The regular pattern was in place. During the session there was a palpable sense of wanting to get on with the business. There was little tolerance for points of personal privilege, unless they spoke to concerns of the entire house, such as thanking President Anderson for her efforts. Her position as President is voluntary; she has a travel budget and staff support, but her sole compensation is her personal joy and satisfaction in serving the Church. It takes a very special person to do what she does. Speakers were strictly limited as to the amount of time given them, total time for debate was limited, and efforts were made to move the proceedings along as expeditiously as possible. People who enjoyed the sound of their own voice didn’t get much satisfaction!
Most of the time in the legislative session was devoted to consideration of the budget. As this is a three-year budget, what happens during those three years becomes the province of the Executive Council. That’s not a position I would want to hold. Details of the budget will be forthcoming, as soon as the approved budget can be printed and distributed. Interestingly, a proposal to study moving the Episcopal Center out of New York City was defeated, notwithstanding that there were cogent arguments in favor.
The highlight of the day: Father Provenzano called the deputation together for dinner. He thanked all of us, and by extension our families and parishes for giving up such a large amount of time and effort in support of the work of the church. He also reminded us that we were elected Deputies not just for the Convention but for the triennium, and so we have a continuing responsibility to represent the Diocese and report to the Diocese the actions of the Executive council and the other bodies of the Church. This will require both diligence and circumspection, and no small amount of prayer!
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