From the Rector

Dear Friends,

The most publicized actions of last summer's General Convention continue to send waves and ripples throughout the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion. Many meetings and discussions have been held, some more divisive and abrasive than helpful. Many letters and emails have been sent. Many pledge cards have been discarded or returned dramatically reduced.

At the Chapel of the Cross we have been spared any name calling and personal attacks. People have had strong opinions from various angles about God's view of homosexuality and the role of gays and lesbians in the Church. Some have felt alienated by the actions of General Convention; others have felt proud of the Episcopal Church; others have felt confused or uncertain. The conversations and the correspondence that I have participated in or been aware of have been overwhelmingly characterized by mutual respect and civility. Many times they have shown forth the love that Jesus asks of us, even to those who may seem to us at the time “our enemies.” For this I am most grateful and (I hope in a healthy way) proud of our congregation. Thank you for the thoughtfulness and the humble dedication and the trusting faith with which you try to live out your daily lives and struggle with “the changes and the chances of this life.” I am truly strengthened and supported by your faithful example.

One disturbing trend I find nationally, however, in those most upset by General Convention's actions, and which has shown up in some responses in our parish, is the decision to withhold financial support. On the face of it, it seems an understandable reaction: “I don't agree with important actions taken, and I want those responsible to know there are consequences.” Who of us has not felt such a response from time to time? We want to make clear where we stand. How else can we make people hear us than to hit them in the collective pocketbook?

When we probe more deeply, however, in light of our faith, we see that this is more the reaction of a secular consumer than a Christian steward. A consumer treats money as a means to accomplish one's own goals, a possession to serve oneself, a commodity with which to acquire power. As a consumer I patronize a gas station, a restaurant, a political party, a church, as long as it serves me well. I tip those who take care of me, using money as a reward. A Christian steward, however, regards money as a gift from God, a means to serve others, a divine responsibility with which to be fruitful and faithful and loving. As a steward I give generously and joyfully and without strings, knowing that God will bless such giving with fruitfulness and new life.

That does not mean that we should not exercise wisdom and discretion in our giving. Jesus tells us to be both “wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” But particularly in regards to the Church, a divine institution operated by very fallible human beings, we are to be wary of the temptation to act as consumers. Do we really want the vestry or the rector or the bishop or the convention deputies afraid to follow their consciences or to act or to speak boldly God's word because some might be upset and stop giving? What kind of Church would that be? And what is actually accomplished by our withholding? There is less money available for program, for giving away, for maintaining facilities. Important work is left undone; needed positions are not filled or eliminated. Many people suffer.

I consider that too high a price for making my opinion known. Better to speak up -- and listen -- in other ways. Despite different opinions we are to be the Body of Christ together, each fulfilling our part, each encouraging and supporting and giving life. “As for you, always be steady, ...fulfill your ministry, in season and out of season” (I Timothy 4:2-5).

- Stephen

P.S. I hope you will find the articles in this issue on the Episcopal Church of the Advocate informative and encouraging. For years we have been trying to start another congregation in Orange County, and now it is off the ground! These thoughts by participants at ECOTA (Episcopal Church of the Advocate) will give you a taste of life and ministry there, as well as a sense of the need for a new “there” in the future.