Vienna was wonderful!  Museums, the opera and great food...and even better - time with my wife!!!  It's been a while since we've spent this much time together, and it was great to reconnect! 

We got to Melk Abbey, and the IBK (International Bishops' Conference) was gathered.  They were most welcoming, and we were quickly brought into the meeting and to continued friendships.

Along with me, the Bishop of Lichfield is also a representative of the Archbishop of Canterbury.  He and I have been attending for many years, and now (not really, but it appears) we have moved up on the ranks of the IBK...with 4 new bishops, since I've been attending.

the membership consists of:
The Archbishop of Utrecht
The Bishop of Holland
The Bishop of the Czech Republic
The Bishop of Poland
The Bishop of Switzerland
The Bishop of Germany
The Bishop of Austria

IN addition, last year, the Bishop of the Mariavite Church in Poland has asked for membership in the IBK.  The Mariavites were members of the Old Catholic Church, but left.  Now they want to return.  It's not easy to become a member of the IBK/Union of Utrecht.  They take their theology and ecclesiology VERY seriously!  Questions about Mary, Scripture, ecclesiology, collegiallity, etc are all closely studied, and only then, will decisions be made.

In addition, the IBK is very clear that there are two different aspects to decisions they make:  faith and order.

If something is determined that it is a matter of faith - then there is little room for change...but it can be done...but only slowly, and with agreement along the way.  Matters of faith cannot be tossed aside. 

If something is determined to be a matter of 'order,' then that's a different matter.  Order is 'man made' for the Church, and can be transformed.

The problem for many, and for us too often, is determining which column something belongs in.  For some, matters of sexuality are matters of faith...for others, it's a matter of order.  Depending on which column you put this, determines how important it is, or how easily changes can be made to the way the Church operates.

During the meeting we discussed the permanent diaconate...we discussed the transferring of clergy from the various Churches/Countries and from the Roman Catholic Church, into the various/specific Churches/Countries of the IBK.  There is not a uniform process...which shows that while theIBK/Union of Utrecht is very similar to the Episcopal Church, it is not identical. 

The other major difference between the IBK and the House of Bishops is that the IBK is only 7 Bishops...they know each other well, and they trust each other. They do not require uniformity, but they do require discussion and talk! 

The Poles do not ordain women, but it's all right that other parts of the Old Catholics do.  Sexuality?  Obviously a problem for some, but not for others...and you know what?  That's all right.

They live together, for the common mission of God.

Trust, Faith, Respect and a common mission.

Not bad.