As a first-time deputy to General Convention, I had very few expectations when we arrived in Anaheim. Now that I am back home, here are some highlights and lowlights that stand out to me.
Spending time with and getting to know the other deputies from Tennessee was a great blessing. There was time at convention set aside for “Personal Narrative” within our deputation, and although I entered quite skeptical, it was a rewarding exercise as each of us had a chance to share personal stories with others in our group. The diocese should be proud of all of our deputies, who worked hard and faithfully for ten long days.
Another pleasant surprise for me was running into a woman who had been a close friend of mine in college, whom I hadn’t seen in eighteen years. She is now a priest in Connecticut and is in a same-sex partnership. She and I both enjoyed being able to spiritedly discuss our different perspectives of the church without having to worry about damaging our friendship. It was also nice to meet and talk to many other deputies from across the country whom previously I had only known by name or through faceless internet postings. Building these relationships was my key takeaway from this convention.
In terms of actions taken by the Convention, I was frequently reminded of the old quote about laws and sausages: you’re better off not seeing them made. On the positive side, I think the convention passed a lot of good resolutions that will not get a lot of attention: there was a strategic approach to Hispanic and Latino evangelism approved; plenty of emphasis on mission; and recognition and celebration of the diversity in our church. Unfortunately, most of the mission and strategic planning was ultimately weakened by severe budget cuts across the board.
Most of the press and attention will focus on the two most controversial resolutions passed: D025 which clarifies that all people including gays and lesbians are eligible for all levels of ministry within our church; and C056 which allows for ”generous pastoral response” from bishops in response to same-sex marriages, civil unions and partnerships. Convention also called for the collection and study of same-sex liturgies to be considered at the next convention in 2012. Bishop Bauerschmidt and both orders of our deputies voted against D025 and C056, but it is clear that most of the leaders of the Episcopal Church are in a different place regarding these issues than we are here in Tennessee.
It’s good to be back in Nashville and I am looking forward to turning my focus back to our diocese and our mission and ministries here.
