This message is specifically directed to every priest in charge of a congregation in the Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth. However, I am sending it to all clergy, vestry members, and convention delegates on our mailing list so that everyone will know what I am proposing.
As the date approaches for our momentous Diocesan Convention vote in November, many parish clergy have attempted to make certain that their parishioners understand the issues surrounding the proposal that we separate from the General Convention of The Episcopal Church. In several places parish forums have been held, where outside speakers have been brought in to present the opposing sides on the question of realignment. Some of you have preached sermons on this subject, written articles for your parish newsletter, and even in a couple of places brought in General Convention authorities to speak to your people. In addition, several different groups have been formed in the Diocese, including Remain Episcopal, Via Media, and Remain Faithful, which have attempted to educate, organize, and motivate the laity to take sides on the question: “Should we remain with TEC or with the Diocese?” Legal counsel has been engaged, lawsuits are being anticipated, various steering committees have been formed, and outside assistance from the “815” church headquarters in New York is being sought.
Wow, that’s a very prayerful piece. I’m glad they aren’t rushing into anything with trying to consult the man upstairs.
Bishop Iker will be one of three bishops at the Sept. 21 Common Cause Partners-North Texas gathering at St. Vincent’s Cathedral. As before, we will start with Evening Prayer. More information here: http://ccpntx.forumco.com/topic~TOPIC_ID~23.asp (registration required).
Bishop Iker is a good man and a holy Bishop. Although I am an Affirming Catholic reappraiser, I hold him in the highest esteem. Always have, always will.
Sound Christian advice. Throughout the Scriptures, the LORD has constantly implored His people, through the Holy Spirit, to ask Him for council and direction during troubled and momentous times. As I write this, I’m quickly flipping through the Bible mentally to Scriptures that speak to this topic. What a great Bible study that would be!