How do you re-acclimatize yourself to the way of the world after spending almost two weeks at General Convention? Two weeks of almost daily pageant like Eucharists in multiple languages with profound sermons and congregations that went on for ever; two weeks of seeing so many fellow Episcopalians on the street and in restaurants that you start to believe that our numbers are actually growing; two weeks of hearing discussions on topics that have urgent impact on our lives and our world like climate change, racial reconciliation and peace and justice for us all, and two weeks of recognition that as a church we acknowledge that we haven’t done enough for our sisters and racial minorities and are ready to welcome fully our LGBTQ+, our Cuban family and those who seek asylum in our country.
I came home to my church a bit sleep deprived and ready to answer questions I knew many would have about the convention. I got questions about the prayer book: “we still get to use the current one for awhile, don’t we?” And of course the food: “Did you enjoy the Texas BBQ?” Other concerns were oblique; did we finish all of the resolutions, did I get to sit as a delegate and was it everything I had expected?”
As a first time (alternate) delegate I have to say that it was a bit overwhelming as the biggest convention I have ever attended. There were so many people who were passionate about their issues and so many issues that were so far reaching outside of the immediate church and into the world. But then our church is a part of the world and as a church it is important that our values are addressed on the world stage. Prayer book and Lesser Feast and Fast changes will allow for greater inclusion and flexibility while preserving our rich heritage and services we love.
It was so encouraging to hear eucharists in multiple languages, giving recognition to native Americans, Koreans, people from multiple countries in Africa and the Caribbean. Services addressed God as multi gender and there is now hope that our new generation may have a broader view of the triune God than we have seen.
The Revival was spectacular open to non-Episcopalians and even the protesters on the street with music and uplifting, saving grace imparted in both English and Spanish. And the music was fantastic throughout the week with a special treat having the Choir from Christ Church Frederica and solos from the Rev. Tom Purdy’s daughter Eva stealing the show.
On the way home the airport filled with Episcopalians still feeling the afterglow of the experience. The Presiding Bishop came through and drew a natural crowd around him to hear his words of wisdom. I knew that our plane could almost fly itself with so many clergy on board and the PB himself in first class to Atlanta.
So, yes the convention was exhausting with seemingly endless hours of listening to issue after issue that made little sense on canon changes and doctrine but the intensity of love and caring that was evident for everyone there was carried out into the streets and even into our homeward journeys. People were even polite on the plane! As people of the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement, we have been charged to MOVE. Here’s hoping that we will continue onward.
