June 30: the day that was June 29

What a day it was yesterday.  I think I may finally have a grasp on this Convention thing, how it works, and how I should work within it. Whew! It's still sunny here in Salt Lake City; it is still hot.  And the Holy Spirit, she is a-comin' down upon the Church!

Here are my activities and thoughts for Monday, June 29th

• I didn't have any early morning hearings to attend, so I got ready a bit more leisurely.  Very nice.
• Without early morning meetings, my day starts with Eucharist----a pretty awesome way to start the day: worshipping with 1000+ people who are excited about Jesus.  The music at Convention is exceptional.  Not only is there a variety, but we also experience some new settings.  The "type" of music is a mix as well.  We are singing music that allows for people to sing their hearts out and be inspired by the lyrics.  I am definitely bringing this stuff home.  Not to mention an entire bag of information.  One of the best aspects of being here is visiting the booths and collecting materials, as well as collecting ideas and inspiration from others who are here.  We have rich resources in the Episcopal Church.
• As we opened the Legislative Session, the President did address the need to move more quickly, and more than one person emphasized the process and how the resolutions go to committees and are carefully discussed and thought out before they come to us.  Also, if a resolution has already been approved by the House of Bishops and we make an amendment, then it must go back to the House of Bishops to be approved again.  Of course, if this is needed, it should happen, but we were asked to have some "legislative restraint."  Some amongst us seem to think that this is their 15 minutes of fame.....
• After the first session, I went to lunch with Bobbi Kraft and her daughter Kaleigh.  Bobbi is about to start seminary, so it was fun to talk about the upcoming move and changes that are coming in her life.  It's weird to think that I have been at Stevens Point for four years already and that on July 9th, I will celebrate the anniversary of my ordination (also four years).  Time flies when you are having fun, and you live in a community of people who also want to know, love, and share Jesus.  God is so good.
• We have a four hour session after lunch----kinda a hard thing after a good meal.  But, we tough it out.  Many dioceses also bring some of their alternates, so deputies can swap out a session or two (or in case a deputy must leave due to an emergency).  We do not have that luxury, so we are all in.  We really do have a great group of deputies who are thoughtful and prayerful about this Convention and all it brings to the table.  What a blessing.
• Let's talk Marriage.  Several things happened yesterday surrounding this.  First of all, on Sunday, the Bishops passed the resolution which called for continuing the work of the Marriage Task Force.  This resolution is not very controversial at all.  We had given the Task Force a herculean amount of work, so there is more work to be done.  Also, in their previous work, they found that the Church needs to have further conversations about "holy relationships" and what the Church's thoughts might be on intimate relationships outside of marriage.  The Task Force found many younger people (and some older) living in relationships outside of marriage for a variety of reasons and the Church has been silent.  It seems wise to do further study and determine what we might come to understand about the larger picture which exists beyond "single" or "married." Even this seems to be non-binary.
• When this resolution came to the House of Deputies to concur (meaning the Bishops already approved it), some tried to make amendments.  They were voted down.  There was a conversation that some may have tried to make amendments with the hope of killing the amendment itself by causing it to go back to the House of Bishops for approval again.  We will not know if that was the case.  But the House of Deputies was resolute and it passed.
• A note about the House of Deputies: it is evident that people want change.  The majority of deputies here are demanding that we move forward differently.  The Spirit, she is a-comin' down upon us and She will have her way!
• Far more controversial were the resolutions the House of Bishops were discussing yesterday. I got over there once during a break in the House of Deputies.  Two resolutions came before the Bishops: one to change the canon and one to approve marriage liturgy rites for trial use.  THEY BOTH PASSED!  Of course, with much holy conversation and prayer.  What a thing it is that this community comes together seeking discernment for the Spirit's moving.  What a holy thing this is; one of the major reasons I love this church.  We agree to live in the tension and to do so with grace (most of the time).  This means my house will take up these resolutions today.  These resolutions have been the main focus of my time outside of the legislative sessions.  I know not everyone agrees with me, but I believe  these resolutions are so desperately needed if we truly want every living member of the Body of Christ to be able to live fully and authentically within our community of faith.  
• I skipped dinner last night (and our Diocesan wrap-up) to attend the Integrity eucharist celebrating 40 years of this organization.  Integrity was started 40 years ago by Dr. Louie Crew Clay; it works for the full inclusion of the LGBTQ community within the Episcopal Church.  Louie was a member of Intercession many years ago. However, his husband, Ernie Clay, never became a member.  Louie and Ernie were welcomed by some within the community, but not all.  Louie moved on to become a professor at Rutgers, but he never ceased his work in (nor his love of) the Episcopal Church.  At last night's Eucharist, Louie received a special medal in honor of his tireless work.  
• I signed up to be in the choir at last night's Eucharist, so we had a rehearsal two hours before; it was so much fun to sing in a choir again.  And the music was amazing and uplifting---WOW!  
• Most importantly, 45 minutes or so before the service began, I met Louie and Ernie Clay. I had emailed Louie once before, but I had never met him.  Such an honor; they are two of the most gracious and warm-hearted people I have ever met.  I shared greetings from people at Intercession who asked me to pass it along, and we shared stories and reflections about this Episcopal church we love.  My heart was so full to meet these two men who I have long admired.  In fact, as I recall it, tears come to my eyes.  To witness such grace and love as Louie has shown in the face of rejection is beyond any words I can put to paper.  Grace, grace, grace.  Thank you, Jesus for these two men and the gift of being able to meet them.
• I wish everyone could have experienced this eucharist; it was so uplifting and filling.  Jesus revealed through Word, prayer, song, community, and sacrament.  Incredible and rich in so many ways.  In fact, Vicki and I didn't get back to our room until about 10:30 pm and I couldn't sleep---the Spirit was still singing in my body, mind, and heart.  Blessed beyond measure.  I love this Body of Christ we call the Episcopal Church.  

Well, I am off for another filled day of being the Church.  I pray that your day is lovely and filled with peace and beauty and the Body of Christ.  Listen to the witness of Jesus in your fellow human beings; take the time to reflect on what you hearing and discern the truths you need to wrestle with and contemplate. God is here, working among us.  How will you join in the work of God today?  

Jesus, I ask this in your name because I know you love it when we pray.........Mother Jane

June 29: the day that was June 28---Day Four

Well, faithful readers, as I wake up on this the Fifth day of GC78 (to report on the 4th day of GC78), I have had two good nights of sleep.  I know it probably doesn't make a difference in your world, but it certainly does in mine and in everyone's with whom I will engage today.  Thank you, Jesus (and I did, first thing as I awoke).

So, here are my thoughts and reflections on Day Four's activities here---a Sunday at GC78:

• I began the day by joining the Claiming Common Ground: Marching to end Gun Violence event at 7:15 am.  Many, many bishops and many people across the church gathered outside to educate ourselves and to make a witness to the necessity for further conversation and action this nation needs to take to end gun violence in our communities.  We heard powerful witnesses: a bishop, a mother who lost her child, a former police officer.  We prayed.  We sang. We joined together to proclaim the Good News: God does not make death nor does God delight in the death of the living. (Wisdom 1:13).  The Presiding Bishop Elect also preached about the unholy Trinity of poverty, racism, and gun violence and how it is our Holy Trinity that will vanquish these from the face of the earth (see article here: http://www.episcopalcafe.com/episcopalians-against-gun-violence-march-in-salt-lake-city/).  It was a powerful, inspiring, and life-giving way to begin the day.  I wish you had been with us.
• As I walked back to my room to change for Eucharist, I was asked to be one of the many who hand out bread at the Eucharist.  Of course, I said yes.  I met up with Meg and we got some good seats (I always try to send on the end of a row so I can actually see).  Many people were wearing purple scarves in support of women clergy in the church; of course, I forgot mine at home.  Sigh.  The bishops were all vested in rochets and chimeres and made a grand entrance.  Down my aisle walked many bishops, including the Rt. Rev Michael Curry and the Presiding Bishop Katherine Jefferts Schori.  I did snap a pic of Michael Curry, but as I did that, I decided that I am done taking pictures of "moments" that I know other people are capturing better than I ever can.  When I am obsessing about getting the camera out, is it ready, do I have it in right mode, etc.....I miss the moment.  I am going to live in the moments and let the professionals take the pictures.  I will use my camera (mostly) when a pic from my view will be helpful and/or to capture the people I love.  
• Presiding Bishop Katherine preached.  It was both thought-provoking and inspiring.  As a preacher, she always makes me think.  Our next Presiding Bishop makes me want to do something.  This is a great combination; the church needs both---thinking and acting.  What a gift these two are for us.  Thank you, Jesus.
• What an honor it was to place the Jesus bread in the hands of the many---the diversity of this church.  I also gave communion to someone who I know stands in opposition of the issues for which I am working toward in the church.  It is humbling to look another in the eye, see the Jesus there, and recognize the need to let go of one's position in order to meet the other fully.  Grace.
• Our Diocese then gathered for an informal lunch in the "Diocesan suite."  We have a larger room with tables that has some food to grab on the go and a place to gather.  It was a potluck of sorts and a lovely gathering of those here at Convention.
• Our legislative session for the day wasn't until the afternoon (as it was Sunday after all).  There are many new deputies (46%) which is great, but I think many are not realizing how the resolutions which come before us have already been through committees who have been entrusted to do the background work, etc., before the resolution is brought before us.  Needless to say, our work is getting bogged down, so I am hoping that the President of the House and her staff will help to clarify this for our House of Deputies.  We have much work before us, and whatever is not presented and dealt with by the end of Convention is tabled.  At times, I find myself muttering under my breath (or maybe even out loud a little); it can be frustrating when people are simply stating what the last person just said or asking a question that does not help to move toward clarity.  Ah, the Church.  It is messy, but goodness, I love her!
• I did stop by the Sewanee booth before legislative session to get my hugs in from my people there.  It is good to have priorities.
• We had our Diocesan Dinner last night---a dinner out on the Bishop.  It was very enjoyable and yummy (I like Flat Iron Steak!).  Meg and I then went next door to talk and have some time over a beer.  It was a really great way to end the day.

I wish I could truly put into words what a gift it is to experience and see the Church at work. Even with all its quirks and dysfunctions, even with all the bogging down and silly questions, even with all those who disagree with me and hold other agendas---this portion of the Body of Christ we call "Episcopal" is a glorious and wondrous thing.  She is beautiful and transforming, inspiring and life-giving.  Come Holy Spirit and lead us to Your Truth and Your Way!  I pray this in the name of Jesus because I know you love it when we pray......Mother Jane+

Day Three: We Have a Presiding Bishop Elect

Two historic days in a a row.  Almost more than my heart can take---so filled and overwhelmed with joy!

Here are my activities and thoughts for the day:

• Began the day with blogging this morning because I was trying to turn my brain off last night and get more sleep.  It didn't happen, but maybe tonight.  It was really hard to blog about yesterday with all that happened due to the SCOTUS decision and the reality that many rejoice while some mourn.  
• You know, I continue to go to hearings and hear a lot of personal testimony.  Since I am going to many of the hearings on the Marriage Task Force Resolutions, I am hearing a lot of personal witness from our brothers and sisters in the LGBTQ community.  I know some people here consider the "most compelling" arguments about these resolutions should come from one's understanding of Scripture and Tradition, but I want to make an argument for the personal witness we are hearing.  Frankly, our arguments from Scripture and Tradition are only going to get us so far---because we are a church of spectrums, and we don't understand either Scripture or Tradition in simply one way.  We differ.  So these arguments still leave us with a big gap.  And we have had 40 years of these well-articulated, scholarly arguments.  But this week (and throughout my life) I have been hearing another argument that bears just as much weight---the testimony and witness of our brothers and sisters in the LGBTQ community who speak to their experience of living out their authentic personhood as a LIVING MEMBER OF THE BODY OF CHRIST.  This means, that as a member of the Body of Christ, they are telling us what it is to be an LGBTQ member of the Body of Christ.  And they are saying: we have been oppressed, turned into second-class citizens, denied the sacraments, and made to feel "less than."  They are saying this to us as LIVING MEMBERS OF THE BODY OF CHRIST.  This means we are hearing Jesus' witness.....do you follow?  A weighty argument in my estimation.  And a privilege and blessing to hear it. And to take action based on it. May the Spirit continue to move and guide us.
• Our eucharist today followed the readings for Cornelius Hill---a son of the Diocese of Fond du Lac.  We heard Native singers, musicians, and a Native preacher.  Gloriousness.  I wish I could truly put into words what it is to worship in this diverse and joy-filled body.  I love Jesus. Goodness, but I do.
• At the end of the eucharist, we took some moments in silence.  Then Native flute music called the Bishops to leave in order to be sequestered in the Cathedral of St. Mark's for the election.  After a moment or two, the rest of us were called to depart by the native drummers and singers---singing a version of Amazing Grace.  I stool enraptured by their sound, the soul of their singing, the beat of the drums, the power of the music.  Blessed.
• The House of Deputies began our session with a party.  We are the senior, the first, House of the Episcopal church (House of Bishops started 4 years later) which began in 1785.  It's our 230th Anniversary!  Celebrate!  Hats, noise makers, personalized M&Ms, medals to those who have given great service to the House.  A wonderful way to start the session.
• About 12:45 we were told that the House of Bishops had elected a Presiding Bishop elect, and the committee to review the election was gathered.  This committee then meets and reports to the House of Deputies before we would vote to confirm or not confirm the election.  Bear in mind...we still don't know who (but we were all guessing Curry since it was so quick). We were supposed to end legislation at 1:00 for lunch.  The deputies told the President of the House that we wished to stay working in session until the Committee was ready to report.
• When the overwhelming election results were announced (121 of 174 votes to the Rt. Rev Michael Curry on the first ballot----unheard of!): the house erupted. It wasn't supposed to, but people couldn't help themselves---not just the deputies, but also the hundreds of visitors who had gathered in the House to hear the results.
• The House of Deputies confirmed the election with 800 ayes and 12 nays.  Over 98%.  We were granted a time to rejoice and did we ever.  We sang our prayer: We are one together, yo, yo, yo and then the Doxology.  I saw an African-American woman in the Pennsylvania deputation hugging a fellow deputy with tears in her eyes. The Rt. Rev. Michael Curry is the first African-American elected to the office of the Presiding Bishop.  Another historic day.  There is so much excitement, possibility, and hope running through this place.  I promise to bottle it and bring it back home with me.
• We finally ended the legislative session for a break for lunch (okay, by now it was almost 3, but oh well....so worth the wait).  I went to lunch with our daughter.  So wonderful to share this all with her.  Oh, and I had Greyson (our new grandson who is in the NICU) on my phone internet....so he was kinda there too (a cool story for him someday).  When there's so much joy, it must be shared.  
• 230 years ago, the anglo males who created this wonderful church probably never imagined these past two days: the granting of marriage equality to lesbian and gay couples and a female Presiding Bishop introducing a new African-American Presiding Bishop elect.  

“The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.”---Martin Luther King, Jr.

• Well, we ended the day with two more hours of legislative business---including passing a resolution with over a million dollars attached to it to address the persistent racism in our nation, our cities, and our culture.  This is no time to be timid; it is a time to take bold and definitive action.  May this resolution move us toward the Kingdom.
• I decided to come to my room and write this blog, with hopes that in a bit I will walk over to St. Mark's Cathedral and pray Vespers on this historic day. I am yearning for the peace of prayer this evening.  There's a budget hearing, but I believe I will allow others to attend to that as I attend to the whispers of my soul for prayer. 

With that, I will quit blogging for the day.  I love this church---as messy and complicated as it is.  It is also beautiful and heart-breaking (in a good way).  And I miss my family---my husband, our kids (except Meg, of course, who is here) and our grandchildren.  But, I am here at home with another family---this beautiful, crazy family of Episcopalians who have shaped and formed me to know and love Jesus.  I pray that God grant you all a peaceful night and a beautiful tomorrow, and I pray this in your name, Jesus, because I know how you love it when we pray......Mother Jane+

June 26, 2016: Love Wins

I will never forget June 26, 2015: the day SCOTUS declared marriage for my gay and lesbian friends could not be denied in any state of the USA.  I will never forget where I was the moment the announcement was made.  

It was early morning, and I was sitting with my daughter in a committee meeting on the Marriage Task Force Resolutions.  Therefore, many people in the room were very supportive of Marriage Equality, including my daughter and I.  Oh, the joy!  I began to cry for my heart was too full with joy for my friends who would now be able to know and experience and declare the same wonder and beauty in marriage that I know and have. For me, it was a most beautiful moment.

Many people were going around in the hallways and in the spaces hugging, rejoicing, crying with joy or simply walking with a big grin.  Many of those who belong to the LGBTQ community were calling their spouses so they could share this moment when their marriage was finally recognized as legitimate and could not be ignored any longer.  

About an hour later, it was time for Eucharist.  The musicians called for a special prelude to celebrate (“We are marching in the light of God”) and people began to march/dance in the aisles.  Needless to say, a joyous celebration of the Eucharist took place here in Salt Lake City yesterday morning.  The President of the House of Deputies, the Rev. Gay Clark Jennings, gave a rousing and wonderful sermon.  I am certain it will be posted---make sure to check it out.

On my heart and mind are all my thoughts about being here with brothers and sisters while we move toward the marriage equality that our nation has now secured.  Granted, most people here are so in favor of it that rejoicing resounded.  But there are some of our brothers and sisters who are saddened and upset by the ruling.  We cannot simply dismiss them.  I wish their sorrow had been recognized officially---although I know it was recognized by individuals and in prayers.  Yes, we rejoice with those rejoicing, but we must also mourn that some among us are hurting.  A hard thing to do.  I am not certain I know how to do it, but even a prayer during the Prayers of the People would have recognized the reality and spoken to it.

I am a deputy in a delegation of mixed feelings on Marriage Equality.  In fact, I am not certain I know where all of my fellow deputies stand on this issue, so I am not going to assume.  But, I am proud to say that more than one of them gave thanks for my joy.  And, since our daughter is an intern for Integrity (the group that has been working toward Marriage Equality in the Episcopal Church since 1975), I got one of the posters the group made to celebrate the decision.  I taped it to the back of my chair (which just happens to be what people first see as they walk into the House of Deputies).  No one in my deputation has minded or asked me not to do so---even those I know who disagree with me.  

During the joint session of the House of Deputies and the House of Bishops, we had small group conversations about what is working, and what needs to be changed at three levels of the church (national, provincial, diocesan).  The questions we were asked to discuss are legitimate, but having seen them only just before the discussion, they were hard to discuss.  We were asked to converse with other delegations (my half of our Diocese talked with Florida).  While I think the questions and the idea behind the small groups are valuable, due to the fact that we had not been prepared to discuss them, and we are not certain how the discussion plays into anything else, I am not convinced that this activity was worth the time it took.  On a fun note, my good friend's rector was part of my group, so a bit more of the connecting that only happens at family reunions like this took place!

Today the election of the Presiding Bishop will be happening---and the confirmation by the House of Deputies as well.  So many momentous things happening in such a short time.  But, as my Bishop noted on a post on Facebook---the Holy Spirit will work through this Body we call the Episcopal Church no matter what we decide.  

I have many thoughts spinning in my head (thus, not enough sleep is happening) about things and issues I am swimming in here at GC78.  Maybe later today or later this week I will be able to sort them out into understandable communication.  Stay tuned, friends.  And most certainly, I will share about today's election and confirmation.  Pray for the Church.

June 25: Finally: Day one!

Oh my goodness, it is finally day one.  Whew.  And what a day it has been:

Here are my thoughts about what I experienced today:

• Actually, my first one is from last night.  As we left dinner, a homeless man asked for some help---money, of course.  I took his hands and smiled at him; he hugged me.  I asked what he would do with the money. He said, "Buy food, of course."  I said I was a little worried that the money might go to something other than his greatest need.  And he said, "Oh no.  I don't drink or anything like that."  Of course, I'll never know.  I just knew I had some money I could do without, so I shared it with him.  Some may think I am foolish.  He may have used it in other ways.  But, a gift has no strings, that's what makes it grace.  Besides, I think the connection we made by looking in one another's eyes and touching hands---that was the true gift and we were both receivers. There are too many homeless people here and everywhere.  If I am going to take a picture of Homeless Jesus (see the Church of the Intercession Facebook page) and ignore this human being in front of me.....I know it's not simple or easy and we each face the choice when we are confronted with the poor.  There is no easy or one right answer.  But, certainly, to make a connection, to spend a moment, to give a listen....that we each can do.
• If I had a Fitbit, I would be totally winning with all the steps I take each day, but the sleep aspect of it would not be good.  Must get more sleep (she says as she writes this at 10:12 pm)
• We had our first real legislative sessions today.  For the most part, the Virtual Binders (iPad with software to replace paper and physical binders) are working---and I think rather well.  I, for one, am glad that I don't have to wander through reams of paper to find the resolution or the calendar, etc.  There are glitches, of course, but I think it's working.
• The Chaplain in the House of Deputies is fabulous!  Chaplain Lester Mackenzie had us on our feet with chanting/singing: We are One together: yo, yo, yo!  Clapping and joyous.  Good for the soul and a vessel for the Spirit.  He often ends a prayer with "And I ask this of Jesus Christ because I know you love it when we pray."  What a gift to us this man is.
• Visited Thistle Farms exhibit here at GC. If you don't know about the Thistle Farms' ministry, go here: www.thistlefarms.org. I am excited to learn new ways I (and Intercession Episcopal) can support this good work.  Love Heals Every Body!
• I also visited other exhibits and am collecting a lot of good information, thoughts, and connections.  So wonderful to have the opportunity to do this.
• Saw fellow seminarians (not from my class, but others).  Great fun.  And also saw and spoke to Fr/Dr. Ben King and his lovely wife, Leyla, and Annwn Myers from Sewanee.  Joy! Another hug from Pamela and Sukey Byerly to fill out the day.  
• Listened to a brief explanation about a new program--EQB--- that the School of Theology is beginning.  While I listened, there was a slide show playing with several photos of my classmates.  Goodness, I love those people and miss them.  What a gift to live in community like that for three years in such a place.
• Saw my wonderful friend Patti Joy---and Joy is the right word to describe her and how I felt to be able to give her a hug.  
• I went to legislative committee meetings and hearings on Marriage Task Force resolutions (this is what I am especially paying attention to here at GC78).  What a blessing it is to hear people's stories.  What a gift.  So many people have put in such hard work over many years.  And it all began (well, in the Episcopal Church anyway) with Louie Crew Clay who was once a member at Intercession Episcopal Church in Stevens Point.  Isn't life wonderful?
• I am also getting to know my fellow deputies so much better which is really quite a joy.  I can be someone who rushes to a conclusion---especially with people who hold differing viewpoints than I do.  One of the ways God is working on me right now is to rub that rough edge a bit smoother.  Grace is required to build relationships and the Spirit is granting me such grace.  Blessed!
• We had the first Eucharist today; it is wonderful to experience such fabulous and beautiful liturgy that the EC has with 1000 people.  I was fed by bread, wine, fellow disciples, joy, Word, proclamation, and presence.  Everyone should know and taste this goodness.
• It is amazing how perfect strangers just strike up conversations---probably because we wear these badges, so even on the elevator you know you're talking to someone who knows at least a piece of your experience.  If only we could do this with any human being, since as fellow human beings we all know at least a piece of one another's experience.  Funny how it is happening here and yet we are all so cautious with all our important selves elsewhere.  Hmmmmm.
• Have I told you how much I love Jesus yet today?  Because I do.  I love Jesus.  Even this Jesus I am seeing everywhere in this quirky, dysfunctional, messy Body of Christ.
• Took some sabbath time in the Prayer Chapel.  Must do more of that.
• Watched my premature newborn grandson on the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) website.  Must do more of that. Shared my prayer of thanksgiving and life for him on the prayersofthepeople.org website for #GC78.  
• I was fortunate to end the day with a meal with Diocesan friends (before a hearing) and then a day wrap up (after the hearing) with an even larger bunch.  The +Bishop and his wife, Leslie, are simply phenomenal.  I give thanks to God they are here---at GC78, but here in the Diocese.
• Bishop Gene Robinson spoke at this evening's hearing.  He said something I believe rings true: God can work toward God's justice---even when the church doesn't come along.  God isn't limited to working solely through the church.  We often make snide comments about the church changing toward the culture.  What if society has a better grasp on God's justice, and it is the church who is having to catch up?  

Well, I am not naive enough to think this isn't going to get messier or harder.  I know it will. The really tough debates are yet to come---when it comes down to the nitty gritty of passing resolutions or not.  Pray for us, friends.  Pray that we leave room for the spirit to move and breathe in and through us.  Pray that we can set aside our personal need to be right in order to hear one another.  Pray that we can be present with one another.  I rest in the belief that God is at work and that God will work in and through us---even if we get it all wrong.  Resurrection, people, resurrection.  Death and fear never have the final world.  Like Thistle Farm proclaims: Love Heals Every Body!  May you all have a peaceful night and a blessed tomorrow.  I ask this of Jesus Christ because I know you love it when we pray.......Mother Jane+

June 24: Day Zero at #GC78

Hello from General Convention #78---Day Zero

That's right, even though the day for many started at 7 am, and I am finally blogging now at almost 10:30 pm, it's not even the first official day....that's tomorrow!

Anywho....here were my events (and thoughts) of today:

• A morning walk with fellow deputy---great way to start the day
• Prayer and coffee
• A brief jaunt in the exhibit hall seeing a few friends from afar
• Address by the Presiding Bishop (inspiring words from a person I respect and admire)
• Address by the President of the House of Deputies (who is doing a magnificent job thus far!)
• Sitting in the House of Deputies for the first time---way in the back row!  (which actually means we can walk around a bit, get water without disturbing others---nice). 46% of us are first time deputies and another 20% have come back for the second time.  New life, new blood mixed with those who have done this all before several times.  A good sign, I think.
• Orientation to the House of Deputies (only really boring part was the teaching of how to use the iPad.  Now, it was incredibly necessary for many, but since I have had an iPad for years, I found it boring).
• Lunch was a bit of a break and light meal in my room for sabbath.
• Presentation of the nominees for Presiding Bishop.  Exciting and interesting---good candidates.  Well done, nomination committee!  On Saturday is the election and the confirmation---so pray for those things and all people involved.  My take:  I think the Church needs a visionary, an voice of proclamation, and an inspired leader who will be able to inspire others and lead us forward.  Therefore, while all four are gifted in meaningful and important ways, I think Bishop Michael Curry has what we need right now.  I might be wrong (as I often say), so let's let the Holy Spirit do her work because God will continue working through us no matter who is elected.
• Brief time of conversation with my esteemed colleague and roommate, Pastor Vicki Natzke.
• Attended the Integrity Gathering at another hotel and heard some inspirational leaders and met some fine folks.
• Attended the hearing about the resolutions put forward by the Marriage Task Force.
• Listened to my daughter (an intern for Integrity here at GC78) speak beautifully and wonderfully to the resolution---so proud she's our baby girl!
• Spoke for the first time myself (quickly wrote out my thoughts so I wouldn't blabber--note to self, keep notebook at hand for just such a thing).  It was nerve-wracking, but I lived.  And I don't think I made a complete fool of myself, so that's good.
• Listened to the committee hearing that followed---interesting to see the Church at work.
• Returned to hotel to meet with fellow Diocesan deputies.  It is quite wonderful to be here where I can disagree with other deputies, speak to that disagreement, and still leave the room as friends who greatly respect one another.  Love this.  

Friends: God is at work here---empowering us to do the work God is already doing in the world.  Have I told you how much I love what I do?  Goodness, I love Jesus and all he does in, with, and for us.  Peaceful night and a beautiful day tomorrow.  Go and rest; God is still working.

June 23: the Day before the day

So, I am here at General Convention 78 in Salt Lake City, Utah.  Tomorrow the real stuff begins.  Today we walked around, learned the lay of the land, got registered, received our loaner iPads (we are going paperless this time around) and saw many exhibits.

My first thoughts: 

• What a joy to see so many people excited and happy about being the church.
• We don't have enough diversity yet.
• It is so lovely to see friends you haven't seen for a good while.
• Joy is contagious.
• Many, many people yearn to make a difference in other people's lives.
• Utah is beautiful, but hot!

What am I looking forward to?

• Worshipping with hundreds of others!  Oh the joy of it all.
• Learning
• Listening
• Being present
• Learning
• Reflecting
• Growing
• Being inspired
• Learning
• Changing
• Seeing and hearing new ways to be the church
• Being challenged
• Forming relationships

God has placed us in community.  We are not called to be lone-ranger disciples, but we are called to be a member of a larger body which understands that for the body to be complete and whole---all must be present.  All gifts are to be welcomed.  I pray that this truth stays in the forefront for me during the entire Convention.  Please hold us all in prayer.

Almighty and everliving God, source of all wisdom and

understanding, be present with those who take counsel

at General Convention 78 for the renewal and mission of your Church.

Teach us in all things to seek first your honor and glory. Guide

us to perceive what is right, and grant us both the courage to

pursue it and the grace to accomplish it; through Jesus Christ

our Lord. Amen.

Tune in tomorrow, y'all.  And you know what I always say: "Play well with others; make a positive difference in the world; always choose joy!"

June 21: Open Wide Our Hearts

1 Samuel 17:57-18:5, 10-16;     Psalm 133
2 Corinthians 6:1-13
Mark 4:35-41

Emanuel: God is with us. 

On Wednesday evening, Dylann Roof entered the Emanual African Methodist Episcopal church in Charleston, S.C., joined a prayer service, telling those gathered that Black people were taking over his country, they had to go, and then began shooting, killing nine people,  killing the Rev. Clementa Pinckney, Tywanza Sanders, Cynthia Hurd, Sharonda Coleman-Singleton, The Rev. Depayne Middleton Doctor, Susie Jackson, Ethel Lance, The Rev. Daniel Simmons, Sr., Myra Thompson.

At times like these, it is hard to believe that God is with us.  This newest in a line of tragedies that seem to dominate our newsfeeds and our Facebook posts shakes our belief in the promise of Emanuel—God with us—making it seem more of an improbability than a reality.

As a white woman witnessing this horror from afar, like Rabbi Rachael Barenblat, I am asking myself:  “What can I do to change the reality in which this kind of hate crime is possible?  I want my nation to be better than this. I want humanity to be better than this.”

I feel like those disciples in the boat during the storm in today’s Gospel.  Oh Lord, the seas are rocking.  The seas are rocking with waves of racism and hatred.  Oh Lord, the seas are turbulent with the roar of gun violence and inhumanity.  Dear God, the oceans are white with our indifference and our acceptance of senseless violence in this nation.  Save us, Lord, save us from ourselves.

The Good news in Today’s Gospel is that Jesus is with us during the storm.  Jesus has not abandoned us in this tempest of racism, gun violence, and our refusal to change the systems in order to end these tragedies.  Jesus is in our boat.  As we cry out, “Lord, why?”  As we cry out, “Lord, save us!”  Jesus responds: Love one another.  Act in love.  Create systems and regulations, laws and societies that are founded on loving one another---acting for the benefit of one another---turn from self-preservation, self-centered love, and work toward the good of the whole, the love of God’s creation and God’s created.  Jesus has not abandoned us, nor the good people of Charleston, but Jesus may be getting weary of our asking him to do what it is that we must do for ourselves.

Yes, beloved, God is in charge of the oceans, the Creation, this fragile earth, our island home, but God has placed the stewardship and care of Creation and of one another in our hands.  How much longer will we deny our brothers and sisters and allow racism and gun violence to be our way of life?

Like me, you might find yourself asking: What can I do?  I live in Wisconsin; this is not my story, not my city, not my fight.

But as disciples of Jesus, it is our story.  These acts of violence and hatred, these are the things that break the heart of God. These dead and dying, these killing and hating, these hurting and mourning, they are our brothers and sisters.  In Christ there is no us and them; there is only us.

So, let us begin with prayer.  On Friday, Intercession hosted a prayer service for the people and city of Charleston---lifting up our hearts for those who grieve and those who are most profoundly affected by this senseless tragedy.  We are called to love others as God loves.  It is easy for us to love those who are hurting and suffering in this tragedy.  And we express our love in prayer, in lifting them up, in saying their names, and honoring their lives.

But we are called to love those responsible for this act as well.  To love Dylann Roof who has confessed to these killings.  To love those who taught Dylann it is honorable to hate people because of their race.  To love those who said nothing when Dylann told racist jokes, wore badges proclaiming racist regimes. To love those who tell us this is not terrorism or a hate crime and we don’t have a problem with guns in our country.

We are called to love all---those who are easy to love and those whom we find it very difficult to love.  And in times like these, when we are in the middle of a storm, we need to remember that Jesus is with us and God is in control, and we must decide to move and respond, to react and to speak, from love. 

So, let us begin with prayer.  For the love we are called to is impossible without our hearts being changed.  We are called to have the hearts we see in David and Jonathan’s story.  David and Jonathan who shared a covenantal love---a love where one loves another as his own soul.  Jonathan and David’s love is a sacrificial love---acting for the benefit of the other, laying down one’s life in the midst of danger and threat.  Later in their story, Jonathan takes action to secure David’s life—even when it put his own life in danger. This is the covenantal, sacrificial love of God that we are called to embrace, to honor in the blessing of marriage between two persons, and to live out in community and in our lives with one another.

In a blog post for the Diocese of Virginia, the Reverend Dr. Dorothy White, an ordained Episcopal priest and formerly a Baptist minister, writes:

As our bishops and deputies gather to share in the 78th General Convention, I would urge that you take time and focus on “those things that break the heart of God.” Loving as God loves is not without challenge. Loving as God loves will stretch our lives to such a degree that only a Holy God can make possible.

As a nation, a nation of Christians, atheists, Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, Jews, Sikhs, Natives, pagans, wiccans, and the unaffiliated, a nation of believers and non-believers, we are called to demand an end to racism, systemic and particular.  We are called to elect officials who will not allow laws and systems that value one section of humanity over another.  We are called to be citizens who speak up when hatred is spoken in comments and jokes, when flags that symbolize prejudice are flown at state or federal buildings, when our systems are broken and violence is out of hand.  This is not somebody else’s problem.  It is our problem.  The answer is to love as God loves.  The challenge is to love as God loves.  The risk is to act and speak in love as God loves.  But, if we who pray “God’s Kingdom come, God’s will be done,” if we who have founded our way of being on the great love commands to love God and love one another as God loves, if we remain silent or removed or inactive----then who will speak, who will act, who will move?  So, let us begin with prayer.

Heavenly Father: We lift up our voices, our pleas, our hearts for our brothers and sisters in Charleston, S.C., and all those affected by this violence. Come, Holy Spirit, and transform our hearts toward love, change our vision that we may see you in the face of the other, strengthen our arms that we may hold those who have been hurt, and give us the courage to take the necessary actions to spread your Kingdom. Guide us in our responses and our words that we might become a nation that shines with Your love, dispelling hatred, violence, and division. God, please save us from our inhumanity; God, please open wide our hearts. Amen.

July 14: the Anointed Ones

1 Samuel 15:34-16:13
Psalm 20
2 Corinthians 5:6-10, (11-13), 14-17
Mark 4:26-34

Last week we heard the people of the Old Testament clamoring for a King.  They cried out: God, we want to be like everyone else.  All the other nations have Kings, God, why can’t we have one too?

A familiar whine to every parents’ ears: “Everyone else has one!”  But this whining is even more sinister.  This request for a King is really a rejection of God because God is meant to be the King of humanity.  But God is not a tyrant.  God is a King that allows the King’s people to choose, and they chose another, so God granted them a mortal king---allowing them to be just like all the others.

Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed David in the presence of his brothers; and the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that day forward.

In the Old Testament, people were anointed with holy oil as a sign of blessing or protection or empowerment.  Here, David is experiencing all of these things---blessed, protected, and empowered.  David is being set apart for a special role---King.  David becomes the Anointed One. 

Let’s pay attention to an important element of the story: David was anointed and then the Spirit came mightily upon him; the Spirit came to David that he might be empowered to do all he was called to do and be.  Knowing the rest of David’s story, we know that sometimes David allowed the Holy Spirit to work through him---resulting in God’s Kingdom being made known through his words and actions,  and sometimes, David was a roadblock for the Spirit’s work and his words and actions were not Kingdom-like at all.  Again, God is a God who grants free will; God is not a tyrant.  God leaves David the choice whether David will serve God or serve himself, whether David will receive the gift of the Spirit or deny it.

And this is our story, too.  We are anointed—with chrism oil---at our baptism.  We are chosen and set apart---blessed, protected, empowered---to be able to do the work we have been given: continuing the Messiah’s work here in this world—spreading the King’s Kingdom by living the Way.

I know sometimes, when we stop and realize the bigness of this mission, we feel insignificant; like the young David, we feel ill-prepared.  Maybe like me you think:

“Wait a minute, God; you want me to do what?  You want me to spend my money how, exactly? You want me to greet perfect strangers with open arms?  You want me to touch the sick and the dying?  You want me to sit with the ill, the elderly, the homeless.  I don’t wanna.  They make me uncomfortable. “

“I can’t do that,” we say. “I’m not that kind of person” or “It’s not my nature to be like that.” or “I’m no good at that kind of thing.”

Today we are reminded that it’s not about what kind of person we are; it’s about the kindness that we have as persons.  A kindness that is not necessarily a natural by-product, but a product of this immersion into the Holy Spirit that begins with our baptism and is reinforced through the eating of blessed bread and wine, holy fellowship, conversation and study, and by our practicing the gift of kindness when we serve others in Jesus’ name. Kindness, St. Paul tells us, is a gift of the Holy Spirit.

Today we are reminded that while it may not be in our human nature to be radically welcoming and generous, it is in our DNA because we are made in the image of God, and like David, we can choose to be a conduit of the Spirit or a roadblock. As the anointed and Chosen, like David, we are empowered by the Spirit to do the work of Jesus---even when it makes us uncomfortable or we’d rather not.

“I’m no good at that kind of thing” needs to be stricken from our vocabulary—at least when we are talking about being agents of God’s transformation.  If God calls us to the task, then God will equip us for the task.  As David’s story shows us: God isn’t in the business of calling the qualified.  God’s in the business of qualifying the called.  And we are the called, the chosen, the Anointed.

Every Sunday after the morning service, and every second Wednesday at our Public service of healing, and whenever someone needs or asks for it, I anoint people with oil.  That’s part of what I’ve been set apart to do---to continue this avenue of opening oneself up to the Spirit through anointing.  But, I never do this on my own.  Usually, others join me—bidden or unbidden—and lay their hands upon the person being anointed---because God comes to us through flesh,  through community--- through this web of grace we call the Body of Christ.

And even if I am the only mortal whose hands are being used, the Spirit is present as she descends and fills the recipient with God’s grace.  God provides us with ongoing and continuous streams of Spirit-infused grace, made available to us through the Body of Christ. 

Like David, we can receive and be sanctified or we can block and harden our hearts.  God has never been in the business of forcing God’s love upon us.  God simply and steadfastly offers grace and love in a never-ending stream; no drought or famine here.  God never pulls back or withdraws.  God is always abundantly present.

And here’s the kicker---the wham-pow of the promise: when we choose to inhale the life-giving breath of the Spirit, when we walk in the footsteps of Jesus, when we quit wanting and whining to be like everyone else and choose to live as the Anointed, the Chosen, the living members of the Body of Christ who have God as their King, then the heavens are opened and the Kingdom is made known. Like a mustard seed, we may seem and feel small and insignificant, but through the sustenance of the Holy Spirit, we become more than we can dream--a source of life-giving shade from the devastating heat.

We are transformed into a new creation that provides restorative shade from the heat of poverty, thirst, and hunger.  Our community of faith becomes a pool of refreshment from the life-sucking heat of loneliness, illness, and loss.  As God dwells within and among us, we are the shelter for those who suffer from scorching rays of prejudice, oppression, and greed.

Like the seed in the parable, we are to do what we are made to do: be planted and grow.  Be planted in the soil of God, watered by the Spirit, growing in the light of the Son, expanding far and wide. 

I believe that this faith community, this church, this gathering of people known as Intercession Episcopal—this is a place where anyone who wants, and anyone who is willing, can be planted.  A place where every seed is welcomed because we know the diversity of our garden is its beauty and its strength.  This is a community where each of us can know God, where the Spirit can quench our thirst and nourish our hunger, where Jesus is met---alive and present.  We are a new creation---blessed, protected and empowered by the Spirit. 

No more whining about being like “everyone else”---“all the other nations.”  We are citizens of the Kingdom.  Let us be who we are called to be: a community who expects the miraculous, made holy and whole through the grace of God. We are the Anointed ones through whom the work of Jesus continues.  God’s Kingdom Come.  God’s Will be done. Amen. Amen. Amen.