Archive for June, 2007
A Fourth Mark of the Church?
Synod just voted on R17. Despite several attempts at ammendment, the vote was on the original recommendation:
To instruct the Commission on Theology, in conversation with the General Synod professors of theology, to engage in a study of the historic “marks” of the church, as articulated in the RCA Standards and in light of missional understandings […]
Deacons… Not Yet.
You may have heard that there was a recommendation to bring Deacons into full participation of the RCA’s assemblies (R-15). It didn’t go. However, the following recommendation DID:
To direct the commission on theology to prepare a study on whether there is a theological basis within a reformed an missional ecclesiology for the inclusion of deacons […]
Read More..>>Restructuring goes up in flames.
OK, that may be a little much. But it’s pretty clear that people were not in favor of restructuring in the proposed way right now. Indeed, R-13 and R-14 were resoundingly defeated (without audible dissent!) Instead, R140a (which was amended and includes no visible restructuring language) was approved 93% to 6.7%:
To instruct […]
Missional Structures Decisions Coming Soon!
We’re just getting the missional structures decisions underway. There’s the potential for major controversy and intense disagreement. By the end of this afternoon it is possible (although I think unlikely) that we will be entering a time of “open space” to move toward some very dramatic changes in the RCA denominational structure.
We shall see!
Grace and […]
Belhar Passes!
This morning, the delegates voted to provisionally accept the Belhar Confession! It is difficult to imagine a vote that would please me more! I hope and expect this provisional adoption will be akin to the provisional adoption of a liturgy, which means that it will grow in usage and acceptance over the coming […]
Read More..>>John Ornee
You may have wondered what’s up with the elections. John Ornee has officially been elected President of General Synod for next year (no surprise since the vice-president is the only individual on the ballot).
The vice-presidential nominations (which are always more interesting) have also been tallied - the vote will take place for that tomorrow. The […]
Talent Bank Forms
Several people have asked me how to get more involved denominationally and whether it’s worth it. The second question is easy: YEP! Consider your interest a suggestion that God may be calling you to participate denominationally as well as locally and regionally. The first question is a little more difficult: How?!
How? Start by getting on […]
Synod continues…
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 […]
Presidential Perrogative
As you may, or may not, have discerned from a previous post, new business brought up a concern regarding Rev. Lewis’ choice as a preacher for General Synod this year (due, presumably, to her stated position on homosexuality). The concern was whether it was appropriate to be an invited preacher with a stated position different […]
Read More..>>Rev. Jacqueline Lewis
Preaching, for the regular worship services this year is provided by Rev. Jacqueline Lewis. Although there has been some concern about her and her congregation’s position on homosexuality (expressed in new business yesterday, and resulting in a recommendation I’ll post next) she preached this morning and I am eager to express the blessing her […]
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