After much discussion and parliamentary maneuvering, the convention of the Diocese of Georgia finally tabled a measure that would amend the current canon, Title IV, Canon 1 regarding sexual behavior of aspirants, postulants and those accepted to holy orders.

Meeting at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Augusta, Feb. 3-5, clergy delegates also agreed to hold the diocese accountable to continue open discussions on sexuality issues.

“There are faithful followers of our Lord who disagree with me,” said the Rev. Bill Stewart of St. Stephen’s, Leesburg. “I need to see the face of Jesus in those who think I’m wrong. If we can’t do that, then we have a deeper problem that we need to pray about and address.”

“There is a big elephant in the room that we want to talk about, but only through resolutions. Why not table it?” said the Rev. James Shumard, rector of St. Francis of the Islands, Savannah.

After the vote to table carried, in a poignant moment of accord, the Rev. Marc Robertson of Christ Church, Savannah, moved and Fr. Shumard seconded that diocesan council and Bishop Henry Louttit in the next six months set venues for such discussions, “to produce at least one option to discuss honestly the issues before the Church and come with no resolution — just us being able to share where we are.” The “ayes” carried. Not a single “no” was voiced.

Among other business, delegates approved a proposal to establish a convocation council which will end after a three-year trial unless diocesan convention in 2008 acts to establish it. Each convocation council is to meet at least once annually in the fall to discuss and plan for the execution of diocesan programs within the convocation. At its fall meeting, the council is to elect a confirmed adult resident, at least 18 years old and in good standing, for a three-year term on diocesan council.

Marcía McRae