Louisville, Kentucky
1. Moderator Paul Grout effectively emphasized repentance during his moderator’s address, and prayer during the business sessions. This set a good tone for the Conference.2. The two “hot button” items of business this year were queries relating to the licensing and ordination of non celibate homosexuals, and how the church in America can best relate to the separated Brethren in India.
3. The Conference made it crystal clear that homosexual practice is sin, and that the licensing and ordination of such persons is unacceptable, and will not be recognized by the Church of the Brethren.
4. As soon as this item of business was opened for discussion there was a rush to the floor microphones by mostly non-delegates, and the speeches were about 70% in favor of accepting homosexuality. But when the vote was tallied, it was about 70% against the acceptance of homosexual practices of any kind. Listening to all these pro gay speeches was the low point of the Conference for me.
5. The query on India recommended that we begin to reestablish our relationship with the Brethren in India who once were officially a part of the Church of the Brethren. It has not gone well for them to be a part of the Church of North India (CNI). The delegates were pressed for time and postponed action on the matter.
6. Two queries requested that a study be made of the denominational name. The vote for a study committee was passed by a very small majority of the delegates, which indicates a lack of widespread interest in the subject.
7. BRF sponsored three meal events during the Conference and they were all filled to capacity. These programs seem to provide a kind of “oasis” from the liberal .push” that still characterizes much Brethren thinking.
8. A query calling for more emphasis on prayer was accepted, directing pastors and congregations and church institutions to give more attention to prayer. One hour will be set aside during Annual Conference in 2003 to report how this has been a blessing to us.
9. Since the 9/11 attack on America, the spirit of nationalism and military response has been running high in some parts of the denomination. As a result, BRF sponsored an Insight Session on nonresistance. Brother David Rittenhouse, former chair of BRF, shared his understanding and experiences with his usual homespun flavor.
10. Even though some things were decided at the Conference in line with our thinking, this is no time to relax. Annual Conference next year will be at Boise, Idaho. Chris Bowman, who was chosen to be moderator-elect, will be moderator in Charleston, West Virginia in 2004. Annual Conference is still the place where Brethren gather each year to “set their sails.” See you there!