How welcoming are we?

As has been the case at General Convention for many years, there are many resolutions under discussion relating to the development of rites of blessing for same-sex relationships. The "legalization" of marriage between same-sex couples in six states has changed the conversation somewhat. There are also resolutions relating to the ordination of partnered gay and lesbian clergy, particularly bishops. These conversations are currently happening in legislative committee meetings and hearings. Those of you who are following General Convention closely will have your favorite site on which to track these resolutions, such as http://gc2009.org/ViewLegislation or the Integrity General Convention portal, http://sites.google.com/site/allthesacraments/Home/Resolutions. I expect these resolutions will actually come to the convention floor during the week of July 12. As someone from a diocese where there are a variety of experiences and perspective on these issues, it has been helpful for me to hear the testimony of folks from all over our Church. Integrity has done a wonderful job this year of encapsulating all the issues in one message, emblazoned on their logo. This message, "all the sacraments for all the baptized," asks us to think about our own parishes, our families, and our friends. The message begs the question: are there circumstances under which some of the sacraments might be denied to baptized Christians? For some readers, this is a rhetorical question only. For others, it is a very real question. There are exciting conversations happening here that call us into deeper reflection about theology of baptism, theology of marriage, and more. Stay tuned!