A TSAD's experience at the PC(USA) GA

Upcoming topics...

2006-07-03T17:53:00.000-07:00

There were many things to consider... many overtures that had us thinking about some tough stuff. Now that I've been home for over a week, it's time to start getting that stuff out on 'paper'. And you, my audience, will have to just deal with it. I hope that maybe someone will comment and let me know what you think.... and I really hope that at least one person will be inspired to think about these topics in a new, different or deeper way.

Upcoming topics will include:

The Trinity Paper
The Theological Task Force on Peace, Unity, and Purity in the Church
Divestment
Presbyterian Men
Joan Grey
Fellow TSADS
The experience

Overall it was an experience not to be missed. Really, every Presbyterian should be participating in the GA experience at least once in their lives. What a great perspective on our church as a larger body... and a great opportunity to witness the power of the Holy Spirit at work in God's church. I would do it again... and I hope to be involved in new and exciting ways in the future.

Photo website

2006-07-03T00:49:00.000-07:00

I've posted my pics on my photo website:
http://community.webshots.com/user/arielpsu

Enjoy!

Day 8 - Thursday

2006-06-30T18:51:00.000-07:00

And the last day... mostly just cleaning up the last bits of business.

~~~~~~~~~

Thursday, 22 June 2006: 8:30 – 11:30am (Plenary)

Worship
Prayer
Moderator’s Pastoral Message

Avoid gossip

“I heard that…”

Avoid slander

Do not attribute/assume motives – ASK

Tell people “Don’t believe everything you see or hear in the media.”
Challenging week – if you have hurt or been hurt, address it here and now before we leave

Deborah Block – Sunday’s lectionary Psalm 133

Birmingham Pledge

City of B’ham offers visitors

Motion to put sermon and prayer texts on Website – so ordered
02 Bills and Overtures

Minutes from Wednesday until dinner are in order
Rest of minutes will be approved later

03 General Assembly Procedures

Yr	Approved	per capita cents increase	yet to be approved	per capita cents increase
2006	$36,705	1.55	--	--
2007	$188,900	8.22	--	--
2008	$107,417	4.86	--	--

GAC will make adjustments for 2006 since the rate cannot be changed at this time
Move to approve revised 2007-8 Per Capita

2007 Expenditure $12,473,683 à $12,662,583
2008 Expenditure $14,954,257 à $15,061,674
Motion to consider sending all reports electronically instead of by mail

81, 19, 0

Increase between 2007 and 2008 mostly due to next GA with additional delegates
Passes

Move to approve revised per capita rate for 2007-8

$5.72 à 5.79
92, 7, 1

Report on approved commissioner vouchers

$194,374.45 plus additional vouchers

08 Mission Coordination

Yr	Approved	yet to be approved
2006	$8,384	--
2007	$46,918	--
2008	$36,534	--

Move to amend 08-13.

“…and Program in the total amount of $96,298,454[,and direct the General Assembly Council to make the adjustments necessary to incorporate into these budgets the items with financial implications that have been approves by the 17^th General Assembly (2006).] – So ordered

YAD gifts

Silly song
Cards of encouragement for Joan
Stoles of rope with carabeeners for Moderator, Vice-Moderator, Stated Clerk

Rick Ufford-Chase – moment of Personal Privilege

11-01 “217^th GA does not believe that the PCUSA should tell a sovereign nation…”

Would like to change to “The 217^th General Assembly believes that the PC(USA) should use the greatest possible care in speaking to or with a sovereign nation on any matter including how to handle protecting its borders or matters of national defense”

Motion to reconsider 11-01

Discussion
46, 53, 1

Commendation to GA for care taken with budgetary concerns
General Assembly Council & Committee on the Office of the General Assembly

Allison S – new GAC chair
Charles Easley – new GAC vice-chair
Cathy Ulrich – new COGA moderator

YAD from COGA to thanks S&L
OGA thanks to COLA

Commemorative plate

Thanks to Staff
COLA for San José

Downtown San José

Announcements

$711.15 for Malaria Relief
$2116.51 for Hunger Relief
Transportation and Luggage
LES info will remain there so we can refer to it
GA News is now available

Personal Word from Stated Clerk Clifton Kirkpatrick
Move to thank Mod and V-Mod

Fuller Luncheon Comments

2006-06-30T18:47:00.000-07:00

Ron asked me to speak about my experience as a TSAD. Here is my "talk"...

~~~~~~~~~~~

I had no idea what I was getting into…

Ron stopped me outside my office at school and asked in passing “Would you be interested in attending GA in June? As Fuller’s representative?” Now, I have to be honest with y’all – I had no idea what that meant. I didn’t know TSADs existed (I’d only ever heard of YADs), I didn’t expect that Fuller would be invited to send someone, and I certainly never expected that I would be the ‘someone’ Fuller would select.

I stumbled over my answer to Ron – surprise and confusion causing my normal verbosity to go flying out the window! I told him I’d think and pray about it. And then he and I didn’t’ speak about it again for quite awhile… until it was almost too late! My application was quite late by the time we managed to get it in, but it was eventually accepted. My confirmation didn’t come through until May 5! Just over a month to read everything… including the PUP report!

I had no idea what I was getting into…

As I started to learn what my role and responsibilities were, I felt the weight of the responsibility, as well as the honor. Reading my committee materials during the last 3 weeks of the quarter, I found that I had no idea what these documents were trying to say! I could sense that there was a history here, and that most overtures were in response to something – but, again, I didn’t know what the ‘something’ was. And so I prayed and read and wrote and prayed some more… trusting that this was God’s calling on me for this time and that God would provide me with the knowledge and strength for this.

I had no idea what I was getting into…

Upon arrival in Birmingham, it began to occur to me that this was going to be a long week! The schedule provided to TSADs was long and full. The orientation dinner was full of more information and instruction than I was ready for. Having never been to a GA, I didn’t really know what to expect, or what would be helpful to know or ask. I sat and listened intently, hoping that I would remember the important things!

Once in committee, I was overjoyed. We had a diverse and powerful group. There were people I knew of: Katherine Doob Sakenfield, Mark Brewer, my fellow TSAD Aaron. The vice-moderator had called me in the weeks prior to arriving here, and I felt that I was meeting a friend. There were other interesting points of connection to draw us together as a single team – ready to do the work committed to us.

What an honor and privilege it was to have not just a voice but a vote on committee. I enjoyed the process of wrestling through these overtures together, thoughtfully seeking God’s will at each step of the way. It became a safe place for me to ask my silly parliamentary questions – without fear of laughter! I had no idea how a substitution motion worked – and the committee was great about explaining it! Heck, I even got the chance to make an amendment that passed – and I have the yellow piece of paper to prove it!

I had no idea what I was getting into…

Starting with the election of our new Moderator and moving right through to the discussion of the PUP report and the Church Orders overtures last night, plenary has been a varied experience for me. I don’t want to focus on the negative aspects, except to acknowledge that my experience has not been all sunshine and roses. I am often scolded for being a bit of a Polyanna – and so, want to make it clear that I certainly have some… constructive criticism – for the OGA regarding the role and treatment of TSADs, MADs, and EADs. We, as a whole, have felt a bit like the marginalized in this assembly. But none with whom I have spoken have had a totally negative experience. None would walk away saying that they wish they had not been here.

I am so glad that I have had this opportunity. To witness the decorum and love that was exhibited on the floor these past few days. To experience the passion and frustration in person. To feel, really feel, the presence of the Holy Spirit enter into this place as we earnestly sought God’s guidance and will. I will never forget the moment when, with tears silently rolling down my cheeks, the assembly sang together:

Spirit of the Living God fall afresh on me
Spirit of the Living God fall afresh on me
Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me
Spirit of the Living God fall afresh on me

I had no idea what I was getting into…

I have no idea what is next either. I will go back to school and try to help people talk about GA and PUP and divestment and hymnals… with intelligence. I pray that God can use me as a voice of moderation and middle ground as the extremes seek to understand each other. I pray that I can become the pastor that God calls me to be, serving the Church at whatever level and in whatever capacity I can.

I am grateful that God brought me here to learn and grow… and I look forward to being more involved in the future. I had no idea what I was getting into… but… no, make that and, I am excited that I accepted the offer. God had every idea of what He was getting me into… :)

Day 7 - Wednesday

2006-06-30T18:46:00.000-07:00

It's taken awhile... but here they are. Notes from Wednesday, our longest day. We ended up working until 12.30am!!! But... we got everything done.

~~~~~~~~~

Wednesday, 21 June 2006: 7:00am – 8:30am (Small Church Breakfast)

Didn’t get much out of this experience… but it was ok.
The woman who sat next to me was a reporter. And she was TERRIBLE!! She dominated the conversation at the table, not allowing time for others to share and connect. And then… THEN… during the talk… she was “taking notes”. “Taking notes” that were obviously inaccurate (I was watching) and then working on a course evaluation for her DMin class. DURING THE TALK!! I was appalled. No wonder reporting is so bad. No wonder people are mis-quoted all the time!! She didn’t record the talk at all, just typed when she thought it sounded good. Very distracting to me… and highly inaccurate.

Wednesday, 21 June 2006: 10:30am – 12:00pm (Plenary)

Lift High the Cross
Our Story
Prayer – Doodle and Tres
Speak out
Bills and Overtures – Vice-Moderator

After GA Procedures FI
Church Orders
Mission Coord FI & Committee
Polity
Peacemaking
GA Procedures
Health
Social Justice
Move to change speaking time from 2 min to 90 sec

So moved

03 GA Procedures FI report

Unchanged from yesterday

Yr	Approved	per capita cents increase	yet to be approved	per capita cents increase
2006	$8,565	0.36	$28,140	1.19
2007	$0	0	$198,680	8.65
2008	$8,565	0.039	$98,852	4.47

04 Church Orders

04-02 – On Confirming the requirements in G-6.0106b

Minority Report – Robert Gagnon

Original report as amended in Minority Report

Majority speaks

Do not need anything new to be said about this, since it’s clear already

Minority speaks

Confirms what is in

Main motion declared perfected without amendment
Minority report declared perfected without additional amendment
Debate – Shall the Substitute become the main?

Needing something clear to say to congregations

Against

Wanting to honor Res 5/6 from PUP – no more AI

Shall the Minority Report become the Main?

33, 66, 1

69, 30, 1

Motion (by Rob Mueller) to handle remaining 04 (03, 06, 08, 09, 10) that deal with G-6.0106b be considered addressed by 06-01 (and 04-01, 04-02)

Committee would like to take out 04 – done

Will address separately

89, 11, 1

Motion (by Rob Mueller) to handle 04-04 that deals with G-6.0106b be considered addressed by 06-01 (and 04-01, 04-02)

72, 27, 1

04-05 On Commending Study of the Definitive Guidance of 1978

Move to approve as amended
58, 42, 1

04-07

Move to answer by action taken on 04-01
So ordered

Memorial Minute for Former Stated Clerk Rev. Dr. James E. Andrews

Wednesday, 21 June 2006: 12:00 – 1:45pm (Fuller Lunch)

Intro by Ron
My talk – to be posted separately
Dr. Mouw spoke about the future for Fuller and the Fund-raising campaign

Wednesday, 21 June 2006: 1:45pm – 5:30pm(Plenary)

Prayer
Choir
Speak Out

TSADs stood united and spoke:

The Theological Student Advisory Delegates gathered around this mic represent a diversity of theological views. In light of the decisions made thus far by this assembly, we, who represent our theological institutions, covenant to worship, study and pray with our fellow classmates that we might earnestly step forth as leaders, as the church enters this season of discernment.

We have a vision of unity. We will strive, through our various ministries, to be faithful to Scripture and to work to rediscover our theological identity and to encourage those we shepherd to do the same. We are committed to promoting peace and Christian love within our denomination. We seek to serve with energy, intelligence, imagination, and love as we work to walk a path that leads us to peace, unity and purity.

We want to be faithful to our calling and to trust in God alone. We stand united, even in diversity, and call to the church to do the same.

Motion to reconsider action to 04-05 On Commending Study of the Definitive Guidance of 1978

20, 79, 1 – Motion fails

02 Bills and Overtures

Minutes from 06/19-20 are in order

08 Mission Coordination FI report

Yr	Approved	yet to be approved
2006	$8,384	$0
2007	$16,768	$30,150
2008	$16,384	$20,150

08-01 Clarifying the Practice of Our Theology of Call…

Move to approve
So ordered

08-02 Study Personnel policies

Move to disapprove
So ordered

08-04 Limiting staff at GA Committee meetings

Move to disapprove
So ordered

08-05 Termination benefits

Move to disapprove with comment

Already being addressed by GAC

CR 08-18 Instruct Women’s Ministries

Move to disapprove
So ordered

08-13 Mission Budget

Move to approve in entirety
So ordered

08-10 Administrative surcharge

Move to answer with:
89, 10, 1

08-06 HIV/AIDS

Move to approve as amended
So ordered

08-11 ACREC

Move to approve
So ordered

CR 08-17 Mission Meeting

Move to approve as amended
So ordered

08-12 Women of Color Consultation

Move to approve as amended (2008 NOT 2010)
Motion passes

08-03 Men

Move to disapprove
Motion passes

08-07 Study of Women

Move to disapprove
So ordered

08-A, B, C – no action necessary

05 Church Polity

Move to Consent

05-07, 05-11-1
Discussion

05-28 removed from Consent agenda
05-11-2 removed from Consent agenda
05-11 in its entirety – amendment coming
05-23
05-22
05-25

Motion passes

05-05

Move to approve
So ordered

05-07

Move an amendment – strike the comment

Passes

Vote on disapproval without comments

76, 23, 1

05-11

Rec 1 – moved and passed
Motion to amend 05-11

So moved

05-11.2.a1, a2 – editorial amendments

So ordered

Move 05-11.3-5 to approve as a block, 6-8 to disapprove as a block
Approved

05-22 Non-geographical Synod

Move to refer with recommendation
Both original and referral/recommendation have to do with ways to study the feasibility of creating a non-geographical synod for Korean Congregations. Larissa and Trey and Chris are all opposed to both parts… we need to not consider these. This creates the possibility of segregation.
64, 35, 1

05-23 Amending Book of Order

Move to disapprove
Amend to refer to the Form of Government Task Force

46, 54, 1 – Referral fails

78, 21, 1

Motion to limit debate to 60 seconds – needs 2/3 vote and is not debatable

73, 26, 1

05-25

Motion to approve
83, 16, 1

05-28

Move to approve
Move to amend

Delete the paragraph beginning with “Throughout the Book of Order…” through “…turns permitted practices and prohibited practices.”
Motion fails

94, 5, 1

Announcements

Plan for healing in the church

Moderator’s prayer retreats

At PCUSA camps and conference centers
Prayer for healing of church
Empower mission
New and creative ways to be church
Plan for first one in early fall

11 Peacemaking and International Issues

Consent Agenda

16, 25, 26, 38, 28, 37, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33

11-36

Move to approve
So ordered

11-27

Move to approve as amended
So moved

11-40

Move to approve as amended
So moved

11-01

Move to approve alternate resolution
Motion to delete Recommendation #1 and replace it with:

We regret any reportage that has caused misunderstanding of the PCUSA’s Commitment to Peace and Justice in Palestine and Israel”
Fails

Motion to amend

Fails

I was trying to ask a question that I never got to ask because of how the motions went. So… here is my question:

I am interested in the change in language of this new resolution. I would like to request a member of the committee or a resource person address the intention of the committee’s alternate recommendation regarding the divestment practices.

94, 5, 0

11-02 through 11-15, 11-17 to 24, 34, 35, 39, 41

Move to answer with action taken on 11-01
Passes

03 General Assembly Procedures

Consent Agenda

03-A, 03-B, 06, 10, 12, 14, 15, 18, 20, 21, 23
Removal requests

10
03-A
03-B

Motion for remaining items

So ordered

07 Letters of encouragement

Move approval
32, 66, 2

19 Election of Associate Stated Clerks

Move approval
So ordered

08 AI re: per capita

Move to disapprove with comment
So ordered

13 Per Capita

Move to approve
So ordered

09 Change in standing rules

Move to disapprove
So ordered

16 Amend standing rules RE: AD

Move to disapprove both
So ordered

22 Invitation to Pittsburgh

Move to approve
So ordered

24 On Financial Reporting of Actual Cost…

Move to disapprove
Move to refer to Mission Support Services Offices of the GAC and the OGA for further consideration and a recommendation for the 218^th General Assembly (2008).

49, 50, 1

79, 20, 1

17 Historical Foundation at Montreat

Move to approve as amended

Still closing PHS @ Montreat
Protecting collection

Columbia Seminary
Philadelphia PHS

Establishing new historical programs

02 Bills and Overtures moves to arrest report

So moved

Wednesday, 21 June 2006: 8:15pm – 12:35am (Plenary)

Speakout
03 General Assembly Procedures

17 Historical Foundation at Montreat

Move to approve as amended

Still closing PHS @ Montreat
Protecting collection

Columbia Seminary
Philadelphia PHS

Establishing new historical programs
Move to substitute for item 2-5, rename items 5&6 as 7&8

2. Transfer oversight and administration for The Historical Foundation of the Presbyterian and Reformed churches at Montreat, Inc. to a specific board of directors of fifteen persons. This board will be in covenant relationship with and accountable to the Department of History. The ministry of this Historical Foundation will thus be in accord with and governed by the requirement of the Book of Order in G-9.0406 with specific regard to the control of all records which the Stated Clerk is charged to preserve. Thus no dispersion of the collection should occur at this time.
3. Direct The Friends of Montreat, Inc. and the board to create alternative means of funding that is responsive to the donor base and is separate from the current per capita income of the General Assembly.
4. Direct the board to reduce the annual operating expenses of the ministry to a level not greater than its annual income. In addition, the board would be responsible for developing policies and procedures for the oversight of The Historical Foundation, Inc,. in a manner that is consistent with the constitution of the church and the standing rules of the General Assembly.
5. Report the progress on items 3 and 4 to the 218^th General Assembly.
Discussion

Financial Implications: OHS budget is ~ $500,000 (90% from per capita)

Shall the substitute become the main?

41, 58, 1

Final Vote on Main motion: 69, 29, 1

01-05, 11 PHS @ Montreat

Move to answer with action on 03-17
So ordered

03-19 – oversight earlier

Recognize

03-10 PHS @ Montreat

Move to approve
So ordered

03-A, 03-B

Only informational

10 Health Issues

Consent Agenda

10-05, 10-07, 10-08, 10-09
Removals? None.

10-06 Disabilities

Move to approve with amendments
Passes

10-01 Late term abortion

Move to approve as amended

Move to amend:

At the beginning of 10-01 add language from the 2003 Statement on Post-Viability and Late-Term Abortion beginning at line 3 with “The church has a responsibility to provide public witness…” all the way through “For any choice, we are accountable to God, however even when we err, God offers to forgive us.” (ending on line 35)
84, 15, 1

Further discussion
Move to delete “supersedes” that this statement might be added to previous Statements of General Assemblies.

This motion will put our previous motion in contradiction
40, 58, 1

Move to add language to make clear the position on choice

Failed

76, 23, 1

10-02 Financial support for or against abortion

Move to disapprove

Move to amend and approve: delete “or against abortion” and add “pro-life or pro-choice issues”

Out of order because the motion is to disapprove. We would need to defeat the main motion before this motion to approve with amendment would be in order.

85, 15, 0

10-03 On standing clearly against the practice of abortion

Move to respond with alternate resolution

84, 15, 1

10-04 Monitoring Report

Move to approve as amended

By show of hands
So moved

09 Social Justice Issues

Consent Agenda: 04, 05, 06, 07, 17, 22, 23

So moved

09-16

Passes

09-09

Move to approve
So moved

09-14 Task Force to Assess the Effects of Government FBI

Move to approve as amended
So moved

09-03 Medical use of Marijuana

Move to approve
So moved

09-15 Immigrants

Move to approve as amended
So ordered

Motion to consider 09-01, 08, 10,11, 12, 18, 19, 21, 24 as a package

Amend to Remove 10, 11, 01, 19
With Clifton Kirkpatrick’s help we stopped this incessant game and voted

94, 5, 1

09-12, 09-18

Move to answer with 09-15

Motion passes

Motion to recess until tomorrow morning

19, 81, 0

09-13 Irish adoptions

Move to disapprove
94, 6, 0

09-01 Petitions against torture

Move to approve
66, 33, 1

09-11 Human Rights

Move to approve as amended

Move to amend “/or combatants and” after “and all foreign governments, and”
62, 36, 2

09-20

Move to disapprove

Because of redundancy, not because we approve of suicide bombings

38, 61, 1
Move to approve

Move to add “and terrorism” after each instance of “suicide bombing”

Again, I had a comment/question/position that didn’t get to be shared because the question was called before I could get to the microphone

Would the committee be amenable to disapproving the motion with comment? Since the committee feels we do not need to repeat a position that already exists elsewhere, could we not honor the committee and the commissioners’ intent by disapproving an overture that is unnecessary while still condemning the practice and affirming our precious stances on terrorism, human rights, and the like.

Approved

09-10 Just Globalization

Move to approve

Motion to delete F, item #4

82, 17, 1

Motion to change from approve to receive

39. 61, 0

Motion to delete B.2.a

28, 71, 1

94, 5, 1 to call all previous questions

78, 21, 1

09-24 Originally Native “Return to Earth”

Move to approve
89, 10, 1

09-08 Usury for the 21^st Century

Move to approve
94, 5, 0

09-02 Smithfield Packing

Move to approve with comment
Move to refer to ACSWP

Invitation from Smithfield to have conversation
67, 31, 1

09-21 Raising Minimum Wage

Move to approve as amended
So moved

09-19 Coalition of Immokalee

Move to approve
So moved

Announcements

Worship here @ 8.30am
Meeting immediately following
Sets of GA Newspapers available outside
Come Thou Fount
Closing Prayer

Wednesday, 21 June 2006: 12:35 – 12:45am (Committee #08)

One motion, to permit GAC to adjust budget as needed, since the implications are minimal.

Passed unanimously

I'm alive...

2006-06-23T19:14:00.000-07:00

My notes from the last days will be posted soon... for now I'm enjoying a few days of vacation before heading back to Pasadena. More updates on Monday... but I'm not going to be posting until then. I need the break.

Day 6 - Tuesday

2006-06-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

Today's notes. It was a big day. You'll probably see this on the news - I'm not even wanting to watch, really. There is no way that the media will report this correctly... it'll be spun like a nice wad of cotton candy. Well... except not so sweet.

So... the PUP report. I know that my notes will not be sufficient... so let me say a few words. First of all, before you assume too much - please read it for yourself. It doesn't say what many people think it says!! There are no references to homosexuality; it doesn't talk about the ordination of homosexuals; it doesn't define marriage...

What the report does do is talk about the church remembering to be one! And remembering to seek God. And looking to Scripture. And the "controversial" part talks about Presbyteries having the power to approve people for ordination - something that they have had all along!! The Authoritative Interpretation in Recommendation #5 is where most people freak out and run screaming. This is where most people draw the line in the sand.

But what it says - simply and completely - is this:

5. The Task Force on Peace, Unity, and Purity of the Church recommends that the 217th General Assembly (2006) approve the following authoritative interpretation of section G-6.0108 of the Book of Order:

a. The Book of Confessions and the Form of Government of the Book of Order set forth the scriptural and constitutional standards for ordination and installation.
b. These standards are determined by the whole church, after the careful study of Scripture and theology, solely by the constitutional process of approval by the General Assembly with the approval of the presbyteries. These standards may be interpreted by the General Assembly and its Permanent Judicial Commission.
c. Ordaining and installing bodies, acting as corporate expressions of the church, have the responsibility to determine their membership by applying these standards to those elected to office. These determinations include:
(1) Whether a candidate being examined for ordination and/or installation as elder, deacon, or minister of Word and Sacrament has departed from scriptural and constitutional standards for fitness for office,
(2) Whether any departure constitutes a failure to adhere to the essentials of Reformed faith and polity under G-6.0108 of the Book of Order, thus barring the candidate from ordination and/or installation.
d. Whether the examination [assembly amendment: and ordination and installation decision] comply with the constitution of the PCUSA, and whether the ordaining/installing body has conducted its examination reasonably, responsibly, prayerfully, and deliberately in deciding to ordain a candidate for church office is subject to review by higher governing bodies.
e. All parties should endeavor to outdo one another in honoring one another’s decisions, according the presumption of wisdom to ordaining/installing bodies in examining candidates and to the General Assembly, with presbyteries’ approval, in setting standards.

Scripture informs our Constitution, the Church trusts the General Assembly and National governmental process to uphold the Constitution, the local church (Presbyteries and congregations) apply the standards found in the Constitution and Scripture (as affirmed by the national government), examine candidates, honor one another's decisions (but there are always ways to discuss/debate/question them). That's all. That's all it says. Take a deep breath and read before making assumptions about the future of the church.

Follow the example of the Task Force... and of the General Assembly... and pray. Let God be the One to guide the Church. The Spirit was present and among us today as we worked on this. While I am convinced that no one is really happy with the outcome, I do think we are now in a position to have some discussion and work toward a more concrete answer for which many people are desperate.

~~~~~~~~~~

Tuesday, 20 June 2006: 9:00am – 12:00pm (Plenary)

Opening story – from Desert Fathers/Mothers

If you will, you can become all flame

Opening Prayer
Moderator CPC

Elected last night

Report from 03 – Financial Implications (Vince Thomas, Moderator)

Per capita budget

Yr	Approved	per capita cents increase	yet to be approved	per capita cents increase
2006	$8,565	0.36	$28,140	1.19
2007	$0	0	$198,680	8.65
2008	$8,565	0.039	$98,852	4.4

Report from 08 – Mission Budget Financial Implications

Mission budget

Yr	Approved	yet to be approved
2006	$8,384	$0
2007	$16,768	$30,150
2008	$16,384	$20,150

08 Mission Coordination and Budget (Part I)

08-15 – Confirmation of Linda Bryant Valentine

Nancy Kahaian
Linda Bryant Valentine
Move to approve

87, 10, 3

Installation of Linda
Thanks to Search Committee and John Detterick
Party to meet and thank Linda and John

Tonight following evening plenary in Concert Hall lobby

Motion to thank John Detterick

So ordered

08-08 – Change to the GAC Structure (as amended)

Motion passes

08-09 – Changes to Manual of Operations (as amended)

So ordered

08-14 – Changes to Organization for Mission

So ordered

08-16 – Latitude for GANC

So ordered

GANC – Nominations for GAC

Only had to vote on individuals that were challenged.

Motion to have Speak Out now and start after lunch with 06
1.30pm will begin with prayer – doors will be closed until prayer is completed

Tuesday, 20 June 2006: 1:30am – 5:30pm (Plenary)

Open with prayer

Image of approaching our home church, walking in, walking to the communion table, touching the top, running our fingers over the words “In Remembrance of Me” and then placing on the table the one thing…
Closed with “Spirit of the Living God, Fall Afresh on Me”

06 Ecclesiology – Blair Monie, Minister Commissioner, Moderator

Rec 1-4

Most important
While we may be on diff theo pages – we are in one book: Christian Reformed Presbyterian
We are all right about one thing: Christ
How can we remain one body?

Form diverse Discernment groups in Presbyteries
Use tools for communal discernment – as a compliment, not replacement, for parliamentary procedures

Committee Comment

One central goal – all meetings/deliberations

Fairness, impartial leadership
Access to every voice
Listen to each voice

Listened:

60 people in Open Hearings
22 Overture Advocates

Spent time in worship and discernment
Prayed for guidance during deliberations

06-01 – Adopt the Task Force

Motion to accept Rec 1-4 as amended

91, 8, 1

Motion to adopt with comment Rec 5 (as amended), Rec 6 and Rec 7 as one indivisible package

Minority Report – Disapprove 5, Approve 6 & 7
Speech in affirmation of Pt 5 from platform
Speech in affirmation of Minority Report
Perfect the Main Motion – Accept 5 (as amended), 6 and 7

Move to amend by striking the word “Authoritative”

AD – no
C – 19, 80, 1

Question to TTF – impact of removing Rec 5 from the report

Stacy Johnson – TTF

Intent to be a single package
Not appropriate to amend constitution, but to make it clear
Failure to pass 5 will lead to a theological viewpoint (already passed in Rec 1) but without practical ‘legs’

AI changes practice without consulting entire church – will lead to division in the church

How does TTF feel about committee amendment to 5

Minority side

Support the amendment

Mike Lauten – TTF

“We like it, we wish we had thought of it”

Move to amend

Insert after first appearance of word “examination” the words “and ordination and installation decision”; change the word “complies” to “comply”
58, 41, 1

Declared perfected

Perfect the Minority Report

Question – Rec 6 is dependent on 5
No move to strike 6!
Declared perfected – even with the inconsistency!!

Discussion

So far is it going fairly well – passionate while remaining faithful. I, personally, am thoroughly confused and unsure how I want to vote. I want to honor the work of the TTF and keep the recommendations in tact… but I don’t know if I want to open the door to the liberal interpretations that may be coming. But I don’t see that the intent of Rec 5 would be to allow such interpretations… I just don’t see it!
45, 55, 0 – Main motion remains the main motion

Move to recommend 217^th GA refer w/ comment # 5, 6 to Presbyteries with following work

From committee

Presbyteries have already had 9 months to consider and respond – including overtures to this GA

45, 55, 0 – Motion fails

Final Vote

YADs: Y
TSADs: Y – 64, 36, 0
MADs: Y
EADs: Y

C: 57, 43, 0 – Motion Passes

Prayer – ended with Kum-ba-yah J

06-05 Rec 3

Passes

06-07 with comment

So ordered

06-11 disapproval

So ordered

All remaining items by action taken on 06-01

So ordered

Patrick Wrisley – Questions

Do we know what we have done?
Will the GA Office realize the need that it will have to, more than likely, work with fellow churches and Presbyteries that are having difficult reactions to the actions taken today?
Does the GA Office have a TF or group that will look at the consequences of people withholding funds?
Clerks response

A letter will be prepared to go to churches

04 Church Orders

04-11 – Christian Marriage

Move to disapprove
W-4.9001 – already clear about marriage
Motion passes

04-12 Reaffirming that Marriage Between a man and a woman…

Move to disapprove
65, 33, 2 – Motion to disapprove carries

Move to reconsider 04-11

Because we didn’t understand the voting
60, 40, 0

04-11

65, 34, 0

Move to reconsider 04-12

Because we didn’t understand the voting
247, 247, 0 – Motion fails J

04-13 On Pastoral Counsel for Sexual Sin

Move to disapprove
66, 34, 0

04-01 New AI

Move to disapprove
Passing the PUP report
Motion to refer with all concurrences motion to 218^th GA

Fails

81, 18, 1

Close for the night. The rest will be addressed tomorrow

Day 5 - Monday

2006-06-20T18:30:00.000-07:00

More notes... there is just way too much happening for me to write an entry every day. My notes will have to entertain you for now.

These notes are a day late because I was exhausted last night, came back to the room early, took a sleeping pill and went to bed. Today was a HUGE day on the docket, and I really felt like sleeping was more important that getting my notes posted. Sorry if there is anyone who is reading this everyday looking for my boring little notes. :)

Here they are:

Monday, June 19, 2006: 6:30am – 8:30am (PFR Breakfast)

Dr. Mouw spoke… and he was amazing as usual. Most people made a mention to me following his message about how great and inspirational a speaker he is. He makes me smile… such a fun guy! He came up and hugged me before breakfast… and I got a hug from Phyllis as well. They’re such a cute couple and I’m excited to get to know them better.

Monday, June 19, 2006: 9:00am – 12:00pm (Plenary)

Welcome, Prayer, Recognition and Announcements
Report from Bills and Overtures (02)
Ecumenical Greeting

Michael Livingston – President, National Council of the Churches of Christ in USA

Confirmation and Installation of the Vice-Moderator – Bob Wilson

Bob Speaks:

Test everything, hold fast to what is good
PUSH – Pray Until Something Happens

Let God order our steps
Stop talking about it and (do/listen)
Let Go and Let God
In God We Trust

This GA needs to establish 3 things:

Get right attitude with God
Get right attitude with Jesus
Get right attitude with the Holy Spirit

Moved and seconded
Voted by standing

Interesting in such a large group… this seems almost a formality, as if we didn’t really have a vote… strange.

Service of Installation

COLA Presentation

Gavels and bags to Moderator and Vice-Moderator

Made of Alabama Cherry (?) and African Blackwood
Bags are made with same material as our gift bags

Stated Clerk’s Orientation Part II

Review of Parliamentary Procedures

Vince Thomas – Elder Commissioner, Moderator of 03 General Assembly Procedures

Per Capita budget responsibility

$12,000,000 for 2007 (missed the detail)
$14,954,257 for 2008
$5.57/member for 2006 – cannot be changed mid-year
$5.72/member for 2007 (increase of 2.7% - less than CoL)
$5.72/member for 2008

Will provide summary each day
Financial Implications

2006; $36,705; 1.55 cents (would have to change budget to find this money!)
2007; $198,660; 8.65 cents
2008; $107,417; 4.86 cents

David Norton – Elder Commissioner, Moderator of 08 Mission Coordination and Budgets

Recommending Mission Budgets for 2007/8
Daily summary each day of cost so far
Financial Implications

2006; $8.384
2007; $46,918
2008; $36,534

Additional sources of funding and/or reduction of expenses elsewhere

15 Board of Pensions and Presbyterian Foundation – Allan Ford – Elder Commissioner, Moderator

Words from President of Board of Pensions
15-01 – Amendment to 8.4 of the Benefits plan

No discussion
No dissent
So ordered

15-04 – Pension and Medical Insurance Needs of Small Churches

No discussion
No dissent
So ordered

Words from President of the Presbyterian Foundation
15-02 – Endorse Foundation’s Work in Support of Mission and Ministry
15-03 – Directors of New Covenant Trust Company, N.A.
15-05 – Response Regarding Minutes of the New Covenant Trust Company

Handle 02, 03, 05 together
No discussion
No dissent
So ordered

Special Presentation: Curtis Kerns – Director,

“Glimpses of a Growing Diversity”
Why are we having advertisements during GA meetings?? We have SO much to do and not enough time… why why why?? Yes, these are good things… things to celebrate… but oh my… I am concerned about our time.

13 Theological Issues and Institutions – Nancy Olthoff – Elder Commissioner, Moderator

Approval of Consent Agenda

Verbal “aye”

Award to Catherine Gonzales
President of Dubuque

I have no idea what is going on at this point. This doesn’t seem to be useful!! Why are we recognizing people when we have so much work to do? More standing and applauding.
Pittsburgh President Retiring… more speeches

Rev. C. Samuel Calian – retiring President
Rev. William J. Carl – new President

13-08 – Approval of Carl as new president

So ordered

13-11 – A New Denominational Hymnal for Corporate Worship

Amended in relation to 13-10
Motion passed with verbal vote.

There were some “no”s

13-10 – On the Development of a Denominational E-Hymnal

Approved verbally

13-15 – Election of Davis Perkins as President and Publisher (4^th 4-year term)

Approved verbally

13-01 – On the Authority of Holy Scripture

Approved verbally
NO DISCUSSION! I’m getting uncomfortable!

13-04 – Invitation to Christ: Sacramental Practices

Approved verbally

13-05 – “The Trinity: God’s Love Overflowing”

Minority Report – Jonathan Lovelady

Alternate resolution
Motion Steps for Minority Report:

Main Motion presented – Indicate existence of Minority Report
Substitute (minority) moved
Perfect Main motion (parliamentary perfection J )
Perfect Substitute
Debate on substitution vs. main
Vote on “Shall the Substitute become the Main?”

YAD spoke to the Minority Report J

Perfect Main Motion

Amendment of Main Motion

Item 13-05 page 1 strike word “approve” insert “receive”

“That the recommendation be ~~approved~~ received as amended and with comment”
Verbal vote was inconclusive

Electronic – 57% yes, 41% no, 2% abstain

Amendment of Main Motion

Line 794-801 insert “with the exception of the Baptismal Formula itself, we are free to supplement this language with additional…”
Motion passes

Perfect Substitution/Minority Report

No motions/amendments
Perfected

Discussion of Minority Report – “Shall it take the place of the Committee Report?”

Much discussion for and against

Vote on substitution

48, 51, 1
Motion fails! Committee Report remains in place as main

Vote on Main motion

56, 42, 1

Motion to reconsider 13-05

Rationale – no time for discussion on main motion at end of last motion
46, 54, 0

13-02 – Overture to refer 13-05

Motion to be addressed by action on 13-05
So ordered

Announcements

Offering @ Sat = $4507
Offering @ Sun = $25,11.54
Blood Drive

Memorial to Rev. Dr. William P. Thompson – United Presbyterian Church

Former Stated Clerk
Died April 2006

Monday, June 19, 2006: 1:30 – 5:30pm (Plenary)

Opening Prayer

Elder
Nelson Erwin – heart attack here
Bill Swagin – Lackawanna Presbytery – Cancer

Speak Out

Stated Clerk explained process
Recycle
Coffee – from Patrick Wrisley J
Etc…

12 Church Growth and Christian Education – Lee Jordan – Elder Commissioner, Moderator

12-04, 05. 06. 07, 09, 10, 14, 15.1, 15.2-4 – Consent Agenda

Approved

12-01 – On Creating the Office of Minister of Christian Education

Motion to refer to Office of Theology and Worship
93, 5, 3

12-02 – Creating a Fourth Office to be known as Educating Elder

Motion to refer to Office of Theology and Worship
96, 3, 1

12-03 – Amending G-14.0701 to Name Certified Christian Educators…

Motion (as amended by committee)
Discussion

Application would vary depending on state laws
95, 4, 1

12-08 – On Combating the Decline in Members of the PCUSA

Report that precedes the motion

Discussion of racial ethnic growth

Motion to approve as amended

Discussion

Another study is a waste of resources

75, 23, 2

12-11 – On Sexuality Curricula and Other Materials Being Consistent with the Biblical and Confessional Teaching

77, 22, 1

12-12 – Older Adult Ministry Task Force

Motion to approve 12-12.1 as amended

Passes

Motion to approve 12-12.2.a-d

Approve contingent upon budget $$
So ordered

Motion to approve 12-12.2.e as amended

Rehiring
So ordered

12-13 Rec. 1 – Report

So ordered

12-13 Rec. 2

So ordered

12-13 Rec. 3

So ordered

12- Rec. 4

So ordered

12-16

So ordered

12-17

So ordered

12-18

So ordered

Presentations
** Side note – I am starting to feel like we’re not actually doing work. That we are all just sitting here letting the tide of vocal opinion (not even majority, really) run over us and just following the program. There has been little to no discussion of items and I begin to think that people aren’t even really aware of what we’re agreeing to!! I don’t have a vote so I do not have a way to make a statement without taking the mic during the next SpeakOut – but I don’t know that I really want to be doing that… I’m having the opposite opinion here than the one I had in committee. My committee worked hard and considered the overtures with care and precision. In some cases, we didn’t press things to the furthest point of discussion, recognizing (assuming!) that it would be re-argued on the floor at plenary and wanted to not duplicate discussion… now… I’m not sure!
Final Actions – no action necessary

07 Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations

07-02 – Request for Interpretation of Difference between “Federated” and “Union” Churches used in C. 15&16

So ordered

07-03 – Invite Ecumenical Advisory Delegates to

So ordered

07-04 – Recommendations from the Report of the World Council of Churches

So ordered

07-05 – Regarding “Christian Churches Together”

So ordered

07-06 – Recommendations from the Report of the… (as amended)

Approved by voice vote

07-07 – Adequacy of Interfaith Policy

So ordered

07-08 – Framework for Mission with Ghana

So ordered

07-01 – Affirming Common Abrahamic Heritage Among…

Minority Report

Shall the Minority Report become the Main?

32, 68, 1

Vote on Main Motion

93, 6, 1

CR 07-09 – On the Presbyterian Accompaniment Program in Columbia

Minority Report
Amend main motion

5.c – delete “End the aerial fumigation for coca crops and”
25, 71, 4

Main motion declared perfected
Amend Minority Report

Following the word “Columbia” add “and to advocate with our respective representatives in the U.S. Government for peace and justice as we are led by the Holy Spirit”
Passed

Minority Report declared perfected
Motion to refer to the ACSWP and the Peacemaking Office to produce a study paper as a resource and to submit the paper to the 218^th General Assembly (2008).

Financial Implications

Yes, there will be

Pro – Jan Armstrong (Alan’s Dad!!)
Motion fails

Motion to refer only #5 to ACSWP and the Peacemaking office to include in their next Human Rights Report
Vote for substitution

Motion fails – Main motion remains Main

Motion to divide Majority report: 1-4 and 5

Motion carries

07-09 Action items 1-4

94, 5, 1 – motion carries

07-09 Action item 5

Motion to refer recommendation 5 to the ACSWP and the Peacemaking Office to include a report in their next Human Rights Report

59, 41, 0

CR 07-10

So moved

CR 07-11

So moved

14 Review of GA Permanent Committees

14-01 – Authoritative Interpretation

So moved

Motion to reconsider 12-11 – On Sexuality Curricula and Other Materials Being Consistent with the Biblical and Confessional Teaching

Motion is out of order – person bringing motion did not vote in affirmative previously

14 Review of GA Permanent Committees

14-ACL R

So moved

14-ACC R

FI $17,130 for 2 additional meetings
So moved

14-CoR R

So moved

14-ACWC R

So moved

14-A

For information only

Motion to reconsider 12-11 – On Sexuality Curricula and Other Materials Being Consistent with the Biblical and Confessional Teaching

ASK SOMEONE ABOUT THE “ORDERS OF THE DAY”
30, 70, 0

Announcements

7pm worship
8.15 evening business session
Prayer concerns will be listed on monitors during breaks
Closing prayer

** There are some MAJOR issues regarding the pacing of this Assembly. Physically disabled folks would have a HARD time getting anywhere NEAR a mic before things are declared completed… and I’m getting annoyed. The older commissioners are struggling with the computers and are having a horrible time keeping up. Also, I feel like they are just pushing through everything, rather than us actually discussing things… *sigh* I don’t know how I feel about this whole event – which is sad because committee was so much better!

Monday, June 19, 2006: 8:15 – 10:00pm (Plenary)

Women’s 50^th Ordination
Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities
Cultural Proficiency
Peacemaking 25^th Anniversary
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance – Katrina Recovery
Mission Initiative

Day 4 - Sunday

2006-06-18T20:35:00.000-07:00

*whew* I made it! A day of rest... and BOY did I need it.

Slept in until 8.30 and left around 10 to get to church by 11 (bus schedules making it a bit hard to judge). My new friend (and fellow TSAD), Nick, and I went to First Pres in B'ham to hear Past Moderator Rick Ufford-Chase speak. A wonderful old church with welcoming people... and a great message. It was nice to be worshipping together!

Then lunch and back to the hotel to change. Nick and I headed back to the BJCC to wander around downtown and "see the sights". We ended up going to the B'ham Civil Right Museum. We didn't have enough time to really spend looking closely - so we walked through (free on Sundays) and got a quick look. I'm planning on returning during my days off before returning to Pasadena.

Here's something cool! I was in a pic on the front page of the Assembly Newspaper! It's a pic of my committee voting on something... and there I am, right in the middle!! Here's a link to the pic! (it's a large file... give it time to download)

Worship tonight was AMAZING! We had communion for thousands of people (I think over 5000). I'll post pics soon, so you can see the beautiful tables!! It was amazing...

Then back to the hotel and now to bed. I have a 6.30am breakfast tomorrow - so I'm not getting much sleep again... but tomorrow we start the big stuff. Tomorrow at 9am we reconvene the full assembly and begin our work. Please please please... PRAY. We have a TON of work to do, and very limited time in which to complete it. This is the first GA following a 2 year break - and I'm afraid that it may be physically impossible to do everything that we are scheduled to do. Does anyone out there know what happens if we don't finish???

Day 3 - Saturday

2006-06-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

Today's notes coming up.

It was a great day for my committee. It was so good... we got a lot done. I'm not thrilled with a few of the motions, but they are confirmed by the majority of the committee, so I can accept it.

We even had a complicated one that we amended 3 times (once by ME) and then had a substitute motion proposed... and defeated. :)

It was neato.
Tomorrow is sleep in, church, free time, worship, party... it'll be good.

Hopefully I'll find time to update with a story or two tomorrow.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Notes from today:

Saturday, June 17, 2006: 9:00am – 12:00pm (Committee #08)

Open Hearings – 08-08, 09, 10, 13, 14, 15

Dave Dawson – 08-10 5% administrative fee

GAC failed to communicate fee to people involved
No report to GA
Unfair to recipients of money
Expects people will pull out/stop giving
Not arguing fee, but application of fee

Alma Jean Marion – 08-08 Reorg of GAC

GACOR member
Approve with 2 changes

Composition of 36 elected members

“Synod executives” – “Ordained Synod staff”
“Presbytery executives” – “Ordained Presbytery staff”

G 9.0105a6

Include provision for participation by persons with disabilities

08-15 – Confirmation of Linda Bryant Valentine

Motion to approve recommendation (confirm)
53 for, 0 against, 0 abstentions – Motion carries unanimously

08-10 – Elimination of Administration Costs on Restricted Mission Gifts – From Presbytery of Baltimore

Charles – Overture Advocate

History of church that gave 50% of budget to missions
Hard to convince people to give when not all money goes to a place
Changes need to be made to budget in future

Discussion

Conrad Roach – Chair of Mission Funding Task Force

This is the committee that is looking at this issue already

No report this year because it was too much work to do in one year
Will most likely deal with this issue in report to GA218 in 2008

Lowered charges (less than 5%) assigned to groups that already have

Motion to refer overture to the Mission Funding Task Force

Carol – against

Not appropriate to assign to this particular group
Other Carol (MAD) is afraid of it being lost in committee

22 For, 31 Against, 0 Abstentions – Motion fails

Motion to recommend overture to GA

Motion to amend to accept and specify budget cycle when this will take affect

40 for, 9 against, 3 abstentions – motion carries

New form of motion:

The Committee recommends that the 217^th General Assembly (2006) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) instruct the GAC to eliminate the administrative surcharge recently imposed on restricted mission giving effective in the 2009-10 budget cycle so that all moneys submitted to the General Assemble for distribution to specific mission programs are forwarded to the specific mission programs without the withholding of an administrative cost.

Motion

Financial implications: $800,000 in 2009 and $800,000 in 2010
6 For, 46 against, 0 abstentions – Motion fails

Motion to disapprove recommendation to GA

No discussion
48 for, 4 against, 1 abstention – Motion carries

Motion:

The Committee recommends that the Assembly instruct the GAC to assist congregations in communicating to assist congregations in communicating to their membership the reality of changed patterns in unrestricted giving and the resulting cost implications of administering restricted funds, and implore the GAC and the Mission Funding Task Force earnestly to seek alternative ways of budgeting in order to deal with this changing reality.
47 For, 1 Against, 2 abstentions – Motion carries

08-08 – Reorg of GAC

Motion to approve with GACOR modifications

G 9.0105 – listed in BoO under Diversity
51 For, 0 against, 1 abstention

08-09 – Changes to GAC Manual of Operations

Motion to recommend approval to GA

Motion to amend

2.4 – Ministries of Enrichment => Spirituality & Discipleship
52 For, 0 against, 0 abstentions – Motion carries unanimously

53 For, 0 against, 0 abstentions – Motion carries unanimously

Saturday, June 17, 2006: 1:30pm – 5:30pm (Committee #08)

Open Hearings

08-06 – On Funding the Fight Against HIV/AIDS and Diseases of Poverty – From the Presbytery of Ohio Valley

Alice Davis – Elder from New Castle (DE) Presbytery

Consider the faces/people

Leslie Casper – Munster Indiana

In support
Brother died in ’93 from AIDS
Overture is to advance the fight against AIDS

Bob Schminke – New Castle Presbytery

Africa

Transportation = bike
Other things provided = soap

Not trying to “Rob Peter to pay Paul”

Bob Gillespie

Serves on Presbyterian AIDS Network
Passionate and out-spoken, but not much substance

Vanessa Sharp

Approve
Creating a stronger voice – we already do some
Diagnosed 1990

08-07 – A Recommendation to Study the Status of Women in the PC(USA)

Patty June

Recommending amendment to the overture

Address theological balance – liberal/conservative

08-12 – Joint Resolution from ACWC and ACREC Regarding the Women of Color Consultation Report and Recommendations

Neeshwala Watts-??

Approve

Katherine Chang

ACWC - approve

Cynthia Joel

In support
Women of Color and “other women” need to be in partnership

08-03 – On Adding a Representative from the Presbyterian Men, with Voice and Vote, to the General Assembly Council – From the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia

Working on improving men, etc…
Need a voice to parallel with women

08-16 – Recommendation for latitude

Valerie Small

“latitude” – going to a smaller GAC they would like to freeze the nominations – but this will mean that we need to live with who we have and not force compliance to status (1/3 laymen, 1/3 laywomen, 1/3 pastors; etc)

Motion to recommend approval

52 for, 0 against, 0 abstentions – Motion carries unanimously

08-14 – Amendments to the Organization for Mission

Overture Advocate

Attempt to put things in the right file
Moving language from one location to another to be in the correct place

Motion to recommend approval

53 for, 0 against, 0 abstentions – Motion carries unanimously

08-13 – Recommendation Pertaining to Budgetary and Financial Concerns of the Church

Motion to recommend approval

We didn’t discuss this AT ALL… just approved.
53 for, 0 against, 0 abstentions – Motion carries unanimously

08-03 – On Adding a Representative from the Presbyterian Men, with Voice and Vote, to the GAC – From the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia

Motion to disapprove this recommendation

27 for, 23 against, 3 abstentions – Motion carries

Move to reconsider 08-08 – Nancy Smith

Recommend to GA that the Nominating Committee seek to get a man from Presbyterian Man as either the 1/3 pastor or 1/3 layman
15 For, 35 against, 2 abstentions – Motion fails

08-06 – On Funding the Fight Against HIV/AIDS and Diseases of Poverty – From the Presbytery of Ohio Valley

Overture Advocate – Ann Jones from Ohio Valley

Amended version by both Presbyteries

CMD – approve/endorse Amended version
Motion to recommend overture

Amend the motion with recommended text:

53 for, 0 against, 0 abstain – Amendment carries

54 for, 0 against, 0 abstain – Motion carries

08-07 – A Recommendation to Study the Status of Women in the PC(USA)

Overture Advocate

Motion to approve recommendation

Financial Implications

$62,500 over 3 years
$101,000 total cost for entire study (~5 years)
From per capita budget

~$.04/person over 4 years

Information existing already will be included – to defray costs and reduce the possibility of duplicate work
15 For, 36 against, 3 abstentions – Motion fails

Motion to disapprove recommendation

No discussion
35 For, 14 against, 5 abstentions – Motion carries

08-02 – revisit

Motion to disapprove recommendation

50 for, 1 against, 3 abstentions – Motion carries

08-12 – Joint Resolution from ACWC and ACREC Regarding the Women of Color Consultation Report and Recommendations

ACREC and ACWC

Financial Implications

$74,000 over 2 years from per capita
Additional $21,000 for 2007 and 2008 – regarding #3

Motion to approve recommendation

Amend item #1 to read “This task force will report to the 218^th General Assembly (2008).”

53 for, 0 against, 0 abstentions – amendment carries unanimously

Official FI = $76,000

$.03 per capita

48 for, 3 against, 2 abstentions – Motion carries

Saturday, June 17, 2006: 8:00pm – 10:00pm (Committee #08)

CR 08-17 – On the Moderator Convening a Meeting Regarding Worldwide Mission Work of the PC(USA).

New version of the Resolution on our table after dinner – typists error
Oscar McCloud – Presbytery of New York City

In order to continue the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s long tradition in worldwide mission and the evolution of our relationships with partner churches overseas, that the 217th General Assembly (2006) direct the Moderator to convene a meeting with the Executive Director of the General Assembly Council (GAC) and the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly, with representation of the GAC and staff, The Outreach Foundation, Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship,Medical Benevolence Foundation, PC(USA) organizations, and other persons concerned about the future of the worldwide mission work of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) for the 21st century. The purpose ~~of this meeting~~ is to ensure the continuity of our commitments to ecumenical responsiveness, holism in mission, and respect for the responsibilities give to the General Assembly by meeting to:
Basic issue:

Diffusion in mission activity in sending personnel that is not helpful to congregation

Groups that should be coordinating/cooperating with Worldwide Ministries Division
Creating confusion in congregation
Personnel being sent by outside orgs, NOT officially from PCUSA… and are approaching congregations on their own

Worldwide Ministries Resource person – Marianne McClure

Outreach, Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship – 2 groups sending
Hopes/goals

Meetings are planned at a lower level, resolution “kicks it up a notch” by adding GA Moderator, GAC ED, Stated Clerk, etc.

Motion to recommend approval

Move to amend with names of: Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship, The Outreach Foundation, Medical Benevolence Foundation

48 For, 0 against, 2 abstentions – Amendment carries

Move to amend with new ending sentence

47 For, 0 against, 4 abstentions – Amendment carries

Financial Implications = $21,670 over 2 years

10 people for each of 2 3-day meetings
Conference call meetings
2 people @ 2008 GA to report
Administration
From per capita

Move to amend Point #4 to add “to the 218^th General Assembly (2008).”

48 for, 0 against, 4 abstentions – Amendment carries

Substitute motion from Rob

Move to instruct the Moderator of the 217^th General Assembly to convene a meeting to include the Executive Director of the GAC, the State Clerk, representatives of each goal area of the GAC, and other Presbyterian organizations interested in the sending of mission personnel (specifically PFF, OF, and MBF), in order to confer and define their respective roles and responsibilities with particular attention to the specific role of the GAC in carrying out our Presbyterian commitment to global mission including the identification of mission objectives, recruiting of persons to accomplish these objectives and the securing of financial support for the global mission of the PCUSA and to report to the 218^th GA (2008).

Shall the substitute motion become the main motion?

15 for, 33 against, 4 abstentions – substitute motion is defeated

39 For, 10 against, 3 abstentions – Motion carries

CR 08-18 – On Theological Diversity and the Women’s Ministries Program Area

Timothy Smith – Commissioner

Experiential perspective

From the job listing
Liberation theology perspective

Womanist theology

Motion to disapprove recommendation of resolution

46 For, 5 against, 0 abstentions – motion carries

Meet after GA closes on Wednesday against the physical back wall of East Hall

Day 2 - Friday

2006-06-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

More unedited notes. I've decided that for now this makes the most sense. I'm sorry if it annoys y'all - but there is just way too much that happens and way too few hours in the nights.

Today was work on my committee (#08) Mission coordination and budget. I've been really active in the life of the committee - taking full advantage of the opportunity to participate fully in this space. I'm questions and seconding and discussing the items to the best of my ability... and loving that I have a vote here!

Tomorrow we start the day with worship - and it's a service I put together. We'll see if I can pull it off... it's a bit too much, I think... oops! :)
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Today's notes:

Friday, June 16, 2006: 9:00am – 12:00pm (Committee #08)

Introductions

“inescapable network of mutuality” – great quote from yesterday

Formation of Pods

Self-selected sub-groups of 5-6 wildly heterogeneous committee members

Male-female, young-older, east-west, ethnically diverse

Designed to facilitate comfort, full participation, and social connection
Vehicles to support a personally rewarding committee and GA experience

Worship – led by Rev. Marjorie Hoyer Smith (Presbytery of the Redwoods)
Committee Norms

Address the moderator
State your name and Presbytery before each contribution
Speak to the issue
Take your share of the floor time and help others to do the same
A request for prayer is always in order
Respect others and their opinions

We will listen in love.
We will speak authentically.
We will act responsibly.
We will embrace our sisters and brothers.
We will pray for guidance.

Questions are always welcome
Courtesy before technology
Be on time

Committee Process

Agenda
Flow of business
Privilege of the floor
Resources, media and literature
Counting the votes

Overview of Parliamentary Procedures

Help the body
Folder – parliamentary procedures
One main motion at a time
Motion forms in writing
If you don’t know how, ASK

Orientation to GAC

Nancy Kahaian – Chair of GAC

See handout

Friday, June 16, 2006: 1:00 – 5:30pm (Committee #08)

Introduction of Linda Valentine
GAC Executive Director-Elect
Elder
Process of Search Committee
14 months ago
40 candidates
Traditional search – asked for applications
Dec – engaged Boardwalk (non-profit executive search)
Election in GAC
Faith statement on handout
Significance of relationships
Attentive to others
Deep and abiding concern for ‘the other’
Inclusivity – across broad spectrum of Presbyterians
Experience/Expertise – Organization and Development
Ability to work with multiple entities
Lack of middle government experience is not as important as her experience in business and dedication to the church
My question – is she prepared to lead/govern in a way that is honoring to the uniqueness of church leadership over business leadership?
Her comments
Experience at Christian Micro Finance company… good!
Vibrant and connected church
Middle Gov bodies, congregations and national government working together to strengthen churches
Growing churches are actively participating in mission, not just passively supporting financially
Getting out of the pews and into the world
Greater awareness and support of the denomination
People in pews are not as aware of PC(USA) movement
Presbyterians joining together faithfully to profess Jesus Christ to the world
Promises to serve with energy, intelligence, imagination and love
Q&A
Connecting pews and GA
Where she exists in reorg
Picture of the church in 2-4 years
My question: speak to difference between business and church leadership
I liked her answer… not completely satisfactory, but good.
Prayer, bible study, focus on Christ as head
Bring in appropriate business leadership
Approach to stopping the mass exodus from the church
Balancing world mission and local mission
Joey Bailey – CFO of PCUSA
Budget now reflects goals and objectives from MWP
Unrestricted Giving is trending down!! Need to correct this…

Open Hearings
Jack Terry – Presbytery of Twin Cities
08-04 – On Limiting Staff Participation in committees
“how far in the back of the bus do you want the staff to sit”
Segregation – paid vs. elected
2 assumptions to committee
Every member comes with agenda
HS will lead us on a new path
Encourage us to disapprove
08-01, 02, 05 – Personnel policies in L’ville
Here as an individual – not in official capacity
Endorses these – treat ordained staff as called
Wants us to follow higher law than state law
Item 08-01 – On Clarifying the Practice of Our Theology of Call for Those Serving General Assembly Entities – From the Presbytery of Santa Fe.
Overture Advocate
Embraces comment #2 with 2 exceptions:
PP2 as a whole
PP4 “Further, the entities aggress that if there is a cause for termination…”
Motion and Discussion
Motion to approve with ACSWP recommendations
If constitution is touched, ACC needs to be brought in and this might need to go to the churches/Presbyteries eventually.
Because 08-01, 02 and 05 are so closely entwined, there is much confusion about how to proceed… it’s kinda funny!
22 for, 30 against – motion fails
Motion and discussion
Motion to approve
No discussion
44 for, 6 against, 1 abstention – Motion carries
Item 08-02 – On Creating a Commission to Study the Personnel Policies Noew Operative as They Affect Members of the National Staff of the Presbyterian Church USA – From the Presbytery of Newton
Overture Advocate
Rationale – firing of 2 employees by ED alone
Creation of a study
My questions
Financial implications
16 members
Set aside standing rules
3 for, 49 against, 0 abstentions – motion fails

Item 08-04 – On Limiting Staff Participation in Elected Bodies – From the Presbytery of San Joaquin
Overture Advocate
My thoughts
Isn’t this something that could be handled with HR people talking to moderators about how they conduct business?
This seems like a large piece of legislature to fix a specific problem
Motion to recommend disapproval of this overture
49 for, 2 against, 0 abstentions – Motion carries
Item 08-05 – On Directing the GAC to Bring Its Policies for Termination into Conformity with the Form of Government – From the Presbytery of New York City
Overture Advocate
Applies to clergy and laity
Motion to disapprove this overture (with comment)
44 for, 6 against, 1 abstention – Motion carries
Item 08-11 – Recommendation from ACREC
Motion to approve and endorse the report of ACREC
No additional financial implications
50 for, 1 against, 0 abstentions – Motion carries

Friday, June 16, 2006: 8:00 – 9:15pm (Committee #08)

Special Guests – Disabilities Awareness Presentation
08-A, 08-B

Minutes approved

08-C – Audit report of the denomination

51 for, 0 against – motion carries unanimously

08-Info

Day 1 - Thursday

2006-06-15T22:26:00.000-07:00

So... we convened today!! It was an amazing day... and I'm just going to put my bulleted list up here and you can read my little notes. The big thing was electing a moderator which was a totally amazing process. I'll try to write about it later... for now I need bed, because it's 12.20am and I'm getting up at 5.45am.

Congratulations to our new Moderator, Joan Gray. I'm excited about her and will write more soon.

Oh.. and if you think of it, be praying for the family of Nelson Irwin - an Elder Commissioner. He passed away today at GA - he had a heart attack. It was a sad thing to hear about and I can only imagine how his family must be mourning him.

Here are my notes from the day:

Thursday, June 15, 2006: 1:00-5:45PM

Opening
Worship

Joyful, Joyful
Hebrews 12.1-2
Reaffirmation of vows of ordination
Called as Partners in Christ’s Service

Cliff Kirkpatrick

Quorum
Corresponding members

COLA

Intro of team
Video on Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley

Missionary team to Congo
Lapsley – white man
Shepherd – son of slaves

Orientation Sessions

Interesting note: most rooms/leaders/speakers referred only to the YADs, not the TSADs. While we are adult enough to live with that… we were definitely feeling slighted.

Greetings from CPCA, CPC
Rick Ufford-Chase – 216^th Moderator

Excerpts from his blog – what-i-see.blogspot.com

Wisdom from under the Mango tree (may 2005)
9/12/2005
10/2005 – Peru
November 2005 – Comm. Pres. Church, Washington
May 2006 – US/Mexico borderlands

Exodus 17.5-7
Changed his stole for each story… appropriate for location/situation… NICE touch

John Detterick – Executive Director of GAC

Intro of Stan Anderson

$150 million gift to create “Loaves and Fishes Fund for Church Growth”
Presbytery that receives commits to:

Give 10% of grant total to mission, matched by Presbytery’s own funds
1% theological education – matched in same way

He keeps referring to “Presbyterian Seminaries”

Does that exclude Fuller, etc?

All about matching funds at every level – multiplying the gift
Money at Pres Fund by end of November

General Assembly Nominating Committee

Melva Costen – Moderator, explained the process

Basic business items

Declare a quorum, etc.
Announcements

Thursday, June 15, 2006: 7:30-??PM

Judith Wellington – Moderator, Bills and Overtures

Review of work done
Move and approve 01-01:04
This session began with silly problems with LES

It was fun to see R U-C and the Stated Clerk work together
They polled us twice on if we could actually use LES – so funny.

Election of the Moderator!!

None spent more than the allowed $1500 for campaigning
“I wanna sing, I wanna shout” and “Swing Low” J
Nominating speeches

Tim Halverson

White man with white woman as vice-mod
Churches grow with him
Family focus
Passionate about growth

Joan Gray

White woman with black man as vice-mod
Presbyterian Polity for Church Officers – co-author
Interim experience
Focus and emphasis on elder leadership, training, and empowering

Kerry Carson

White man with white woman as vice-mod
Musician (potential for creative thinking) but traditional (might be stuck)
Supporter and builder-up of women in ministry
**Over time**

Deborah Block

White woman with black man as vice-mod
History of leadership, powerful women in her life
Experience in our polity
Seminary prof – polity, worship, preaching, church revitalization/organization

~~~~~~~~~ Why are all the candidates older? ~~~~~~~~~

Candidate speeches

Tim Halverson

Didn’t mention TSADs – :P
Using passion to cover up not much stuff...
Centrist vs. moderate-middle
Focus on church growth/evangelism

“Membership decline stops” – but no real plan/vision

“I will lead from the center”
HUGE emphasis on “reformed”

Joan Gray

Polity will not save us. :P
Relationships over polity… nice
God makes a way… says this a lot
“in spite of having a wee bit of laptop anxiety”

Kerry Carson

Quoted Nichole Nordeman “Brave”
“Status quo led to status decline”
Going the extra mile is not a burden but a privilege

Deborah Block

Stories from Africa
“On the day of Pentecost…”
Presence and power of the spirit…
Spent 3 minutes talking about Africa – not enough time to talk about her plan for Moderating
**over time**

Questions

Youth/Young Adult experience
Multi-cultural church
Saving Lordship of Jesus Christ

Brought by Rev. Michael Carey – Central Florida

Ordination of openly gay candidates

Deborah

Church is slow to recognize gifts for ministry in minority groups (ethnic, gender, etc)
Currently looking at ordination standards
Live “by the book” AND “by the Word”
Inclusion of all persons

If openly gay meets the qualifications based on standards

MLK, Jr. – Dream “content of character, not skin”
Not made a biblical case yet… need to wait until this is in place
Not yet, but it is his dream

Joan

Acceptance for who they are, do the work of the church
Not yet able to get mind around homosexuality as God’s plan

Uncomfortable place to be… but ok with that
Keep listening, reading, watching DVDs
Waiting to hear God’s still, small voice

Roll of Moderator

Officer of the church – stands where the church stands
Will stand on the Constitution

Kerry

Comes back to scripture
Homosexuality not in accordance with God’s will

Until able to read scripture differently, not yet

Greatest challenge facing our denomination

Tim – declining membership
Joan – recapture our spiritual energy
Kerry – find hope again
Deborah – live as a people of the Word, live out of that Word in trust and in courage

In time of struggle, pain – where in scripture do you turn?

Kerry – usually starts with hymns first (musician), My Hope is Built on Nothing Less, Micah
Deborah – Psalms (especially Laments), Paul’s letters, stories in Acts
Tim – Romans 8.28; hopelessness is a part of hope, wilderness is a part of faith, but in all things God is there.
Joan – Psalm 139

Evangelism – South to North, North to South
OR How to manage new “Loaves and Fishes” fund
Recommendation 5 in light of Ordination of Women (Maxwell)

Made an error with Maxwell
Standards are found in the Confessions – not just a laundry list

Joan

Polity as an ever-evolving process
#5 will not solve theological differences – we will still struggle
Find new and creative ways to engage each other in the midst of differences

Kerry

#5 is not the answer – his opinion
If the body feels it is, he suggests we put it in a referendum and send to the churches

Deborah

Pay a lot of attention to #5
Liked result of Maxwell/Kenyan
Not sure we should link the 2 items

#5 – ‘new way of doing church’

Picture of the church in 2 and 4 years

Joan

Calvin’s seal – hand with heart on fire

Kerry

Hands clasped together, fingers intertwined

Deborah

Handprints of children on a banner

Windmill – firm foundations, tilts into the wind, does something!

Voting

Vote #1

Mine – Joan S. Gray

DB – 143, 28%
KC – 109, 22%
JG – 139, 28%
TH – 113, 22%

Vote #2

Mine – Joan S. Gray

DB – 160, 32%
KC – 69, 14%
JG – 205, 41%
TH – 69, 14%

Vote #3

Mine – Joan S. Gray

DB – 152, 31%
KC – 19, 4%
JG – 307, 62%
TH – 20, 4%

Installation service
Thanks to Rick Ufford-Chase and his team, family

Hinged cross necklace – replica of moderator’s cross
SW Art – Days of Christ

Thanks to Jean Marie Peacock

Plate and cup stoneware with Presby seal

Recognition of past moderators
Announcements

9am committee start
7am breakfast
Nelson Irwin’s death

So much for the plan...

2006-06-14T20:40:00.000-07:00

So I never got around to putting summaries of everything up here. I'll try to get to that... but who knows.

I'm in B-ham... in a great hotel. Have met the other Seminary Students... great people. Should be a fun week.

We had orientation tonight... to get the group settled into how this is going to work. It was good to talk with everyone else and know that they are as clueless about their committee work as I am about mine!! :D

Ron got here tonight... saw him already. I'm looking forward to hanging out with him a bit this week, as time allows.

For now, I need to get to bed. Tomorrow is the start of a long week!

08-01: On Clarifying the Practice of our Theology of Call for those service General Assembly Entities

2006-06-07T17:05:00.000-07:00

Ok... from what I can figure out....

This is a proposal to bring our hiring practices at the national level in line with the rest of our theology and system of government. When someone is an ordained Minister of the Word and Sacrament, they are extended a Call for a new job - not simply a job offer. There are certain differences between a regular job and a Call.

We do a good job at the church, Presbytery and Synod level of maintaining that difference. Apparently, we're not there at the GA level, and this overture is meant to ensure that the same Call is extended to Ministers of the Word and Sacrament at the National level as is extended elsewhere.

Meeting with Dr. Mouw

2006-06-06T17:06:00.000-07:00

Well, back when my approval came through, I called Dr. Mouw's office and made an appointment to visit with him. He will be there, speaking at a couple of events, and I thought it would be nice if he knew enough about me to greet me by name and even introduce me, if need be. Since I'm the school rep, I thought it might be nice. Plus, it was a good excuse to spend some time with a man I admire.

So... I got to spend about 30 minutes with him this morning and really enjoyed it. He knows of me, from my tech job and singing gigs on campus. But he didn't know me. If you'd asked him my name, he probably wouldn't have known it. And that's to be expected. No reason for him to know me yet.

Now I feel like he'll be able to greet me at GA and perhaps introduce me to people by name. :)

And then I had a chance to speak with the Vice Moderator of my committee. She's a really really nice woman who was super friendly and excited to have me on the team. I'm looking forward to meeting her in person!

Just 8 days until I'm in 'bama! Oh my. So much to do!!!

Mission Coordination Committee

2006-05-24T16:04:00.000-07:00

Items on our docket:

08-01: On Clarifying The Practice Of Our Theology Of Call For Those Serving General Assembly Entities
08-02: On Creating a Commission to Study the Personnel Policies Now Operative as They Affect Members of the National Staff of the Presbyterian Church U.S.A.
08-03: On Adding a Representative from the Presbyterian Men, with Voice and Vote, to the General Assembly Council
08-04: On Limiting Staff Participation in Elected Bodies
08-05: On Directing the General Assembly Council (GAC) to Bring Its Policies for Termination into Conformity with the Form of Government
08-06: On Funding the Fight Against HIV/AIDS and Diseases of Poverty
08-07: A Recommendation to Study the Status of Women in the PC(USA)
08-08 Rec 1-4: A Vision for Governance: Understanding the Proposed Structure for the General Assembly Council
08-09: Changes to the General Assembly Manual of Operations
08-10: On the Elimination of Administration Costs on Restricted Mission Gifts
08-11: Report and Recommendations “Creating a Climate for Change within the PC(USA).”
08-12: Joint Resolution Regarding the Women of Color Consultation Report—From the Advocacy Committee for Racial Ethnic Concerns and the Advocacy Committee for Women’s Concerns.
08-13 Rec A1-3, B1-2, C1: Mission Budget Recommendations
08-14: Amend Organization for Mission Re GA Officers and Committees of the OGA—From the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly and the General Assembly Council.
08-15: On Confirming the Election of Linda Bryant Valentine as GAC Executive Director.
08-16: On Granting Latitude to the GANC with Regard to the Composition of GAC.

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08-Info-AA/EEO: Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity Report of Progress.
08-Info-ACREC: Advocacy Committee for Racial Ethnic Concerns Agency Summary (217th GA 2006)
08-Info-Manual: Report of the General Assembly Council Regarding Changes to the Appendixes of the General Assembly Council Manual of Operations
08-Info-PCCMP: Presbyterian Council for Chaplains and Military Personnel¾From the National Ministries Division.
08-Info-Task Forces: Report of the General Assembly Council on Current Task Forces, Work Groups, and Ad Hoc Committees—From the General Assembly Council.

Committee and LES

2006-05-24T09:50:00.000-07:00

I just spoke with Linda in the GA office. Poor, Patient, Over-worked woman is probably really looking forward to July. :)

I have been assigned to Committee #8 - Mission Coordination. More on that when I've read the overtures and know what I'm talking about. ;)

As for the LES system... this is an online system that has all the business of the GA online. And will be updated almost real-time during the GA with minutes from the committee meetings and plenary sessions. So, check it out if you'd like to know about the business items. I think it would be a good idea for everyone to follow the work of the GA this way. So, here is LES... and there is a new link over there ------------>

Another update

2006-05-22T22:23:00.000-07:00

For anyone keeping track, I've finally gotten my hotel assignment: Four Points by Sheraton near the Birmingham airport.

I got my roomie's name as well - but have no way to contact her. Bummer.

I'm exhausted from preaching this past weekend and then working 14 hours today... so I'm off to bed.

More info as it comes. Maybe tomorrow I'll post about the LES system... :)

Travel plans

2006-05-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

It has been a bit of a hassle to get my flights arranged, but I have finally managed it. The GA Office had not provided the travel agent with my name as an approved TSAD - so they were unable to book my flights. Late yesterday, I finally managed to speak with someone at the GA Office and was assured that my name would be transmitted within a few hours. I decided to give them more time and waited until this morning to make the call.

Lisa, the woman at Travel Authority with whom I spoke, was incredibly friendly. We had spoken once or twice in the ongoing saga of getting my name on the list. Within 10 minutes, I had my flights planned.

I made a last minute decision about my trip. I extended my stay in Birmingham until the Sunday after GA. Knowing myself, if I were to return to Pasadena immediately following the meetings, I would not have a chance to relax and take a deep breath. Since I've never been to Birmingham, I'd like to stay and see a little bit. Or just relax at a hotel. We'll see.

So:
Wednesday 14 June 2006
BUR to DFW to BHM
7.05a - 12.05pm, 2.10pm - 3.49pm

Sunday 25 June 2006
BHM to DFW to BUR
4.34p - 6.30p, 8.15p - 9.22p

That's my plan. :)
Still no paperwork from the GA Office, so I don't know my committee or my hotel yet.

My schedule for GA

2006-05-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

It is subject to change, of course, but it will give you an idea of what it's going to be like.

If you want to actually read what it says, click on the pic. It's big enough to read.
If you want to actually download the excel file to study it (why would anyone want to do that??) - it's available here.

My email to family and friends back home, etc

2006-05-08T15:45:00.000-07:00

Friends, Family, Professors, Pastors... all the important people in my life.

First of all, thank you all for being supportive of my time here. I owe you all a huge update letter.

For now, I wanted to spread the news and ask you to be praying!

I've been nominated (and finally approved this past Friday) to attend the Presbyterian Church General Assembly in June. For those of you who are unaware of what this is, the best quick analogy I've found is this: Consider it a joint meeting of the US House and Senate that happens only once every 2 years for a single week. All the business of our denomination will happen there.

And this year looks to be a big year. We will be discussing and debating and voting on some major legislation that will potentially have a huge effect on our denomination.

I will be attending as a TSAD (Theological Student Advisory Delegate) and will have full voting rights on a committee (which hasn't been assigned yet) and an advisory vote in the general sessions. The advisory votes come from 2 groups (Youth and Theological Students) and are tallied before the official vote. While our votes will not count in the official results, they are posted for the 'official voters' to see before they cast their votes. This is to provide the commissioners the opportunity to see how the future members and leaders of our denomination are feeling on these matters.

In order to keep track of my adventure, I have started another blog (I know - I already have several!) that should be helpful for myself and you to keep up with the events. I will have my laptop at GA (a requirement, actually) and hope to update at least once a day while I'm there. Until I go, I will put updates and interesting reading on there.

http://ariel-at-ga217.blogspot.com

Also, I'm attaching my schedule that I just worked out - so you can begin to see what that week will be like. Enjoy! :)

Thanks again for your friendship and support. I covet your prayers - for myself and for our denomination as a whole.

~jenn

It's official!

2006-05-05T11:31:00.000-07:00

I got a call today. My application to be a TSAD was approved!! So, I will be attending the PC(USA) GA as a TSAD. I'll explain all of this in the next post, probably on Sunday evening.