Final Reflections and Departure

This will be my last post from the 77th General Convention. Yesterday the buzz around tne House of Deputies was that the deputation from South Carolina had left the convention feeling that they could not in good conscience stay after the liturgies to bless same genger unions was passed. Two deputies from SC remain I think. This is sad because I think there was a generous spirit at this Convention. The Episcopal Church truly allows for all sides( I think). So what do I take away from this Convention? This is my 3rd and I am more tired this time than in 2003 and 2006. The schedule is not in my perspective a good use of time and does not model a balanced life. I get that committees need to meet but what would happen if the number of resolutions were reduced and that more time was spent on sharing about mission and ministry in our contexts? I know...it will never happen. I do hope that the structure conversation continues but what about from a fresh perspective employing the Benedictine Promise of Obedience, Stability and Conversion so that folks are called upon to listen to one another and God. No agendas and no Roberts Rule of Order, just listen and pray. When speaking on a particular issue speak from the heart and experience before automatically dismissing a resolution. If you don't agree share from the heart why and not from what others think. By all means inform your argument from your relationship with God but be open to other points of view which occurs when speaking from the heart( at least it can). So that is the conclusion of my comments and I look forward to getting home on Friday afternoon.