Dear Friends in Christ,
More than 650 bishops and 480 spouses representing the 42 independent provinces of the Anglican Communion arrived in Canterbury, England this week to participate in the Lambeth Conference. Called together by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the conference is held roughly every 10 years (though the current gap has been 14).
The theme for this year’s conference is God’s Church for God’s World – Walking, Listening and Witnessing Together. Unfortunately, the theme was turned on its head before the conference began mostly because of three sentences in the Lambeth Call on Human Dignity which the bishops have been asked to affirm: “It is the mind of the Anglican Communion as a whole that same gender marriage is not permissible. Lambeth Resolution I.10 (1998) states that the ‘legitimizing or blessing of same sex unions’ cannot be advised. It is the mind of the Communion to uphold ‘faithfulness in marriage between a man and a woman in lifelong union.’”
As you might imagine, there was an uproar of protest by many bishops, not only from the United States but also from several other countries, who strongly disagree with a statement on marriage which is contrary to current positions affirmed by The Episcopal Church and other provinces. These bishops, including Bishop Jennifer, have been a chorus of affirmation for the full inclusion of the LGBTQ community in our churches.
It is the mind of the Anglican Communion as a whole that “all baptized, believing and faithful persons, regardless of sexual orientation are full members of the Body of Christ” and to be welcomed, cared for, and treated with respect (I.10, 1998). Many Provinces continue to affirm that same gender marriage is not permissible. Lambeth Resolution I.10 (1998) states that the “legitimizing or blessing of same sex unions” cannot be advised. Other Provinces have blessed and welcomed same sex union/marriage after careful theological reflection and a process of reception. As Bishops we remain committed to listening and walking together to the maximum possible degree, despite our deep disagreement on these issues.
This is not a perfect statement, but it is significant. It has taken an issue which has divided the Communion for more than 20 years and found a positive way forward. As far as I know, this is the first statement recognizing a diversity of thought on human sexuality and committing the Communion to be in conversation instead of conflict. Despite our differences, it is possible to walk, listen and witness together. What a positive model for a divided world!
Finally, let me be clear about where we stand at St. Paul’s: Whoever you are, whoever you love, whatever pronouns you use, you are welcomed, loved and accepted here. You can be baptized, married and receive communion at St. Paul’s. You can hold a position of leadership on our vestry or be a member of our staff. You can serve at the altar, sing in the choir, teach Sunday School, participate in youth ministry and serve the wider community through our outreach ministries. Whether you are ordained or a lay person, you can be you. For you are a child of God. We are all children of God bearing witness together to the expansive love of Jesus.
Your Friend in Christ,
Rector
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ST. PAUL'S CHORISTERS TRAVELED TO DURHAM, NC
Callie C. and Sinead S. participated in RSCM America's Carolina Course at Duke University Chapel this month. RSCM Carolina celebrated its 25th anniversary during this year's week-long course. Consisting of 50 girl choristers along with adults singing alto, tenor and bass, the group totaled nearly 90 singers — the sound was spectacular! St. Paul's choir has sung in Duke University Chapel, and has sent many chorister groups to this course, so it was wonderful to visit again and hear these amazing singers raising their voices to the glory of God. Different RSCM courses around the country offer youth a wonderful opportunity to meet others, work with national directors and musicians, to make music in wonderful spaces and enjoy some "camp fun" too. Callie, also an acolyte, was selected to be the crucifer for the closing Evensong. Both girls had a wonderful experience!
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SUMMER FESTIVAL & BACKPACK BLESSING ADDITIONS
Sponsored by St. Paul's Family Ministry
Sunday, August 21, 10 a.m. Blessing; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Festival
Have your child's backpack blessed during the 10 a.m. service. Stay and enjoy time on the lawn (weather-permitting) immediately afterwards to reconnect with St. Paul's friends. All children are especially encouraged to enjoy an inflatable waterslide, bounce houses and sprinkler play. The Indianapolis Public Library will be present with a Bookmobile — accepting book returns, offering a variety of books to check out and issuing or updating library cards for all Marion County residents. Royal Sno will provide complimentary Snow Cones from 12:30-1:30 p.m. and other light refreshments will be provided by St. Paul's. Lunch may be purchased from Bub's Burgers food truck. Family, friends and neighbors are welcome! Questions, contact Laurie Pierce.
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JUST 20 INDIANS TICKETS REMAINING
Friday, August 26, gates open at 6 p.m.; game at 7:05 p.m., Victory Field
There are just 20 spots remaining in our block of seats! Please reserve your tickets now to sit with a large group of St. Paul’s friends in section 208, right behind home plate. Discounted tickets are just $15/each. Family, friends and neighbors are welcome to join us. Enjoy a pregame question & answer session with players who will share stories about their faith, followed by the Indianapolis Indians playing against the Rochester, New York Red Wings. Checks for reserved seats are payable to St. Paul's (indicate "Indians game" in memo line) and must be received by Meegan Kriner by Wednesday, August 10. Questions, contact Meegan.
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SLOW FLOW YOGA
Tuesdays, 6-7 p.m., Parish Hall
Please bring a water bottle, yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing for yoga. Classes are offered as a $50/5 class package or individually, $12/per class. Slow Flow Yoga is an easy to follow, slower-paced practice that coordinates fluid movement with breath, allowing the mind and body to reconnect. Poses are held longer to build strength while improving flexibility and balance. Learn more here. Questions, please contact instructor Carrie Bernhardt below:
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SHARING INFO & GOOD NEWS
Do you have an announcement you'd like to share with our parish? Has something lovely happened that we should celebrate? Please use our submission form below to share information with staff for inclusion in St. Paul's newsletters, bulletin announcements and on our website. Newsletter submissions are due by end of day Monday for inclusion in the upcoming Sunday issue.
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