"We are not leaving!"

The House of Deputies rises to applaud for the South Carolina deputation.

(Watch this on streaming video here... the presentation starts at about 24:00 minutes in the video titled "HOD 07-02-15 Morning")

South Carolina experienced a wonderful moment in the House of Deputies during this morning's legislative session after Deputy Wilmot Merchant, who is president of our Standing Committee, rose for a point of personal privilege.

"Please allow me to invite the Deputation of South Carolina to please stand," he said... and then added quickly: "We are not leaving!" That drew some laughter, as well as applause that became a standing ovation for our deputies. Fr. Merchant went on to explain that in 2012, nearly all of the South Carolina deputation left General Convention.

He then thanked The Episcopal Church, the Presiding Bishop and the President of the House of Deputies for their continuing support of our diocese in its reorganization. "We appreciate your support and prayers as we continue our journey," Fr. Merchant said. "We know that the road is long ahead, but with God's help, we will continue to be present" at General Conventions.

The Rev. Gay Clark Jennings, President of the House of Deputies, recognized both Lonnie Hamilton (our one South Carolina deputy who stayed at GC in 2012) and Tom Tisdale, who is here this year after a hiatus for his fifth General Convention.

"We commend you for your courage, your perseverance, your faithfulness and your love for The Episcopal Church and the prayers of this House are with you every day," she said.

Fr. Merchant holds up a TECSC tote bag and pins as a thank-you gift
for the President of the House of Deputies and the Presiding Bishop.