wfn.org | [] #5372

[PCUSA NEWS <pcusa.news@ecunet.org>]

GA99009 
 
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ 
 
We, the General Assembly Council, write to you out of our love and concern 
for our church. We write because we have made a difficult decision by the 
narrowest of margins, and we know that the absence of unanimity among us 
reflects the diversity of opinions within the entire Presbyterian Church 
(USA). 
 
By a vote of 41-40, after thorough, thoughtful and respectful debate, we 
decided to let stand the action of our Executive Committee to allow the 
selection of the Women of Faith Awards Committee to go forward. 
 
It is our conviction that the reasons for council members holding to one 
position or another were multiple and complex.  This was not a simple 
issue.  We also want to affirm to you that the personal merits of the 
nominees were not debated.  As should be true in any debate, each council 
member was able to voice opinions openly, to listen to one another 
carefully, and to take seriously the concerns they heard.  And after the 
vote was announced, there was a mutual respect extended to each.  It was 
truly an example of the unity of Christ's body at its best - differing 
opinions, strongly held, but committed to one another in the love of 
Christ. 
 
While there will be many voices trying to interpret our actions, this vote 
should in no way be construed as an endorsement of anyone's position for or 
against the policies and standards of our Church.  That was not the issue 
before us.   
 
We know that many will not agree with our decision, will be hurt and 
angered by our action.  We acknowledge the disagreement, hurt and anger and 
regret it.  But we also thank God that we are able to disagree, strongly 
and vigorously, and still hold on to one another in Christ.  We even dare 
to believe the Holy Spirit is leading us and teaching us how to be one body 
in spite of our differences and conflicts. 
 
We acknowledge that the processes were inadequate, and for that we accept 
full responsibility. One of the ways the Holy Spirit has led us is in the 
establishment of a work group to review all policies and procedures 
regarding the full range of awards currently within the scope of the work 
of the General Assembly Council . 
 
We believe God can use these events to build up this sometimes bruised and 
bruising part of the body of Christ.  We seek your prayers and your ongoing 
support as we try to serve you in an effective and Christ-like fashion. 
 
Your servants in Christ, 
 
General Assembly Council                           

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