It's been a while since I've last written, but I thought I'd drop this out there.  Having grown up in Chicagoland, it was not uncommon to live through storms, and to be without power.  But (!) when it took too long to restore Wet snow?  Yes.  Heavy snow?  Sure.  A lot of snow?  Not really...certainly the power lines should have been able to withstand the weight of this...it wasn't that much!

Where is the outcry?  Where is the call for action?  Where is the anger?

Well...I guess this just means that school will be canceled another day...it's not like we need extra time in school...after all...WV ranks right up there with the top notch states, like Alabama, Louisiana and a few others!

Lost wages?  Lost educational opportunities?  Lost efficiency?

Seems like life, I'm sorry to say.

+WMK

WEll, the clergy of the Diocese of WEst Virginia and hte clergy of the   ELCA Synod of West Virginia-Western Maryland are together for a clergy conference.  A good day...

Sadly, there are only about 1/2 of the total possible clergy present.  Deep and thought provoking lectures...but good to meet the newer clergy in the ELCA and an opportunityfor the Episcopal Clergy to get together.

Fellowship is a good thing!

Thanks be to God.

Well, General Convention is in full swing, and the budget if complete.  Many things that had been removed from the budget by the Executive Council 'draft budget' have been restored by PB&F.  Sadly, there seems to be attempts to regulate the Church via the budget.  Certain canonical bodies had been stripped of their funding, thus making them non-existent...but that wouldn't make sense.  How can you 'close' a body, without legislation?  How can one group unilaterally shut down an activitly, when the Church hasn't spoken, and canons haven't been changed?

Thus, we restored various bodies, with the expectation that studies and recommendations will be forthcoming.

We have a variety of resolutions all trying to address the issue of restructuring.  Unfortunately, for me, this is a way of trying to take a 'piecemeal' approach to change the church.  Rather than taking a full studied approach, doing 'one thing at a time' seems to be the approach.  I'm hoping that this won't happen.

Yesterday (Monday) besides putting the budget to rest, and sending it to the printer, we also voted on the issue of 'Blessing of same sex unions.'

I voted against it, for a variety of reasons, but knew that it would pass.  I am comfortable with this, and will work within the Diocese to provide for such...

in the past, I said that we couldn't go forward in WV, with this, as the Church had not spoken.  Yesterday (assuming that the Deputies concur) the Church spoke. 

Many years ago, I asked a senior military person who was at West Point, when it went co-ed.  I asked how that went over, since it has been more than a century of 'males only.'  He looked rather curious.  He said, "it went smoothly.   We're in a military model.  When the brass speak, we salute, and make it happen.'

I believe that's the same with the Church.  We are in a hierarcichal church...The Church has spoken, and we move forward.

Certain committees will be formed in the coming weeks, so that a plan for rolling this out will be in place, without destroying the Body of Christ in West Virginia.

There are obviously various clauses within the body of the Resolution, which some will ignore, and others will complain about...but the entire piece was passed...not just a portion of it.

So - we'll look how we do this, together.

In addition, the Bishops passed a resolution requiring that, in the Triennial of 2016 - 2018, the Budget will be funded by an 'asking' of not more than 15%, and all dioceses will be 'required' to pay that rate, or more.

More to come.

+WMK

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

Well, we arrived safely in Indianapolis. Don't know when power will be restored to our home, but here we are. God is good, all the time.

We have checked into our room, and set up the hospitality room, for our people.

Went across the street to the Convention Hall, and registered. Went to various booths in the 'market place,' and ran into many old friends - including John Stonesifer - former Interim at St John's, Huntington. Scott West and Anne are here as well.

Been to the ECW/UTO booth, the Pension Booth, seminary booths, Cokesbury, Whipple, and a few others. When I stopped at the Pension/Medical Trust booth, they too complimented us on our upcoming rate reduction.

I have seen John and Bertha Valentine, checking in. Stan Holmes was checking in. Beth Marquart met us as we were checking in. Cheryl Winter is also here...

Convention begins on thursday, but various meetings (hearings, as they're called here) begin tomorrow. My committee: Program, Budget and Finance, meets tomorrow morning, and then has its first hearing (on the priorities of the Church) at noon. I know that Cheryl's committee - on the consecration of new bishops, will hold their hearing(s) tomorrow as well.

Well, we're at the starting line, or so it seems. Energy is building.

Marsha, Emilie, Patrick, Anna, Sully and I all attended part of Trinity (Wheaton) 130th Anniversary celebration.  The event was in celebration of the old 'historic' chapel.  We were at the 'High Tea,' followed by an evening Reception on Saturday.  Both Bishop Lee and the Presiding Bishop were present.  Sunday morning the Eucharist was celebrated, with renewal of baptismal vows, and a prayer for the Chapel. 

It was wonderful to see so many good friends, who were in the parish...and to see how they have blossomed in their ministries and callings!  God bless them all!!!

As we were preparing to go to the parish picnic, a major storm blew through...knocking out power all around, and felling trees...we did not go to any picnic...just slowly found our way through open streets, toward O'Hare.  Had lunch at Woodfield, and got to the airport in time.

Flight from O'Hare to Charlotte was only about 20 minutes late.  The flight from Charlotte to Charleston was more than 2 hours late...We got into Charleston about 1:15, and waited for our bags...drove home, and found that our power was out since Friday.  We got a few hours of sleep, and woke up somewhat early, due to the traffic coming up our street.  The normal route is closed, due to felled trees.

Tood laundry to the cleaners, so we could have something to wear at General Convention.

Now, we're trying to figure out if Marsha should stay home, until the power returns...just don't know when that might happen.  It could happen in a minute, it could be as late as Friday (according to their reports).

Hmmmm...perhaps I could stay home, and Marsha go to Indianapolis?

Well, after the wonderful time in Melk, Marsha and I went to Munich for a few days...a few very short days.  Arrived Friday, late afternoon, and returning to Vienna on Monday afternoon...

Saturday, we took the local train to Dachau.

WOW!!!

Man's inhumanity to man!

It is holy ground, obviously.  Ground upon which God cried, without stop.  How could something like this have existed, and the world did nothing for so long...13 years...

We wandered the grounds, and went through the museum.  We went to the 'film' which was showing, in English.  There were moments in the film when the narrator stopped talking, and allowed the horrific pictures to tell the story!  Very powerful!!!  Even the young teenagers in front of us were enthralled, and watching every minute.  There were no sounds from the audience, and now fidgeting.  I believe everyone was transfixed. 

We toured the barricks, and the grounds.  Went to the RC Chapel, the Jewish Chapel, and then off to the furnaces.  In all of this..the only good was that the gas chambers that had been built were supposedly never used...but death came in so many other ways, that it probably didn't matter.

As we toured the holy space, I was reminded of my father.

While I realize that there is a vast difference between a Concentration Camp, such as Dachau, and a POW camp, such as where my father lived for several years, there was (to me) a strange similarity.

Your life is not your own.  Time travels at someone else's pace.  Accountability, and role call are required.  There is no freedom. 

My father never talked about his time in the POW camp, but once in a while, we got a glimpse, or a quick story.


He said that the most 'true' depiction of life in the POW camp was 'Hogan's Heros.'  He said that the guards (Schultz) were just doing their job, and wanted no trouble.  They didn't really want to know what was going on, but the alternative to working there, was working on the Front, and that was no ideal for anyone...so they stood their ground, but just marked time, as best as they could.

He also said that his 'gang' of friends were all picking through the Red Cross rations, and picking out 'stupid' things, rather than the important things, like cigarettes...It turns out they were gathering up chocolate and flour, etc, to make him a birthday cake for his 21st birthday - celebrated as a POW.  Those are friends!

For some reason, as we walked through the foundations of the barricks that used to be at Dachau, I thought ofmy father's favorite joke (or at least one of the 2 or three that I remember him ever telling).  He said, "The guard came into our barricks and said, "Men, I have good news and bad news!  The good news is that you're going to have a change of underwear, today.  The bad news is:  Bill you change with Harry.  Jim, you change with Joe..."

A rather strange thought standing in the midst of such tragedy, but I suppose that somoene had to find some humor somewhere, to make life bearable.

How in the world?

And then we left.  We took the bus back to the train station.  And along the way, we drove through the town of Dachau.  A beautiful town, with lovely shops and homes.  Children playing, and the streets lined with people.

How???

Not only "how could this have been allowed to happen?" but how could someone stay in such a town?  Always that name...always that remembrance...always that sadness...

When other tragedies have happened, it is not uncommon to raze the property, and start a garden, or a memorial...but in this case, the camp remains...such as it is.

I guess in this case, the remains tell the story, and we should never forget...never shall this happen again!

God...you are in the midst of us, and we are grateful. 

+WMK

Two years ago, during his report from the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Bishop of Lichfield announced to the Old Catholic bishops that the Episcopal Church was active in the 'communion of the unbaptized' ministry.  Fortunately, he usually gives his report first, so I could respond during my report. 

Later, I spoke with him privately.  I told him that the Bishops of the Episcopal Church had refused to accept this at the General Convention ('03 or '06, as I recall)...but...does it happen?  I'm sure, somewhere...but what are we to do?  If one of my priests decides to do this, am I prepared to inhibit the priest, bring in Church Attorneys, and pay Church Court costs, potentially up to $100,000?   He agreed that it didn't make sense...then he thought for a moment and said, "I have a priest who has denied the Trinity, and I can't do anything about it."  WHAT????

this year, he said that he heard that the Episcopal Church was welcoming dogs to the Altar Rail.  Not sure if he meant just as companions, or as they were receiving communion. 

Again, I said that I had never heard of that, except that some people do bring their dogs everywhere they go.  But - we are not in the habit of communicating dogs.

He again paused and said that he knew he had some laity presiding over 'Communion from the Reserved Sacrament' in some of his remote congregations.

then he said...'it's good that we talk about these things, to dispel the rumors.'  How true!!!

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.

Well, we arrived in Stift Melk (Melk Abbey) yesterday afternoon.  Reconnected with the Old Catholic Bishops, and began our meeting.  Last night we heard reports from the various dialogs that are taking place.  The Old Catholics and the Mariavites, and others.  There are serious concerns that the Union of Utrecht looks at when having these discussions.  Church 'union' for union sake is not the goal.  Rather, serious theological and ecclesiological concerns must be addressed.  in a side discussion later, wtih one of the bishops, he expressed concern that 'ethical matters' might be taking a  higher priority than theological issues.  I asked, using a phrase they use often, if that was 'order' over 'faith.'  Yes, was his reply. 

Order can be debated.  Faith is another matter!

We had a wonderful time in social gathering last evening (it began at 10 pm) with various bishops.  Marsha enjoyed being with them, and I know they enjoyed having her company!

This morning began with morning prayer, led by the German Bishop, then breakfast.

We gathered at 9 am for the next session, and continued our discussion about the Mariavites....and their use of the filioquey clause in the Nicene Creed...as well as the dogma of the Immaculate Conception...the Union of Utrecht does not accept either...so this appears to be a problem with admitting the Mariavites.

I looked at my counterpart (Bishop Gledhill, from Litchfield) and we both seemed amused...as the Anglican Church/Communion uses the filioque clause...That was mentioned, but quickly dismissed because while we are in Full Communion, we are not members of the Union!

Later morning, we disucssed the Vocational Diaconate (Permanent).  They have the same issues we have...using lay gifts, but not denying the role of the threefold ordained ministries.  How do you exercise full orders, without denying laity?  The BCP clearly states 'in the absense of sufficient bishops/priests/deacons (whichever role needs to be fulfilled) priests/deacons/laity may fill in.

Had a nice lunch, and then a quick stroll around the grounds.  Marsha spent the morning reading and walking in the gardens...truly amazing!!!

Arrived safely, but been off the internet since we got here.  Saw the Marriage of Figaro the first night.  interesting question midway through the opera.  The Count asks if he must suffer so that all the others may be happy.  It struck me as a rather theological / christological question.  Went to St Stephen's, the Cici museum, Hapsburgs, Schoenbroon Palace...

tomorrow we head to Budapest for the day.  Then to the Vienna Boys choir and 'the horses' on Sunday.  Monday we leave for Melk, for the Old Catholics' meeting.  This is the first time Marsha's been with me for this time...so we've added a week's vacation.  Fortunately, she has met most of the bishops in the International Bishops' Conference (IBK).

Probably won't enter anything on Saturday, as internet is expensive...but will write later.

Thanks for following!

been running around all day, getting things in ready for the trip.  Suitcases packed.  last minute details to the post office, St Matt's, and around the city. 

Now is also the time for various Vacation Bible Schools.  you will all be in my prayers, as you spend a lot of effort, spirit and time for the good of the Children of God. 

God bless you all! 

We'll be out of contact until at least Tuesday, when we arrive in Vienna.  Interesting - various websites, when you type in 'Vienna Aust,' the self-corrector finishes by saying 'Australia.'  Hmmm a far cry from Austria.

+WMK

Well, on Monday, Marsha and I head off to the Vienna Austria.   A little less than a week of vacation, and then off to the Old Catholic meeting..then to Munich for a couple of days, then home.

From there, we have 2 days to do laundry, then off to Trinity, Wheaton, for their 130th Anniversary.  Thursday through Sunday we'll be there...then home.

Home for a couple of days, then off to General Convention.  Should be an interesting time.

I will be updating this blogsite throughout the weeks to come.

God bless you all.

+WMK