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July, 2003
Calendar
In This Issue:
"Will you continue in the Apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the Breaking of the Bread and in the Prayers?"
Changes in Labyrinth Ministry
Wednesday Morning Worship: It's Not Just for Shoppers Anymore
An Invitation to go to the Mountains with St. A's
Men's Retreat, a Profound Experience
Is There Anything Left That Matters?
Count on Me!
What does it mean for the church to give its blessing?
DO39: Human Sexuality: Issues Related to Sexuality and Relationships
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DO39: Human Sexuality: Issues Related to Sexuality and Relationships

RESOLVED, the House of Bishops concurring, That the members of the 73rd General Convention intend for this Church to provide a safe and just structure in which all can utilize their gifts and creative energies for mission, and be it further.

RESOLVED, We acknowledge that while the issues of human sexuality are not yet resolved, there are currently couples in the Body of Christ and in this Church who are living in marriage and couples in the Body of Christ and in this Church who are living in other life-long committed relationships, and be it further.

RESOLVED, We expect such relationships will be characterized by fidelity, monogamy, mutual affection and respect, careful, honest communication, and the holy love which enables those in such relationships to see in each other the image of God, and be it further.

RESOLVED, We denounce promiscuity, exploitation and abusiveness in the relationships of any of our members, and be it further.

RESOLVED, This Church intends to hold all its members accountable to these values, and will provide for them the prayerful support, encouragement and pastoral care necessary to live faithfully by them, and be it further.

RESOLVED, We acknowledge that some, acting in good conscience, who disagree with the traditional teaching of the Church on human sexuality, will act in contradiction to that position, and be it further.

RESOLVED, That in continuity with previous actions of the General Convention of this Church, and in response to the call for dialogue by the Lambeth Conference, we affirm that those on various sides of controversial issues have a place in the Church, and we reaffirm the imperative to promote conversation between persons of differing experiences and perspectives, while acknowledging the Church's teaching on the sanctity of marriage.

Copyright © 2003 St. Augustine by-the-Sea
 

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