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May 23, 2005
The 8th Triennial Synod
These are but a few glimpses into the synod and not a detailed report. Its on its way.
The Eighth Triennial Synod of the United Episcopal Church was a great experience for all of us representing 25 churches gathered at Huntsville, Alabama under the guidance of the Most Reverend Stephen C. Reber, Sr., the Presiding Bishop of the UECNA. Just as we counted the loss of our great clergy in Canon David Reagan, Fr. Thomas Rice and remembered their great contribution, we saw His blessings in five new men raised to the order of Diaconate: Rev. Mr. John Ayers for Richmond, VA, Rev. Mr. Wesley Nolden for St. Louis, IL, Rev. Mr. Donald Wilson for Florida, Rev. Mr. Philip Schaefner for Wisconsin and Rev. Mr. Jeff Smith for Huntsville AL.
It was a witness to the presence of the Holy Spirit and His work in our church. Five dedicated men ordained to the diaconate, two confirmations and the birth of the Oblates of St. Benedict, a third order for men and women who would like to dedicate themselves to support the church. They will be faithful to morning and evening prayer. Under the leadership of Abbot Mason Paramore and with my help as directed by our Presiding Bishop, the Oblates of St. Benedict came into being.
The Synod unanimously elected Mr. Ray Turczynski as President of the National Council and Matt Drachenberg as its new National Council member.
We also experienced positive synergy -- the coming together of positive energy from individual member churches, towards the strengthening of the national church. Every church gave a presentation on their ministries.
Also present as a guest of honor was Bishop The Rt. Rev. D. Presley Hutchens of the Anglican Catholic Church, who brought greetings of the ACC. The ACC and the UECNA continue to have intercommunion with each other.
It was another experience of the Pentecost for all of us, renewed and encouraged in the Spirit as we returned to our mission field. Thanks to the efforts of the Venerable George E. McClellan, Archdeacon for the East and All Saints and Christ's Church Huntsville, AL, this Synod was great indeed!
Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father which is in Heaven. Amen
Posted by frleo at May 23, 2005 5:31 PM