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Resurrection Anglican Church
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Letter to Bishop and Standing Committeeasking to begin discussions about separation
Rt Rev William D.
Persell, Bishop Dear Bishop Persell, When you and I met in September, and talked about the future of the Anglican Communion, the Episcopal Church’s response to the Windsor Report, and Church of the Resurrection, we spoke of how we might move toward a grace-filled separation. The Vestry and I now believe a separation is likely and needed, and that Resurrection will vote to disassociate from the Episcopal Church and align with other Anglican oversight. Whether this can be grace-filled and honorable is ours to accomplish or fail. It is our desire to act in a way which proves to be respectful, loving, grace-filled and a blessing to you and the Diocese of Chicago, even though this is difficult and grief-filled. There are separations now all over the country. Many of them are bitter and seem to focus just on property and secular law, rather than on the two great commandments Jesus gave us, or his call to love even our “enemies” by acting for their blessing. As one example, in the Diocese of Virginia, All Saints, has met with Bishop Lee and the Standing Committee, and has worked out a settlement which gives the congregation time to build new facilities (they will rent the current property for $1 per year and promise to keep it in good repair), keep the essentials of their ministry’s personal property (vestments, equipment and other things used in the congregation), and keep new land they purchased (where they will build). I’m sure you know Bishop Lee and can ask him personally about this, and have your chancellor talk to his (Russ Palmore) for any of the underlying details. All Saints desired in all this to act by faith and with grace. Bishop Lee and the Standing Committee acted also with faith and grace. Both Resurrection and the Diocese will waste resources better spent on ministry if we are forced to go to court. We believe that there will be a better outcome for all of the people of Resurrection, and a better outcome for the Diocese of Chicago (both in fact and in the press), if there is cooperation and Christian charity as we move forward. We have concrete proposals, and we would appreciate the opportunity to present them to the full Standing Committee and you as soon as possible. We are prepared to meet now. May there be peace in Christ, George Byron Koch+ |
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