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May 2007
Latin America, Caribbean bishops uphold diversity of Anglicanism
How wonderfully refreshing to read this! Having just read Nigeria's and Uganda's response to Lambeth 08, this was especially comforting. Perhaps reason can and will prevail. I might also add, the bishops of Nigeria and Uganda should stay home. Lambeth 08 might be better served without them.
Trickle-down corruption
I'm a member of St. John's cathedral parish. The writer is correct; I have been appalled at the ways in which obviously corrupt and incompetent people hang on to power: Gonzales is still in office, Wolfowitz managed a deal that sickens any right-thinking person. On the other hand, there are so many young people who want to do the right thing and who work to help others. I don't know how we support them, but we need to and to turn the tables on the corrupt and power-hungry.
Iraq's future requires careful, reasoned debate, bishops say in letter to Congress
This is an excellent letter and statement on behalf of all Episcopalians. It has received far too little notice in the news media or within the church itself. It should be circulated to all dioceses and parishes. It should be announced from pulpits, read aloud to congregations and reviewed by study groups, vestries and standing committees. The bishops who signed the letter deserve thanks from members in their dioceses.
Nigerian gay activist brings message to Episcopal Church
Why is Mr. Mac-Iyalla's visit being so publicized by the Episcopal Church official media? Is it because he is Nigerian and hence you want to show that there are Nigerian gay people and hence hit at Archbishop Akinola? Why does it seem that the Episcopal Church is giving full support to his visit and giving him the attention which usually they reserve to visiting bishops? I do not get it. Are we trying to say that what the Episcopal Church has done as far as the homosexual issue is all right and hence the African Churches' opposition to the position is either unreasonable or ill-conceived or not worth listening to? I am really disturbed by the article.There are many prominent African church people who come to this country and visit Episcopal Churches and speak in many meetings that are hardly acknowledged or even mentioned in the official Episcopal media. We are trying to find a way forward in our relationship with the other Anglican Communion Dioceses and Provinces that see the Episcopal Church as being unrepentant. I seem to see an attitude of "to hell with the rest of the Anglican Communion. We are the ones who know what truth is and what is right and hence we shall do what we want." This arrogance is what makes me begin to question whether I should continue belonging here in the Episcopal Church.
Nigerian gay activist brings message to Episcopal Church, Executive Council
I am so happy to see Davis' speaking tour being promoted. We badly need to know that the Anglican Church in Nigeria is losing members, and that statements about policy and doctrine are made only by Archbishop Akinola, with no input or advice from laity or priests. Wouldn't it be wonderful if an endemic Anglican Church in Nigeria would soon ask for alternative oversight from the Protestant Episcopal Church? I think it would be appropriate if the CANA churches in the U.S.A. would take financial responsibility for their factotums in Africa so monies could be freed up here for a truly representative Anglican Church in Nigeria.
Decision on Lambeth Conference invitations draws reaction
After choir practice, Wednesday evening in the parking lot, a few of us rural Arkansans gathered to talk about [Archbishop of Canterbury] Rowan William's poor decision to exclude Bishop Robinson from the Lambeth Conference by not sending him an invitation. While we are a small church; we Episcopalians are a proud little fighting bunch. If Dr. Williams is to exclude Bishop Robinson, then we decided that the Episcopal Bishops should only attend in whatever capacity Dr. Williams sees fit to offer Robinson. The Episcopal Church leads the way in accepting all God's children. While I do not want further shouting, I think we might quietly demur and hesitate to accept these invitations? Hmmm?
Trickle-down corruption
An atmosphere of corruption is now a recent problem? Let's start with President Kennedy's well known sexual escapades and Lyndon Johnson's lying to America. Remember the Gulf of Tonkin resolution, Mr. Ehrich? Cheating at the top has been an American way of life for a long time, not just the last seven years. Your complaint is reminiscent of the complaints I heard in the '80s about excessive CEO greed and political corruption.The problem as I see it is our failure of faith to make a difference in our personal lives that will be the historical legacy left to future generations. We are too willing to accept tolerance for underage drinking, sexual promiscuity (that began in the '60s), and rampant intellectual property theft at the personal level. It is easy to blame others, but not ourselves.
Where do we start? As always, with ourselves. Don't worry about the speck of dust in my neighbor's eye; worry about the log in my own eye. How about keeping personal integrity? Model the behavior of Jesus Christ, especially in the small things, e.g. keep the posted highway speed limit, put an end to the little white lies we tell our spouses, children, employers and businesses. Is this "showboat piety?" I don't think so, for how can I be trusted in big things if I can't be trusted in small ones?
Yes, we should demand better ethical behavior from our government representatives, like no grand standing platitudes or pious calls to get our soldiers out of Iraq and then silence on how to get away from our deadly dependence on oil. Let's start with ourselves in our lives, then we'll be able to see more clearly the speck in our neighbors' eye.
Trickle-down corruption
Excellent reflection on today's students and society. I do hope the church will speak more boldly about such everyday problems as bullying in schools and in churches.
Individual bishops respond to Lambeth Conference invitations announcement
The only voices that are listed are eyes left, other than Bishop [Martyn] Minns, who is not an Episcopal bishop. Bishop Minns has violated the canons of the Council of Nicea. So, there are to be no comments from eyes right or even eyes center? This does the Episcopal Church media staff no credit.
Lambeth Conference won't look like past gatherings, design team member predicts
Prof. [Ian] Douglas makes two very important points. The first is that a Lambeth Conference is neither a synod which legislates nor merely a talking forum, the chat from which has no real value. It's difficult for Americans to conceive of an authority which is not based on law. For most Anglicans each Instrument of Communion commands respect and possesses in a sense a "moral" authority. That authority can't be enforced by church law, but demands respect. Many believe that moral authority is more important than law which may well enforce and coerce. Communion is based not on law but on mutual affection and self-sacrifice. Of course law is important but not as important as Gospel.The second important point is that invitations to Lambeth Conferences are not based on which Province one serves. The bishops at Lambeth are there as bishops of that part of the Church Catholic we term the Anglican Communion, and are not there as representatives of a diocese or province/national church. If a Lambeth Conference were a synod, then perhaps the bishops would represent constituencies. They assemble every 10 years because each is in communion with Canterbury and has been invited by the archbishop to meet with him to discuss, pray and share and experience unity.
FORT WORTH: Diocese renews its oversight request, proposes new structures
The vestry of Trinity Episcopal Church, Fort Worth, has responded to the statement of the Standing Committee and bishop of the Diocese of Fort Worth (for alternative primatial oversight) by unanimously rejecting the document. A resolution was passed on May 19, 2007. The text can be found here.Please let it be known to the rest of the world that at least one church in the Fort Worth Diocese plans on remaining in the Episcopal Church!
Here is the text of the resolution passed by Trinity's vestry:
The Vestry of Trinity Episcopal Church wishes to express its profound disagreement with the actions of the Executive Council taken on May 16, 2007, concerning alternative primatial oversight.
Trinity Episcopal Church, while affirming its place in the Diocese of Ft. Worth and in the Protestant Episcopal Church of the United States of America, does not support any search for forming a new Anglican Province. Trinity Episcopal Church does not support transferring to another existing province of the Anglican Communion. Trinity Episcopal Church does not support seeking the status of an extra-provincial diocese. Trinity Episcopal Church affirms the place of the Diocese of Fort Worth in the Protestant Episcopal Church of the United States of America.
Iraq's future requires careful, reasoned debate, bishops say in letter to Congress
While I appreciate the manner in which the bishops have expressed their concerns I could not be more upset with their overall position. The concerns listed mirror almost exactly the position taken by the Democrat National Committee. The letter fails to recognize the reality of the world we live in and completely overlooks the events of 9/11, the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center, the attack on the USS Cole and all of the attacks or threats made by Al Qaeda against the United States. Such limited thinking is dangerous to the well being of the 300 million people who live in this country. Sadly, the bishops are not thinking ahead and seeing the world as it would be if we were not in Iraq. Further to include in their thoughts dialogue with the Holocaust denier who is the head of Iraq borders on the delusional.I am sorry that any position on the matter was taken publicly by the bishops. I firmly believe that such posturing contributes to the ever sinking membership of the Episcopal Church. Historians not yet born will someday look back at this period in history and credit President Bush with saving this country from those who today agree with the bishops.
TEXAS: Bishop to throw out first pitch at Astros' annual 'Episcopal Night'
This is such a cool story! Thanks from a Devil Rays baseball fan in Tampa -- wish we did something like this.
Executive Council continues to invite response to draft Anglican Covenant
Having read the comments of the Canadian and Australian bishops and archbishops concerning the Draft Anglican Covenant, this woman writing will come down against the effort of creating such a document. The document itself seems good in most of its dimensions, but it fails to address the anger and discomfort many feel over the way the ordination of women and the ordination of a gay bishop were announced to the churches of the Anglican Communion.Even if those matters happened through the leading of the Holy Spirit, as I believe they did, they still needed to be introduced gently and with considerable study. To spring matters of such importance on people was unkind and needs remediation. Instead, we seem to be playing for time. And on the conservative side, I hear little mention of forgiveness of liberals' misdeeds. Remembering how often our blessed Lord insisted on forgiveness, the omission of even the mention of forgiveness from our discussions glares menacingly at all of us.
It is not good enough to have men talking about what women want and need, nor is it good enough to have heterosexual people talking to each other about what they will allow homosexuals to do and to be. We need to find a way that representatives of all concerned may educate each other so that the ongoing rage can be defused and familial love replace it. May God love and forgive us all our trespasses!
Decision on Lambeth Conference invitations draws reaction
It is clear to me and should be clear to all that we (U.S. Episcopalians) have but one choice. Either all our duly consecrated bishops go to Lambeth or none of them should go. We either support our decision vis-à-vis Bishop [Gene] Robinson or we do not. In our attempt to keep everything peaceful we are in danger of letting our basic principles be overshadowed. The Archbishop of Canterbury sounds more like George III everyday and what was true in 1776 is truer today. It is time for us to stand up. Again, no U.S. Bishop should attend unless all are invited on an equal basis.
Washington priest voices support for immigrant family reunification
I heartily endorse the Rev. Luis Leon's articulation of gifts immigrants bring "to this great and good country -- the gifts of perseverance, resiliency, hard work, generosity, entrepreneurship and a strong sense of family and the family's importance in our lives. Ironically, immigrants reflect the best of what the citizens of this country want to see in themselves."I live and minister in Miami, Florida, a metropolis blessed by immigrants. I particularly appreciate the immigrants' appreciation of and commitment to family both as a source of love and encouragement and an object of love and care. I thank Luis Leon for speaking out on this matter!
Decision on Lambeth Conference invitations draws reaction
More than 230 years ago, America broke the colonial and imperialistic chains and control of its foreign invaders and occupiers, and permanently "smashed" their economic, their political, their religious, and their social domination of this land -- the USA became a totally independent sovereign democratic republic in every aspect of its internal affairs and governance. We Americans do not and should never allow any external forces to ever dictate our actions, our policies, or our way of existence in any area of our lives.The Episcopal Church must never capitulate or kowtow to the arbitrary whims, and wishes, and dictates of any modern-day Pharisees -- the so-called "holier-than-thou" factions and leaders, whom in truth are neo-fascist and anti-Christ bastardized Christians...Another thing, the ECUSA (although, somewhat small in numbers compare to other regions) is the most committed and the most financially generous in its support of the worldwide Communion and its many missions.
I suggest that our presiding bishop and some other of our bishops here start emphatically informing the other regions of the world in certain terms (including the Archbishop of Canterbury) that we will no longer accept or tolerate the arrogance, the disrespect, the derision, the intimidation, the intolerance, or the "snubs" shown toward the ECUSA, toward our PB and other clergy, and our canons and constitution, and especially our independence!
Decision on Lambeth Conference invitations draws reaction
The Episcopal Church in America has received derision from the Anglican Church leaders for some time now. It is my belief that they will never compromise their stand, and the US church will always be on the dark side of the moon in their eyes. I see no real connection to the Anglican Church, except perhaps a historical one. Therefore, it is my deep belief that we advise the Anglican brothers (I purposely did not include sisters because they can't seem to agree with us on that score either) that we will be distancing ourselves from the worldwide Anglican Church.
Large congregations and the future of the church
Wrong.The writer doesn't use the correct term to describe the growth of large churches: commercialization. Their competition is Starbucks. Starbucks is just another name for an urban cathedral. Check out the Starbuck creed and the brochures they have to promote their concern for the environment and the people and sell overpriced coffee. In rural America, there are no Starbucks. People are still spiritually hungry and thirsty. The future of the Episcopal denomination is in rural American. People are moving out of the cities into small town America. Large churches are headed for bankruptcy.
Barbara Smith-Moran receives 2007 Genesis Award
Congratulations to the Rev. Smith-Moran for her work leading to the Genesis Aware for 2007.However, I am disappointed that I learned of the work, let alone existence of the Committee on Science, Technology and Faith from/through this announcement. I have had a long-standing interest in the intersection of religion and science - and have been active in pursuing it. Unfortunately, excepting the occasional open forum sponsored by MIT's Chaplain that only nudges the subject, I am relegated to attending lectures et al by the humanists and events put on by the naturalists.
I have learned a lot from these events but would have preferred to either have attended something similar in our own faith community or been availed of something published (or presented) to balance the knowledge base gained therefrom.
Thus, the question: How do we lay people get involved in this committee and/or some other activity similar?
Large congregations and the future of the church
Undoubtedly the box churches are making an impact, but is the answer to join them? In my small town section of Connecticut, people want to go to church in their own community and no one of these communities could support a mega-church even if all the Romans, Anglicans and Protestants put together supported it.Having served two small congregations 10 miles apart for a dozen years, I answer the argument for consolidation by suggesting that we need more small congregations not fewer. We need a new way to deploy ministry so as to serve lots more small centers more effectively.
I think part of the answer is well-trained bi-vocational clergy and lay professionals. I think a scatter-site ministry might be able to provide everything a mega-church can plus the local involvement that the mega-church can't provide. I read about mega-churches beginning to create branch churches and all of them thrive only because they have some small group ministry within the mega-congregation. But what is that except working from the top down instead of the bottom up? And isn't that the Episcopal pattern anyway: a central cathedral (i.e. mega-church) with branches in the local communities?
Indeed, let's not assume that 19th century patterns of ministry still work as well as they should, but let's not give up the strengths it provides until we have a better answer than a big box somewhere far away.
Ancient monk, modern call
Since I am a monk of the Order of Julian of Norwich (which deeply honors and follows the Benedictine tradition) I obviously think Ron and Buddy are right on target when it comes to St. Benedict and his Rule.What I do not understand is why Episcopalians in Indiana become oblates of (Roman Catholic) St. Meinrad's Abbey when they could have driven a few miles over the Michigan border and connected with the Episcopal St. Gregory's Abbey in Three Rivers, Michigan.
Decision on Lambeth Conference invitations draws reaction
The failure of the Archbishop of Canterbury to invite Gene Robinson to Lambeth on the grounds that he is a gay man, is a departure from the inclusiveness of the Conference over the past years, contrary to the spirit of the church and communion and is the beginning of a narrowing of an unwelcome Anglican spirituality. I look forward to the collective response of the bishops of the American church. And I hope that the Canadian bishops will let the Archbishop know they might not be able to attend unless he finds his way to inclusivity. It would be a wry amusement if the Lambeth proceedings were shunned by the bishops of Nigeria and of Canada and of the United States. Dispairing.
Decision on Lambeth Conference invitations draws reaction
I am deeply saddened by the decision of the Archbishop of Canterbury to exclude Gene Robinson from his invitation list. This is clearly an act of cowardice. Isn't it time to stop talking about "them" and "us" and to come to the table with some sense of mutual respect? I understand Gene Robinson to be a bishop in this church. To exclude him from Lambeth is an affront.
Episcopal immigration advocates meet, call for broader commitments
Immigration is one thing. Illegal immigration is another. Bottom line, you come here illegally, you get caught, you go back from wence you came.How about these folks try things legally and there might be a whole lot fewer problems all around.
Religious leaders unite to address global warming
It is disturbing to me that the Episcopal Church and many of the other churches are turning this so-called, man-made global warming into a religious and moral issue. The science is not solid and man should not be so arrogant to think that we have such power over our massive and very strong earth to affect its global temperature.If the earth is warming, there is nothing we can do to slow it down. When the most certain cooling trend occurs, there will be nothing we can do about that either. The areas of the world that are impoverished need help from all of the world, but do not try to play on peoples' religious beliefs and morals to try and scare them to death. Trying to scare people to follow your cause is not good leadership especially when the scare tactic is based on fiction. I am disappointed in the church leaders for pushing this nonsense.
First Lambeth Conference invitations sent out
Although I've been an Episcopalian (U.S.A.) all my life I agree completely with the Anglicans and the Archbishop of Canterbury. Their staunchly traditional attitudes and values are exactly what is needed in this world.The Episcopal Church cannot have it both ways, being autonomous and at the same time be a party to the Anglican Communion. Oil and water don't mix and neither will the Episcopalians and the Anglicans. Their attitudes and values are too diverse to succeed. I seriously doubt that the Anglicans and the archbishop will ever relent from their stance and have any meaningful dialog anytime soon. The Episcopal hierarchy includes fools of the highest order and deserves nothing more than derision and distance.
PITTSBURGH: Diocesan leadership admits to division on future direction
Having carefully read the media release from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, the report that the meeting attributed the failure to achieve alternative primatial oversight to Bishop Duncan is in error. Both this and the title are misleading. As reported in the article and in the diocese's press release a number of options forward are under consideration. There are varied views as how to best move into the future, but to use "division" creates a misconception. With the exception of a couple of parishes, there is a sense of unity in the diocese. The reluctance of the national leadership to deal faithfully with those who uphold traditional Christian (Anglican) doctrine is the real story.
Religious leaders unite to address global warming
Please watch this BBC documentary on global warming.
In harm's way
We are so thankful to have Father John [Weatherly] safely back with us at St. Mark's. Not covered in the article is the work that these Reserve chaplains do at home notifying and comforting the next of kin, conducting services for those killed in Iraq. So even though they are home, they continue to serve in a chaplain's role as well as their parish priest role.
Large congregations and the future of the church
That seems true even here in 16,000 population Dickinson, even though we are 100 miles from any larger town or city and in between is lots of open space. But I question [the Rev. Glenn] Busch's conclusion about concentrating on the congregation offering the most consumables, at least in rural and small town North Dakota.What does concentrating on growing large congregations still larger say to mission and ministry in isolated towns between 200 and 1000 population? To a Squaw Lake, Minnesota, with 150 population and 30 miles from a larger community? What if our "consumables" were a community of spirituality and outreach where the effort to build community is not passively received entertainment but pro-active ministry? Perhaps we really ought to pursue a more community-based ecumenical ministry in our small towns. The possibility is there: we have interim sharing agreements now with the Methodists as well as the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Admittedly, that does not work toward the preservation of "Episcopally-focused" diocesan structures and bases things rather in the local community.
When in Doubt, Love
I'm grateful for this article on two counts: I had picked up Sara Miles' book in a shop and been fascinated by the excerpts I read, then put the book down and promptly forgot both the title and the author's name. Thanks! Second, how refreshing are your guidelines for encountering our neighbor with openness as a fellow human being before we mark him as the representative of a group of which we may or may not approve. It's obviously the Christian way, but our current climate of ideological entrenchment all too often obscures the most elementary wisdom. Thanks for refreshing my heart.
FORT WORTH: Diocese renews its oversight request, proposes new structures
As Christians we are all called to reconciliation and if we are not at the table how can this happen? I urge you to stay at the table for the betterment of our communion.
'Shoestring' evangelism: new Reno congregation taps unchurched
What a great model! It really points out how the inspiration of the Spirit trumps the "sticks & bricks" focus that can, sometimes, hold us back. The church is not the building, but people committed to being the Body of Christ in the world. Even in existing parishes, God can do a "new thing" and encourage seekers, who might have been put off by their perception of a rigid establishment, to get in on the ground floor of something truly new and exciting...and put the "E" back in the Episcopal Church!
FORT WORTH: Diocese renews its oversight request, proposes new structures
The General Convention should declare the See of Fort Worth and the Standing Committee of Fort Worth vacant and appoint replacements. The bishops of Fort Worth, Pittsburgh, San Joaquin and Quincy should be immediately brought up on charges for their outrageous and divisive actions and relieved of their positions. Exactly who do they think they are to just "go their own way"? Sorry, but we are not a congregational church.
Paul Zahl to resign as dean and president of Trinity Episcopal School of Ministry
If I remember correctly, David Roseberry is the rector of Christ Church in Plano, Texas, a parish which has formally left the communion of the Episcopal Church. Why, then, is he still the chair (or even simply a member) of the board of Trinity School for Ministry, an accredited seminary of the Episcopal Church?
When in Doubt, Love
I am hoping that other readers of your interview with Sara Miles who did not initially respond were like me, liked the interview and loved her ministry and moved on. I applaud and pray daily for all who are doing Jesus' mission and ministry on this earth and doing it well. If the individuals quoted giving her a left-handed compliment are also doing Jesus' ministry to the poor, the homeless, the destitute then I applaud them as well. But I do not ask if they are married, divorced, living with another and not married, drinking, abusing spouse or child(ren), tithers etc. Jesus did not ask. Who among us should presume to do so.
Executive Council continues to invite response to draft Anglican Covenant
I'm more than a little alarmed at the short time frame allotted for this, if the intent is for parishes to prayerfully consider the document. The parish for which I am a vestry member has monthly vestry meetings, the next of which is after the deadline, making it impracticable for us to respond. I'm not prone to conspiracy theories, but I have to wonder if the appeal for wide ranging input is genuine, or if it's merely a way to report that the church invited response, when in fact giving sufficient room for such input only to church insiders who began their responses in advance, with the result being skewed results.I'd strongly recommend that the period for comment be extended. Less than three weeks is very insufficient for something of this importance.
Carta Pastoral sobre la Reforma Inmigratoria
Yo soy Puertorriquena y apoyo la reforma imigratoria.
New York Times ad notes Episcopal Church history, mission
Last Sunday I told the congregation about the Episcopal Church AD in the NYTimes - that it was a great statement about our past, present and future as a church.We sent out an e-mail blast to 400 of our parishioners - suggesting that they forward it to a few of their friends. I don't believe in chain letters - except in this one.
We have printed up a number of copies to be available next Sunday. In the printed announcements we are suggesting that each person go to Episcopal Life Online.
Thank you so much.
New York Times ad notes Episcopal Church history, mission
To whoever placed that ad: I finally feel that we're having something to say instead of running scared. Thanks.
'Shoestring' evangelism: new Reno congregation taps unchurched
Laurie Chappelle is doing a courageous and faith-filled thing, and deserves our applause. Would that many other clergy had her entrepreneurial spirit!Not to take away from that very real achievement, but I do wonder who her regular 50 attenders are--and who the 114 are who came for Easter. How many are Episcopalians, simply happy to have found a home in their area, or refugees from other denominations who were looking for a church. And how many are actually the unchurched from the area--which was the original motivation for the plant.
In other words, is this truly an evangelistic venture? One indicator would be what is happening in the adult ed sessions--more than numbers attending the main service. That's the place where people with no church background come and can learn the basics of Christian faith, and freely ask their questions. If this is evangelistic, then in the next six months or year Laurie will find unchurched people emerging from that group and asking for baptism. That will be the true test of whether evangelism is happening.
It is early days. God bless Laurie and her team. May they see growth, not just in numbers, but in new people come to faith in Christ.
The Blessing Way
I'd like to relay to the Rev. Joyce Penfield that sometime between 1980 and 1995, I came across an article in a general circulation magazine (cf "Readers Guide") that reported on the response of all the judges of a county south of Seattle, Washington, to recidivism rates, they having become tired and concerned over seeing the same faces before the bench over and over and over. With the support of the Board of Supervisors they hired a clinical psychologist to try to evaluate all prisoners sentenced to jail (some refused to cooperate).In short order that psychologist found that 40 percent to 60 percent of prisoners evaluated had identifiable Attention Deficit Disorder, plus others with other maladies. The judges arranged with the supervisors for funding for a psychotherapy and medication treatment program for ADD, which also required prisoners in the program to agree to get help from mental health clinics to continue treatment, once released. Of course not all prisoners meeting criteria for the program agreed to participate.
Typical recidivism rates there were about 80 percent to 90 percent after one year. Those completing the treatment had rates of just 3 percent, or less, over three years.
Any kind of professional psychiatric and psychological treatment while incarcerated is difficult to get funded now, I understand. Is there hope for this kind of project in Rhode Island?
OLYMPIA: Immigration reform backed through New Sanctuary Movement
Federal Immigration and Nationality ActSection 8 USC 1324(a)(1)(A)(iv)(b)(iii)
"Any person who ... encourages or induces an alien to ... reside ... knowing or in reckless disregard of the fact that such ... residence is in violation of law, shall be punished as provided ... for each alien in respect to whom such a violation occurs ... fined under title 18 ... imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both." Section 274 felonies under the federal Immigration and Nationality Act, INA 274A(a)(1)(A): A person (including a group of persons, business, organization, or local
government) commits a federal felony when she or he:
- assists an alien s/he should reasonably know is illegally in the U.S. or who lacks employment authorization, by transporting, sheltering, or assisting him or her to obtain employment, or
- encourages that alien to remain in the U.S. by referring him or her to an employer or by acting as employer or agent for an employer in any way, or
- knowingly assists illegal aliens due to personal convictions.
New York Times ad notes Episcopal Church history, mission
I thought the ad was terrific. It was great to see us putting out message, rather than reacting to events throughout the Anglican Communion. It gave people a chance to see our rich tradition and know that we are more than "that church with the gay bishop." Thanks for doing this.
A slow advance
Thank you, Rev. Varghese, for this insightful piece. I very much appreciate your thoughtfulness and steadfastness, and as a transgender person your words give me hope that the arc of justice will slowly allow us to fully inhabit the inclusive phrase 'gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender'.
New York Times ad notes Episcopal Church history, mission
I think that this op-ed is terrific!! It portrays a variety of parishes from historical and diverse perspectives. Congratulations!! Is there any possibility that the "bones of this written text might live" with photographs of the parishes, parishioners and music (no, not "The Old Rugged Cross) so that it might become a link to parish and diocesan websites for visitors/surfers who are trying to figure out TEC and its beliefs? I was formerly a marketing director and have asked Maria Plati, our diocesan communications director, the same question. I could visualize the link, as well as a local attachment that brings the wider Church down to the local level. Short, simple thoughts from a Christian ed director, a student, the organist, a vestry member might introduce the local parish--as long as it's well-done. We happen to be blessed with a film professor in the parish and a newly built local cable TV station. I wonder if Trinity, Wall Street with its studios and equipment might take the project on for the wider church. Again, thanks so much!
New York Times ad notes Episcopal Church history, mission
What a wonderful snapshot of The Episcopal Church. Open, honest, and candid. Thank you.
New York Times ad notes Episcopal Church history, mission
This ad quite accurately reflects the breadth of our experience as Episcopalians, over 400 years. I find it to be inspirational, and appropriately expressing, during "these difficult times," that although we might disagree in some areas, we can still be united in our faith in Jesus Christ, and what we have to unite us. What a breath of fresh air. One of my favorite reasons for remaining an Episcopalian is "that I don't have to check my brain at the front door every Sunday." Scripture, tradition and reason. Yes, the Hooker three-legged stool. Let us not lose our essence of Anglicanism by changing our polity or commitment to the social justice of Christ, to those of the third world, who have yet to discover that "in Christ there is neither male nor female, Jew or gentile." My hope and prayer is that this church of ours will never turn away from this message to avoid schism. Lastly, I think the ad is brilliant!
New York Times ad notes Episcopal Church history, mission
Bravo/Brava, Brilliant, Fabulous, Thanks Be to God, Alleluia, Amen!
A conversation of recollections with Jerry Hames
Thank you for your piece on Jerry Hames. The word I will always associate with Jerry is that he is a professional through and through. Jerry honored our profession with his integrity and adherence to journalistic ethics. He did not allow personal connections to influence his reporter's objectivity. He set high standards for all church journalists. We will miss his kindness and gravitas.
OLYMPIA: Immigration reform backed through New Sanctuary Movement
This is a disgrace. The "sanctuary" movement is illegal and immoral. Why should illegals not be required to obey the same laws my grandparents had to obey? This is NOT akin to the Underground Railroad or the Civil Rights movement. Illegals came here for purely economic reasons, usually encouraged by their own governments...the same governments that tightly enforce their own borders. Many illegals intentionally come here to have children so that they can cry foul when threatened with lawful deportation. The Fourteenth Amendment was never intended to be applied in this way. It was passed to guarantee citizenship, and associated rights, for former slaves. Any church that enters into the political arena should lose tax-exempt and other special status.
The Gospel of Judas and the Shaping of Christianity
Is this what the Episcopal Church has become? Giving credence and legitimacy to what is in essence a blasphemous text? Shame on you! With every day, you step further away from the true teachings of Christ -- and you wonder why the rest of the Anglican Community regards you with horror! It would seem that, during the Eucharist, when you hold the Gospels up and say 'this is the word of The Lord' you don't actually believe that! Hypocrites and blasphemers!
A conversation of recollections with Jerry Hames
What an excellent, thoughtful tribute to an exceptional, thoughtful man who has inspired and led many church journalists for many years. A great story, a great subject. Thanks for reminding us what treasure we have had in Jerry Hames. Thank you.
COLORADO: Bishop, Diocese file property claim
I can't comment on the circumstances, because I am not well enough informed to do so. My vivid imagination gives me what is probably a fair picture of the situation though. As a former senior warden, who had to see a fractured parish through difficult times when the priest and a third or more of the parish deserted us, I have a great deal of empathy for the people in the Colorado Parish who chose to remain and maintain their ties to the Episcopal Church. I believe that the bishop and the diocese are acting rightly. With God's help, and continued steadfast support from the Diocese, I believe that this parish can and will be reconstituted and come back stronger from the experience.
A conversation of recollections with Jerry Hames
Jerry Hames will be missed by all who crossed his path.From his dry wit to his calming influence Hames has left an indelible mark on my time at the church center. As talented as he is as an editor and as a writer, he is an even better person.
Whoever arrives as the next Editor of Episcopal Life has very large shoes to fill indeed.
A conversation of recollections with Jerry Hames
I first met Jerry Hames in 1981 or 1982 at an Anglican editors conference which the Anglican Churchman ran for diocesan editors. Since then our paths have crossed many times through Canadian Church Press and Associated Church Press. I have marveled at Jerry's calm professionalism and deep sense of caring for the church and the ministry of communication. I have been inspired by that in my own career which has included working as religion writer for a secular daily, news editor for the United Church Observer in Toronto, and most recently after studying for a Master of Divinity Degree, ordination as an Anglican priest in the Diocese of Calgary. I have served there for the past six years as both a diocesan newspaper editor and parish priest. Jerry has influenced many, including myself, who he has come in contact with, and he richly deserves a change of pace in retirement.
WASHINGTON, D.C.: Cathedral opens first underground bus garage in nation's capital
I'm all for it, but who paid for it? Why was there no mention of the harm done to the cathedral limestone by the bus motors' pollution? This was one reason, if not the main reason, the garage was built, wasn't it?
Diane Rehm to receive honorary degree from Virginia Theological Seminary
My congratulations to Diane Rehm. As a faithful listener to her program on NPR, I can't think of a more deserving recipient of an honorary degree from Virginia Theological Seminary.Diane Rehm always conducts her interviews with intelligence, nonpartisanship, and sensitivity. I marvel at her poise, courtesy and quick mind. She is always in command of the situation. I would be so much less informed if it were not for her program.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the book discussions with authors.
Virginia Theological Seminary is to be congratulation also, for recognizing the talent and contributions of Diane Rehm to all of us.
Soloist and gospel singer Horace Clarence Boyer has tracheotomy
I so enjoyed Dr. Boyer's music at the Triennial Meeting 2006. My memories of the meeting are first and foremost his music, both vocal and piano.
His gifts of teaching and interpreting black gospel music to the larger musical community, and especially to us in the Episcopal Church, are a great gift to us all.
I pray that he may have a smooth and quick recovery.
Echoes of history
I appreciate [the Rev. Nigel] Taber-Hamilton's discussion of St. Cuthbert's role in the Council of Whitby. As a member of a parish that celebrates its patron's (St. David of Wales) Celtic heritage, I doubly appreciate an opportunity to disagree with Father Taber-Hamilton.I don't see Whitby as a disaster for Celtic practice and theological influence. Yes, the Roman organizational forms prevailed (which I think kept the English Church from being so focused on its inward spirituality that its later emphasis of the Church's mission to the world could have been hidden. Surely the missionary endeavors of Patrick, Columba, Cuthbert and others lived on after Whitby. We see its fruits in the great endeavors of the 19th Century.
So while I am proud of our Celtic heritage, I am not antiquarian about it. The influence of Rome was needed to prevent excessive focus on an esthetic spirituality...even one including celebration of the glories of the natural order.
Union of Black Episcopalians to focus on reconciliation July 2-6 in Houston
Why does there need to be separation by race in everything? If there was a Union of White Episcopalians, it would be considered racist. The world will never become one, or us, until this disappears. Not in my lifetime, I guess.
Headline: Echoes of history
I heartily concur with Nigel [Taber-Hamilton]. As a student of Celtic Christianity in Britain, I am often disappointed by how widespread is the ignorance of our tradition's roots. The face of Anglicanism and the Episcopal Church reflects very much the Roman absorption of this tradition. What disappoints me particularly in the current mess, is that an Archbishop of Canterbury who very much espouses and values his own Celtic roots in the Welsh Church, has so completely bought into the hierarchical institutional governance of the tradition.
Echoes of history
Interesting, but insane reading of history. Selective use of historical issue to proof-text the validity of refusal to submit "one to another" in affirming with Christians everywhere that homosexuality is wrong.
KANSAS: Tornadoes leave path of devastation; ERD, local dioceses offer prayers, support
Nice article. However, Greensburg, Kansas, is in the Diocese of Western Kansas, as are other small communities with tornado and storm damage. So, why the focus on the Diocese of Kansas? Western Kansas covers about 55,000 square miles of Kansas. While we have very few Episcopalians, almost no money and little resources, nevertheless we are proud of our diocese, and we are proud to be the Episcopal Church in so many small communities in Western Kansas. I would certainly hope that disaster aid for Western Kansas would go through our diocesan office in Salina.
Nigerian Primate proceeds with CANA installation
When The Episcopal Church was asked for certain responses to the Windsor Report, [Presiding] Bishop [Katharine Jefferts] Schori in effect replied, "Take a hike." When Bishop Jefferts Schori asked Bishop [Peter] Akinola to not install Bishop [Martyn] Minns, he in effect replied, "Take a hike." Looks like what goes around, comes around.
Theologian Robert E. Webber dies at 73
I never actually met Robert Webber but he unknowingly assisted my wife Marilyn and me in making one of the most important decisions in our lives. He helped us decide to move from a rigid, oppressive, literalistic evangelical denomination to The Episcopal Church.We read Webber's "Evangelicals on the Canterbury Trail" shortly after it was released in, I believe, 1986. In that book Webber and others share their different yet similar personal journeys/rationales for moving from various evangelical faith-groups into The Episcopal Church. The book has gone through a couple of reprints and I think it is still available.
Over the years I have recommended the book (and I have also given away a few copies) to folk who asked for assistance in their own discernment in possibly moving toward Anglicanism.
Thank you Robert Webber. May you rest in peace.
Nigerian Primate proceeds with CANA installation
How sad and arrogant of [Archbishop Peter] Akinola. Seems to me that the gentlemen has an awful lot of work to do in his own back yard with poverty, a worldwide leader in computer fraud and all the ills of Nigerian society. I guess he feels it necessary to play in someone elses back yard and ignore his own problems at home. Shame on him! In my humble opinion the guy is seeking power, influence, money and "pay back." He is an opportunist of the worst kind, turning an issue of faith into a political contest of wills. "What would Jesus do?" I think cry, and say "not in my name, you don't!"
ENGLAND: Rowan Williams speaks on failed bid to help starving Zimbabweans
Well where do we go from here? We have a humanitarian disaster looming in Zimbabwe, which has the potential of destabilizing the whole subcontinent. There are thousands of refugees in South Africa and Zambia and according to this report, the Anglican Bishop of Harare refuses to support the bringing of supplies from South Africa into Zimbabwe.It appears that the only vocal religious opposition to President Mugabe and the regime in Harare is that coming from the Roman Catholic leadership. It is also my impression, that the responses from the Anglican Communion (including the archbishop of Cape Town and other African bishops) as well as the Episcopal leadership to be quite muted. I find this lack of any expressed action most disturbing.
Nigerian Primate proceeds with CANA installation
Thank you for a balanced account of the events surrounding the installation of Martyn Minns as bishop for CANA on Saturday. Indeed, thank you for publishing any account at all.I was particularly gratified that you provided readers with a link to Archbishop [Peter] Akinola's response to the presiding bishop's request not to proceed, as well as quoting his finding ironic the Presiding Bishop's appeal to "ancient customs of the church."
It's gratifying to see a story on this even that does not characterize evangelicals as villains intent on destruction. I must confess, however, that the photos of Akinola and Minns are not what one might call flattering; however, one works with what one has available. This is the kind of reporting that goes a long way to help the atmosphere of distrust that exists in many parts of the church. Good job!
Communion to celebrate first woman priest Li Tim-Oi on anniversary of birth
Do you know that the Order of St. Helena sells a reproduction of an icon of Li Tim Oi, and a card as well?
Nigerian Primate proceeds with CANA installation
The Nigerian Primate obviously does not, in fact, have the Anglican Communion's best interests at heart. He is undermining the Episcopal Church and its canonical way of doing things, and has refused to listen to its presiding bishop's wishes regarding his interference. This is frightening. Yet I have faith that all will be well eventually. We just have to go from day to day, doing what we believe to be right, in our own ministries, both within the Episcopal Church and within our communities. We must just continue to walk with God, knowing that God will see us through -- even with this outrageous act of the Nigerian Primate and CANA.
Virginia church supports Liberian education
I was at Bromley when the team arrived. They were really nice. They tried to ask the students about their living situations. I know they werent asking just because they wanted to know, but find interest in the life of those kids and wanted to help them. I just want to take this time to thank them for the good work they did and continue to do for Bromley. I'm a student of Bromley. I was given a one-year scholarship to study in the USA. I will be really glad to meet some of you people. Thanks once more for helping my school.
SOUTH CAROLINA: Court says church membership rulings rest with higher authorities
This is wonderful news, especially the part of Judge Cooper's ruling that calls for the schismatic AMiA folks to be "ejected." Thank God for this legal and moral victory! Maybe the AMiA crowd should consider relocating to Rwanda (the origin of their organization).
Episcopalians join celebration of first Anglicans in Virginia
What a wonderful opportunity Episcopal News Service had to truly celebrate the Christian stature of the Rev. Robert Hunt, Jamestown's first chaplain. However ENS chose to make the article more about the presiding bishop, like many articles are becoming. Before dawn on April 26, 1607, the English colonists saw land for the first time in months. Hunt had been deathly ill throughout the voyage, but he insisted that the colonists remain on the ships for three days of personal repentance due to infighting and squabbling throughout the voyage. Out of respect for Hunt, the entire company agreed. Then on April 29 the Cross was planted with fervent prayers that Christ be honored in this place.However, ENS chose to refer to Hunt and the others as "invading English." Yes, some colonists disobeyed the London Company's instructions to treat the "naturals" well. But the influence of Hunt and others was remarkably felt for many years after his death in 1608. Considering that the "naturals" had already been practicing warfare, kidnapping, slavery, and other crimes against their own peoples before the English arrival, perhaps God meant for some new influence to "invade" what would become America.
Archbishop of Canterbury urges Nigerian Primate to cancel plans to install bishop
This event was lovely. They continued to hold the event in spite of [Presiding] Bishop [Katharine Jefferts] Schori and Archbishop Rowan [Williams] requests to cancel the event. The conservatives feel completely unconnected to the Episcopal Church.
The huddled masses, yearning to breathe free
Thank you for this thoughtful write up on immigration issues. It's very insightful. The only thing I feel is missing, which you might feel doesn't fit here, is that in addition to immigrants, our country was also built on the backs of slaves kidnapped from Africa. It is ironic that today we have generations of Americans born to those who were forced into this country through slavery, and on the other hand generations born from those who fight to live and work here.
SOUTH CAROLINA: Court says church membership rulings rest with higher authorities
I have found this situation alternately amusing and tragic. Amusing because you have this church attempting to leave one of the most conservative dioceses in the country because it is "too liberal" and tragic because of what it could mean for the church as a whole. I congratulate the court on its holding.
Archbishop of Canterbury urges Nigerian Primate to cancel plans to install bishop
As I ponder with regret today's consecration of a CANA bishop, I applaud the Episcopal Church for its efforts to bring God's love to all people, regardless of sexual orientation. As an Episcopalian who has attended church exactly once since 1986, the church's principled stance restores my hope in the church's prophetic role and its commitment to social justice. I believe that God, in some mystical sense, made all persons in his or her image, and that God has a special purpose for those whom, in his infinite wisdom, he called to be gay, lesbian, bisexual, or otherwise a member of another sexual minority. Truly, a society is only as just as it treats those who face prejudice and discrimination. The Episcopal Church fills a divine role in addressing that prejudice.Thank you for your principled commitment to this issue.
Artists, Church team up to create Christian 'clip art' symbols
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!
Archbishop of Canterbury urges Nigerian Primate to cancel plans to install bishop
The Archbishop of Canterbury cannot keep the unity of the Anglican Communion without the help of the Primates like Archbishop [Peter] Akinola. It's mid-morning here in Maryland and I have no idea if today's events in Virginia are cancelled, as requested.I doubt that Archbishop Akinola will heed the call of Archbishop [Rowan] Williams to cancel his plans, and whether or not he does isn't the issue any longer, and has not been. It is time that the good Archbishop of Canterbury face the elephant in the room which we all know. He has a thorn in his side in Archbishop Peter J. Akinola.
The latter's actions bespeak a loose cannon bent on establishing a parallel Anglican Communion with himself as a medieval style-Pope, complete with a ready-made, one-issue inquisition based upon opposition to the full inclusion of homosexual persons into the life of the church, and going even further to oppose, in his own country, their very own persons and human rights.
In Nigeria, Archbishop Akinola backs laws that criminalize and imprison gay people and those who support them or even speak in their defense. These draconian laws have brought scandal to the church because they stand against every modern convention of civil and human rights. Read these laws. They are on the www. Any person of good will would be horrified by this nightmarish legislation, and scandalized that they are supported by Archbishop Akinola, a Primate of the Anglican Communion.
If this is what he stands for, and if this is what Anglican unity means to support, who would want to be associated with the parallel Anglican Communion of Archbishop Akinola and Bishop Minns?
Nigerian Primate responds to letter from Presiding Bishop
Bravo to Bishop Katherine! All this invocation of Anglicanism is nothing but a political move by bishops and priests who want political power. The bishop of Nigeria is a disgrace to Christianity.
Presiding Bishop urges Nigerian Primate to reconsider plans to install bishop
I had attended Truro Church in Fairfax, Virginia, when I lived there. I support their move to separate from the Episcopal Church since the Episcopal Church has abandoned its biblical Christian roots. I think Truro would gladly be reconciled once the Episcopal Church repents and returns to biblical faith.
SOUTH CAROLINA: Court says church membership rulings rest with higher authorities
At last! A civil court ruling that holds that we are a hierarchical church and not a congregational one. This should put strength to the various other similar suits or moves that are taking place by separatists.I was especially impressed by the judge's comment that those who had joined the Episcopal Church there in good faith and over the years who could be elected and vote would be reduced to the status of visitors without their accustomed status.
I do not wish to see anyone remain in this Church who genuinely does not believe that gays and lesbians are also God's children. We clearly do and are committed to that path of pastoral and inclusive ministry. In their God-given freedom let those who disagree find another place which can feed them spiritually. For all of us that should be the bottom line of "membership," at least for a while.
Could we also sue to get the separatists to eschew the name of Episcopal or Anglican?
Send us your Response
We are duly elected lay delegates and alternates from St. Paul's Parish, Visalia, California, to the October 2007 convention of the Diocese of San Joaquin.Ours is a strong and diverse parish. We have been charitable to those among us whose way of life presents a challenge to the wider communion. Before us will be the second vote of diocesan constitutional amendments which could lead to separation from The Episcopal Church.
We believe that if the primatial vicar proposal of the Presiding Bishop and other primates were to be accepted, that acceptance would likely result in San Joaquin remaining within The Episcopal Church. Both of these developments would be welcome, because we love the church and our Episcopal heritage, and because we think that the House of Bishops and the Executive Council can show some comity -- respect, courtesy and civility -- to others in the Anglican Communion. A decision to adopt the interim primatial vicar proposal demonstrates civility which is a hallmark of Anglicanism and of Christianity itself.
In the absence of a positive response to the proposal, we believe that our diocese will approve the amendments. We urge members of the House of Bishops uncertain about the legal result, to consult with their chancellors about California-Nevada Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church vs. St. Luke's United Methodist Church [(2004) 121 Cal. App. 4th 754, 17 Cal. Rptr. 3d 442], a case which holds that neutral principles of civil law in California allow churches to separate from their governing bodies.
We prayerfully hope that the House of Bishops and the Executive Council will respond positively to the proposal.
Nancy T. Salmon (Executive Council 1997-2003)
John S. Higgins, Jr. (J.D. Harvard 1964)
Kathy Bernardi, Betty Blackmon, Suzette Peters
Kim Robinson, Chet Smeds, Larry Wilds
May Day immigration rallies keep pressure on U.S. Congress
There is no legal basis for the sanctuary movement in American Law. Churches are not immune from entry by law enforcement authorities, and illegal aliens "sanctuaried" within them are not immune from arrest.
Presiding Bishop urges Nigerian Primate to reconsider plans to install bishop
Bishop Schori is correct about the citation of the ancient canons in this case. Some may see her use of these canons as inappropriate because our church incarnates so many things that the ancient canons did not foresee. "One bishop per city" is still a canonical rule that is in force, but the implementation of it has been muddled because of schism. The Eastern Orthodox usually have more than one bishop per metropolitan city of various jurisdictions.The Catholics have more than one bishop of any ritual Eastern and Latin Church present in cities, and now the purity of our fidelity to these ancient canons is being compromised by a foreign Anglican bishop who desires to establish another canonical jurisdiction in the U.S.
Archbishop [Peter] Akinola's CANA will not be effective, just as all the other splinter groups rooted in schism will not be able to solidify as a force to be reckoned with. Presiding Bishop [Katharine Jefferts] Schori as the first woman presiding bishop asserting her canonical authority is priceless. She now knows how to play ball in the boys only club. Blessings be upon her!
Presiding Bishop urges Nigerian Primate to reconsider plans to install bishop
Why is it that the two principles of the Windsor Report are not included in articles such as this? The first was a request that the churches refrain from ordaining or blessing persons whose sexual orientation is that of homosexuality. But the second requested all those bishops who were in or interfering with the jurisdiction of other bishops, in dioceses to which they were not elected, should return home and not interfere in other bishops' jurisdictions. We hear from all circles a great deal about the first point and almost nothing about the second.
Presiding Bishop urges Nigerian Primate to reconsider plans to install bishop
While the Primates agreed it was a violation of canon and custom to send bishops into another province, they also wrote that they could not in good conscience discontinue the practice.At our clergy day here in Maine, yesterday, our open conversation included the fact that many loyal and long-time Episcopalians feel they are without an appropriate bishop, and that the pastoral arrangements now in place, in some dioceses, is less than supportive of conservatives, and those who wish to seek holy orders as such.
VIRGINIA: Nigerian Primate to install bishop; Presiding Bishop says action would 'heighten tensions'
I find it sad that the Episcopal Church chooses to selectively decide which of the recommendations made by the Anglican Communion's Primates when they met in Tanzania are significant. They strongly emphasize the recommendation that international boundary crossing should not persist among the Communion's 38 Provinces, yet ignore the request for a moratorium on legal actions within the American church. Is one more likely to heighten current tensions than the other?
Much to learn from African spirituality
I was moved by the contrast of stories in the recent Episcopal Life: the African school where the children often don't have enough to eat and certainly can't expect food every day ("Feed my lambs," February); and the Sunday schools in America where the children don't wish to learn unless duly entertained, fed snacks and allowed to do as they please ("Whatever has happened to the children?", February).This is Dives and Lazarous.
I believe the rich spirituality of the African experience has a lot to teach us in the Episcopal Church. It's sad (and perhaps the work of the devil?) that we can be derailed by issues like homosexuality. We neglect Jesus' inaugural sermon in Nazareth. All the wonderful work of Frank and Phoebe Griswold in building bridges in Africa could be jeopardized.
Tithing is regressive
I would like to suggest some remedial arithmetic for leaders of the Episcopal Church. They are profoundly committed to helping people in need, yet constantly urge all Episcopalians to tithe. These ideas contradict each other.The tithe is a regressive tax on the poor. To understand this, let's suppose a minimum sufficient standard of living for two people in America today requires a $25,000 income. If couple A earns $30,000 and tithes $3,000, they will have only $2,000 a year left over for savings, emergencies, a few small pleasures and gifts to others. But couple B, earning $50,000 and tithing $5,000, would have $20,000 left, and couple C, earning $100,000 and tithing, would have $65,000 to play with.
We are thus asking family A to give 60 percent of its disposable income, family B 20 percent and family C only 13.33 percent, reversing Jesus' principle requiring the most from those "to whom much is given." Clearly, the one-size-fits-all tithe does not represent Christian compassion or common sense.
Church leaders should go back to the drawing board and develop a more reasonable standard of giving based on a graduated scale that asks for more from those who have more and less from those who can ill afford it.
More reasons for long leaflets
The Rev. [Clayton] Morris' rationale for the use of long service leaflets ("Since you asked," March) is not incorrect, but is incomplete. I can think of three additional reasons for the proliferation of weekly custom-printed orders of service.One is to give clergy the means to make liturgical "improvements" to suit their theological views. For instance, a couple of Februarys ago at Grace Cathedral, San Francisco, I saw in the service leaflet for the principle Sunday service someone's "statement of faith" substituted for the Nicene Creed, a gratuitous example of an individual's having foisted his/her own convictions on a congregation. The prayer book protects laity from that sort of clerical novelty; service leaflets do not.
A second reason is to alter the congregation's experience of worship from a group oral-aural event to an individual literary one. Each person's reading the liturgy and lessons from a script for him/herself is not the same corporate action as the whole congregation in unison listening to and responding to the service. It is a more privatized, visual, individual exercise, rather like everyone's watching the same computer screen at once.
A third reason is to participate in American consumer excess. Consider the impact on the forests of the land caused by tens of thousands of churches using reams of paper every week.
Saddened by outcome
I am so saddened at the outcome of the gathering of Anglican bishops in conference. I could not believe it when I learned that some bishops would not receive the body and blood of Christ from [Presiding] Bishop [Katharine] Jefferts Schori. That just seems wrong -- like an insult to Jesus. Mary is a woman, and she gave us Jesus from God. Bishop [Jefferts] Schori, like Mary, is just trying to be obedient to God, and she deserves our respect and love. She is the presiding bishop, and she became a bishop because she loves God and God's people.We also must pray for all of the bishops, that they can work together and ask God what his will is. Also, I believe that gay, lesbian, transgender and bisexual people love God when they want to be ordained. They are just trying to follow Jesus.
We should never judge anyone. We should love and respect each other. God Bless Presiding Bishop [Jefferts] Schori and all Episcopalians.
VIRGINIA: Nigerian Primate to install bishop; Presiding Bishop says action would 'heighten tensions'
Not only is the Nigerian bishop violating the policies of the Lambeth Conference, on May 5 he will be in violation of the laws of the United States Immigration Service. He will arrive with a "Visitors Visa" which states in very clear English, NO WORK. Any service he renders will be in violation of this requirement. An objection should be filed with the Federal Attorney in Virginia. It is obvious to me this Nigerian cleric cares nothing about the Law of the Church or of this country.
Disappointed with review
I was somewhat amused by the movie review of Amazing Grace by Martha Baker. The New York Times and the New Yorker magazine gave it very favorable reviews -- far more generous than the one written by Baker for Episcopal Life.I am sorry her words were less than glowing, as is this is a film that might help dispel the popular notion that all evangelicals are super-conservative nonintellectuals. Baker says the dialogue sounds like quoted speeches, but as one who has lived in England, I can attest this is the way many educated Englishmen are still taught to speak in school and home. Citing the lack of female abolitionists, Baker presumably overlooked the presence in the film of the character Hannah Moore, one of Wilberforce's supporters, educators and neighbors.
I left the theater thinking what a wonderful film to show to all schoolchildren: a youthful leader of great religious conviction and charm who sets out to change what no one believed he could. With God's help and presence he did. I only hope we one day find such a leader for our country and other countries of the world.
Finally, the caption under the photo incorrectly states that Wilberforce was a slave-ship captain and Anglican priest, which is not true either in life or the movie. It was John Newton, the author of the hymn Amazing Grace, who was both.
Mary Magdalene mislabeled
All praise to St. Stephen's Church, Charleston, S.C., ("Building new lives," March) for its ministry to former prostitutes, but I am a bit unhappy with its dedication to Mary Magdalene. Biblical scholarship has long since shown that the woman of ill repute who washed the feet of Jesus with her tears and Mary Magdalene ought not to be confused; they are two distinct persons. I am a bit touchy about this because July 22 is my birthday the feast of Mary Magdalene, my patron saint.
An inconsistent attitude
Having read the responses of some American bishops to the recent meeting of the Anglican primates in Dar Es Salaam, I wonder if they were paying attention to the Ash Wednesday liturgy. The response of some bishops and their attitude of "no one from outside the United States will tell me how to think" strikes me as the kind of attitude that is not consistent with the lesson from Joel or Psalm 51. It is the kind of self-righteousness that Lent challenges us to give up. Are they so sure that the voice of the rest of the church is not worth hearing? Are they so sure that they understand justice and mercy? Are they so sure that they are not entrapped by American understandings of justice, which is different from being the holy people of God?
SOUTH CAROLINA: Court says church membership rulings rest with higher authorities
I am so thankful that the courts of South Carolina upheld the rights of the minority to remain as an Episcopal Church and to continue to own the property within the National Episcopal Church structure. If the majority wants to leave and form a new church they are welcome to do so. In Bluffton, South Carolina, much of the same thing is happening. As a cradle Episcopalian I feel that I have lost my heritage and the most formative influence in my life.Not only was the Episcopal Church of the Cross a defining influence in my life, my great-grandfather Joseph James Pope and his brother gave the land for the Episcopal church in Bluffton to be built upon. NEVER would they want that land to leave the Episcopal Church and if it did it should revert to the descendents. I have watched with dismay as the rector and bishop have not only allowed but encouraged the current favored part of the congregation to stray from the Episcopal Church, even removing the name Episcopal from all signage and stationery.
When the rector refused to baptize one of Bluffton's long time summer resident's grandchild, I felt like the break was complete.
How can a Christian minister refuse to baptize a child? When an email was sent asking the congregation to pray for a premature newborn descendant of the family that paid for the church building, that request was never passed on to the congregation. How can their presence be justified in the sanctified space of the Episcopal Church? It is time for the Episcopal Church to take back the Diocese of South Carolina and give the churches back to the Episcopalians.
VIRGINIA: Nigerian Primate to install bishop; Presiding Bishop says action would 'heighten tensions'
Once more our Presiding Bishop demonstrates her wisdom and skill in dealing with an extremely difficult situation with dignity and grace. Pope Akinola (as he would like to be named) is regrettably and obviously a power mad "churchman" whose motive is highly suspect to put it mildly. [The Rev. Martyn] Minns, a mediocre priest at best, has no shame.
Appreciating walking meditation
I am a Buddhist priest and am very impressed with the article "On the road with God" (March). I am also an Episcopalian.Buddhist priests in this country pretty much just teach people how to meditate. So we get quite good at it and know many variations. I love walking meditation and have a great many ways to talk about getting in touch with God or one's self through walking mindfully.
This article has given me a new insight into walking meditation, a few things that were not evident to me before reading the article.
I think Jan Johnson is on the right page and is a closet Buddhist. I look forward to buying her books.
Losing weight-related shame
Here's my 2-cents worth in response to the December article "Since you asked: Is it a sin to be fat?"I entered my 60th year weighing 300 pounds at 5-feet-3-inches. I had spent more than 20 years in self-help weight groups and at one time earned a living teaching Weight Watcher sessions. Always dieting, always yo-yoing.
Demoralized and spiritually shamed at my body/temple stewardship, I began to look upon my morbid obesity as slow-motion suicide, and I felt so ashamed that I couldn't do anything about it. I just didn't want to die this way. I loved God. And felt humiliation to the core. The word "sin" wasn't helpful at all: I suspect we Christians would make more sense if we stopped using the word altogether.
I found a nutritionist/therapist/Christian who telephone-counsels me for an hour a month about eating plans and exercise and even prays with me over the phone. The Center for Counseling and Health Resources, Inc., in Seattle was recommended by Oprah Winfrey for chemical dependency and food issues, 888-771-5166 toll free. It costs me $60 an hour and is priceless.
I'm now much closer to the 200-pound mark than 300 pounds. I've already reached my true goal of losing my spiritual shame, and I'm dancing inside with grace as I continue with nutrition/movement improvements. I found help in books by Gregory L. Jantz, who started that Seattle clinic, Norris Chumley, Roger Jahnke and others.
The heart of this fat lady is singing God's praises.
Better communication needed
I read with great interest Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori's reflection dated President's Day. One of her themes was the abolition of slavery. Unstated was that, while slavery is now universally understood to be against God's will, there was no such common understanding in the slave-trading days and in pre-Civil War America.Those in the Anglican Communion, especially the African bishops, who most protest the full inclusion of homosexuals are among the least likely to support slavery. Why then oppose slavery when it is a given in the Bible but support the exclusion of homosexuals when their exclusion is not a theme in the Gospels? Culture. However the justification given for the exclusion is theological.
The assertion that our differences are theological rather than cultural changes the playing field. And since much of the current leadership of the Anglican Communion stridently asserts that God wants homosexuals marginalized, those of us who have different understandings will have to respond theologically as well.
The Episcopal Church has, through prayer, grace, experience, reason and Scripture (if not tradition), come to an understanding that all faithful persons, whether gay or straight or female or male or black or white or foreign-born, are equally loved by God, equally eligible to serve in lay and ordained capacities and equally eligible to participate in the sacraments. By failing to say affirmatively that we believe those who think otherwise are mistaken as to the meaning of the Gospels, we are being understood as accepting their position theologically.
This is terrible evangelism. We must do a better job of communicating our understanding of the gospel message of inclusion.
With apologies to Dana Carvey
Hmmm. This is a good description of ECW (Every Church Woman), though it doesn't call it ECW. It's a fabulous article celebrating the various ministries and personalities of all of us Marthas and Marys. Thanks for sharing it.
Remain true to the gospel
It is my fervent prayer that, long before the deadline of Sept. 30, bishops, priest and laypeople heed well the warning of Apostle Paul: " if the trumpet makes an uncertain sound, who will prepare himself for battle?' 1 Corinthians 14:8.The Episcopal Church is indeed in a battle to maintain and protect our core beliefs in the social justice gospel of Jesus Christ. As this planet descends further into chaos, it is imperative that a church exists that emulates our founder and remains a true and steadfast follower of the gospel of love for one another. Three years of kowtowing to the global South have only reduced the respect and love they should have for this church.
I humbly propose that we follow the Prince of Peace rather than certain princes of the Anglican Communion who preach the gospel of intolerance and hatred.
Presiding Bishop urges Nigerian Primate to reconsider plans to install bishop
His [the Nigerian Primate's] actions are no more disuniting than the continuing lack of leadership that we have within the Episcopal Church. Our leadership is failing us, flailing about in every direction but the correct ones. Having the primate from Nigeria do this should be interpreted as a slap in the face, and the real question that should be asked is whether or not the leadership of the Episcopal Church deserves it.Our presiding bishop should not be concerned only with our relationships with the other provinces, but with our relationships within the church, which she seems to persist in ignoring as did her predecessor.
The problems with our church are not theological at all; they reflect a lack of leadership; and in this lack of leadership, different solutions are coming to fruition, some good, some not-so-good. Unfortunately, the genie is out of the bottle and the resulting problems are perhaps bigger than any presiding bishop.
Others' weight no cause for judgment
As a licensed nutritionist and certified eating-disorders specialist, I read with dismay the letters about an article I missed: "Is it a sin to be fat?" by a Rev. Jean Denton (December). After I wrote to Episcopal Life, they were kind enough to e-mail a copy of the article. Ironically, although the article itself was thought-provoking, I found the title and a few statements hurtful and inflammatory.In many cases, the inappropriate use of food has little association with weight. Some people starve themselves, some people binge only, and some people binge and purge. Not everyone who is overweight is an overeater, and not everyone who overeats is overweight. When we single out obesity as "the" food-related sin, then what are we saying? As the article stated, obesity is very multifactorial in nature.
Although genetics was dismissed lightly, it is a very important determining factor. In addition, many drugs today are associated with weight gain. Tricyclic antidepressants (often used for sleep and diabetic neuropathy), atypical antipsychotics (for schizophrenia and sometimes depression), mood stabilizers (for bipolar disorder and depression) and steroids (for pain/inflammation/asthma) are just a few. Even the widely used serotonin reuptake inhibitors are associated with long-term weight gain. And that is just the tip of the iceberg.
In 1986, Albert Stunkard, a noted obesity expert, published an article comparing adopted kids from Denmark with weights of birth parents vs. those of the adoptive parents. He found a strong correlation between the weight of birth parents and adopted kids -- and no correlation with the weight of the adoptive parents.
What about a girl who was sexually abused by her neighbor at the age of 13 and begins to overeat as a way of dealing with the shame and trauma, or a veteran who eats to calm himself when he awakes from nightmares of wartime horror? In the field, we call these eating disorders, not sins! What about someone with severe arthritis who can no longer exercise? Is that person's weight more of a sin than that of someone who is overweight with no physical disabilities? Does all this mean people can't benefit from lifestyle changes? Of course not. I am a strong believer in the serenity prayer. Studies have shown even small decreases in weight and increases in activity can have significant changes in health risk factors. Those of us who work with eating disorders try to assist people in learning to "normalize" eating, i.e., to learn to eat according to hunger and satiety signals and to allow indulgences.
Extreme dieting tends to promote weight gain and binge behavior. Essentially, everyone needs to do what he or she can do in the situation he or she is in. But those of us who have a lifetime of natural thinness, or even those of us who have lost weight, don't have a right to judge someone else. We have no idea why a person may be obese, and we really have no right to judge!
2007
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