I’ve been asked by several about the clergy day and our Bishop’s remarks. Having slept on this, here’s what I would say:
- He was passionate.
- He was eloquent.
He rightly, and helpfully, noted that the challenge before TEC (The Episcopal Church) is not primarily a matter of homosexuality/human sexuality. Rather, it is a matter of biblical authority and theology – which shape and inform our pastoral response/guidance to the people entrusted to our care. +Lawrence said, “I see the common pattern in how the core doctrines of our faith are being systematically deconstruced.” That is the issue. Confusion with regard to human sexuality is but a symptom of this more fundamental problem. - He was clever.
- He was clear.
+Lawrence wrote/said SC will continue to operate “from within TEC”. He affirmed this continued course of action more than once in his statement and in follow-up questioning/discussion.
I would ask your continued prayers for our Bishop, for our Diocese and for St. Andrew’s as we navigate the waters ahead of us. Thanks.
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To my friends at St. Andrew’s: you would have been proud of your Rector yesterday. He was visibly disappointed (well, he looked visibly disappointed) with the Bishop’s conclusion (that the DioSC will stay within The Episcopal Church) – but he gently and respectfully asked clarifying questions and was a helpful voice in the ensuing discussion.
“SC will continue to operate ‘from within TEC’…?” Was there any further clarification as to what this means exactly? What’s the next step? PRAYING!
Steve, thanks for the clarification. I am surprised that we will continue to operate within TEC. Nancy
I think it’s intersting that Steve only said what the Bishop said, not what he’s thinking. I’ll be interested in the parish meeting that Steve said he’d have once he meets with the Vestry. Praying for you, Steve.
I can hear it now. 13 yearold daughter in back seat says “but daddy, she’s a bishop your just a dentist I think ill go with her interpretation.”
To ‘SC Priest’ – Thank you for your insight. I expected nothing less. I may not always agree with our Rector, but I’m always proud of him. We are blessed to have his leadership.
Well, Nothing new. The Bishop is a Godly Man and he has our Prayers. My bags are pack and ready for the next move.
I would encourage everyone to read the full text of the Bishop’s address to the clergy (at following link, to name one) as well as the comments. We are blessed to have two very wise and discerning men in Bishop Lawrence and Steve as our leaders during this time of trial.
http://www.kendallharmon.net/t19/index.php/t19/article/24779/
Steve, thanks for the update. That was what I thought I was hearing in his interview. so, now what? Be assured of my prayers for you and our church.
Welcome back to a challenging year! Glad to have you at the helm!
Love in our Lord,
Patti
We are cheering for you- Keep up the good work! And- thanks for shining your light with authenticity, and sense of humor – We miss you in Akron!
The real leader has no need to lead–
he is content to point the way.
Henry Miller
Thank you Steve for staying the course. The growth of our church, despite these hardships with in TEC are a testament to your leadership. I “BELONG” to St. Andrews because that is where I believe God has called me to be. 10 years ago when I left SAMP for a short time before your arrival, I ran into some that told me that maybe I should leave the politics of the church to the leadership of the church, that just maybe God wanted me to concentrate on being in relationship with HIM. So I continue on my journey and quest for knowledge in my study of the God‘s word. I am very honored and proud that you are our leader. I look forward to your continued teaching of HIS word. In HIS Grip!