I'm sure if you ask anyone at GA, they will have their own version of what the really important "issues" at GA are going to be. And you'll probably find that what might be a really huge issue for some may not be that important to others. This is important to remember as we engage in debate and dialogue during this upcoming week. For myself, there are a few issues that I'll be following with some interest. I spent the summer of 2005 in the Middle East, primarily living just outside of Bethlehem, in the Occupied Territories. Because of my experiences there, I am very interested in the work of the Mission Responsibility Through Investment Committee (MRTI), the overtures that discuss how the PC(USA) will work towards peace in the Middle East and the overtures that discuss the relationship between Christians and Muslims. This is actually one of the first years that we have invited interfaith representatives to be a part of the General Assembly, and I hope we will listen to their important voices. I will also be following the overtures and discussions about sexuality issues related to ordination, as they unfortunately seem to be at the root of a good portion of our denominational divisions.
On the GA website, the PC(USA) has posted their own version of the Top 10 Issues at GA this week. They have listed the following issues as the top ten:
- A revised Form of Government
- Partnership in World Mission
- PC(USA) ecumenical stance and covenants
- Peace, unity and purity of the PC(USA)
- The Belhar Confession
- Middle East concerns
- Elections
- Growing God’s Church Deep and Wide
- Domestic social justice concerns
- A church for future generations
As you read this post, and look at the issues listed by the PC(USA), what stands out to you as most important? What are your top issues for this week?
TrackBack URI for this entry
Subscribe to this comment's feed
