July 12th

With approximately 4,00 people in attendance the atmosphere at today's Eucharist and United Thanks Offering in-gathering was almost an air of fellowship. The attendees hailed from across the nation and around the world. The Presiding Bishop Rev. Katherine Jeffers-Schori began her message with a take from today's Gospel referring to how we prepared for our participation at General Convention, whether a bishop, deputy, alternate or volunteer. She recalled that Jesus directed the seventy to carry with them no bag, no purse, no sandal, just go on their way to the towns and places that he planned to go. They were to just go in peace and at the house where they were greeted in peace, there they would be provided for. With her usual comfortable and sometimes comic tone, the Presiding Bishop encouraged us to greet and share the peace with others even with someone who is wearing mouse ears from the 'cathedral' down the street (Disneyland).
During the United Thank Offering in-gathering a representative from each ECW delegation from the nine provinces brought up their UTO contributions. Some were cheered by members of their dioceses that were in the audience. Contributions were also made by visitors from other regions around the world.
Communion was distributed to about three thousand members from 14 stations in a little over 15 minutes.
Even after a week I am still amazed with the coordination of this convention. From my assignment in Public Safety/GC Manager's office, I have had the opportunity to see what they do to ensure that everything runs smoothly.