A Kaleidoscopic Day

How to describe the kaleidoscopic experience of Generalconvention?  It is part family reunion. This morning I passedthe peace with my older daughter’s godfather from Honolulu, and later met a work associate of my younger daughter.   Two Episcopal nuns I know are here from New York, as is deacon Barbara Novak of Spokane, who is selling fair trade items in the exhibition hall.

It is large part governing body with the largest bicameral legislature in the world – over 800 clergy and lay members in the House of Deputies.  The House of Bishops is the second house.

Dr. Bonnie Anderson remarked how amazing it is that lay people were made part of the checks and balances of our governing system from the early days of our founding.  Maybe not so surprising since many of our founders first wrote the US Constitution.

Our opening Eucharist included diverse music from many cultures. Colorful photographic images were projected on the big AV screens in the hall to create a backdrop for the altar.  The Presiding Bishop’s sermon startled me.  She used heart transplants for her metaphor, preaching on Ezekial 36: 24-26.  She went on to talk about the Philippines, celebrating the church’s accomplishment of autonomy and financial independance.  These directly touch on my life experiences!  Later I attended a meeting where the details of this feat were outlined.  I met several people who were related to people we knew when we lived and worked there.

Today I heard Pia Longinotti speak at the committe on Education’s hearing about the importance of church camping programs.  Later I heard the Archbishop of Canterbury address the moral issues of our economic crisis, urging the need for honesty and mutual responsibility.  The night ended watching Disneyland fireworks from a nearby rooftop and enjoying the camaraderie of our diocesan delegation.  I am thankful for this busy but stimulating experience.