Yesterday was a day in the life of the church. A $111,000,000 budget was proposed for the next Triennium. What's exciting is that the budget is focused on the five marks of mission of the church. It also funds a task force to develop a plan to revise the structure of the church as the church moves forward into the world.
Also approved, for trial use, was a liturgy for the witnessing and blessing of a lifelong covenant in a same-sex relationship. The liturgy may only be used with the approval of the bishop. The liturgy can be used beginning in Advent of this year.
The church also affirmed its commitment to the Anglican Communion and determined that because there are currently several opinions of the Anglican Covenant, the Church will continue to study and follow covenant activities into the future.
What's exciting about all of this is that the Episcopal Church is serious about change, and about finding a new way into the future.
I am reminded of what the prophet Jeremiah said,"for I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future," ( Jer 29:11).
What is going on here gives me hope.
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