A Tale of Two Perspectives - The Rev. Dr. Jim Taylor

For the past twelve years, specifically since coming to South Carolina, I have heard how awful General Convention was to attend. As I get ready to depart the 78^th General Convention, I want to say this has NOT been my experience.  Attendees from other dioceses have been courteous, encouraging and welcoming to our deputation.  They have wanted to hear our stories, and learn about the ministries we are performing in the diocese. The one comment, I have heard from other deputies the most, “We in the Church have much to learn from South Carolina.” When individuals have made this statement, I believe they are genuine, and are ready to stand in unity and partnership with us.  For me, it has been good to see the larger Church at work.  Certainly not everyone agreed on all resolutions that were proposed but the House of Deputies discussed these resolutions with respect and Godly graciousness, so the work of the House could be performed. For this experience in Salt Lake City, I am grateful, blessed and renewed. 

The Legislative Committee that I served on was Stewardship and Development.  The Chairs of the Committee were the Rev. Andrew Green, Palm Springs, CA and the Rt. Rev. Gary Lillibridge, West Texas.  I served as Vice-Chair.  We had numerous resolutions before our committee. Specifically, we discussed Donors Bill of Rights, Rates for Diocesan Apportionment Asking, Encourage the Ministry of the Development Office in the Episcopal Church, Worship Offering at General Convention and Non-Participation Pertaining to Stock Purchase of For-Profit Prisons. Once again, Committee members respected differing opinions, and edited resolutions that we believed would be good for the House of Deputies. Not all of the resolutions passed once presented, which was fine, but the work of the Committee was faithful and dutiful.