I thought it would be good to explain why I signed this letter, which has recently been sent to all Clerks of Sessions in the EPC.
To quote Billy Joel, “We didn’t start the fire,” that is the division in the EPC. But I get it. A “gentlemen’s agreement” isn’t recognized as official language under Robert’s Rules of Order.
Still, given the dynamics on the floor of the 44th General Assembly, it was perhaps the best way to handle what was approved, according to Robert’s Rules of Order, as the Assembly’s will.
Since that time, an online group has taken it upon itself to tell a certain narrative. They have gotten other online groups to repost their stories to gain a bigger audience. I believe they sincerely believe what they’re saying. Yet, I also believe that they’re wrong.
I’m also concerned about the tactics and language they’ve used in their writings. While I’m all for critiques and questions that will make us a better denomination, I am not for misleading so-called journalism that is inciting fear and division among the less informed.
So it’s time for others to stand up and offer a different voice to those interested in the EPC.
Like any group project, I would have used different words here and there if I had written a similar letter on my own. I would have also opened it up to REs. But that’s not the point of the letter. The point is promoting unity and a positive hope and vision for the EPC. Silence hasn’t been working. Allowing one voice to dominate is only dividing us.
So, imperfect as it is, I put my name on the letter, hoping it will help us all seek unity as a denomination at this year’s Assembly. Jesus prayed for our unity. He even gave his life for it. That gives me hope for what’s to come.