A Letter to the Diocese of Virginia from the Standing Committee November 17, 2006 Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, The Standing Committee is a body of individuals, lay and clergy, elected by the Diocesan Council to serve in a capacity of advice and consent in matters relating to the unity and health of the church. We rejoice in the broad diversity of the congregations that form our Diocese. We give thanks for the historic breadth of the Anglican tradition, a tradition that is based firmly in Scripture and the ancient Creeds, that stands upon one Lord, one Faith and one Baptism, yet permits a wide variety of interpretations and practices expressive of that shared faith. In an age of ever-increasing polarization, we believe that Anglicanism can offer a precious gift to the world: the gift of a model for living in community while acknowledging differences. We are deeply grieved by the recent decisions of three congregations to remove themselves from the common life of the Diocese, and we are similarly grieved by the declared intention of several other congregations to consider similar action in the near future. Each congregation, each individual, enriches our common life, and the departure of any is a grievous wound to the body of which we are a part. Besides the pain that such a departure inflicts, there are practical consequences which must be considered, such as the disposition of real property and the status of clergy who declare themselves free of the jurisdiction of their Bishop. Our Lord Jesus Christ demonstrated the power of incarnation by his life and ministry as a human being among us. He commanded us to love one another, and he promised that whenever two or three would gather together in his name, he would be present among us. Taking our mandate from our Savior, we are eager to offer opportunities to congregational leaders and clergy for face-to-face conversation. We call on the wardens and priests in charge of any congregations considering departure to meet with the Standing Committee before a decision is made, to come together in Christian relationship for a time of faithful, loving, and honest conversation, so that we may seek and serve Christ in one another. It may be that such a conversation will permit us to find a new way forward; or, if a congregation subsequently decides to leave the Diocese, the parting may be accomplished within a context of mutual understanding and compassion. We ask that you contact the undersigned at 703-553-9886, or e-mail jeandreed@earthlink.net to schedule a meeting of the church leadership with the Standing Committee. Please join us in constant prayer for the Church and for the unity that our Lord has commanded us to seek. We offer this prayer from the richness of our shared tradition: ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, who alone workest great marvels; Send down upon our Bishops, and other clergy, and all Congregations committed to their charge, the healthful Spirit of thy grace; and that they may truly please thee, pour upon them the continual dew of thy blessing. Grant this, O Lord, for the honor of our Advocate and Mediator, Jesus Christ. Amen. Sincerely in Christ’s Name Jean D. Reed President, The Standing Committe
|