Day 0 – June 22, 2024
It was a slow morning for me as I was recovering from a long and stressful day of travel, time change, and the joys of humidity!
Around noon, I headed over to the convention center to register for convention. I immediately saw and spoke with a seminary classmate who serves as Chaplain to the House of Deputies. I checked in, got my credentials and iPad.
I then made my way to the vast hall with exhibitions. Quickly I ended up seeing several familiar faces from the Diocese of West Virginia. I made my way around and saw several interesting booths.
At 2 pm both houses of General Convention (Deputies and Bishops) gathered to hear triennial reports from the President of the House of Deputies and the Presiding Bishop. Following that we had an orientation to the House of Deputies. We went through how to use our iPads and how to speak and vote.
That evening most of the deputation from Montana gathered for dinner and discussion.
Day 1 – June 23, 2024 – Part one
This day began much earlier than the last but was much earlier for others. Legislative committees began meeting at 7 am this morning for discussion on recent resolutions. The business of the 81st General Convention began with Holy Eucharist at 8:30 am. The preacher was the current President of the House of Deputies, Ms. Julia Ayala Harris. She preached on the Gospel appointed for the day, Mark 4:35-41, and the theme of the 81st General Convention – “Together in Love.”
A highlight for me was the presence of a group of singers from the Anglican Church of Burma (Myanmar). I spent three weeks in Burma traveling around three different dioceses there in January 2005 while in seminary. I mentioned this to my dad, and he suggested I might know some of them. I then reminded him that it had been 19 years!
Following Eucharist, the houses began their respective business. The House of Deputies began by verifying a quorum was present. For the morning session of the first legislative day, we had 813 deputies present (representing relatively equal numbers of lay and clergy deputies). It was pointed out that there was a deputy present here for his sixteenth time as a deputy of General Convention, meaning he began attending in 1976! Other housekeeping items followed.
Break for lunch at noon.
Day 1 – June 23, 2024 – Part Two
The House of Deputies resumed business at 2pm and began with another test vote session. We voted by orders on a resolution stating that ketchup should not be placed on hot dogs. It failed to pass. Then we were updated on a number of resolutions that were requested to be withdrawn from the consent calendar and placed on the legislative calendar. We then voted on the consent calendar containing at least 40 resolutions.
The House then discussed six resolutions (A149, A150, A151, A154, A153, A155) regarding the rules of order for the House. These are… complex.
In the first two hours of discussion, the House of Deputies voted on three of the above resolutions. Some were adopted, while others were rejected. After a brief break, we resumed discussion on A154. That resolution was not adopted by the required 2/3rds majority. Then we discussed A153, which was adopted relatively quickly. The House then focused on A155 which was adopted very quickly. A004 and A005 were then addressed and quickly adopted.
The House then moved on with the regular calendar of legislation. One of the more interesting, to me, at least, was addressing clean water in Hawaii D008. In part the resolution reads, “That the General Convention adds its voice to those of Native Hawaiians calling for the protection of the water of Oʻahu that continues to be threatened by the storage and removal of jet fuel and the closure of the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility which the U.S. Navy manages.” We should all be supportive of this! It was adopted unanimously!
The House then moved to Privilege and Courtesy Resolutions (A170, A171, A172, A174, A173). These expressed thanks, greetings, appreciation, commemoration, and gratitude to various individuals and groups.
Day 2, 2024 – Part One
The morning began with a beautiful Morning Prayer service. Following worship we had a brief break before moving into a joint session. The Houses of Bishops and Deputies gathered together at 10:30 am for a report from the Joint Budget Committee of the Executive Council. This is the first General Convention where this was the process. The former bishop of Montana, Bishop Brookhart also joined the deputation for this discussion.
During the presentation it was revealed that all or nearly all of the dioceses of The Episcopal Church were contributing the required 15% assessment. That is quite an accomplishment! 91% of the income in the proposed 2025-2027 budget comes from diocesan assessments and investment income.
The expected expenditures for the 2025-2027 budget are $143,191,158. The budget sets aside $2,000,000 to be allocated by the new Presiding Bishop in consultation with The Executive Council.
There was a LOT of discussion about priorities and decisions made by the Joint Budget Committee. There were a lot of concerns about the process and the way the budget was crafted. There were also serious concerns about how questions were handled.
To simplify things, here is a breakdown I created of the key categories of expenditures for the 2025 – 2027 Budget.
Then we went to lunch. Thankfully.
Day 2 – June 24, 2024 – Part Two
415 Clerical, 413 Lay Deputies present for a total of 829 total deputies.
106 dioceses have lay deputies, 109 dioceses have clergy deputies.
We quickly moved through approving the consent calendar for the day. Yay.
Then we went into a report from Committee 12 – Agencies and Boards. We began with A101 which is about the Denominational Health Plan. A study was conducted about the DHP and how equitable it is. Simply put – the most expensive plans are being subsidized by those on the least expensive plans and there are great geographic disparities, especially those in the Navajolands. Attached are some photos of slides that explain the issues. After brief discussion, it was approved.
Committee 3 – Governance and Structure then presented C008. The goal is to get to 10% diocesan assessment by 2033. There was a minority report from the committee that was in opposition to the 10% goal. There was strong discussion about this proposal – very, very, very lengthy discussion. After lengthy debate, it was announced that multiple dioceses had requested a vote by order. Our stellar chair of the deputation was very organized and had a paper ready for each of the deputies to voice their opinion. In the end the vote failed.
After a break, Rob Radtke, the President and CEO of Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) addressed the convention about the state of ERD and their important work.
Then we moved onto a report from Committee 03 – Governance and Structure regarding resolution A002 which is recommending locations for the 83rd General Convention in 2030. The locations are Kansas City, Missouri (Diocese of West Missouri); Minneapolis, Minnesota (Diocese of Minnesota); Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Diocese of Pittsburgh); Portland, Oregon (Diocese of Oregon); and San Juan, Puerto Rico (Diocese of Puerto Rico).
There were some concerns expressed about how the Diocese of Puerto Rico is always mentioned but has never been chosen to host a convention. Then questions were raised about safety of some deputies in some dioceses given gender and other issues. An amended version of the resolution passed.
We then moved onto Committee 05 – Racial Truth-Telling, Reckoning And Healing on Resolution A031. Then we heard an amendment that was calling for actually creating Spanish language materials that are specifically written for Spanish-speaking people, instead of a simple translation. The amendment was unanimously adopted, as was the resolution.
We then moved to Committee 16 – Safety, Wellness and Mental Health on Resolution A079. The resolution encourages for the Sunday closest to October 10 to be designated “Mental Health Awareness Sunday.” This discussion continued for quite some time with… what some might call minutia. After being split, Part A of the resolution were adopted. We then heard discussion on Part B.
The House then adjourned for the day.
Day 3 – June 25, 2024 – Part One
Today is Camp Shirt Day! The Diocese of Montana represented Camp Marshall well! Seven of our deputies and our stellar bishop are wearing this summer’s shirt. I was rocking a shirt from either last year or the year before.
This morning’s session is, once again, a joint meeting between the Houses of Bishops and Deputies. This time it was to hear a report from the Joint Nominating Committee for the Election of the Presiding Bishop. The report began with an explanation of their process and introducing the twenty members of the committee. The House of Bishops selected five members, the House of Deputies selected 10, the President of the House of Deputies selected two young people, and the final three were filled to ensure the wider representation of the Church.
The nominees were named and some of the process was explained.
Day 3 – June 25, 2024 – Part Two
415 Clerical, 414 Lay Deputies present for a total of 829 total deputies.
106 dioceses have lay deputies, 109 dioceses have clergy deputies.
A very busy slate of legislation is ahead of us… VERY!
First, we voted on the President of the House of Deputies. This had been a very… challenging process. Despite that, the vote was overwhelming and clear. The House of Deputies re-elected Julia Ayala Harris as President for another three-year term.
We then moved onto the budget (A164) for the next triennium. There were questions about some unlabeled items in the budget. Questions were also raised about Creation Care and the priority placed on it within the budget. The budget passed with an overwhelming voice vote. I for one was one of the few voting no. In my opinion, the process is terribly flawed, lacks transparency, and integrity. But… that’s just my perspective.
We then went on to D031, Addressing the Ongoing Harm of Coercive and Abusive Christian Ministries. This is focused on Pregnancy Crisis Centers or “pregnancy resource centers” that operate under the auspices of Christian ministry. There was heated and sometimes emotional debate. There was also some discussion about how this resolution also included references to indigenous boarding schools and that is not the same thing as Pregnancy Crisis Centers. After prayer the vote was taken and it passed on voice vote.
Next we moved onto A140 which is adopting some revisions to the Title IV disciplinary canons. This amendment would ensure speedy moves on an initial phase of the disciplinary process. It changes “meeting as soon as possible” to within 30 days and clarifies that the Reference Panel MUST make a decision how to refer the report. We then heard an amendment that was changing the timeline to 45 days, instead of 30 days. The amendment passed with 55% of the vote. The resolution was adopted by voice vote.
Next… another change to Title IV with A107. This is… a bit complicated and… I don’t have much to say about it. It was adopted after short discussion.
And next… another change to Title IV with A052. This is to add Restorative Covenant as a possible outcome of Conciliation. After brief discussion, it was adopted unanimously.
After a brief break, the House resumed business with a special report from the president of Episcopal Church Women (ECW).
We then resumed our journey through Title IV revisions with D015 (Examine the disparity in treatment in the adjudication of Clergy under Title IV Disciplinary Process by Race, Gender, and Sexual Orientation). The committee felt there are some logistical and practical concerns and therefore recommended it be referred to a standing committee for further study and report back to the 82nd General Convention. We then voted to end debate and then voted to send it to committee for further work.
Next… we LEFT Title IV, thankfully, to discuss B006 – Include the Episcopal Church in Micronesia in the Diocese of Hawai’i. This is a wise move! It was unanimously approved by acclimation.
We moved on to D039 which is a condemnation of censorship. There were a number of speakers who spoke about the need to adopt this resolution as a statement of our values. It was adopted with wide support.
Continuing a theme, we next moved to D011 – The Prohibition of Assault Weapons. One person rose to speak against the resolution because it would do nothing to actually change anything. Further discussion ensued, followed by a prayer. Then a proposed amendment was shared that would add the phrase “bump stocks” to the original resolution. The amendment was adopted. After more prayer, the resolution was adopted.
Next we moved to C009 – Petition of the Episcopal Church In Navajoland to become a Missionary Diocese. This is an essential step for respecting the autonomy of the people of the Navajoland and enables them to elect their own bishop, among many other things. Several members from the Episcopal Church In Navajoland spoke about this being an important step in their life as a faith community. This was agreed to by acclimation and the people of Navajoland were warmly welcomed as a Missionary Diocese of The Episcopal Church. This is the partial culmination of work ongoing since 1978.
We then adopted A185 Gratitude for Language Services at General Convention. Similarly, we adopted A193 to Express Gratitude to the Nomination Committee for Presiding Bishop. We also adopted A182 to Express Gratitude to Candidates in Presiding Bishop’s Election. Likewise, we adopt A187 – Express gratitude for the ministries of the Episcopal Camps and Conference Centers. We adopted A175 – Express Appreciation for the ECW, and A178 Express Gratitude for the United Thank Offering, and D001 – Commend the Episcopal Communicators Organization and Celebrate their 50th Anniversary, and A179 Express Gratitude for Krisita Jackson.
Day 4 – June 26, 2024 – Part One
The morning began with Holy Eucharist in a variety of languages. It was a beautiful liturgy and we heard a powerful sermon. Following the distribution of Holy Eucharist the bishops departed to go to the diocesan cathedral to discern who shall be the next Presiding Bishop.
415 Clerical Deputies, 414 Lay Deputies, for a 829 total deputies
106 dioceses have lay deputies, 109 dioceses have clergy deputies.
We have been told to prepare for an evening legislative session due to the volume of our legislation.
First, we began with some elections. Beginning with the election of a Treasurer of General Convention (N. Kurt Barns). He won with 93% of the vote.
Next, we elected members to the Church Pension Fund Board of Trustees. 7 were elected on the first ballot. On the second ballot… none were elected – all failing to receive the required 407 votes. On the third ballot, two were elected. For the fourth ballot, the number of candidates was reduced to seven, and three were elected!
We were then informed that a delegation from the House of Bishops had returned to share results from the deliberation of that body. They will know meet with the House of Deputies committee on the election. The House will be in recess until 2 pm when we will resume business.
Day 4 – June 26, 2024 – Part Two (of Three)
During the lunch break the Committee for the Confirmation of the Election of the Presiding Bishop (House of Deputies only) met to discuss the results of the House of Bishops actions.
414 Clerical Deputies, 414 Lay Deputies, for a 828 total deputies
106 dioceses have lay deputies, 109 dioceses have clergy deputies.
Rules suspended to hear a report from the Committee for the Confirmation of the Election of the Presiding Bishop.
The House of Bishops elected the Right Reverend Sean Rowe as 28th Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church. Elected on first ballot with 158 ballots, 82 needed for election.
The House of Deputies then voted to confirm the election.
We then moved to elect lay members to the Court of Review. We elected seven. We then moved to elect deacon members to the Court of Review and elected two. We then moved to elect priest members to the Court of Review and elected 4. Next, we voted on Disciplinary Board for Bishops (Lay members) and elected two. Then we elected two to the Disciplinary Board for Bishops (Clergy members).
More elections… We next elected six lay members to Executive Council. Next, we voted for two clergy members to Executive Council. One the first ballot, we elected one. On the second ballot, no one was elected. On the third ballot, one more was elected – a deacon!! Yay!
The Presiding Bishop-elect is now addressing the House of Deputies.
Following that we took a thirty minute to celebrate!
When the House resumed business, we heard a report from the Executive Director of Episcopal Camps and Conference Centers, The Rev. Jess Elfring-Roberts.
We then resumed… elections with the lay members of the Joint Nominating Committee for the Election of the Presiding Bishop. We elected four on the first ballot. On the second ballot, we elected no one. On the third ballot, we elected one. Next, we elected the deacon member of the Joint Nominating Committee for the Election of the Presiding Bishop. Then, four clergy members of the Joint Nominating Committee for the Election of the Presiding Bishop. On the first ballot three were elected and on the second ballot no one was elected. On the third ballot, one was elected. No more elections today.
We then moved to Consent Calendar 1 for the day, which was adopted.
Then we had time of prayer and began special discussion around a series of resolutions related to the Israel/Palestine situation. We began with a report from the Social Justice & International Policy Committee. They received 25 resolutions and sixteen of them related to Israel/Palestine. They received a great deal of testimony on these topics.
The chair of the committee spoke powerfully about their work and closed by quoting from the brilliant lyricist Pet Seeger.
My Father’s mansion’s many rooms
Have room for all of His children
As long as we do share His love
And see that all are free
And see that all are free to grow
And see that all are free to know
And free to open or to close
The door of their own room
What is a room without a door
Which sometimes locks or stands ajar?
What is a room without a wall
To keep out sight and sound from all?
And dwellers in each room should have
The right to choose their own design
And color schemes to suit their own
Though differing from mine
Yes and each door has its own design
To suit the owners state of mind
And those who’d want them all the same
Don’t understand the human game
My Father’s mansion’s many rooms
Have room for all of His children
If we do but share in His love
And see that all are free
We had discussion about the definition and usage of the word “genocide” and “apartheid.”
We then heard a report on D007 – Peace Through Equal Rights in Israel/Palestine, which has been passed by the House of Bishops from the Social Justice & International Policy Committee. Three people spoke in favor. It was adopted unanimously by voice vote.
Next, we moved onto D013 – Affirm the Imperative of a Palestinian State. There was very, very heated debate. We then heard an amendment to the resolution. The amendment would dramatically… soften the tone of the resolution as presented. The debate on the amendment was also very heated. The amendment failed. Next, we discussed the original resolution as presented. There was more heated debate. Next, we prayed, being led by the stellar and inestimable chaplain of the House (yes, he was a classmate). Finally, we voted on the resolution and it passed.
We then took a break for dinner.
Day 4 – June 26, 2024 – Part Three
We resumed business at 7 pm. The credentials committee shared updated numbers of deputies; however, I was busy finishing some delicious pizza that a dear colleague got for the deputation and thus… did not hear the numbers in any useful manner.
The House voted to suspend the rules and treat the auxiliary calendar as the Consent Calendar II. It was quickly adopted.
We then heard from the chair of the Social Justice & International Policy Committee regarding D056 – Calling for a Ceasefire in Gaza. The committee disagreed with the changes made by the House of Bishops, which removed the word “genocide” from the original resolution. The committee instead asks the House to consider the version as presented here. There were several powerful speakers. We then heard a proposed amendment. The amendment would strike the language added back into the resolution that had been removed by the House of Bishops. There was again powerful discussion on the amendment. We prayed and then voted on the amendment. The amendment was adopted.
We then voted on the resolution, in the form passed by the House of Bishops. It passed with 91% of the vote. That was followed by prayer.
We then moved to A072 – Amend Article X of the Constitution of The Episcopal Church [Of the Book of Common Prayer — Second Reading]. There was very serious debate about this change, which must be approved by orders. There was much serious discussion, but it passed.
Adjourned for day.
Day 5 – June 27, 2024 – Part One (of Three)
Morning began with Morning Prayer in our respective Houses. We heard prayers and readings in many languages. Following the Sermon, we heard the Necrology of the House of Deputies, which included the dear Rev. Steven Yurosko of Montana. We also honored those who were injured or died in mass shootings in all of the dioceses of The Episcopal Church. Singing hymns a cappella with approximately 900 Episcopalians is a powerful experience.
415 Clerical Deputies, 414 Lay Deputies, for a total of 829 deputies
106 dioceses have lay deputies, 109 dioceses have clergy deputies.
We began with a report from the Official Youth Presence at General Convention. They spoke powerfully about the need to expand youth involvement and the value of belonging over believing.
After that, we moved to elect the Vice President of the House of Deputies. The first ballot did not result in an election. We voted on a second ballot and before receiving the results we prayed. The Rev. Steve Pankey, of Kentucky, was elected. (Disclosure: He was a seminary classmate)
We then moved on to the Consent Calendar. It was adopted.
We then moved into a special order on three resolutions related to the Rules of Order and relate to legislative committees. There were many questions about the package of resolutions. We moved on A152 – Resolution Submission Deadline in House of Deputies Rules of Order). After lengthy discussion, we ended debate. The vote was held electronically and passed with 85% of the vote.
We then moved to A156 – House of Deputies Rules of Order on Written Comments. There was lively debate, and it was approved by voice vote.
Finally, we moved to A157 – House of Deputies Rules on Legislative Committee Report Deadline. There was much discussion, then we heard an amendment. More discussion ensued and then we voted electronically on the amendment, and it failed with only 33% of the vote. We moved to end debate and voted on the original resolution it passed with 80% of vote.
Next, we moved to D048 – Length of Future General Conventions. The resolution would set the lengthy of General Convention to be at a minimum of 10 legislative days with up to 4 days for committee meetings before that. This would be going back to a format used several decades ago. The committee of jurisdiction recommended no further action be taken on this matter. There was much discussion and then it was voted to “Take No Further Action” by a HUGE margin.
We then suspended the rules and considered two courtesy resolutions. We first heard on A180 – Express gratitude for the life and ministry of the Very Rev. George L.W. Werner. It was approved with applause. Finally, we addressed A188 – Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Philadelphia Eleven. We then heard an amendment to add acknowledgement to the first woman to celebrate Eucharist in The Episcopal Church. The amendment was passed, and the amended resolution passed. We then sang to celebrate.
We then adjourned for lunch. More fun begins at 2 pm.
Day 5 – June 27, 2024 – Part Two (of Three)
There are some editorial views expressed here that represent only the thoughts of the current rector of Saint Stephen’s and not necessarily the stance of the congregation. After all this is, “News from The Father.”
We resumed business at 2 pm. The credentials committee reported on numbers, but I was distracted with a resolution that… alarmed me… so I have no idea what he said.
We moved on to the second (of three) consent calendar for the day. It was adopted.
Our first legislation of the afternoon was A094 – Communion Across Difference. The committee of jurisdiction pointed out that this seeks to continue a committee that has existed for the last six years, and they suggested that it has run its course in this form and therefore recommends no further action be taken. There was strong testimony on both sides. It was voted to end debate. We then voted on whether to follow the committee’s recommendation to “Take No Further Action.” The House voted with 72% to take no further action.
Next, we tackled A086 – Create a Task Force for Youth Formation and World Mission. The amended resolution does not create a Task Force as originally envisioned, but instead directs “the Standing Commissions on Formation and Ministry Development and World Mission to create a comprehensive report to define and develop such concepts as mission, global mission, and their intersection with youth formation to be presented at the 82nd General Convention” and then to create a task force that will “receive the work already generated by the aforementioned interim bodies and to report its recommendations to the 82nd General Convention.” There was some stirring testimony, and then the substituted resolution was adopted.
Then we focused on A096 – Task Force on Equipping a Church Grounded in Justice as Christian Ministry. In general, the committee assigned strengthened the resolution, while also recognizing that it did not require funding as it somewhat overlapped with an already approved resolution. It passed!
Next, we focused on D074 – Renouncing the Theology of Slavery held by the Rev. James Craik, 11th President of the House of Deputies. We prayed before voting and it passed. (On a personal note, he was ordained as a priest in the church where my parents were married… some years later)
Then we moved to D034 – Support and Advocacy for Restorative Justice and a Moral Commitment to Abolition of Prisons and Policing. There was much strong testimony. Then we heard an amendment that removed all language regarding policing. The amendment was voted down and the original legislation was adopted.
Next, we went to D069 – Advocating for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The committee of responsibility suggested “Taking No Further Action” due to problematic language. There was powerful testimony on both sides. Much of the discussion focused on the fifth resolve. Debate was ended. In the end, the House agreed to the recommendation to “Take No Further Action” with 77% of the vote.
Then we heard about A095 – Continue the Task Force on Indigenous Liturgy. There was powerful discussion about the importance of this task force and its good work. Debated was ended. The House then adopted it.
We then took a break of 15 minutes.
Upon resuming business, the Rev. Gay Clark Jennings, 33rd President of the House of Deputies, entered the House and was awarded an… award for her service to the House and the Church. We also heard that there was 50/50 chance of an evening legislative session.
Then we got back to work with A092 – Access to ordination and deployment. This comes from the Communion Across Differences committee. (Editorial comments warning) Some pointed out that the canons already prohibit discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in the discernment and ordination process. It would place in the canons what many call a “conscience clause” similar to one used outside of the canons in the 1970s by the House of Bishops to continue discrimination against women clergy. There was strong discussion on the matter. It was announced that this would be a vote by orders because of requests from a number of deputations. We prayed and then voted. Somehow… it passed.
Next, we addressed A091 – Definition of doctrine. It also comes from the Communion Across Differences committee, which is now defunct. There was powerful testimony. One issue is that this will recognize the BCP including the Catechism (actually named “An Outline of the Faith”) as the “Doctrine” of the Church and for now the “Outline of the Faith” defines marriage as between one man and one woman. However, we also recognize same-sex marriage as a rite as equal to the BCP. If this Convention changes the “Outline of the Faith” must be changed at two successive conventions. So, if passed, our “Doctrine” would be in conflict for at least the next three years. (As far as I can tell and semi-verified by a retired chancellor). Debate was ended. Voting by orders. It was, thankfully, by the grace of God, defeated.
Next, we moved to A071 – Amend the Constitution and Canons Relating to Mergers of Dioceses [Of Admission of New Diocese — Second Reading] and there was no real discussion, so we immediately moved to vote by orders.
Then, we moved to D049 – Increase by one the possible number of bishops suffragans in a Diocese. This is mostly regarding the Diocese of Texas seeking to go from two to three suffragan bishops. Some pointed out that this would add an extra seat in the House of Bishops, while the size of the House of Deputies shrinks – this could be seen as a power differential. It was approved.
Next, we tackled A044 – Develop Sustainable Congregational Revitalization Ministries. Much was said about the importance of evangelism and real data in a declining denomination. St. Stephen’s can attest to this. Obviously. My only hope, personally, is that this does not lead to a further expansion of the already burdensome paperwork that the “national” church requires (i.e. parochial reports) of shrinking staffs and already overworked clergy. Passed without objection.
We next moved to C032 – A Prayer to Remember the Innocents. Much of the resolution reads as:
“That the 81st General Convention of The Episcopal Church expresses remorse for the role The Episcopal Church played in the irreparable harm suffered by Indigenous children who attended Indigenous boarding and residential schools in the 1800s and 1900s, and acknowledges that the effect of that harm carries on in boarding school survivors and their descendants; and be it further
Resolved, that the 81st General Convention receives the gift of the following prayer to remember the Indigenous children who were forcibly taken to boarding and residential schools in the 1800s and 1900s:
A PRAYER TO REMEMBER THE INNOCENTS
Ohiŋni wičhauŋkiksuyapi kte. “We will always remember them.”
Dear Lord, Almighty God, we pray for all Indigenous children who were in residential and boarding schools in Canada and the United States. Some died there; we ask that you give assurance to their descendants that their souls are with you and their ancestors. Some survived there; we ask that you give your healing grace to all who endured hardship while there and are still struggling with those memories. Lastly, we ask you to help us guard our children against harm in this world. All this we ask in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.”
Voted on by order and approved unanimously.
Dismissed for… one hour. Continue on new post.
Day 5 – June 27, 2024 – Part Three (of Three)
Special note: Steve getting tired, please forgive any excessive snark or attitude
414 Clerical Deputies, 413 Lay Deputies, for a total of 827 deputies
105 dioceses have lay deputies, 108 dioceses have clergy deputies.
Resumed business at 7:15 pm
First order of bid’ness was Consent Calendar III of the Day.
First legislation of the evening was A112 – Authorize use of the “Expanded Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings.” The first person to speak was speaking against this expansion because it seems a bit redundant because we already have 7 approved lectionaries available to us. This point was made by the brilliant Scott Gunn (of Forward Movement), whose blog was a pivotal resource in preparations for this Convention. There were other speakers who supported this new lectionary. We also heard a floor amendment. The amendment was adopted. We ended debate. Vote was by orders, and it was overwhelmingly adopted.
Next we stayed in the Prayer Book and Liturgy sector with A114 Authorize for use Expansive Language Versions of Eucharistic Prayer C. Prior to this convention there were Expansive Language Versions of Eucharistic Prayers A, B, and D approved. This is simply adding the equivalent version for Prayer C. The vote was by order and passed with over 87% of the vote.
Again, continuing with liturgy, we confronted A115 – Authorized use of alternative texts for the Good Friday liturgy. I used this language, with the bishop’s permission, on Good Friday 2024 with one small change. It is very good and worth using! It passed with near unanimous support. YAY!!
Continuing a theme, we faced off with A117 – Withdraw Rev. William Porcher DuBose from the Lesser Feasts and Fasts Calendar — Second Reading. Who was William Porcher DuBose? Not a stellar follower of Jesus. This is a vote by orders and was approved UNANIMOUSLY. (I tried to update the Wikipedia entry and update it as we voted… alas, someone did it before me!)
Finally, we approached A129 – Lectionary for Lesser Feasts and Fasts. This provides full unique reading selections for all in Lesser Feasts and Fasts. Great work! Vote by orders and it was approved overwhelmingly!
Courtesy resolution time: All approved.
A228 Express Gratitude to Paul Neuhauser
A225 Express Gratitude to Steve Hutchinson
Adjourned until 11 am on Friday… the last day!!! YAY!!!
Day 6 – June 28, 2024 – Part One
The final day of the 81st General Convention began with a closing Eucharist. The presider was Presiding Bishop Curry, and the Preacher was Presiding Bishop-Elect Sean Rowe.
Business began at 11 am
414 Clerical Deputies, 413 Lay Deputies, for a total of 827 deputies
105 dioceses have lay deputies, 108 dioceses have clergy deputies.
Before we began with business, the President of the House addressed some who felt uncomfortable Wednesday evening following lengthy discussions about the situation in Gaza when the House had a “palate cleanser” of music. She offered a very genuine and heartfelt apology.
A member from the floor spoke on a point of order to ask for prayer following the US Supreme Court’s ruling in City of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson. The Chair of the House said that the chaplain will work to include those in his prayers this afternoon.
The President (aka Chair of the House) then presented a few awards to several individuals, starting with the fabulous Lester Mackenzie, Chaplain to the House of Deputies (seminary classmate). The President also thanked and awarded Scott Gunn of Southern Ohio for his steadfast work and ministry (his blog was helpful for General Convention).
We adopted the consent calendar.
We then heard from the Episcopal Coalition for Racial Equity and Justice. This group was formed following the passage of a resolution at the 2022 General Convention. Check out their website!!
Next, we began some special and very important business. We began with C025 – Juncture of The Episcopal Dioceses of Eastern and Western Michigan. We heard powerful testimony about the importance of this move. We then unanimously approved the resolution, thereby creating the Diocese of the Great Lakes!
We then adjourned until 2 pm.
GC Day 6 – June 28, 2024 – Part 2
This brilliant song played just before we resumed business at 2 pm… for the Final Countdown.
We began with a powerful prayer from the great chaplain of the House.
412 Clerical Deputies, 412 Lay Deputies, for a total of 824 deputies
105 dioceses have lay deputies, 108 dioceses have clergy deputies.
We began with thanking the legislative committees that had not brought any legislation to the floor. Among them, interestingly, were Evangelism, Mission, and… Ministry.
The following legislation was added to a second Consent Calendar for today.
A127 – Establish a Working Group to Update Biographies in Lesser Feasts and Fasts
B001 – Experimental Creation Care Language for the Baptismal Covenant
C011 – Add Howard W. Thurman to The Episcopal Church Calendar
A186 – Give Thanks to Convention Staff and Hospitality Ministers
A184 – Express Gratitude to the City and People of Louisville
A227 Commend the life of Willie Howard Mays, Jr.
A230 Thanksgiving for all who ran for elected offices at General Convention
A234 – Expressing Gratitude for Sharon Jones
A223 – Create Alternative Working Group to Review Canons and Implement Changes Related to Revised Article X of the Constitution
The consent calendar was adopted.
Then, we faced D051 – The Reunion of the Diocese of Wisconsin. This approves the reunion of the Dioceses of Eau Claire, Fond du Lac, and Milwaukee, into the Diocese of Wisconsin. It was pointed out that this was “going back to the future” in that there was originally only one diocese. The House voted by acclimation to create the Diocese of Wisconsin.
We then adopted A169 – Celebrate the reunification of the Dioceses of Wisconsin.
Next, we moved back into the fun of canons with B008 – Amend Canon II.3.6.a and II.4 to clarify authorization of liturgies. There was much discussion and an attempt to move it to an interim body. That motion was defeated. After mo’ discussion we ended debate and voted to approve the resolution.
Then we moved onto… more canons with A224 – Repeal of Article X with clarifying amendments (post 2024-A072). There was much serious discussion, and it was moved to refer to committee or interim body. Very, very, very lengthy discussion and debate. There was a move to end debate, which passed. We then voted to on referring it to a working group after a prayer. That motion failed. In the end, we adopted the resolution.
We continued with canons with A223 – Amend Article I, Section 7. [Second Reading]). This allows for flexibility of when General Convention meets given extreme circumstances (like a global pandemic). This is a… no brainer. Approved unanimously… obviously.
Recess for 15 min.
Next we handled an easy and totally non-controversial topic with D013 – Affirm the Imperative of a Palestinian State. This current resolution is the result of a conference committee with the lesser House of General Convention, the House of Bishops. It represents the strongest language that the bishops (as a whole) will agree to. It has been requested by multiple dioceses to vote by orders on this matter. There was much discussion on both sides. Some lamented that the language was not stronger. The resolution passed.
Next, we tackled an equally non-controversial topic – A116 – Marriage Rites for Inclusion in the Book of Common Prayer (First Reading). This is the (near) culmination of 9 years of work. The rites were approved for trial use in 2015. This will be a vote by orders. It was approved.
We continued with A160 – Revise Catechism in the Book of Common Prayer, which will revise the BCP’s “Outline of the Faith” to bring it in line with the current polity of our Church. In particular, it changes who marriage is open to – changes from a man and a woman, to two people. The title is technically incorrect because the proper name for this section is “An Outline of the Faith (commonly called the Catechism),” however, I did not rise to point this out. This is a vote by orders. It passed.
We moved onto D035 – Authorize The Witnessing and Blessing of a Marriage. Don’t ask me how this is different than the prior… I can’t immediately tell ya… However, this is the obvious thing to do. Vote by orders. Passed.
Moving to slight lighter topics (genuinely) we moved to A126 – Transfer dates of commemorations in Lesser Feasts and Fasts. This is self-explanatory if you look at the resolution. That’s all I got to say. However, there was a floor amendment to also remove “First Book of Common Prayer: Fix date on June 13.” There was a point made that the amendment would effectively kill the resolution as a whole given that the House of Bishops have effectively adjourned. The amendment was defeated. The resolution was approved by orders.
We moved onto B011 – Commemoration of Harriet Tubman. Obviously good thing. It had been authorized for trial use, this simply makes it permanent. That will be all. Approved unanimously. Duh. To quote the President of the House, “You can clap for Harriet Tubman.”
Next, we moved to A121 – Authorize the Commemoration of the Consecration of Barbara Clementine Harris — Second Reading. She was the first woman consecrated as bishop within the Anglican Communion. I need not say more. Vote by orders. Approved unanimously.
Finally, we heard of C023 – Commemorating The Philadelphia Eleven in the Church Calendar. Vote by orders and approved unanimously.
Courtesy Resolutions – all approved:
No number – Thanks and appreciation to Secretary (The Rev. Dr.) Michael Barlowe of the General Convention Office
A183 – Give Thanks to the Diocese of Kentucky
A191 – Express Gratitude for the General Convention Children’s Program
A177 – Express Gratitude for the GCO Staff and Executive Officers of the General Convention
A194 – Express Thanks to the Parliamentarian of the House of Deputies
A190 – Extend Gratitude to the House of Deputies’ Chaplain
A229 – Gratitude for the Secretariat, Voting Secretary, and Committee on Dispatch
A176 – Commend the Rev. Rachel Taber-Hamilton
A235 – Thanksgiving for the election of the Vice President of the House of Deputies
C001 – On the Most Reverend Michael Bruce Curry
A232 – Thanksgiving for the election of the Presiding Bishop
A231 – Commend Julia Ayala Harris
Adjourned at 6:05 pm on Friday, June 28, 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky.
The 81st General Convention of The Episcopal Church has ended.
The 82nd General Convention of The Episcopal Church will take place in the summer of 2027!
