by Susan Langle...
“It is by prayer that we walk in the balance” When we are weary.
When we are ready to begin, or longing to take our leave or moving
into difficult waters, and the President of the House of Deputies
calls forward our Chaplain. Deputy Eaton, a priest in Navajoland
Area Mission, begins her prayers with images on the Jumbotron – the
desert; blue sky; the ocean; a river at sunset. And she reminds us
that we need prayer to hold us upright. We need prayer to keep
walking in the difficult places. We need prayer to stay steady. We
yearn to walk in the balance, and so we pray.
“Love is intangible and unstoppable” In three ballrooms put together
hundreds of chairs filled with people. L sat with the other members
of the Prayer book Liturgy and Church Music Committee listening to
those who signed the long list to offer brief remarks on the
resolution and liturgies of Blessing for same gender couples. As I
sat facing the crowd and attending the 40 or so speakers who came one
by one to the microphones, I kept watching a group of visitors, high
school students sitting in the first row a few feet in front of me.
They were totally engaged in the process of the Church being the
Church. After the hearing was over I went to hear what they had to
say. They come from Michigan with some pretty cool adults. They are
each articulate, eager and they are filled with the power of the
Spirit. “Isn’t it discrimination to withhold this blessing?” “Why do
people care who others love?” Love gets the final word. The Love at
the heart of the Universe. That Love is unstoppable.
“If the horse is dead, dismount” We can’t help it. We debate. We
amend. We discuss. We perfect. We listen and talk and talk and
talk. The Word made flesh. Words from different perspectives, from
so many different contexts and perspectives are offered with courage,
and heard with patience. So many words. But as Deputy Freeman from
North Carolina reminded my committee with humor and wisdom, sometimes
we need to just get on with it.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Legislative Day 3
The highlight of Legislative Day 3, for me, was Bishop Curry's sermon at the daily Community Eucharist. Followed by the cash piling up at the base of the font--a positive protest to the fact that we have no offertory collection at all our worship services.
The legislative sessions in the House of Deputies, morning and afternoon, were characterized by forays into the procedural weeds, with some confusion on amendments and re-referrals and so on.
In the evening, the Committess on Structure and on Program, Budget & Finance (PB&F), and Prayer Book, Music & Liturgy were meeting. Our deputation spreads itself far and wide, sending folks to these important meetings so we can report developments.
The legislative sessions in the House of Deputies, morning and afternoon, were characterized by forays into the procedural weeds, with some confusion on amendments and re-referrals and so on.
In the evening, the Committess on Structure and on Program, Budget & Finance (PB&F), and Prayer Book, Music & Liturgy were meeting. Our deputation spreads itself far and wide, sending folks to these important meetings so we can report developments.
Friday, July 6, 2012
Evening Meditation & Prayers, Legislative Day 2
From Susan Langle--
From "Prayers for All Seasons" (Night prayers in Ordinary Time/Creation) (p. 455 of the Blue Book) Offered for tired yet rejoicing deputies, knowing that much hard work will come with the dawn ....
The Lord almighty grant us a peaceful night and a perfect end. Amen
God our desire, whose coming we look for, but whose arrival is unexpected: Here in the darkness make us urgent to greet you, and open yourself to our longing that we may be known by you through Jesus Christ. Amen.
(Lifetime Psalm)
Praise my soul, our good Lord Sing songs to God's Name for God has brought my life into fresh waters when I was thristy. God has fed me with the Bread of Life when I was starving. God has sustained me along all my days and never has put me to shame. Praise my soul, our good Lord, for such abundant goodness.
Blessed are those who trust in the Lord, whose trust is in the Lord. They shall be like a tree planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream. It shall not fear when heat comes, and its leaves shall stay green, in the year of drought, it is not anxious, and it does not cease to bear fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8
"Fish cannot drown in water, birds cannot sink in air, gold cannot persin in the refiner's fire. This has God given to all creatures: to foster and seek their own nature." Mechthild of Magdeburg 13th C
Meditation: What has God given us today to help us be more fully ourselves?
From "Prayers for All Seasons" (Night prayers in Ordinary Time/Creation) (p. 455 of the Blue Book) Offered for tired yet rejoicing deputies, knowing that much hard work will come with the dawn ....
The Lord almighty grant us a peaceful night and a perfect end. Amen
God our desire, whose coming we look for, but whose arrival is unexpected: Here in the darkness make us urgent to greet you, and open yourself to our longing that we may be known by you through Jesus Christ. Amen.
(Lifetime Psalm)
Praise my soul, our good Lord Sing songs to God's Name for God has brought my life into fresh waters when I was thristy. God has fed me with the Bread of Life when I was starving. God has sustained me along all my days and never has put me to shame. Praise my soul, our good Lord, for such abundant goodness.
Blessed are those who trust in the Lord, whose trust is in the Lord. They shall be like a tree planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream. It shall not fear when heat comes, and its leaves shall stay green, in the year of drought, it is not anxious, and it does not cease to bear fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8
"Fish cannot drown in water, birds cannot sink in air, gold cannot persin in the refiner's fire. This has God given to all creatures: to foster and seek their own nature." Mechthild of Magdeburg 13th C
Meditation: What has God given us today to help us be more fully ourselves?
Legislative Day 2: Consent & Award
A few photos from a busy and momentous day for our deputation, and the Church. It is frustrating that the pace of General Convention doesn't allow for the sort of reflection that might provide deeper insights on the proceedings here. There is so much going on, and information about occurrences and developments occurs practically in real time...there is hardly time to digest before the next wave of info comes crashing in!
So, here are some highlights and illustrations of what we experienced on Legislative Day 2.
Committees met at 7.30 this morning (yawn!) followed by the daily Eucharist at 9.30. These are bilingual, and today's language was that of the Hmong people. (Yesterday it was in Engliah and Spanish.)
Then it was on to our morning Legislative Session.
The view from the back row, where we sit.
During the midday break, some of us went to The Consultation Booth in the Exhibit Hall to hear our Bishop speak and take questions.
The afternoon was devoted to more committee hearings. I sat in on Structure during the period they were discussing the desired number of days for GC 2015 in Salt Lake City (there was a proposal for only 7 legislative days!)
The afternoon Legislative Session began at 4.30. We heard from youth representatives, who shared their experience of the Episcopal Youth Event, and discussed--so articulately--their faith formation.
A neighboring mascot.
We were excited and expectant, knowing that Rob Hirschfeld, our Coadjutor-elect, was at that time receiving consent to his election from the House of Bishops. And he would then join us so we could process with him to the front of the House of Deputies.
Before he and the other bishops-elect receiving consent arrived, the House of Deputies voted to sell the Church Center Property at 815 Second Avenue. When this happened we were absent from the floor--unable to vote--waiting for Rob to arrive, along with several other expectant deputations.
After a long wait, Rob arrived, wearing a Bishop's purple name badge.
We greeted him with joyful smiles.
We then processed with him to the front of the House. And we were all on the Jumbotron screens.
As soon as the House recessed, we hurried to the JW Marriott and The Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS) award reception. Several individuals and dioceses--including ours--received awards for their achievements in stewardship. Our own Canon Charles LaFond, who did so much to lead and inspire us in this effort, received the award on our behalf.
So ends the rundown of the day's happy events. God had blessed us...these photos are only a small sample of the many was in which we felt that during this day.
So, here are some highlights and illustrations of what we experienced on Legislative Day 2.
Committees met at 7.30 this morning (yawn!) followed by the daily Eucharist at 9.30. These are bilingual, and today's language was that of the Hmong people. (Yesterday it was in Engliah and Spanish.)
Then it was on to our morning Legislative Session.
The view from the back row, where we sit.
During the midday break, some of us went to The Consultation Booth in the Exhibit Hall to hear our Bishop speak and take questions.
The afternoon was devoted to more committee hearings. I sat in on Structure during the period they were discussing the desired number of days for GC 2015 in Salt Lake City (there was a proposal for only 7 legislative days!)
The afternoon Legislative Session began at 4.30. We heard from youth representatives, who shared their experience of the Episcopal Youth Event, and discussed--so articulately--their faith formation.
A neighboring mascot.
We were excited and expectant, knowing that Rob Hirschfeld, our Coadjutor-elect, was at that time receiving consent to his election from the House of Bishops. And he would then join us so we could process with him to the front of the House of Deputies.
Before he and the other bishops-elect receiving consent arrived, the House of Deputies voted to sell the Church Center Property at 815 Second Avenue. When this happened we were absent from the floor--unable to vote--waiting for Rob to arrive, along with several other expectant deputations.
After a long wait, Rob arrived, wearing a Bishop's purple name badge.
We greeted him with joyful smiles.
We then processed with him to the front of the House. And we were all on the Jumbotron screens.
As soon as the House recessed, we hurried to the JW Marriott and The Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS) award reception. Several individuals and dioceses--including ours--received awards for their achievements in stewardship. Our own Canon Charles LaFond, who did so much to lead and inspire us in this effort, received the award on our behalf.
So ends the rundown of the day's happy events. God had blessed us...these photos are only a small sample of the many was in which we felt that during this day.
Hiram Kano
By Susan Langle
Creating God, your reign of love makes all things new: Plant seeds of confidence and gladness in our hearts, so that, trusting your word, we may live no longer for ourselves, but as Holy Women, Holy Men living for him who died and was raised for us, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN
(Adapted from a Collect in Ordinary Time: Creation found in A 072 “Daily Prayer for All Season”)
Hiram HIsanori Kano (1889-1986) is known and remembered in Nebraska Colorado and Los Angeles and we were encouraged to recall his faithful life in the wider church by adding him to the Calendar of Saints. Kano was born in Japan to a prominent family. As a child, he had an experience of the Risen Christ during a serious illness as a child that led him to seek baptism when he recovered. who sent him to the University of Nebraska to study agriculture. In the 1920’s his gifts for evangelism were recognized by the Missionary Bishop of Western Nebraska to speak the Good News to the Japanese farmers of the area. He was ordained a deacon in 1928 and made a priest in 1936. On a Sunday morning in December 1941 he was arrested as he left church and sent to internment having been classified as a Class A dangerous person due to his family’s connections with the Japanese government. Over the next two years he lived in camps in four states, teaching English and agriculture to his fellow prisoners and always preaching the Gospel.
A young priest from the Diocese of Los Angeles said today of Kano: I know people whose lives were directly affected by his gracious ministry. It is important to me that his life be remembered. With grace he bore the suffering of my ancestors. And he looks like me. Indeed it is important to us that our grace stories be remembered, all our grace stories. It is important that we be reminded how it is that you and I might follow the example of Jesus and bless those who persecute us. Holy Women, Holy Men are our companions, reminders that we have been given a great legacy, seeds of strength and hope and quiet confidence that God’s Reign is coming and now is.
Creating God, your reign of love makes all things new: Plant seeds of confidence and gladness in our hearts, so that, trusting your word, we may live no longer for ourselves, but as Holy Women, Holy Men living for him who died and was raised for us, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN
(Adapted from a Collect in Ordinary Time: Creation found in A 072 “Daily Prayer for All Season”)
Hiram HIsanori Kano (1889-1986) is known and remembered in Nebraska Colorado and Los Angeles and we were encouraged to recall his faithful life in the wider church by adding him to the Calendar of Saints. Kano was born in Japan to a prominent family. As a child, he had an experience of the Risen Christ during a serious illness as a child that led him to seek baptism when he recovered. who sent him to the University of Nebraska to study agriculture. In the 1920’s his gifts for evangelism were recognized by the Missionary Bishop of Western Nebraska to speak the Good News to the Japanese farmers of the area. He was ordained a deacon in 1928 and made a priest in 1936. On a Sunday morning in December 1941 he was arrested as he left church and sent to internment having been classified as a Class A dangerous person due to his family’s connections with the Japanese government. Over the next two years he lived in camps in four states, teaching English and agriculture to his fellow prisoners and always preaching the Gospel.
A young priest from the Diocese of Los Angeles said today of Kano: I know people whose lives were directly affected by his gracious ministry. It is important to me that his life be remembered. With grace he bore the suffering of my ancestors. And he looks like me. Indeed it is important to us that our grace stories be remembered, all our grace stories. It is important that we be reminded how it is that you and I might follow the example of Jesus and bless those who persecute us. Holy Women, Holy Men are our companions, reminders that we have been given a great legacy, seeds of strength and hope and quiet confidence that God’s Reign is coming and now is.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Legislative Day 1
Some scenes of the NH Deputation and other on our first legislative day.
As usual the Secretary of the House of Deputies (and of General Convention) wore a magnificent jacket.
Posing with the moose, our deputation mascot.
Before the Daily Eucharist, held at 9.30 each morning.
Preparation at the start of our afternoon session.
A photo taken after the House of Deputies consented to Rob Hirschfeld's election as Bishop Coadjutor of New Hampshire. (House of Deputies to vote on 2nd Legislative Day.(
As usual the Secretary of the House of Deputies (and of General Convention) wore a magnificent jacket.
Posing with the moose, our deputation mascot.
Before the Daily Eucharist, held at 9.30 each morning.
Preparation at the start of our afternoon session.
A photo taken after the House of Deputies consented to Rob Hirschfeld's election as Bishop Coadjutor of New Hampshire. (House of Deputies to vote on 2nd Legislative Day.(
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
July 4th at GC2012
Most of the New Hampshire deputation arrived yesterday, if not earlier. Our lay and clergy alternates arrived today.
It was a busy day of registration, initial committee meetings, public hearings, a joint non-legislative session of Convention, orientation, more committee meetings, our deputation gathering...and then the day ended with a bang!
When I was taking a photo of the deserted House of Deputies (in the Indiana Convention Center), a deputy from South Dakota offered to take my photo.
Our deputation sits in the back of the hall, near the middle. (In Anaheim, we were way up front. The view from the "cheap seats" during an address by the Presiding Bishop to a joint session (deputies and bishops attending).
After Bishop Katharine's remarks, Dr. Bonnie Anderson, President of the House of Deputies, also gave an address.
Our first deputation meeting in Indy took place in the 24th floor suite at 7 p.m. The purpose of this daily gathering is to share what we experienced in our committees and elsewhere, to give updates, and to provide information on upcoming hearings on resolutions of interest, as well as other events. It's a chance to catch up and socialize. Our suite is a place of hospitality for all Granite Staters in Indy, and other friends/visitors are welcome. Pictured here are Betsy, Bonnie, Judith, and our Bishop.
The newest member of our group: Rob, our Bishop Coadjutor-Elect. The Committee on Consents approved his election, and both the House of Deputies and the House of Bishops will vote tomorrow afternoon.
As he departed for the Church Pension Group dinner, the Bishop pointed to Rob and said "I'm leaving you in charge of this group," as Suzie looked on.
Richard gets Cate up to speed with our wonderful group text messaging system. Also pictured: Jason, Celeste, Mark, and Bill.
Our group disbanded, most of us heading to the restaurant downstairs for a bite or a beverage. From there some of us saw the post-game fireworks at the adjacent baseball stadium. And those of us with a view of downtown from our hotel room window were able to watch the city fireworks display. July 4th really did end with a bang!
Tomorrow is the First Legislative Day.
For those who want to keep up with all the action via Twitter, there is a #GC77 hashtag. (Because this is the 77th General Convention.) Click here to follow the live tweets. No need to log in or sign up for Twitter.
It was a busy day of registration, initial committee meetings, public hearings, a joint non-legislative session of Convention, orientation, more committee meetings, our deputation gathering...and then the day ended with a bang!
When I was taking a photo of the deserted House of Deputies (in the Indiana Convention Center), a deputy from South Dakota offered to take my photo.
Our deputation sits in the back of the hall, near the middle. (In Anaheim, we were way up front. The view from the "cheap seats" during an address by the Presiding Bishop to a joint session (deputies and bishops attending).
After Bishop Katharine's remarks, Dr. Bonnie Anderson, President of the House of Deputies, also gave an address.
Our first deputation meeting in Indy took place in the 24th floor suite at 7 p.m. The purpose of this daily gathering is to share what we experienced in our committees and elsewhere, to give updates, and to provide information on upcoming hearings on resolutions of interest, as well as other events. It's a chance to catch up and socialize. Our suite is a place of hospitality for all Granite Staters in Indy, and other friends/visitors are welcome. Pictured here are Betsy, Bonnie, Judith, and our Bishop.
The newest member of our group: Rob, our Bishop Coadjutor-Elect. The Committee on Consents approved his election, and both the House of Deputies and the House of Bishops will vote tomorrow afternoon.
As he departed for the Church Pension Group dinner, the Bishop pointed to Rob and said "I'm leaving you in charge of this group," as Suzie looked on.
Richard gets Cate up to speed with our wonderful group text messaging system. Also pictured: Jason, Celeste, Mark, and Bill.
Our group disbanded, most of us heading to the restaurant downstairs for a bite or a beverage. From there some of us saw the post-game fireworks at the adjacent baseball stadium. And those of us with a view of downtown from our hotel room window were able to watch the city fireworks display. July 4th really did end with a bang!
Tomorrow is the First Legislative Day.
For those who want to keep up with all the action via Twitter, there is a #GC77 hashtag. (Because this is the 77th General Convention.) Click here to follow the live tweets. No need to log in or sign up for Twitter.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
NH Deputation at Pre-Convention Clergy Day
Welcome to the debut blog post of 2012 Convention Season! Opening Day isn't till July, but our deputation has been meeting regularly to prepare and share information and resources.
The Clergy Development Committee of our diocese, which sponsors the (almost) monthly Clergy Days invivted the NH Deputation to attend today's meeting to offer a preview of the 2012 General Convention in Indianapolis. (There's a post-Convention presentation already scheduled for September!)
The gathering took place at All Saints Church in Littleton--north of the Notches. Attendees arrived to find coffee and other beverages, coffee cake, fruit, cheese, and nuts--much appreciated hospitality. We began with a half-hour of fellowship.
Judith Esmay chats with Fran Gardner-Smith. Kurt Wiesner and seminarian intern Lauren look as though they are praying but were in fact attentive to JJ, the official Deputation Dog. (See below.)
After Bill Exner's opening prayers, he asked those present what issues they most hoped would be addressed in the course of the morning. After that, each of the deputies shared the most significant resolutions coming before their committees. Our group's committee assignments are broad, so NH is well-represented across the committee spectrum.
Celeste Hemingson exhibits proof of how technologically savvy we are. A member of our Standing Committee as well as a deputy, she's the point person for the proccess of Consent for Rob Hirschfeld, our Bishop Coadjutor-Elect.
Susan Buchanan will again serve on the Evangelism Committee. We had a good discussion of resolutions related to open-communion and more.
Bonnie Chappell is assigned to Stewardship and Development, and went through some of the resolutions her committee will consider.
Margaret Porter, on the Communications Committee.
Bill Exner is attending his 7th (?) General Convention and has years of experience in World Mission and Peace and Justice issues. As well as updating us on specific resolutions, he's active on The Consultation plus he provides lots of information about events and activities worth experiencing.
Susan Langle serves on the Prayer Book, Liturgy, and Church Music Committee. The liturgical rites proprosed for the blessing of same gender unions and Holy Men, Holy Women are among the topics her committee will consider.
Suzie, Bonnie, and Margaret.
The Committee on Canons has the benefit of Judith Esmay's knowledge in that area. During the previous Triennium she served on Program, Budget and Finance, and offers valuable insights into that process as well.
Judith and Kurt.
Before departing, we posed for a group photo. (Teresa Gocha is responsible for positioning us so precisely!) Included is our official Deputation Dog, JJ. Unfortunately, neither he nor Kurt will be able to join us in Indianapolis.
JJ.
This does not fully reflect the contingent of New Hampshire deputies--Betsy Hess is assigned to the Committee on Small Congregations. Jason Wells, our clergy alternate, and Cate McMahon, our lay alternate, were unable to attend. Other folks from our diocese will be present in Indianapolis.
It was a hot--and holy--day in Littleton, and the deputation thanks the Clergy Development Committee for hosting the forum.
Thanks to Fran Gardner-Smith, our principal event photographer!
Fellow deputies are invited to make any corrections or clarifications in the comments section, or let me know via email and I will take care of it.
The Clergy Development Committee of our diocese, which sponsors the (almost) monthly Clergy Days invivted the NH Deputation to attend today's meeting to offer a preview of the 2012 General Convention in Indianapolis. (There's a post-Convention presentation already scheduled for September!)
The gathering took place at All Saints Church in Littleton--north of the Notches. Attendees arrived to find coffee and other beverages, coffee cake, fruit, cheese, and nuts--much appreciated hospitality. We began with a half-hour of fellowship.
Judith Esmay chats with Fran Gardner-Smith. Kurt Wiesner and seminarian intern Lauren look as though they are praying but were in fact attentive to JJ, the official Deputation Dog. (See below.)
After Bill Exner's opening prayers, he asked those present what issues they most hoped would be addressed in the course of the morning. After that, each of the deputies shared the most significant resolutions coming before their committees. Our group's committee assignments are broad, so NH is well-represented across the committee spectrum.
Celeste Hemingson exhibits proof of how technologically savvy we are. A member of our Standing Committee as well as a deputy, she's the point person for the proccess of Consent for Rob Hirschfeld, our Bishop Coadjutor-Elect.
Susan Buchanan will again serve on the Evangelism Committee. We had a good discussion of resolutions related to open-communion and more.
Bonnie Chappell is assigned to Stewardship and Development, and went through some of the resolutions her committee will consider.
Margaret Porter, on the Communications Committee.
Bill Exner is attending his 7th (?) General Convention and has years of experience in World Mission and Peace and Justice issues. As well as updating us on specific resolutions, he's active on The Consultation plus he provides lots of information about events and activities worth experiencing.
Susan Langle serves on the Prayer Book, Liturgy, and Church Music Committee. The liturgical rites proprosed for the blessing of same gender unions and Holy Men, Holy Women are among the topics her committee will consider.
Suzie, Bonnie, and Margaret.
The Committee on Canons has the benefit of Judith Esmay's knowledge in that area. During the previous Triennium she served on Program, Budget and Finance, and offers valuable insights into that process as well.
Judith and Kurt.
Before departing, we posed for a group photo. (Teresa Gocha is responsible for positioning us so precisely!) Included is our official Deputation Dog, JJ. Unfortunately, neither he nor Kurt will be able to join us in Indianapolis.
JJ.
This does not fully reflect the contingent of New Hampshire deputies--Betsy Hess is assigned to the Committee on Small Congregations. Jason Wells, our clergy alternate, and Cate McMahon, our lay alternate, were unable to attend. Other folks from our diocese will be present in Indianapolis.
It was a hot--and holy--day in Littleton, and the deputation thanks the Clergy Development Committee for hosting the forum.
Thanks to Fran Gardner-Smith, our principal event photographer!
Fellow deputies are invited to make any corrections or clarifications in the comments section, or let me know via email and I will take care of it.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Coming home
I’ve just eaten my last breakfast bowl of instant oatmeal, dried fruit, and walnuts in my Anaheim hotel room and will soon be leaving the eternal sunshine of southern California for the sweet hills of the Upper Valley and home.
It’s probably too soon for a competent assessment of General Convention 2009, but I’m pretty sure that what will long linger is my sure sense of a church that is pulling together, toward a future securely rooted in the love of God and in the confidence that God is working God’s purposes in the church. Those purposes include the inclusion and tender care of all God’s people–most especially the marginalized and those in need. We have work to do, and we are prepared to do that work together.
The way in which we do that work together will be leaner, more economical of resources, than it has been in the past. And this is a good thing. It will encourage us to be more resourceful and creative. We will discover new ways of doing things and doing them better.
I leave Convention with a renewed sense of wonder at the breadth and depth of our Episcopal Church. The people gathered under the “tent” of the dazzlingly huge Anaheim Convention Center were wondrously diverse and gathered from far and wide. A member of our PB&F Committee, representing Province IX, travels to meetings from Bogota, Colombia and is assisted by an interpreter. I was tutored and stretched by the testimonies and opinions offered at committee hearings and during debate in the House of Deputies.
All of us on the New Hampshire deputation look forward to reporting the Convention to you. In the meantime, keep checking this blog for more................
Looking forward to home,
Judith
It’s probably too soon for a competent assessment of General Convention 2009, but I’m pretty sure that what will long linger is my sure sense of a church that is pulling together, toward a future securely rooted in the love of God and in the confidence that God is working God’s purposes in the church. Those purposes include the inclusion and tender care of all God’s people–most especially the marginalized and those in need. We have work to do, and we are prepared to do that work together.
The way in which we do that work together will be leaner, more economical of resources, than it has been in the past. And this is a good thing. It will encourage us to be more resourceful and creative. We will discover new ways of doing things and doing them better.
I leave Convention with a renewed sense of wonder at the breadth and depth of our Episcopal Church. The people gathered under the “tent” of the dazzlingly huge Anaheim Convention Center were wondrously diverse and gathered from far and wide. A member of our PB&F Committee, representing Province IX, travels to meetings from Bogota, Colombia and is assisted by an interpreter. I was tutored and stretched by the testimonies and opinions offered at committee hearings and during debate in the House of Deputies.
All of us on the New Hampshire deputation look forward to reporting the Convention to you. In the meantime, keep checking this blog for more................
Looking forward to home,
Judith
The end of legislation . . . now back to the mission!
by Susan Buchanan
General Convention is such a jam-packed time - with committee meetings starting at 7:30 in the morning (sometimes earlier) and hearings or meetings or other events lasting until what might normally be considered bedtime. I didn't have time for dinner every day, although I did manage to grab some kind of lunch daily. Breakfast was instant oatmeal and fruit in my room. A granola bar would usually go with me to the floor of the House of Deputies. I am sorry that I had so little time to write during this Convention, but kept an eye on the blog to make sure that something was going up almost daily. The intent was never to have every person blogging a lot, but to make sure that as a group we tried to keep in touch.
General Convention is such a jam-packed time - with committee meetings starting at 7:30 in the morning (sometimes earlier) and hearings or meetings or other events lasting until what might normally be considered bedtime. I didn't have time for dinner every day, although I did manage to grab some kind of lunch daily. Breakfast was instant oatmeal and fruit in my room. A granola bar would usually go with me to the floor of the House of Deputies. I am sorry that I had so little time to write during this Convention, but kept an eye on the blog to make sure that something was going up almost daily. The intent was never to have every person blogging a lot, but to make sure that as a group we tried to keep in touch.
There is a bit of regret at having been in a place with lots of sunshine and clear skies . . . and managing to only be outdoors long enough to take the short walk between hotel and Convention Center, or the longer walks to a place to eat dinner. But I do look forward to the milder temperatures back in New Hampshire! I don't do heat all that well. And I look forward to my own bed, and sitting on my deck out in the woods, and having a little peace and quiet. Even this extravert is on overload from too many people ALL the time.
But the legislative process is now over, and the work of moving ahead is beginning. I'll keep blogging in the days ahead as I go back over the vast array of legislation that we have dealt with (I'll have to look up the number of resolutions . . . but off the top of my head I think I remember it being somewhere in the 400's ! ). I'll be looking for legislation that urges action from dioceses, or parishes or individuals. I'll especially share about the work of my committee - on Evangelism. - and where that might take us. You'll hear more from others of our deputation as well.
But the legislative process is now over, and the work of moving ahead is beginning. I'll keep blogging in the days ahead as I go back over the vast array of legislation that we have dealt with (I'll have to look up the number of resolutions . . . but off the top of my head I think I remember it being somewhere in the 400's ! ). I'll be looking for legislation that urges action from dioceses, or parishes or individuals. I'll especially share about the work of my committee - on Evangelism. - and where that might take us. You'll hear more from others of our deputation as well.
Friday, July 17, 2009
The End of the Beginning
The business of this 76th General Convention has concluded...we now take on a new responsibility, sharing our experiences with our families, friends, diocese, parishes, other Episcopalians, people of the Christian faith, other faith traditions, and those who have not yet acknowledged their relationship to God.
During the closing moments of the final session we learned that in our time in Anaheim, we considered and acted upon more resolutions than any prior convention. We did it without any evening sessions. And we adjourned a full hour early.
This 1st time deputy offers thanks to all who prayed for us and who followed our journeys--individual and collective--via this blog. Over these many days I felt the Holy Spirit challenging and changing us as a loving and hopeful community of Christians. I also saw how resolutely we affirm and uphold our Episcopal tradition and polity.
Check this space in coming hours and days, for post-Convention reflections.
Send Us Forth Into the World in Peace
by Bill Exner
The call to make peace has been heard in this Church. Many, who as psalm 126 says, 'have sowed with tears' in conventions past are feeling that perhaps there is hope to 'reap with songs of joy.'
The 76th General Convention brought outstanding people of faith together to do a good many things, not the least of which was to say yes to justice in a variety of ways. What a consistant response of spirit we have witnessed! From the affirmation that all the baptized have a place at every level of life in this church to a landmark vote to support selective conscientious objection to war, to the call for single payer health care reform, to condemning the use of government torture inside and outside this nation, to urging our President and policy makers to take the lead on dismantling nuclear weapons, to upholding workers' access to collective bargaining, to standing with our Native American relatives, to advocating for gay,lesbian and transgendered civil rights , to care for this earth and much more, The Episcopal Church made the All Star team even with a small market payroll.
Reinhold Niebuhr once said something to the effect that Christian nonviolence seems impractical to the wordly but nobody can say it is not biblical. From where I stand today it is clear that this community of Christ is now ready to show the world a denomination ready and present to practice the biblical imperative of love we preach. Thanks be to God for a witness to grace operative in this world. Blessings and hope to all who yearn to share this song of joy composed at the 76th General Convention of The Episcopal Church.
The call to make peace has been heard in this Church. Many, who as psalm 126 says, 'have sowed with tears' in conventions past are feeling that perhaps there is hope to 'reap with songs of joy.'
The 76th General Convention brought outstanding people of faith together to do a good many things, not the least of which was to say yes to justice in a variety of ways. What a consistant response of spirit we have witnessed! From the affirmation that all the baptized have a place at every level of life in this church to a landmark vote to support selective conscientious objection to war, to the call for single payer health care reform, to condemning the use of government torture inside and outside this nation, to urging our President and policy makers to take the lead on dismantling nuclear weapons, to upholding workers' access to collective bargaining, to standing with our Native American relatives, to advocating for gay,lesbian and transgendered civil rights , to care for this earth and much more, The Episcopal Church made the All Star team even with a small market payroll.
Reinhold Niebuhr once said something to the effect that Christian nonviolence seems impractical to the wordly but nobody can say it is not biblical. From where I stand today it is clear that this community of Christ is now ready to show the world a denomination ready and present to practice the biblical imperative of love we preach. Thanks be to God for a witness to grace operative in this world. Blessings and hope to all who yearn to share this song of joy composed at the 76th General Convention of The Episcopal Church.
Mr. Secretary
Introducing to those who don't know him, The Rev. Dr. Gregory Straub, Executive Officer and Secretary of General Convention. Whose sartorial splendour, wit and wisdom, and smooth vocal stylings are a most wonderful and entertaining feature of this gathering.
I've been documenting his attire. I think I've got the jackets in their correct order...
Legislative Day 1 photo (hat tip to Twitpic.)
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10 (Today!
He is truly an iconic figure.
In our morning legislative session, the deputation from one of the western dioceses presented Sec. Straub with the pair of leather cowboy boots used as their mascot.
It feels like the last day of school, or semester, but we still have lots of work before us.
It will be interesting to see what our afternoon has in store for us...
I've been documenting his attire. I think I've got the jackets in their correct order...
Legislative Day 1 photo (hat tip to Twitpic.)
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10 (Today!
He is truly an iconic figure.
In our morning legislative session, the deputation from one of the western dioceses presented Sec. Straub with the pair of leather cowboy boots used as their mascot.
It feels like the last day of school, or semester, but we still have lots of work before us.
It will be interesting to see what our afternoon has in store for us...
Dog(s) of the Day
Nearly every day at the Convention I've seen at least one dog. Usually it's a service dog in training, but sometimes it's a local dog being exercised by its owner.
The most frequent sighting has been Emily, who will be a service dog for a disabled veteran.
I don't recall this dog's name, something like Buster or Rover. One of the largest dogs I've ever seen.
Lizzie is also being trained. She's a sweetie.
Bishop Bruno of LA is honoured by having his diocesan Altar Guild's stuffed dog named after him. When not welcoming visitors to the Liturgical Art Exhibit, Bruno hangs out at the cathedral.
Rufus the whippet was rather bored by the Exhibition Hall.
I met Kobe yesterday, on my short walk from the Hilton to the Convention Center. He's an Akita. He also loved to pose for photographers!
Today's sighting was a little tiny white fluffy dog belonging to a hotel guest, in the lobby as I boarded an elevator. No time to get a picture.
Shout out to my own much-missed Ruth and Jewel--looking forward to our reunion on Saturday evening!
The most frequent sighting has been Emily, who will be a service dog for a disabled veteran.
I don't recall this dog's name, something like Buster or Rover. One of the largest dogs I've ever seen.
Lizzie is also being trained. She's a sweetie.
Bishop Bruno of LA is honoured by having his diocesan Altar Guild's stuffed dog named after him. When not welcoming visitors to the Liturgical Art Exhibit, Bruno hangs out at the cathedral.
Rufus the whippet was rather bored by the Exhibition Hall.
I met Kobe yesterday, on my short walk from the Hilton to the Convention Center. He's an Akita. He also loved to pose for photographers!
Today's sighting was a little tiny white fluffy dog belonging to a hotel guest, in the lobby as I boarded an elevator. No time to get a picture.
Shout out to my own much-missed Ruth and Jewel--looking forward to our reunion on Saturday evening!
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