It’s Sunday and Synod continues generally as expected. Yesterday groups discussed the first of the three main issues (the missional structures report and recommendations). As I write this the same groups are deliberating on the Belhar confession. Tomorrow they will discuss the Church Herald.
Last night we heard from several commissions (including the one I serve on: Worship) which didn’t have any real business, just reports. We also heard from the commission on Christian Action who brought several powerful recommendations that ended up being mired in controversy. One of which had to do with hospitality toward immigrants. There was some discussion whether to use the word “illegal” or “undocumented;” the whole thing was a little frustrating to me since, of course, it seems that Christian hospitality should have nothing AT ALL to do with one’s legal status. I don’t know how we can claim Christian faithfulness if we withhold hospitality toward those whom society prefers to ignore (i.e. those whom Jesus seems to prefer).
Another recommendation had to do with the question of the war in Iraq. Many people stood up and talked – few of whom seemed to actually be informed on the issues they were talking about. For example, there we heard the concept of “just war” referred to (interestingly someone who apparently hasn’t paid much attention to the fact that the world almost-universally recognizes that the war in Iraq does not meet the philosophical and ethical standards for a “just war.” (NOTE: Just war has nothing to do with whether we think is appropriate, but whether it meets a handful of specific criteria.)
We also heard the argument that a statement against the war is somehow a statement against those in the military which, of course, isn’t true since war (as we well know) puts the military in innumerable awful and life-threatening situations. Recognizing that, an end to war is the most loving and supportive thing we can do. I suppose people are still concerned about the reaction veterans received coming back from Vietnam and want to avoid that. This, however, is not Vietnam.
Finally, we heard from the colleges and seminaries last night. Central came off looking and sounding very good as it is currently and historically very attentive to multi-cultural issues (this year’s big theme at synod.).
As yesterday, Rev. Jacqui Lewis preached during worship this morning. I will repeat my note from yesterday that she is an exceptional preacher. Accessible to people from a variety of backgrounds/styles/ethnicities/etc. Theologically sound. Interesting. Enjoyable to listen to. I hope I can get CDs or DVDs of her messages so some of you will have the opportunity to hear her.
Grace and Peace,
`tim
