Chapel of the Cross, Chapel Hill, NC

A series of three Sunday presentations/discussions focusing on continuing the conversation requested by our Diocese, the General Convention, and the Windsor Report

April 3, 10, and 17 - 10:20-11:00 a.m. and 7:30-9:15 p.m.
(Sung Compline follows at 9:30 p.m. in the church)

Brief morning presentations will be followed by evening sessions with more detailed information and time for discussion. All sessions will be held in the chapel.

April 3 The Context of the Conversation

The Rev. Dr. Richard Pfaff - Priest Associate, The Chapel of the Cross

"Serious, probing conversation on the subject of gay unions requires an awareness of multiple contexts. The first, which will occupy much of our attention, is that of a careful use of the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments. This is, however, not a self-contained exercise; rather, it leads into and is part of a context that cannot be ignored whenever Christians consider any difficult set of issues (as has been the case with, for example, the use of alcoholic beverages), that of theological reflection. Such reflection has in turn to be pondered in the context of our overall experience of human life, in the present case taking into account such factors as the nature of sexual attraction and information supplied by modern science. Obviously, none of these contexts can be dealt with exhaustively, but they must all be kept in mind - and, as far as possible, in balance."(from the presenter)

April 10 Gay Unions in the Light of Scripture, Tradition, and Reason

The Rev. Gray Temple - Rector of St. Patrick's Church, Atlanta, and author of the new book, Gay Unions in the Light of Scripture, Tradition, and Reason. Mr. Temple will lead the evening session; parishioner Barbara Day will present a synopsis of his book in the morning session. "This book is a 'must read' for all Episcopalians who are struggling with the issue of gay unions. I say that not because it supports my convictions, but because it offers a clear presentation of our Anglican understanding of authority and therefore a basis for conversation and reconciliation among those who differ on this issue."
The Rev. Dr. John Westerhoff, Theologian-in-residence, St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Atlanta

April 17 Pastoral Reflections

The Rev. Stephen Elkins-Williams - Rector, The Chapel of the Cross

The rector will expand on his letter published in the September Cross Roads (available under "past issues" on the web site or from the parish office). Specifically he will: (1) address how and why he has come to his own conclusions about the importance and sacredness of gay unions, (2) assess the present situation in our diocese, the Episcopal Church, and the Anglican Communion, and (3) reflect on and raise questions about how the Holy Spirit might be leading us.

Send items for inclusion in future "Cross Roads."
The deadline is the first Thursday of the preceeding month.