Copyright © 2003 The Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee

Changes pondered at Integrity mini-retreat

Integrity of East Tennessee gathered Oct. 4 at St. James, Knoxville, for a mini-retreat to share personal feelings and reflect on recent events in the Episcopal Church and on diocesan and parish responses to those events.

The Rev. Ken Sherfick celebrated Eucharist and delivered a homily that set a thoughtful mood for the day.

A circle of 36 Middle East Tennessee members and friends discussed effects of the election and General Convention consent to the Rev. Canon V. Gene Robinson as bishop coadjutor for the Diocese of New Hampshire and the convention acknowledgment that the blessing of committed, same-gender relation-ships is “within the bounds of our common life.”

Participants prayerfully considered Integrity’s past and present to find means to encourage helpful conversation in the midst of painful conflict and to foster healing on all sides. Thanksgiving was expressed for parish members who bravely express their support of their gay/lesbian fellow communicants. The good news was shared that several parishes have begun programs of study and discussion of human sexuality issues and the interpretation of scripture.

As someone said, “Although conversation may bring tense moments, surely more open and honest discussion will be forthcoming, bringing all God’s children together.”

Integrity began in 1974 with Louie Crew, a member of the Executive Council and the Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace and Justice Concerns. Crew and his partner saw a great need for the church to address the needs of its gay and lesbian members. The reality of gay and lesbian clergy and laity at that time was in sharp contrast to their general exclusion by the church. Much has changed: the roles of women, many minority groups and lesbian and gay members. Integrity has been at the core of those changes.

Related stories in this issue:

• Feelings mixed as first openly gay Anglican bishop is consecrated
• Anglican Communion's response biting, bitter, generous, jubilant
• Executive Council addresses the church
• Bishop’s letter emphasizes reconciliation
• Diocese comes to the table to speak, to hear, to pray
• Ascension rector attended 'A Place to Stand' in Dallas
• Reconciliation resources available