It's Like Easter... with Christmas, too!

I just don't know what to say any more.

The House of Bishops, on a 104 to 30 with 2 abstentions vote, have sent to the House of Deputies Resolution C056 dealing with blessing same-sex marriages. Here's the language:

Resolved, the House of Deputies concurring, That the 76th General Convention acknowledge the changing circumstances in the United States and in other nations, as legislation authorizing or forbidding marriage, civil unions or domestic partnerships for gay and lesbian persons is passed in various civil jurisdictions that call forth a renewed pastoral response from this Church, and for an open process for the consideration of theological and liturgical resources for the blessing of same gender relationships; and be it further
Resolved, That the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music, in consulation with the House of Bishops, collect and develop theological, and liturgical resources and report to the 77th General Convention; and be it further
Resolved, That the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music, in consulation with the House of Bishops, devise an open process for the conduct of its work inviting participation from provinces, dioceses, congregations, and individuals who are engaged in such theological work, and inviting theological reflection from throughout the Anglican Communion; and be it further
Resolved, That bishops, particularly those in dioceses within civil jurisdictions where same-gender marriage, civil unions, or domestic partnerships are legal, may provide generous pastoral response to meet the needs of members of this Church; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention honor the theological diversity of this Church in regard to matters of human sexuality; and be it further
Resolved, That the members of this Church be encouraged to engage in this effort.

This is a step forward in the many steps toward blessing of same-sex marriages in the Episcopal Church. This will have no effect in jurisdictions, such as Florida, which has made it quite clear in its state constitution that gay people are not equal under the law.

The House of Deputies also has passed D012, in which the Church is taking a stand against discrimination aimed at transgender people. The resolution asks the Church to take the roll of the prophet by calling on elected officials to pass anti-discrimination measures protecting the transgender community.

It's amazing!