Coming back from retreat,I realise that Lambeth is now in full sway, and am saddened by the words of +Gene.
"Never have I felt more in need of your prayers. As I write this, the opening service of the Lambeth Conference is going on at Canterbury Cathedral. I am a few miles away -- but it feels like a much further difference…
The level of fear and anxiety, especially among the Conference powers-that-be, is out the roof. No matter what I say, no matter what assurances I give, I seem to be regarded as a threat, something to be walled off and kept at a distance. Greeting a few American bishops in passing, and then at a dinner for General Seminary alumni last night, has been pleasant and supportive. But even though I thought I was properly prepared for the feeling of being shut out, I am stunned by the depth of that feeling…
I don't know how all this is going to play out over the next two weeks. At the moment, I am feeling like the ancient Hebrews, wandering in the desert looking for God's daily manna, just to get through. With all the exclusion and meanness that has come my way over the years, you'd think this would come as less of a surprise. But surprise me it did! And it hurts, especially at the hands of my brothers and sisters in Christ."
And, yes, I will pray for him, but I can't help feeling that things would have been a lot easier if he had just stayed at home.
he ought to be @ Lambeth as participant, not spectator. But to a marked degree, his presence is iconic: a living symbol of the exclusion felt by many LGBT people. Welcome in some parts of the Church but not all. The fact that he is not going away to whimper in a corner or meekly shepherd Republican grannies at home, but is there claiming his due rights, even at the potential cost of attack or violence is I suggest a powerful stance to take. If he was black, south African, married and called Desmond, K, he'd have been cheered to the rafters for his courageous stand.
He is feeling sorry for himself then !
I do'nt really know what it's all about , apart from his perhaps trying to make a point , to provoke something , even for some reason wanting to make a martyr of himself ;
If you have time perhaps you could explain ;
Glad you're back safely , so you did'nt take either dog then ?
All the best , ~ Martin .