Post submitted on May 3, 2012 by Amory Peck, First Elected Lay Delegate to General Conference and Conference Lay Leader. Amory Peck, the Rev. David Valera, Marie Kuch and Matt Lockett are pictured. Photo by Patrick Scriven
I had meant to write this morning, but I’d done something to disable my Mac. Thanks, Ryan, for helping to get it fixed. Now it’s 1:15pm, and I just don’t know what to say.
I’m not surprised. The body has been making decisions that have startled me one after another. So, the defeat of all attempts to say “we don’t agree” on homosexuality isn’t a surprise. But, it was still a blow. And, the language from one of the African delegates still has me reeling.
Last night Gail, David, Craig, Patrick, and I were sitting and talking. We were asking each other what we had experienced that day that had given us joy. All the stories — the only responses — were about personal encounters and warm moments with allied friends. That’s even more true today. The only joy comes from shared hugs, tears, and affirmations.
I am eager to be home!
Amory
Thank You for standing up, making a witness and for building relationships for change.
Although we have not met, please know I am with you. You walk with the Lord and the mandate that we Love ALL people.
My heart aches for those who have to listen to hurtful language and are in pain. My heart aches for those who cannot open their minds and hearts to live out what we have heard Sunday after Sunday to love all and accept all – no questions, no exclusions. If Christ loved all and we are to follow his teachings and example – my question is how can we do any less?