Assembly Action

Commissioners and advisory delegates lined up behind the Rev. Daniel Moore, a commissioner from Donegal Presbytery, to speak during discussion of the Form of Government revision on Thursday. Photo by Danny Bolin

The Assembly voted to send the proposed new Form of Government to the Presbyteries for review, study and recommendation.  Most felt there is more time needed to study the proposal and evaluate its potential impact.

The Assembly also referred for more study, recommended changes to the Heidelberg Catechism, which is part of our Book of Confessions.  The issue involves some parts of the catechism that were added and not included in the original German catechism.  The question is whether we want to restore the original language or keep the current language which many believe still reflects our current beliefs.  One of the key statements in question is one singling out homosexuality as sin, which was not in the original form of the catechism.  I think there are about ten other variances as well.

The assembly also discussed and approved several measures to increase and fun efforts to grow the church.

This morning the Assembly is electing a new Stated Clerk.  

While the Assembly action is often time-consuming and laborious, I have learned to value the fact that we take time to listen to those who disagree and consider their concerns; that we have a process that seeks to discern God's will and not just our own.  I commend the commissioners and delegates who have patiently and tirelessly given their attention to this process.  Yesterday and today, the Commissioners and Delegates have spent over 10 hours each day in session.