Resolution B012
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Greetings in Christ. A recent article from The Living Church ‘Marriage for the Whole Church’ describes a resolution (B012) proposed to the General Convention by the bishops of the dioceses of Pittsburgh, Rhode Island, and Long Island, as well as the case for it from the latter. On the new Communion Partners’ website may be found a response titled ‘The Vocation of the Anglican Communion.’ I have received several questions about these, so here is how to access them.
In my recent pastoral letter, I reiterated that, come what may. I will continue to teach and guide the congregations I oversee in Dallas according to the traditional teaching of the Church. Secondly, we will not leave the Church, and thirdly, we will endeavor to live these two out with as much charity as God grants us. I spoke for myself, but believe these to be consistent with the Communion Partners’ approach.
My intention is to cleave to these three principles in the all deliberations of the Convention. The Communion Partners’ statement leaves us free to vote in accordance with our conscience on resolutions concerning marriage. At the same time, we will carry on with our ministry collegially within the terms of whatever decisions the Convention reaches, which in B012 would include DEPO. Thirdly and finally, we would indeed appreciate the creation of a ‘Communion Across Difference’ taskforce such as that resolution mandates, to work together toward a ‘safe space’ for traditional Episcopalians in a spirit of charity and mission. Please pray for us and for the whole Convention in the coming days.
Peace,
+GRS