Dear Friends in Christ,
Another busy day in Anaheim. This is the first legislative day, which means that the House of Bishops and the House of Deputies met in their first sessions to get organized. The Albany deputation decorated their identification pole with a beaver and a cross, and started a competitive trend! The first legislative sessions were otherwise little more than announcements and technical information. They stood in recess at 9:00 am and we attended the Opening Eucharist, a joyful celebration which featured the announcement that the Episcopal Church of the Phillipines, begun by missionary efforts of The Episcopal Church, has reached a financially independent status. PB Schori preached the sermon, emphasizing the importance of mission for the life of the church. Her text was Ezekiel 36:24-26, wherein God promises us “a new heart and a new spirit.” The music was uplifting and the celebration gave the convention an exciting beginning.
Committees continued to meet after lunch, and the more meaty resolutions are coming up on the agenda. Very little of substance was reported out from committees today, but that will change soon.
Archbishop Rowan Williams arrived today, and is scheduled to address the convention on the subject of global poverty. Look for a report on that tomorrow.
The deputation is in good spirits, getting over the jet lag and excited to dig into the legislative details. Haven’t had a chance today to poll them for specific prayer concerns, but please hold us in your prayers generally. More tomorrow.
Yours in Christ,
Fr. Chip Strickland