Loading...As I sit down to write this evening, headlines have already started to appear in the news: The Episcopal Church approves the blessing of same-sex couples. This news hardly surprises anybody – after decades of prayer, study, and conversation it was clear to the overwhelming majority of General Convention (and to countless people in the broader church) that now is the time to affirm God’s many blessings in the lives of lesbian and gay couples. Tonight, many people will rejoice while others grieve. I would have felt saddened if I did not know that each side is holding the other up in prayer. Though we are divided on our understanding of human sexuality, our unifying love for God and for our church is much stronger. In a rarely seen statement of hope, the House of Deputies also voted today unanimously to start the work of restructuring the church so we will be better equipped to do our work of mission in the world. So yes, the blessing that divides us, is overshadowed by the hope that unites us. This is a headline too!
Just a few hours ago, I found myself standing in line on the convention floor waiting to speak in favor of resolution A049, authorizing the trial use of the blessing liturgy, unsure about how I was going to say in two brief minutes the many thoughts that were going through my mind. Today is a milestone in a journey that began many years ago. No words – no matter how carefully selected – could ever do justice to the experiences, insights and emotions that have (in)formed my vote today. I became an Episcopalian because I was touched by a welcome that said: “we want you, because God wants you.” After many years of being spiritual-but-not-religious, this radical welcome brought me into the life of the church and into a relationship with a loving God. I want to make sure others hear the same welcome which comes without footnotes or disclaimers.
Today is also about the many lesbian and gay couples in our diocese and in our church. Throughout the highs and lows of our lives together as couples we have turned to our church communities, often to be confronted by a great silence. We are liturgical people: our worship together shapes our life. I cannot imagine having major components of my life that are non-existent in the worship of the church; yet this has been the case for many years. This situation has changed today and the blessing of lesbian and gay couples can now be rightly honored in our shared lives as communities of faith.
Today is also about the welcoming congregations and supportive clergy our diocese has been blessed with. This vote affirms their prophetic witness and reminds us all that God’s circle of love and justice is ever broadening and deepening. In our worship earlier this week we were reminded of Jesus’ words: “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” (John 16:12) This spirit has moved this General Convention as it seeks to restructure itself, equip ministry and mission for a new generation, and bless all that is good and holy.
Posted on July 10, 2012
