Running for Standing Committee

I'm in a "clericus" which is a group of clergy regionally organized. My neighbor is an evangelical and a traditionalist. He's in the next door suburb wealthier than mine. He called me today.

"John, I'm running for Standing Committee. I know I always leave these things to the last minute."

"Good for you, Harry. Starting to take an interest in the diocese?"

"Of course. Can you sign my nomination form?"

"Alright."

"I'll be right over, say twenty minutes."

We spoke a bit when he came over. We're on opposite sides of this issue, although he's been very helpful to me and I've covered for him a few times for his weekday services. "It's pretty quiet, although I did write a letter telling people where I stand. A few disagree, but no one's left."

"We're having the chaplain and I'm leading a discussion with one of my conservative parishioners later in the month. Anyone interested in discussing polity can have beers with me in Late October."

"Well, you know, I'm a traditionalist, but its important for suburbs and this diverse diocese to really be at the table. I want to be at the table which is why I'm running."

"I'll support you. My side's already represented," I joked.

He smiled. "I don't think I'll win, but if I don't try, I'll just be angry at myself. My daughter even asked me 'where have you been these last few years?' I don't think my views have been important, after all the bishop knew I was a conservative when I got here. Perhaps I came in under the radar. This diocese doesn't seem to have a problem.

"But I didn't exactly express my views in the little booklet, you know. I just said I was a suburban pastor who wanted to maintain ties with the Anglican communion."

He's a good pastor and has done a good job in his parish. He's even taken it upon himself to revitalize youth ministries in the entire county. God bless him.

Comments

[David Huff]

Your friend wrote:
"Well, you know, I'm a traditionalist, but its important for suburbs and this diverse diocese to really be at the table. I want to be at the table which is why I'm running."

Boy, I sure wish the conservatives who run our Diocese felt the same way about the 30% - 40% or so of us who are mainline or progressive...

[D. C.]

John, I assume your signature was merely to get your friend on the ballot. I suspect that a lot of conservatives, if the roles were reversed, would not be willing to sign a petition to put a liberal on the ballot.

[John Wilkins]

Yes. I might even vote for him, in part because I do think that its important for the church to hear multiple voices. And he is generally a team player, a contributor, and honest in his dealings.