In the debate over this resolution, the Rev. Dan Martins, who was elected yesterday as Bishop of Springfield, said that if the convention voted in favor of blessing LGBT relationships, members would be “covering ourselves in shame.” This is a word that has been thrown in the faces of LGBT people for most of their lives, and it goes well beyond stating a theological disagreement.
There you have it: a bishop uninterested in stepping aside, a Standing Committee scrapping hard, and one of the highest representatives of our General Convention advocating structural reform. Oh, and the House of Bishops meeting in Arizona, and the feeling there’s a ball in their court. Makes you wonder if that old saw about things getting worse before they get better might not apply.
Martins led in all three ballots in the clergy, and was nearly elected on the second ballot when lay supporters of Canon Mark Stevenson appear to have shifted their support to Martins.
Bishops blog on their fall meeting in Phoenix AZ.
The Episcopal Church Department of Public Affairs has issued the first of its Daily Accounts of the meeting of the House of Bishops September 16
The Episcopal Church can stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Sudan as we enter a season of preparation by prayer, study, and action. As we approach the season of preparation for the Prince of Peace, we pray that his reign may be made real in Sudan. The prayers and labor of people throughout the world can help to prepare the way.
Rain in abundance, O God, you shed abroad;
you restored your inheritance as it languished;
your flock found a dwelling in it;
in your goodness, O God, you provided for the needy. ~Psalm 68:7-12
The State Journal-Register, Springfield, IL describes the process and possible difficulties ahead for the Diocese of Springfield as they elect a new bishop next week. Will the one elected receive enough consents from the Standing Committees and Bishops of the Episcopal Church?
“As I wrote in my initial letter, I cannot undo the grievous wrongs that Bishop Davis has done, nor take away the pain of his victims, but I can do my best to ensure that this diocese continues to tell the truth and seek healing and reconciliation for those who have been harmed.”
“It is our profound concern that the healing and progress of the Diocese are now at risk and so we request that this letter and our request for your concern and support in chartering a way forward in this diocese and to secure Bishop Bennison’s retirement or resignation.”