Dispatches from the 2007 ELCA Churchwide Assembly

Page break

2007-08-10T14:48:00.001-05:00

I'm serving as a distribution page at this afternoon's plenary session, so I won't be blogging it, per the assembly rules. Sorry to anyone who's checking here for news from the assembly. I'll be live again tomorrow.

Sunrise at my post

2007-08-10T05:51:00.001-05:00

I've got this all worked out now. (Except for the getting up before the sun part... Don't think I'll ever come to terms with that.) I'm at my usual corner on Randolph and Columbus. The guy who walks his Westie through Millennium Park just walked past. I've got a copy of the free daily Red Eye from the Tribune for when things are slow. I'm perched on a retaining wall at the Aon Center, my feet bare, my beverage beside me. Here comes the Westie again, and some of our walkers are on the return trip.

It's almost too bad tomorrow will be my last morning out here.

Please note I said, "almost." ;)

Leisure time

2007-08-09T20:29:00.001-05:00

Taking in the Art Institute of Chicago. All I can say is, "Wow." 30 minutes till the doors close - gotta keep moving.

TIDBITS - Plenary 7

2007-08-09T17:11:00.001-05:00

Debate has closed for the day on memorials related to human sexuaity. Memorials regarding the blessing of same-sex partners in a committed relationship were referred to the task force studying the issue, for their consideration toward the social statement to be considered in 2009, per the recommendation of the memorials committee.

27 (?) memorials related to ordaining non-celibate GLBT persons in committed relationships, and removing from discipline currently ordained ministers who are in such relationships was debated for most of the hour set aside for this topic today. As the order of the day was called, ending debate for today, the memorials committee's recommendation to refer these memorials as well to the task force was being considered againt a substitute resolution which would enact varioua provisions called for in the memorials, opening up ordained ministry in the church to non-celibate gays and lesbians.

Much of the debate time was taken up by parliamentary considerations and clarifications, since the overlapping memorials and motions from the floor created a good deal of confusion, as well as complication for the chair to navigate.

On a personal note, I was impressed with and surprised by the go-for-broke approach of the alternate resolution. Without speaking to the issue itself, that was a gutsy and provocative move, which certainly makes this assembly more interesting.

At the moment, the assembly is hearing speeches by the eight remaining candidates for secretary. I think I'm headed for the shuttle buses to the hotel.. And some supper.

TIDBITS - Plenary 7

2007-08-09T15:53:00.001-05:00

Following the ecumenical greetings, the assembly is now movng on to the report of the memorials committee, considering the memorials (requests) from synod assemblies to the churchwide assembly. A major issue before the assembly once more is what to do with memorials from several synods calling for change in the church's policy on homosexuality and ordaining non-celibate homosexual people.

A motion was made that the assembly stop for one minute of silent prayer for the unity of the church at the beginning of consideration of same_sex relationships, and every 20 minutes during that conversation, which was passed 773-190.

Now we begin...

TIDBITS - Plenary 7

2007-08-09T15:47:00.001-05:00

Now we begin...

TIDBITS - Plenary 7

2007-08-09T15:38:00.000-05:00

Rev. Deborah DeWinter from the World Council of Churches brought greetings and thanks on behalf of the secretary general of the WCC. She recognized the ELCA's commitment to ecumenism, particularly its commitment to providing mentoring to young adult leaders in the ecumenical movement. She spoke of "the gifts of grace inherent in every tradition and in every culture around the world," and of the WCC's mission to develop "an ecumenical space, a holy space for engagement in God's word."

Clare Chapmann brought greetings from the council and member churches of the National Council of Churches. She discussed the NCC's work with Augsburg Fortress to put an accurate, reliable translation of the Bible into the hands of people. Scripture is a "porch light" to us, she said, showing us where our home is. We must light the light for those in darkness, living scripture into our lives together. She described ways in which the NCC has applied this witness to issues of social justice - food, security and health - in the U.S.

TIDBITS - Plenary 7

2007-08-09T15:18:00.001-05:00

The assembly received greetings from Rev. Dr. Ishnael Noko, general secretary of the Lutheran World Federation. (Bishop Hanson currently serves as president of LWF). He presented "a word of appreciation and a word of encouragement" to the ELCA for its transparency, and the way its members care for one another as it conducts its work. He expressed gratitude for the ELCA's support of an LWF initiative fighting AIDS and other diseases, as well as for opening ELCA colleges and seminaries to overseas Lutherans as part of our mission to the world. He called the mission of LWF "nothing but a miracle of God's amazing grace," to applause from the assembly.

TIDBITS - Second ballot for secretary

2007-08-09T15:03:00.001-05:00

On the second ballot for secretary, 785 votes (75%) were need for election. The leader was Michael Cooper-White with 277 votes, followed by:

Andrea DeGroot-Nesdahl
David Swartling
Kenneth Ruppar
Paul Schreck

There were three others who will move on to the next ballot, but I can't type fast enough on my phone to get their names down. Check the ELCA news feed for more.

TIDBITS - Full communion

2007-08-09T14:44:00.001-05:00

The assembly overwhelmingly approved entering into a relationship of full communion with additional provinces of the Moravian church. Full communion means the churches recognize each other as true expressions of the one universal Church, and accept each other's ministers. The ELCA was already in full communion with part of the Moravian church in the U.S.

TIDBITS - Thursday morning

2007-08-09T11:03:00.001-05:00

Yesterday's afternoon post went MIA shortly after I sent it. It was fairly long. Nuts.

Nicer morning today out on the course, although there was lightning outside my window when I woke up. Not as many participants as yesterday, though. We called it quits early.

I'm ushering again this morning. Folks are just starting to arrive, so that'll have to be all for now.

Wednesday morning update

2007-08-08T11:29:00.001-05:00

I've been taking video footage this morning to use in my report to St. Johns when I get home. Those curious about the proceedings so far today should check the ELCA news feed on this page. More this afternoon - it's time for worship.

Yes, I AM on the job

2007-08-08T06:06:00.001-05:00

Live (or pretending to be, at least) from the corner of Randolph and Columbus, across the street from Chicago's Millennium Park, watching the sun rise It's 79.8 and the dew point is 74. Coffee, alas, is the wrong kind of thing for this weather. If the breeze that just picked up holds out, that'll a real gift!

This shift goes completely against my normal inclinations. Still, standing out here directing our walkers, joggers, runners, and rollers is an interesting way to experience our host city. Because, of course, Chicago is just beginning to wake up. Many of the people crossing at my intersection are just ordinary folks heading to the office or taking their morning stroll. Since I sort of stand out in my neon yellow vest, and it's not always clear who's an assemblygoer and who's not, I'm something of an unintentional ambassador for the ELCA.

I'm barefoot and standing in a puddle - that sounds unpleasant, but it's by choice. For now, at least, that seems more comfortable than my sandals.

The cranes at the construction site outside my hotel window just spun into action. (Yes, I can see my room from this corner.) Looks like 6:00 is starting time for the crews there.

One hour left, and the breeze is holding out. It might just end up being a good day. ;)

Carbonara out my ears

2007-08-07T18:36:00.001-05:00

Between the two evening hearings at the Hyatt, I grabbed a quick bite at Pronto Mama's, the Italian joint in the hotel. I ordered the pasta carbonara, with the salad bar. Because the breads there looked very good

Bad move - as tasty as they were, there was no need for the extra food. When the bowl of pasta landed on my table, I'm sure my eyes bugged out a little - in some cupboards, that qualifies as a serving bowl! I found myself wishing for Gretchen's company, not because I miss her (I do), but because maybe the two of us would have stood a chance against the Pasta of Doom. With some effort I managed to put down maybe half of it, maybe a little more

Sure would be nice to have a fridge instead of a stratospherically-priced minibar in that room of mine! $4 for a tiny 10 oz. bottle of Coke is a little much in my book. Such is life among the towers.

Half an hour until the session on "Book of Faith." Looking forward to that.

TIDBITS - Memorials at Plenary 3

2007-08-07T15:48:00.001-05:00

The assembly endorsed a memorial expressing support for American veterans, and to seek ways to minister to their needs upon their return to us, in body, mind, and soul. 100% in favor.

The assembly endorsed a memorial requesting the development of a social statement regarding the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals into society. 93% in favor.

Newsbreaker!

2007-08-07T15:01:00.001-05:00

Fun - as far as I can tell, I'm the first to break the news about the election on the web. The ELCA news page is only current through the first ballot :)

Bishop Hanson has concluded his acceptance speech, and the assembly is joining in song - "Now Thank We All Our God."

Second ballot for Presiding Bishop

2007-08-07T14:54:00.001-05:00

1029 votes cast, 75% required for election. 888 votes were cast for current Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson, re-electing him for another six-year term Bishop Hanson received an extended standing ovation and many cheers as he took the stage.

TIDBITS - Plenary 3

2007-08-07T14:50:00.001-05:00

The plenary session began with a Bible study - no, a presentation of the entire book of Galatians - by Dr. David Rhoads of LSTC. His dramatic recreation of Paul's letter earned a standing ovation.

The assembly honored outgoing bishops for their service, and remembered Bishop Margarita Martinez, who pssed away in March. They were also recognized with an extended standing ovation.

The church's new bishops were honored by the assembly. Another standing ovation.

Typos

2007-08-07T11:08:00.001-05:00

Please excuse typos and other goofs in these posts - most of them are being made on the fly, using my cell phone's keyboard. I don't have any way to correct them until the end of the day... And there are better things to do here, anyhow. ;)

TIDBITS - Plenary 2

2007-08-07T11:04:00.001-05:00

The assembly overwhelmingly approved a new initiative called "Book of Faith" The project will promote literacy among congregations and members in the Bible, "the first language of our faith."

On a personal note, it looks as though they'll need me to be an early bird after all. Rats. Coffee will be my friend.

I'm now in the worship hall at my post as an usher. In about 15 minutes the assembly will begin gathering here. M responsible for greeting guests in Section L3, providing them with worship folders, getting communion started in our section, and cleaning L3 up after worship.

TIDBITS - Plenary 2

2007-08-07T09:27:00.001-05:00

Yesterday's offering at communion raised more than $12,000 for campus ministry.

Woo-hoo! Visitors and volunteers get a copy of Evangelical Lutheran Worship to use here and take home. The assembly adopted a expressing gratitude to the many people who helped bring the new worship book to be, 965-71.

The results of the first ballot for presiding bishop: 1022 votes cast. No candidate received 75% needed to be elected on the first ballot. 101 pastors received at least one vote.

Mark S. Hanson - 765 votes, 74.85%
Too many others too list, at 5-25 votes apiece

Day 1 Summary

2007-08-06T22:11:00.000-05:00

Greetings from Chicago, and the ELCA Churchwide Assembly!

I'm happily ensconced in my hotel room for the night, and ready for some sleep. It's been a long day!

I arrived in downtown Chicago this afternoon. After checking into my hotel (an experience for me - I've never used valet services or had my bags delivered to my room before), I had just enough time to catch my breath, and then catch the shuttle over to Navy Pier. I couldn't have done much better for location - the Hyatt, where voting members are staying, is even closer than I thought. It's no trouble at all to walk over and catch the shuttle buses, which (I think) run all day.

As I arrived at the exhibition hall at Navy Pier, the opening worship was just beginning. I can tell already that I'm going to enjoy the worship services here. For one thing, it's not very often that pastors get to be members of a congregation, instead of presiding over services. To be a "normal" person once in a while is always a gift. Also, the music at assembly is excellent! It makes sense that the church would pull out all the stops (both literally and figuratively, for you organists out there), and I was expecting the services to be impressive. But I've got to say, the opening worship music surpassed my expectations. The variety and talent of the musicians - trumpets, percussion, choirs, handbells, along with the organ and many others - gave a taste of what's possible with our new Evangelical Lutheran Worship book. Not many people will be able to worship this way outside of the assembly, but quite a few, I suspect, will go home inspired to take what they experienced here and adapt it for their own congregations.

There was some confusion with my registration as a volunteer. My informational packet never arrived in the mail, and when I called the Metropolitan Chicago Synod office to find out my shifts, it didn't sound as though I was scheduled for anything. Hence the suggestion that I might help with the early morning run/walk/roll. Following the opening worship, I attempted to check in. After visiting several info desks in the various concourses outside the exhibition halls, I managed to discover that not only was I registered (complete with an official name badge and a red "volunteer" baseball cap to set me apart), but that I was scheduled to help monitor entrances to the assembly floor while the voting members ate - scheduled to help immediately.

Working with a team of other volunteers, I helped make sure that only people with the proper colored badges were allowed onto the floor, and directed attendees to their assigned seating. My shift began at 6:00, and lasted until the first plenary session ended around 9:30.

Most of the business of that first session consisted of orientation for the voting members. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans has provided electronic balloting this year, allowing the assembly to do away with the traditional red and green cards, in favor of a small wireless doodad with multiple number buttons on it, along with a "yes" and a "no." The results are tabulated immediately, and a chart illustrating the vote, along with the number and percent cast for each option, is displayed on the screens as soon as the voting is closed. I'm jealous that I won't get to play with one of these. Presiding Bishop Hanson led the voting members through several informative and humorous sample questions to help them get the hang of it, and to work out the inevitable kinks in the system.

What followed was about an hour's worth of instruction in the ins and outs of parliamentary procedure and the rules of the assembly. I'll spare my readers the summary, and simply say that although it's involved, it should make things run very smoothly as the assembly considers a number of important issues.

We closed with a hymn and a prayer, before boarding the shuttles to return for some well-earned rest.

As I mentioned, I actually was scheduled for shifts as a volunteer. In addition to this evening's activities, I'll be ushering the morning worship tomorrow, and serving as a page on the floor for two plenary sessions later on this week. During the times I'm not scheduled, I'll be able to attend all of the worships, meetings, and other events on the schedule. Since it doesn't appear that anyone's expecting me at the event tomorrow morning, I'll be able to get a little more sleep than I expected. Not lots more, though - things rev up again at 8:30 prompt.

One side note - it was mentioned more than once this evening that the use of cell phones, Blackberries, pagers, and other communications devices is not allowed in the meeting or worship spaces. Anyone needing to talk a call, send a text message, or e-mail someone was asked to do so in the concourse outside the hall. Since, as a volunteer, I'll be way back in the hall (and could hang out 50 feet back from the seating and still be in the hall, unobtrusive), I think I'll still manage to post a little bit live as things are happening. But it looks as though my main blogging will be done in the evenings, after things have wrapped for the night.

Time to call it a night, and catch some ZZZZs. Tomorrow promises to be another full day.

T'was the night before Assembly...

2007-08-05T21:21:00.000-05:00

Things are falling into place - which is a good thing, considering I leave for Chicago tomorrow morning!

Ellie is happily settled in with a St. John's family who have taken care of her in the past when I've been away. Judging by her wiggling when I dropped her off, she's going to be just fine. I'm not even sure she'll notice I've been away, actually.

Back at church, I've made arrangements with Margo Martens, the pastor in nearby Cooksville, to cover for me in the event of an emergency while I'm away. A funeral at St. John's which is scheduled for Tuesday will be going ahead without me - a former pastor of the congregation has kindly agreed to preside at the service. I'm grateful to the family for their understanding about this prior commitment, and I know that they are in good hands while I'm away.

I've received my volunteer assignment - or at least the first part of it: I'll be shepherding walkers, runners, and rollers on the morning jaunt through Chicago, sponsored by the Board of Pensions. Those who know me well will appreciate the irony in my being assigned to assist in an event that requires me to report for duty at 5:00... in the morning. Ugh! But I'm glad to be of use. Could be that Chicago will make a morning person out of me. Could also be that a herd of pigs will go flying past Navy Pier, too.

It sounds as though there will be other needs for volunteers once I've checked in. I'll check out the sign-up list tomorrow, and see what else I can do to pitch in.

This morning at church I encouraged people to visit the St. John's website and to check out this blog. I hope quite a few do. The ties between most congregations and the national leadership are often surprisingly frail, and I'd like to provide a personal link between our congregation and the broader ELCA during the coming week.

Now, there's not much to do except finish up a few housekeeping items here at the office, run some laundry, pack my bags, and get some sleep. Tomorrow, the adventure begins.

Reservation runaround

2007-07-31T21:46:00.001-05:00

It took me half a dozen phone calls and more hours than I want to admit, but I've finally got my room for the assembly... and a slight stomach ache, actually.

First of all, it must be said that rates for hotels in downtown Chicago are pricey. The ELCA negotiated a good (for the location) rate with the Hyatt of $119/night plus $20/day for parking. Alas, by the time I was able to speak with someone who could actually book those rooms, they had no more available; lowest price - $270+$45!

After hours online comparing rates at various travel websites, I thought I had it narrowed down to one hotel within walking distance of Navy Pier, which had rates almost as low as what the ELCA had at the Hyatt (although, admittedly, the Hyatt was much more upscale). But after digging into the reviews, it seemed as though guests at that hotel either appreciated it or loathed it, in about equal measure. After reading about moldy bathrooms, mystery stains on the beds, and air conditioning that may work well, but then again may not, I decided to see if there was ANYTHING else affordable yet still in the area.

Then I came across Hotwire. Their spiel is that you can get the lowest rates available, but that you only get a description of your hotel (star rating, amenities, neighborhood, etc.) prior to locking in your non-refundable reservations. That's because, according to Hotwire, hotels only give these rates anonymously, using them as a way to fill up empty rooms without having to publish a much lower rate than listed.

Turns out there was a four-star hotel listed in the right neighborhood for only $30 more per night than the Mold 'N' Must Motel - it was more than the ELCA rooms at the Hyatt, but the best I was going to do. Compared to everything else I was seeing, I'd need to stay out by the airport in order to get anything cheaper.

Still, I'm not used to paying much more than $60/night for a hotel, so downtown Chicago lodging left me feeling slightly queasy, and needing some air.

I'm booked now at the Swissotel Chicago, my mystery hotel - which, it turns out, is just two blocks from the Hyatt! I should be able just to walk over to the Hyatt and catch the shuttle for assembly participants heading to Navy Pier.

Next task - finding someone to watch Ellie, my pooch. Knew there was something else I should have announced at church! Doh. More to come...

Hello, world! (Part II)

2007-07-30T14:20:00.001-05:00

I'm posting this via my cell phone. This will allow me to blog in real time once the assembly begins.