Oh, my, the whirlwind that is GA! Since I last had time to sit down and write, much has happened. We’ve elected a moderator, elder Cynthia Bolbach of the National Capitol Presbytery. My impression of her is that she is thoughtful, calm, measured and level. She is also funny, with a dry wit that has a point to it. I like her and am hopeful for her leadership.

We have also experienced vibrant, festive worship together. I cannot say enough about the music for this event. There were young people leading song with their bands, there was a vast choir whose blended voices moved our hearts, and the congregational singing! Let me just say that one hasn’t really sung until one has sung with 5000 other Presbyterians. We were sent on to work with a rousing rendition, accompanied by kettle drums, of Widor’s Toccata from his fifth symphony. What more need be said?

I spent the afternoon covering the Form of Government Revision committee for the Outlook. You may read that article by going here. I have to say that I was very impressed by the presence of the task force and their thorough, thoughtful presentation. They kept it pointing to Jesus, continually reminding us that polity is a tool for the ministry and mission of Christ.

I wish I could say the same for the overture advocates who spoke against adoption of the new form of government. Their arguments were lost in an overwhelmingly negative presentation which were actually kind of repulsive. Comparing the new form of government with a diseased pig which we are expected to eat? Yeellcchh. I’m proud to report that the only advocate speaking against the proposed FoG who had any dignity was the Synod’s own Michael Herrin of Mississippi Presbytery. He was calm, sensible and dignified. If you’d like to see Mississippi’s overture, head over here.

We’re all heavy in the business of the assembly now, with committees working long hours to complete their tasks. And these people care, deeply and prayerfully. It is moving to see how well they have prepared for their work, studying pages and pages of documents in order to be well versed for their tasks. I love this about Presbyterians. We are a sincere people, earnest in our desire to do the right thing for our church. It’s an endearing quality.

Meanwhile, despite the heavy work load, the atmosphere remains quite festive. Everywhere I go, old friends greet one another in joy. New friends are made as we discover, despite the differences, a love for God and our church. I continue to meet old friends and it is a real joy to renew ties. I’ve seen Ron, Vince, Susan, Laurie, Randy, Sharon, many, many Synod of Living Waters friends and communications colleagues. And I look forward to re-connecting with my former, dearly loved sister-in-law who, I’m relieved, still likes me! Life is good and I wish your joyful blessings, dear reader.