"You are Anglicans"

(Posted by Sara but written by Wes--thanks, Wes!)

“You are Anglicans"

These were the words from a guest from the Anglican Church of Canada spoken to the House of Deputies on Saturday afternoon. He among other representatives from the Anglican churches in Ghana, Brazil, Kenya, South Africa, and New Zealand assured us of their ongoing affection for The Episcopal Church. While this gesture might be interpreted as simple pleasantry, it appeared to our deputation from Oregon to be genuine. With the upcoming issues relating to 2006-B033 (refraining from consecrating anyone who’s life was a challenge to the greater church), the assurance that we are Anglicans was very moving for me. I thought I was of the mind that while the Anglican Communion was important, justice for all people was more so, even at the cost of our relationship with the broader church; but when the words, “You are Anglicans” were spoken, I was nearly moved to tears. Being assured of our place at the global table, our importance to those in other parts of this world, and the fact that we will still be loved and necessary regardless of how our votes go was very affirming and quite uplifting as we move into a long week of business. We ARE Anglicans because, among other reasons, as one of the phrases in sending out home communion ministers goes, “We who are many are one body, because we all share in one bread, one cup.” Particularly on this, the day of worship for many, may we find this notion to be true.