Episcopal Identity: Are We In Danger of Losing It?

Barbara Day (Address by The Very Rev. George Werner)

The Very Rev. George Werner, President House of Deputies, posited that the Episcopal Church's polity and theology were born out of a capacity to see the middle way. This has given the church the gift of embracing paradox, curiosity, doubt, and diversity of thought. Has this unique gift endangered our understanding of who we are? What are leaders called to do? Werner suggests that we "go lose your Episcopal identity and come follow me." The Episcopal church represents less than 1% of all Americans and 40% of all Americans claim no religion but are spiritual. We must put this into perspective.

Today we are weary; we have had years of battering and struggles with power issues. We need to focus on the vision and mission of our church. Healthy churches make decisions by many. We must bring people to the table so that all are involved and understand.

When we "come to the table" for new understandings several challenges occur:

• People are brought for formation, they are brought to the point of truth. Coming together on what we believe requires us to listen and try to understand the viewpoints of others.
• Bringing people of various backgrounds together is a healthy strategy, but requires time and genuine respect.
• We come to the table vulnerable, stripped and weary, and thinking about how we might grow. If we come with conclusions already made, we fail to try to understand each other as Christians. We must look deep within our souls and be inclusive in our conversation. We set aside conclusions when we come to the table.

Werner asked: "Have we focused too much on relationships and not on the mission of the Church?" (as in the Windsor Report). We all must "be the Church" and be spiritually fed as we serve. We are Christians by how we live our lives in the world. When we get witness and mission going with faith, God will work the miracles. Let us be joyful in our preaching, teaching, pastoral care, and common prayer.

"It is grace that brought us safe thus far and grace will bring us home."

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