Copyright © 2004 The Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee

Dear Friends,

I believe that our diocesan convention exemplified the attitude of “respectful listening” that I have encouraged since General Convention last summer. I am grateful to the clergy, lay delegates and guests at convention for living into the call and responsibility of community, even when there are disagreements among us. In the Episcopal Church — and in East Tennessee — we certainly have challenges to face. However, the way that we walk the road ahead together will be far more important than the particular route we take in navigating our way through current issues that the church faces.

A significant action of diocesan convention involved the passing of a resolution that was proposed by the General Resolutions Committee. That committee, having hosted hearings and having practiced “respectful listening,” offered a way forward that included these points:

• “that this diocese as a part of the general Church joins its bishop in continuing to discern and follow the will of God;
• that groups, as directed by the bishop, facilitate airing, examination and reconciliation of differing opinions on human sexuality so we can do God’s work together;
• that a report be made at the next annual convention;
• that the people of this diocese be encouraged to serve God and God’s people in all the ways to which they are called, even as they continue to seek God’s will in the area of human sexuality.”