In the last GC2006 Mailing from 815

In the last mailing sent out from 815 prior to the General Convention, there was a flyer inviting attendees to assist with the administration of the Eucharist at the morning worship services. It read, in part:

“We invite you (laity, bishops, priests, and deacons) to participate in General Convention worship by assisting with the administration of Holy Communion. We need approximately 75 Eucharistic Ministers at each daily service. . . . Eucharistic Ministers will not vest, and the Presiding Bishop has asked that they do not wear buttons or other clothing or objects that might distract communicants, or that could be interpreted as indicating a position on any matter before the General Convention.”

Finally, the Presiding Bishop and I are on the same page! I have been considering for several weeks the way in which we literally wear our 'identity' on our sleeves (and shirts and nametags and totebags) when we festoon ourselves with buttons announcing our position on various issues.

I am a child of God -- I will not be defined by multi-colored buttons and decals. We flinch when we're labeled by others -- why are we so intent on labeling ourselves?

And you know, it's a bit off-putting to be faced by someone bedecked with buttons, while queing up for the ladies' loo. Look for me at General Convention. I'll be the one wearing my name tag (without the extras). Consider joining me!