VIEWPOINT – This is either my fourth or fifth General Convention—I can’t seem to make my brain concentrate on anything as specific as numbers. And it has been the most rigorous and challenging one for me. That truth has nothing to do with the issues or decisions coming out of the various legislative bodies. I have been wearing three hats for these many days in Mickeyland.
As Director of Operations for the Historical Society of the Episcopal Church, I organized three full days of work, food, and accommodations for the board and guests, which included a dinner for 80 folks. Also, I have been responsible for setting up and staffing our booth in the exhibit area.
As President of the Episcopal Women’s History Project, I’ve planned and presided at three board meetings and one Annual Meeting. And been responsible for our contribution to the booth.
As a delegate to the Episcopal Church Women’s Triennial Meeting, I’ve delivered an opening prayer, made a report to the full body, am presenting a workshop today and been expected to be present at all their functions and sessions!
Needless to say, I’ve not been able to do it all. And I am also experiencing several health issues just now that make moving around difficult. I didn’t take my son in law’s advice to get a scooter to help, and I am paying the price for ignoring his suggestion constantly!
However, I have had the wonderful sense of being a fly on the wall as I have shown up at some glorious times at places and events that God has pulled me and allowed me to witness. For instance, I just dropped in on the House of Bishops yesterday when the ecumenical and inter-religious guests were presented. I heard the chant by representatives of the three Abrahamic religions that made me feel as though I was transported to ancient times and could be listening to Jesus. It was a magical moment that I am most grateful to have witnessed.
I was just dropping in on the House of Deputies when I was able to listen to some serious and life changing witness as a means of understanding some controversial legislation.
One of my most meaningful “drop ins” occurred at the Triennial Meeting. One of the three women, who had been nominated for President at the 2006 meeting, still felt that call and chose to seek the office again. She was no longer a member of the board and quite a long shot to be elected as the other two nominees came from this sitting board. She is a remarkable woman, Marcia Himes from Wyoming, and I had prayed for her election but didn’t vote as I had a meeting during the voting time. However, I came in just as a second vote had been taken and was present when the announcement came that she was elected! I was overjoyed.
So, I’ve missed much but have been present for much as well. I visited the prayer chapel yesterday and found the space to be extremely inviting. The Eucharist services have enlivened the call to worship and praise our God. The exhibit area is a teaching ground of what The Episcopal Church is all about.
What a glorious adventure this General Convention has been, even though my brain is mush and my body wants massage and rest. I look forward to eventually returning home and sharing some of this adventure with West Texas.
God Bless All,
Susan Johnson
St. Alban’s, Harlingen