House of Bishops Daily Account for Saturday, September 18, 2010

From ELO-

he House of Bishops of The Episcopal Church is meeting in Phoenix, Arizona (Diocese of Arizona) from Sept. 16 to Sept. 21. The following is an account of the activities for Saturday, Sept. 18, 2010

Bishop Tom Ely of the Diocese of Vermont presented a meditation on "What is God up to in our midst concerning same-sex blessings." Noting Vermont was the first state to recognize civil unions, an event that happened prior to his consecration, he never knew a time as bishop when blessings were not permitted. Not all were comfortable but the diocese has maintained mutual respect, education and pastoral care. "If we live in the spirit, let us walk in the spirit," he cited.

Bishop John Bauerschmidt of the Diocese of Tennessee pointed out that Nashville is sometimes called "the buckle in the bible belt." Nonetheless, the diocese is comprised of a diverse population, with support as well as concern about same-sex blessings. In Tennessee there is awareness that no consensus is apparent in society. Most pressing to most people in Diocese of Tennessee, he said, is the need to remain together in common life in the midst of difference, realizing it will be hard work, "but the commitment is made."

The Rev. Dr. Ruth Meyers, chair of the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music, spoke of [General Convention Resolution] C056, which directs SCLM to consult with the HOB as it collects and develops resources for same-sex blessings. A report on resources gathered will be presented at General Convention 2012. SCLM is working on four areas: Theological resources; Liturgical resources; Pastoral and Teaching resources; and Canonical and Legal considerations.

More here-

http://www.episcopal-life.org/79425_124614_ENG_HTM.htm