Of Prayer and Polity

In a few days Katharine and I leave for Anaheim California where we will attend the seventy sixth General Convention of the Episcopal Church. I am one of four clerical deputies representing the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast in the House of Deputies. Even though the Episcopal Church is relatively small compared to other denominations, the General Convention is the largest legislative body in the world. There are some 850 members of the House of Deputies comprised of clergy and lay, four of each from each diocese; and there are some 200 plus members of the House of Bishops, active and retired. So when the Church speaks, it speaks from a broad and diverse base.

Any resolution or canonical action, or constitutional consideration must be concurred to by both houses for such action to be adopted. The bicameral polity of the General Convention (GC) was intentionally patterned after the newly formed United States Congress in 1789. Hence we are one of just a few democratic provinces in the entire Anglican Communion. Most other provinces are governed strictly by hierarchy; and statements made by those provinces are made unilaterally by the archbishop of the province. In our case we speak as the majority of the church through respectful debate and due consideration of matters of importance to the whole of the church. It is a fascinating process in which to participate.

The GC, though, is more than passing legislation. It is punctuated throughout by prayer and worship; and ardent conversation. There are celebrations affirming the many ministries that abound in the Episcopal Church. It feels more like a big family reunion. Sometimes there is a family fight, but mostly it is a grand gathering of people of good will and conscience and intellect intentionally seeking with all diligence what this church of ours can be; how we can make a meaningful difference in the Gospel matters of our world. I am honored to represent our diocese, and honored to be a priest of this church. I ask your prayers for me and for the seventy sixth General Convention.

Almighty God, source of all wisdom and

understanding, be present with those who take counsel

in the seventy sixth General Convention of the Episcopal Church

for the renewal and mission of your Church.

Teach us in all things to seek first your honor and glory.

Guide us to perceive what is right, and grant us both the courage

to pursue it and the grace to accomplish it; through

Jesus Christ our Savior. (BCP p. 818)