Synod is now in to full swing and I had a few moments so I thought I’d touch bases and give a quick update.
The seminarian seminar (which I facilitate) started a day and a half before synod, during which we studied through the entire workbook, looked at every substantive recommendation, and welcomed a few guests who could give the seminarians a clearer glimpse into the business of the denomination. Our guests, thus far, were Kirsty Depree (who works with Discipleship), Rodger Price (who works with Revitalization) and Wes Granberg-Michaelson (the denomination’s General Secretary). Our guests, this year, were a bit more focused on the “revitalization” section of the denomination’s ministry (compared to last year, when I had more guests from the “multiplication” subgroup.)
The Belhar was declared and is now OFFICIALLY the RCA’s fourth standard! My only regret (and it’s not really a regret) is that, as a non-delegate, I didn’t get to personally vote on it.
Opening worship went well. It turned out longer than expected… a bit too long. The delegates didn’t really read the bulletin very well so the movement to communion was incredibly disorganized and I thought we were going to run out of bread (they ended up bringing more in!) but I’m pleased with how it went.
Both opportunities for new business went by without anything.
The General Secretary’s report included a few proposals. Huge proposals…. I’m a bit concerned about them – will try to write more later.
The President’s Report had 6 proposals…. Wow!
More later…
Grace and Peace,
`tim
