I am attending the United Church of Canada General Counsel meeting in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. This is the culmination of an 18 month process of study and resolution writing by a small group of UCC and UC Canada representatives. Our General Synod voted to enter Full Communion with the United Church of Canada at our June meeting. Now, it is General Counsel's turn to vote on the same Full Communion agreement.
At General Synod, following the unanimous vote to enter Full Communion, delegates stood and sang together - as best we could - "O Canada." It was a wonderful moment of solidarity. I am happy to report that after a video was shown of our Synod anthem-singing, our counterparts spontaneously stood and sang - as best they could - our National Anthem. It was the best rendition I have ever heard!
The resolution regarding Full Communion was then presented. After a few affirming statements from the floor, the vote was called. The vote passed with 100% of delegates voting "yes." Applause erupted with people standing and cheering! Who knew that any matter of church life could be so joyously affirmed?! Many people approached me to say that Canadians never vote 100% on anything! What a great moment. Singing, "Called as Partners in Christ's Service," culminated this special part of the General Counsel meeting.
Now we in the Michigan Conference consider what comes next with our new partners. I will be continuing efforts with our "borderline" churches to build a closer relationship with the London Conference, United Church of Canada. Pulpit exchanges, clergy groups and joint mission projects have been parts of the relationship building thus far. I invite others to suggest and work on new opportunities to live out this new relationships with our neighbors.
As we engage in this international ecumenical covenant, may our own Michigan UCC covenant between Local Churches, Associations, Conference and National Setting be strengthened.
With you on the journey,
Campbell Lovett
