General Convention is coming
As many of you know I will be departing for General Convention in Anaheim, California on Monday, July 6. This gathering is of great importance to us all and while it has a structure that might sound somewhat rigid and ordinary, the business conducted is wide reaching and amazing. Convention is when the church really tries to turn its attention to all aspects of Christian life - whether that means resolving to bring the plight of badly treated workers in a particular industry to light or trying to find ways to make sure plenty of good men and women are able to respond to a call to ordination.
On the practical front, General Convention is the governing body of the Episcopal Church and meets once every three years. Legislation passes through two houses - one the House of Bishops, presided over by Katherine Schori our Presiding Bishop, and the other, the House of Deputies, presided over by Ms Bonnie Anderson. Legislation can originate in either house but has to be passed by both to be implemented.
Each diocese sends their bishop or bishops and an eight member team for the House of Deputies. The team consists of four clergy and four lay people elected at diocesan annual councils across the country.
It surprises some to learn that a great deal of time is spent in prayer and Bible study. Each day begins with a gigantic Eucharist for the bishops and deputies, volunteers, visitors, and ecumenical guests. We are each assigned to tables which reflect the diversity of roles and opinions. We worship and study together at that same table throughout Convention. Our legislative sessions are punctuated by periods of meditation and silence as the day moves forward.
One of the most fascinating aspects of serving at Convention is the opportunity to attend "hearings." These are meetings at which committees invite anyone who is interested to come and express their views on particular resolutions prior to them being debated on the floor of the house. The hearings are not only helpful because they help us all think more deeply about the issues before us, but they are often the times of very moving testimony and witness.
Convention is tiring, way too busy, and can never accomplish all it sets out to do. Often it feels chaotic and even argumentative but it is also a heartwarming and inspiring vision of the commitment of a faithful people trying to respond to the God who knows and loves them. There is something very exciting about seeing so many people working together for the common good of humanity and to know we are part of such a fine and caring church.
Each day, while I am away, I will add a story to our website about what I am doing and keep you updated on my small part in events. Do take the opportunity to communicate with me on my blog on this website. For a wider picture visit our diocesan website at
thediocese.net
for more information and links.
Keep the church in your prayers and keep up with what is happening.
Sue