The Diocese of Mississippi, at convention Feb. 7-9, overwhelmingly called on the Episcopal Church to join with it in advocating wider availability of embryonic stem cells for medical research.

The Rev. David Elliott of St. James’ Church, Jackson, said the resolution on stem cell research offered great hope for persons suffering from Spinal Muscular Atrophy, ALS, MS, Parkinson’s, and spinal cord injuries. If passed by General Convention and forwarded to the president and Congress, it is hoped that embryos which would otherwise be destroyed will be used to save lives including perhaps that of his own 2-year-old granddaughter, who suffers from spinal muscular atrophy.

“This resolution in its own way is ‘pro-life’, for the embryos which would be destroyed and thrown in the garbage could now be used to help and even save lives," he said. "The possibilities are absolutely astounding.”

Council witnessed the passing of the diocesan episcopal crosier from the Rt. Rev. Alfred C. Marble to the Rt. Rev. Duncan M. Gray III during the closing Eucharist.

Lauren Wilkes Auttonberry