The pace of activity has delayed my blog posts (plus I was struck by the illness going around, sinus infection for me). In the House of Deputies, we have discussed and adopted a number of major resolutions, as well as many important but less interesting to the average person probably.
In dealing with the Anglican Covenant and our relationships with people around the world who are Anglicans, we affirmed our desire to be in relationship with them and to remain in conversation about the Covenant. While many here, and in the Episcopal Church, believe that we will not adopt the Covenant in the future, we cannot say that with absolute certainly and are not willing to reject it at this point. I see God here, the work of the Holy Spirit, in helping us to be open to others and open to the future with hope.
The House of Bishops first adopted the resolution on the Liturgy for Blessing Same-sex Relationships, and then the House of Deputies also adopted it. We now have a trial liturgy for use in the Episcopal Church for same-sex couples who want to enter into a life-long covenant and have their commitment blessed by the Church. The resolution was adopted with overwhelming support. And I personally know many gay and lesbian couples who have been waiting for this pastoral care from the Church for decades. While many in the House were celebrating the passing of this resolution, its adoption, in respect and concern for those who did not want this resolution adopted, there was no applause or show of celebration. I see God in our concern for others and our desire to continue to respect their position.
