So, Have We Grown?
In our first issue we stated our goals for growth and our position that at day’s end Convention will not be judged by who “wins” debates but by what we resolve to do together to spread the love of Christ when we leave here. So, let’s take a look at the measuring stick. Have we indeed grown over the past 11 days? Have we lived into our Convention theme?
The answer is a resounding “yes.”
From issues of liturgy to social ills, we have discovered common ground – not unanimity across the board (that would somehow be un-Anglican), but oneness despite our diversity.
One of the greatest growth opportunities lies ahead. It comes from the unexpected selection of Katharine Jefferts Schori as presiding bishop.
That single decision injects a whole new element into key relationships within our Church. More importantly, Jefferts Schori’s election will prod all of us to step back a pace or two to re-examine the way we relate to one another in a world where gender, race and sexual orientation sometimes have created divisions.
Chalk it up as a renewed challenge for a Church already facing many serious challenges. But isn’t that what growth is all about? Thank goodness, our Church’s goal is not numbing comfort, but transformational growth.
That’s the positive bottom line from the 75th General Convention.
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