[ASAP] Thanks Becca

[Ann Walling]

I think Becca’s note this morning is great.  We need to compile a list of important questions, and they need to come from throughout our Diocese.  

Also, Charlie Cook posted a thoughtful reflection on where we are now that we should all consider carefully.  I would not argue with any of his points.  I believe that a majority of folks in our Diocese agree with Bishop Bauerschmidt’s position.  However, I also see the fabric of the opposition softening.  I see people questioning their long-held traditional view of same-sex marriage.  It is part of the tidal wave of change of opinion that has swept the country.  I would love to see some of those people coming to the asap list for more dialogue.  There are a lot of people who are prayerfully on the fence.  I hope we can reach them.

We also need to remember that, though we are the minority in Tennessee, we stand with the national church.  Bishop Bauerschmidt is in the minority nationally. We are trying to be more fully part of the whole.  Bishop Bauerschmidt does not need to change his mind.  He needs to change his policy.  Though I disagree with it, I respect his thoughtful, considered position on same-sex marriage.  I don’t respect his policy because it is contrary to General Convention’s authorization of the use of the marriage liturgy for same-sex couples. 

Our position is the reverse of what the “conservatives” were doing in 2004.  They came with a pre-approved slate and block voted anyone who supported the national church.  We are actually supporting the national church. I am committed to remaining a faithful member of the Episcopal Church.  Part of being faithful is supporting the national church.  To that end I would like to see members of asap elected to diocesan committees.  It would be a way to ensure that the voice of General Convention is heard in diocesan deliberations.

I am opposed to withholding funds from the Diocese.  The mission and ministry of the Diocese belongs to all of us.  The mission and ministry are also part of the working out of our baptismal covenant.  A disagreement with the Bishop should not affect the vital funds that are distributed throughout the Diocese of Tennessee to care for the needs of our people, at least in my opinion. 

Finding a way to get the Bishop to engage with those of us who disagree with his policy has been extremely difficult. If asap reaches critical mass, maybe he will actually dialogue with us.

And I second Charlie’s admonition to stay in each other’s love and care.  That is another pat of the baptismal covenant. No matter what we think of another person’s opinion, we respect their dignity and hold them prayerfully in love and care.

Peace,
Ann Walling