Today is day six of General Convention 2012 and there are just two more days to go. But, already a lot has happened that will effect the future church. No doubt the Episcopal Church is shrinking, as are all the mainline denominations. The good news is that we, in the Episcopal Church and in our diocese, are doing something about it.
This convention is focused on the mission of the church and restructuring the church. Some important things that have happened include agreement to sell the church headquarters in New York, called 815, which will generate considerable revenue when that does happen, and reduce costs. The center will be moved to a new location that will be studied in the months ahead.
The budget for the next triennium will also be focused on the five makes of mission of the church which will allow the church to more fuly meet the needs, hopes and concerns of the world.
Over 400 resolutions are being considered. Many have now been addressed by the House of Bishops and the House of Deputies. Some that readers may find of interest are those that incorporate the Revised Common Lectionary into the Book of Common Prayer Lectionary, developing a strategic plan, developing commissions to focus on the use of new technology, and communications affirming the human rights of all of us in the church and several resolutions that call for peace in the world, particularly the Middle East.
For me the most moving part of General Convention was the incredible daily liturgies and preaching. It's quite an experience to worship and to serve communion with 2000 of your brothers and sisters in Christ.
Some say that the church is dying but I know it is being reborn. It is exhilarating. It is hopeful. It will be hard. It will be messy, but I know that the Spirit is with us as we begin our journey back to the apostolic church and doing what God calls us to do.
Faithfully; Rev. Bill Zettinger
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