 From the Vicar:
Dear community in Christ,
This week, General Convention approved two truly groundbreaking resolutions on marriage equality. In essence, resolution A054 and A039 eliminate language from church canons defining marriage as between a man and a woman, and authorize two new marriage rites with language allowing them to be used by same-sex and opposite-sex couples. (Click here for complete article from Episcopal News Service)
Instead of repeating the content of the ENS article, which I encourage you to read in full, what I would like to do with this column is simply share some of my own thoughts.
 First, having the Supreme Court ruling take place just as our General Convention was convening was a truly unique opportunity for the Episcopal Church to respond in a dynamic and forward-moving way to the movement of the Spirit in the world. I am proud and thankful for the work done by the House of Bishops, and equally so for the difficult work done in the House of Deputies.
Next, I encourage us to reflect on how these decisions emerged from theological reflection that grounds itself first in understanding God as dynamic love. Over and over, we have seen both the challenge and the gift of living into full inclusion. How amazing, that the work done by General Convention can reflect some of the work we would do at St. Catherine’s as we continue to live into a vision statement that is grounded in acceptance and welcome for all!
Finally, my hope for St. Catherine’s is that we continue to work at making this a public and comprehensive component of our identity as a church. Let people know that St. Catherine’s is a place of profound and joyful and full acceptance of all people, embracing differences in sexual orientation simply as one of the many dimensions of difference that characterize both our world and our common humanity.
This week? Amazing!
In Christ,
Patricia+
Presiding Bishop Elect Michael Curry
The Rt. Rev Michael Curry was elected to be the next Presiding Bishop. He takes office on November 1 with an installation service at the Washington National Cathedral. Watch an interview with him on his hopes for the church here.
Another Gathering Held
Phyllis Mannan reports on the latest "gathering," small groups of church members sharing a meal and getting to know each other better.
"Bob and Jan Tarr, Neil Mibus, and Phil and Phyllis Mannan gathered at the Bunkhouse Restaurant after second service on Sunday, June 28th. We enjoyed getting to know one another better over a tasty breakfast or lunch and plan to meet at the Bunkhouse the last Sunday of each month."
Bible Garden Weeding
Thanks to all who helped with the weeding of the Bible Garden. Walk out to the garden and look at the plantings. Many are mentioned in the Bible. Thanks to Ginny for putting name plates on those plants.
 
Ginny Larson Bill Larson
Terri Maragos, Phyllis Mannan, Ann Fontaine, Ginny and Bill Larson
 
Colleen Schwindt Cleaned up!
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