in the southeast part of the United States. We heard presentations, considered resolutions to be presented at General Convention, and considered other Province IV business. Most attention was paid to providing useful information for all of us preparing for General Convention. A good day and a half, especially the time spent later in the evening with Bishop Johnson and the other GC deputies discussing the issues raised at the Synod.

Welcome to my blog!

Hello! I will be attending the 77th General Convention of The Episcopal Church which runs from July 5-12 in Indianapolis, Indiana. As I prepare for this -- and then during the Convention itself -- I will be posting my impressions of events, people, news, and more. This will be no substitute for genuine news coverage from trusted sources, just one deputy's own perceptions and experiences.