Change is in the air

Yesterday was an amazing day. Regardless of how other Presbyterians may feel about how the motions reflect their hopes and dreams for the denomination, I think any observer would acknowledge that the actions so far by the Assembly have been amazing in their breadth and their far-ranging implications for change in our denomination. So far, we have recommended The Belhar Confession to be sent to the presbyteries for their approval so it can be added to our Book of Confessions. We have recommended sending to our presbyteries a totally new Form of Government document that would replace our current Form of Government section of the Book of Order. Each one alone is a major change (for example, we only have eleven confessions to cover the last 21 centuries!), not to mention both these major changes to our Constitution coming at the same time. Additionally, new language is being sent to the presbyteries for their approval related to the ordination standards. For some, the new language is a way of lfiting up ordiantion standards without focusing on the question of oen's sexuality; for others, the new language is a major weakening of ordination standards; for all, it will be a challenging time of discussion and decision in their presbyteries. If that's not enough, we have also empowered a committee to work with any prebyteries or synods that want to make systemic changes, even to the point of ceasing to exist, in an effort to become more efficient and effective in doing ministry in our changing world. In a sweeping judgment, most of the changes suggested by this General Assembly so far have been about trying to reduce or redesign structures to allow ministries to be more nimble and responsive with an emphasis on allowing the governing body nearest the point of engagement to have more responsibility and oversight power.

Peace,

Richard