A Parish Priest’s Perspective: Having a Tevye Moment July 17, 2009 Issue 9 By the Rev. John Ohmer Today a friend asked, “So, John, what do you This cuts two ways: First, tempting as it is, this and the past couple of General Conven- Center Aisle is an opinion journal offered by the Diocese of think about all this – the blessing of same-sex conservatives, we can’t close our eyes to what tions fly in the face of a centuries-old, Judeo- Virginia as a gift to General Convention. We offer analysis unions and gay bishops?” In answering him, I is happening in the outside world. In all likeli- Christian teaching based on Scripture, tradition and opinions from a variety of sources that felt like Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof. hood, there have always been gay bishops; and reason – namely that sexual expression is reflect the transformational center of our Church. Recall the argument between the young, Gene Robinson is open about it. Shall we really to be reserved to a lifelong monogamous rela- www.centeraisle.net radical Perchik and the elderly villager, with the return to an insistence that only closeted gays tionship between a man and a woman within

villager saying, “Why should I break my head or those with the rare gift of celibacy be the bounds of marriage. “The middle is not the midpoint on a line between two extremes. In the life of faith, the great bulk of people are at the center, and that center is faith in the Risen Christ.” about the outside world? Let the outside world elected bishop? And it is the height of arrogant colonialism, —The Rt. Rev. Peter James Lee, Bishop of Virginia break its own head.” Nor can we close our eyes to the reality our own modern version of the “Doctrine of Tevye says, “You’re right.” that a number of states have legalized gay Discovery,” to assume our Christian brothers Perspective Editorial Perchik counters, “Nonsense. You can't marriage. In those states, how are clergy to and sisters around the nation who “still” cling close your eyes to what’s happening in the respond, pastorally, to parishioners – dedi- to this teaching need to just get over it. So Convention: An Emphasis on the Local Glorious Messiness world.” cated, legally married, confirmed communi- conservatives are right on this issue! By the Rt. Rev. Peter James Lee, Bishop of Virginia Tidiness is overrated. We head home a messy Tevye says, “He is right.” cants in good standing – who come to them The most lasting im- churches and dioceses (as well as churches Church. Thanks be to God. Another villager challenges Tevye, saying, seeking the church’s blessing on their mar- But, you say, they can’t both be right. pact of the 76th Gen- elsewhere in the communion) to collect litur- We are, by our own proclamation, “not of “He's right and he's right? They can't both be riage? So liberals are right on this issue! eral Convention is likely gical and theological resources regarding one mind” on matters that have caused divi- right.” On the other hand, tempting as it is, liber- You know, you’re also right. to be an increase of same-gender blessings. Recognizing the sion in the Communion And Tevye says, “You know, you are also als, we can’t close our eyes to what is happen- initiative and energy in unique pastoral needs of those dioceses in We are in search of a communications right.” ing in the outside world. Actions we’ve taken at Oy, vey. local congregations jurisdictions where same-gender marriage or strategy appropriate for the changing media and dioceses. The civil partnerships are legal, the Convention landscape. Budget Passes; First Job Lost sharp budget cuts in affirmed that a generous pastoral response We are developing resources for same- By the Rev. Lauren R. Stanley the three-year budget is needed. sex blessings, without committing ourselves to “action.” After long and heartfelt debate, Deputies The passage means that up to 37 Episco- tant one we take home. of the General Church will have a painful The emphasis on the local did not deter We will soon debate an Anglican covenant passed the coming triennium’s extremely tight pal Church employees – out of 180 – will lose Hours later, the Rev. Michael Barlowe, impact on some faithful staff members, but the Convention from adopting both a de- that could help clarify the bonds of Commun- budget, the result of a $23 million shortfall. their jobs. Programs and offices will be consoli- deputy, California, invited every deputation to will shift the focus for mission to the local nominational health plan for the whole ion. Even before debate ended, reports surfaced dated as well, and much of the work of evan- pledge $1,000 to raise $51,000 to restore the church, rather than the local church waiting church and a mandatory lay employee pen- We are searching for creative ways to do that the first employee of the Episcopal Church gelism and mission is being returned to dioce- administration support for the Office of the for initiatives from the General Church. sion plan, both of which, in the long run, will great things with reduced resources, while was laid off yesterday. san levels. President. By mid-afternoon, 11 deputations The emphasis on local ministry is a proper strengthen the local church. living up to our mission responsibilities. Multiple attempts to restore funding, par- Something not discussed during debate: had pledged. expression of the principle of subsidiarity, This is my last Perspective article as Put it all together and you have a Church ticularly for communications and expenses for The shortfall equals $10.45 per Episcopalian whereby mission should occur at the level publisher of Center Aisle, since I am resign- that doesn’t have all the answers—and never the Office of the President of the House, failed. per year, a fact that might be the most impor- closest to the people who are called to en- ing as bishop of Virginia effective Oct. 1, gage in that mission. 2009. I am grateful to Ed Jones, Emily will. It is a Church on a spiritual journey that Local mission is also enhanced by reso- Cherry, John Ohmer and Lauren Stanley, the never ends. Church is in “a Really Healthy Place” OffCenter lutions which the secular press has incor- key staff members of Center Aisle, for their But be prepared: There are neat-freaks By the Rev. Lauren R. Stanley rectly interpreted as necessarily damaging engaging and faithful work; to my colleagues who don’t appreciate messiness. There will be cries of Armageddon in the wake of Conven- At the beginning of General Convention, the from five different countries our worldwide relationship and as following in the House, Bishop Shannon Johnston tion’s vote for an ordination process open to Rev. Dr. Ruth Meyers, deputy from Chicago, saying that ‘we are with you the agenda of a gay and lesbian lobby. In- and Bishop David Jones; and to the staff all. heard a lot of concern about deputies and and we love you and we need stead, what the convention did is to reaffirm and deputation of the Diocese of Virginia for Those doomsday predictions have been bishops “being in different places.” you to do the work that you that the ordination process is under the con- their wise counsel and support of this work. heard before. And it’s true that the passage of Now, as Convention ends, Ms. Myers, the are doing’ is huge. To have trol of local bishops and dioceses, while I hope Center Aisle has made your conven- Resolution D025, whose nuances have been new Hodges-Haynes Professor of Liturgics at visitors come and say we care stressing that access to that process is open tion experience richer and reinforced your lost in much of the media coverage, could Church Divinity School of the Pacific and a about you and value our rela- to all baptized persons. commitment and sense of hope in this won- create problems in the Communion. founder of the Chicago Consultation, thinks the tionships has been so impor- The Convention also invited local derful church to which God has called us. But this is no time to despair. The bonds Church is in “a really healthy place.” tant.” between our Church and Canterbury are still Especially in the debates over Resolution Our job now, she said, is Breaking Down Center Aisle Central Voices from Convention strong. It’s hard to imagine a Communion that D025, “people were able to express their views to “deepen relationships, and Hope there aren’t earthquakes doesn’t include the National Cathedral in … with an incredible level of candor and re- that deepening of relation- Center Aisle’s red wagon, which also served while we’re all in Anaheim— spect and generosity,” she said. “It was one ships needs to happen in as our distribution center, will go to St. though we might bring some. (7/3/09) EDITORIAL continued on Page 2 small piece of a much larger work.” many, many ways.” Timothy’s Day School in Compton, Calif. Real bread makes Jesus Ms. Meyers saw how the bishops worked “I hope that the work Center Aisle’s all-in-one printer will go to the food we can really chew on— The Last Issue “to build consensus … and then communi- we’ve done here inspires even front office at the Cathedral Center of the I think that’s the plan. (7/16/09) Today, Center Aisle ends its fourth circulation cated to the deputies a real sense of collegial- more congregations and dio- Diocese of Los Angeles. —Mary W. Cox, Director of Communications, cycle at General Convention. But we’ll still have ity.” ceses to engage in opportuni- Diocese of Southeast Florida news and opinions coming out of Anaheim Cartoon: Mike Kerr The international visitors made a large ties.” Read Mary’s other haikus from General today. Visit www.centeraisle.net for difference as well, she said. “For us to hear Convention online at www.centeraisle.net. updates and analysis.

Page 4 Page 1 Letters to the Editor I know there are passionate feelings on these The Making of a Prayer Center Aisle 2009 issues, but careful theological reflection is By Liz Cunningham The Virginia staff and volunteers who produce and distribute Center Aisle A Response clearly needed. I want to respond to Jim Hammond's com- The Rev. Frank Wade, a senior deputy and ment that I had not theologically reflected on The Very Rev. Kate Moorehead chaplain for the House of Deputies, is called the issue of the blessing of gay unions. Diocese of Kansas on to lead the House in prayer at the opening Although I have been reflecting on this issue for and closing of each legislative session. I was over a decade, I believe that the following Thanks for the Effort under the impression that all of his prayers items have not been reflected on theologically. I want to thank all of you for your efforts over were impromptu, and of his own creation. I the days of this Convention. I have, as I always soon figured out this is not the case. 1. What is the difference between a blessed do, very much enjoyed reading reflections by His opening prayers are prepared before union and a marriage? Is there a distinction? John Ohmer, opinions from a wide variety of the House is called into session, and he uses 2. What are the implications of calling a bisex- people, interesting stories by Lauren Stanley - a variety of sources for his inspiration. Deputy ual person to ordination? Will they not be so much good information. Jennifer Phillips, Rhode Island, is an “excellent urged to live in either celibacy or monogamy? It made me feel as though I was there with writer,” Wade said, and has made her prayers And if so, why is it considered essential for all of you. I also want to thank Mike Kerr for available to him. He also uses the books them to identify whom they are attracted to? sharing his wonderful sense of humor in the Women’s Uncommon Prayers and Celtic 3. Transgendered persons have recently be- cartoons each day. How lucky we are that our Night Prayer. (Left, clockwise from top left) The Rev. Lauren R. Stanley, staff gun to speak out, but there has been little to diocesan treasurer has the ability to laugh and Mr. Wade prepares for the closing prayer writer; Emily Cherry, managing editor; the Rev. John Ohmer, staff writer; Ed Jones, editor. (Above, left to right) Thomas Eaves, Kate no discussion about what it means to change make us all join him. throughout the session. He looks for patterns Godspeed on your journeys home. Hahn, Liz Cunningham, Charles Cowherd, volunteers. genders and how we should respond pas- and takes note of major concerns. The result torally to trans people. is a closing prayer that is specific to the Helen Spence events that have immediately taken place. The Diocese of Virginia His prayers create an intimate sense of com- A Profound Communion Helping Faithful Cubans munion, calling us back to God despite what- By Liz Cunningham and Thomas Eaves By the Rev. Lauren R. Stanley ever has happened in Deputies. His prayers touch the heart, voicing our concerns, Center Aisle volunteers Liz Cunningham and “When does justice outweigh the law?” That’s Thomas Eaves interviewed five members of the what the Rt. Rev. Leo Frade, Southeast Flor- thanksgivings and sentiments. Official Youth Presence yesterday. The deputies Bummer Over Bono ida, wants to know when it comes to restoring At the end of Convention, the secretary spoke on their own behalf, and not as a voice of By the Rev. Lauren R. Stanley of Deputies, the Rev. Dr. Gregory S. Straub, the Official Youth Presence or their own dio- pensions for retired Cuban Episcopal clergy. will post Mr. Wade’s prayers and meditations ceses. Resolution B024 The deputies participating were Grace calls for a benevolent Who needs Space Mountain? online at www.episcopalchurch.org/gc2009. Aheron, Southwestern Virginia; Zach Brown, fund so that Cuban Yesterday, I took an exciting ride of my own. Upper South Carolina; Carolyn Chou, Pennsyl- clergy can receive a I met Bono! I got photos! vania; Lucky Middaugh, Western Michigan; and Members of the Official Youth Presence Michael Sahdév, Southeast Florida. small annuity when No, I met an imposter! No, a tribute singer! I gather at General Convention. Photo: Episcopal News Service they retire “to pay for basic necessities … for think. I didn’t want to believe. C056 to Start the Day Youths in our Church may be perceived as a people loyal to Christ and our Church for years Alas, it was true. Deputies start their last day of General Con- monolithic “whole,” but there is a much deeper and years.” Oh, my excitement went up! vention taking up the substituted C056 on diversity than most realize. As General Con- like we had to push on past it, or it was just In 1967, the Episcopal Church declared Oh, my excitement went down! same-gender blessings. The House of Bish- vention comes to a close, the Church faces going to come back up in the future. … There the Cuban Church autonomous. “After 1968,” This is why I don’t do entertainment news. ops rewrote and passed C056 Wednesday, difficult questions. The answers will present was nothing we could do about it; it would just Bishop Frade said, “the generation serving the I’m bummed. urging the development of theological and new challenges, and the young members of keep coming back until it passed.” Church worked under very difficult circum- liturgical resources for consideration in three the Church want to be part of the solution. Asked how they think the Church needs to stances. … These priests were loyal to Christ At right, Center Aisle staff writer Lauren Stanley years. The resolution deserves prayerful con- “We’ve tried to show some unity within our digest the consequences of its actions, Mi- under communism. Now they are turning 72 thinks this tribute singer is the real thing. sideration. group,” Carolyn Chou said. “We’ve taken it up chael Sadhév said that parish leaders “need to and have no pension.” “Bono” was in town for yesterday’s U2charist. on ourselves [to show] that unity is possible.” figure out what they can tell their parishioners. Grace Aheron agreed: “We are equal … They need to make sure they know that that Because of the embargo against Cuba members of Christ’s body.” they are still heard and that they still belong and the Patriot Act, financial transfers to Cuba EDITORIAL continued from Page 1 There is agreement about the profound- there and want to be there.” fall under special regulations. “We can legally Washington, the mission initiatives on Native ness of being in full communion. Every mem- Some of the youths are concerned for transfer small amounts,” the bishop said, add- Center Aisle American reservations of the Dakotas, and ber with whom we spoke was concerned Church members who already have left. It’s ing that the Church will work within the sanc- the rustic parishes of the Blue Ridge Moun- about reaching beyond boundaries. not OK, they agreed, that we lose any mem- tions. tains of Virginia. bers over this issue. The Cuban Church is “faithful and … Said Zach Brown, “I’ve seen churches in Discussions will continue. Compromises my diocese literally walk out…. To know that “There are so many more pressing matters growing,” Bishop Frade said. “There’s a revival will be struck. Bonds of affection will be feeling, to have that feeling resonate inside me, that are really going to affect the world,” Ms. taking place in Cuba. … The [communist] gi-

strengthened. The focus on the foundational is really sad and it is really heartbreaking.” Aheron said. ants have collapsed, but Christ is strong.” Bishop Lee Ed Jones Emily Cherry John Ohmer Lauren Stanley beliefs that unite us will return. Lucky Middaugh said that before he came Added Mr. Middaugh: “I guess we have to Center Aisle: Published by the Diocese of Virginia; The Rt. Rev. Peter James Lee, Bishop The Church, in all its glorious messiness, remind people that we’re here to worship God, Editor: Ed Jones; Managing Editor: Emily Cherry; Lead Writers: The Rev. John Ohmer; The Rev. Lauren R. to General Convention, he was thinking about Stanley; Staff Assistance/Contributors: Henry Burt; Mike Kerr; Matt Farr; Tyler Fox; Matthew Lukens will move forward. those same fears, but added, “Personally, I feel not here to fight about the way people run their Volunteers: Charles Cowherd, Liz Cunningham, Thomas Eaves, Kate Hahn, Steve Van Voorhees lives. We are here to worship God.”

Page 3 Page 2