Resolutions Adopted at the 128th Annual Convention
of the
Episcopal Diocese of Newark
(The Resolutions are available
in pdf format click
here. An acrobat reader
is required.)
Resolutions 1 through 7 were originally listed as Consent Calendar. At Convention, Resolution 6 - Urban Mission, was removed from the Consent Calendar and placed on the floor for discussion/amendment. The adopted amended resolution is included.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Resolution 1
Sexism: A concern in the world, our communities and in the pew.
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark urges all congregations to raise their awareness of sexism – in the world, in the institutional church and in their communities of faith – by committing themselves to a process of study, reflection and dialogue about the changed and evolving role of today's women, especially with regard to power, status, agency and authority, and within the context of a broad understanding of the intersection and dynamics of all systems of oppression and prejudice; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That congregations that have undertaken such study and dialogue report that activity and any observations, insights or learnings to the co-chairs of the Women's Commission, currently Fran Trott or Anne Bolles-Beaven.
Submitted by: The Women's Commission (The Rev. Anne Bolles-Bevan and Ms. Fran Trott, co-chairs), The Oasis, The Commission on Christian Education, The Mission to Dismantle Racism
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
Within a month after the tragedy on September 11th, the statistics on domestic violence reported an increase of thirty percent. And yet, for the first time in anyone's memory, shelters for battered women were reporting that there was no waiting list and, indeed, that there were empty beds, citing that a climate of distrust and fear about the status of women prevented them from taking action to protect or change their situation.
Church officials, especially deployment officers, claim that there is a "clergy shortage," and yet, there is documented evidence of problems with deployment of ordained women that results in a high percentage of unemployment or under-employment – despite the fact that the average compensation package for women is 20 – 30 % lower than for men in similar positions (the Alban Institute). This is in addition to and complicated by the "stained glass ceiling" of advancement and promotion – especially for women "of a certain age."
The Women's Commission is deeply concerned about this and the many other manifestations of sexism in our world and in our church. The Anand Resource Center has many books (among the best of which is NEW WINE SKINS by Pamela Darling) available about the concerns of women that may be read and discussed in congregational groups. The Oasis has a bible study on sexism in the church (HAGAR'S DAUGHTERS), as well as STATIONS OF THE CROSS from a women's perspective (by Katie Sherrod) that can be purchased for the cost of photocopying and postage. The Women In Mission and Ministry at the National Church (815) have an assortment of resources and films for the study of sexism in the church. Resources are also available from the Episcopal Women's Caucus and the Episcopal Church Women. The Commission on the Status of Women prepared a report for General Convention in 2000 that will provide the basis for a stimulating congregational discussion. Finally, the Women's Commission will be presenting a workshop on Domestic Violence in September, 2002 at the Xavier Center, St. Elizabeth's College, Convent Station, and strongly urges your attendance.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Resolution 2
Seminary Debt Relief for Newly Ordained Clergy
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark requests the Commission on Ministry, Standing Committee and Trustees of the Episcopal Fund and Diocesan Properties to explore the creation of funding for relief of seminary-related debt for clergy ordained in this diocese who commit to a minimum of 3 to 5 years of service in ministries within the diocese following their ordination to the priesthood; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That these groups report their findings to the 129th Convention.
Submitted by: The Rev. Fletcher Harper, St. Luke's, Haworth; the Commission on Ministry
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
There is a well-documented shortage of ordinands under the age of 40 in this diocese and in the church nationally and equally well-documented evidence that average clergy compensation has fallen over the past three decades. Most ordinands of all ages begin their ministry in cures that provide the minimum required stipendiary support while carrying significant debt loads from seminary education. A debt-relief plan would assist such clergy ordained to the priesthood in this diocese, who would guarantee to offer several years of service within the diocese in return for this relief.
The Diocese of Western Massachusetts is exploring such a program; medical schools in poorer states have created similar debt relief programs to enable young physicians to serve in such locations.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Resolution 3
Racial Profiling Legislation
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark commends the New Jersey State Senate for the passage of Senate Bill No. 856 creating the offense of racial profiling; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the members of the Convention be encouraged individually to write their state assembly persons expressing their support for the passage of similar legislation in the Assembly; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this Convention directs the Secretary of Convention to write the leadership of the New Jersey Assembly expressing this diocese's desire that this legislation be passed as quickly as possible.
Submitted by: the Mission to Dismantle Racism (Mr. Bert Jones, Christ Church, East Orange, chair)
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
As of the date of writing this resolution this Senate Bill has not been passed.
It simply states:
"Be it enacted by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey: 1. A law enforcement officer is guilty of racial profiling when the officer uses racial characteristics or color, either alone or in conjunction with other composite characteristics such as a generalized vehicle description, or the age of the driver or passengers as the basis for initiating an investigative stop. Racial profiling is a crime of the third degree. 2. This act shall take effect immediately."
The diocese passed a resolution decrying racial profiling at the 2001 Diocesan Convention.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Resolution 4
The Equal Protection Voting Rights Act of 2001
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese
of Newark endorses the Equal Protection Voting Rights Act of 2001 –
a bill HR 1170 introduced by Congressman John Conyers (H.R.1170) and
Senators Christopher Dodd and Tom Daschle (S 565); and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention be requested to communicate the support of this bill to New Jersey's United States Senators and members of the House of Representatives.
Submitted by: the Mission to Dismantle Racism (Mr. Bert Jones, Christ Church, East Orange, chair); the Union of Black Episcopalians; the Lay Leadership Initiative
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The Presidential elections of 2000 proved disastrous for a great deal of Americans, who had their votes discarded for various reasons. This disenfranchisement was very evident and clear in predominantly poor neighborhoods. These voters were faced with insurmountable odds such as: outdated machines, improper instruction, and voter's intimidation to name a few.
This new legislation will correct and prevent violations of the constitutional right of all Americans not only to vote, but also to have that vote counted fairly. The bill would establish a commission of election reform experts; immediately provide a matching grant program for states to upgrade their technology, improve voter education, and increase access to the polls; and set fully-funded uniform and nondiscriminatory national standards for election technology, provisional voting, and sample ballots.
S. 565 would establish the Commission on Voting Rights and Procedures to study voting rights and procedures and would require states to meet uniform election standards before the 2004 elections. The bill would require the Commission to study voter registration and election technology including ballot design and uniformity; ballot and polling place access; voting systems capacity and election administration efficiency; voter registration and maintenance of voter rolls; and the accuracy of voting election procedures and election technology. Also Members would study the possibility of making Election Day a state or Federal holiday. The Commission would report to the President and Congress within a year and would include recommendations for best practices in voting, how to best allocate Federal money to state and local authorities to improve administration of Federal elections, how to get all legal voters to participate and how to improve election personnel. S. 565 would create minimum uniform requirements for Federal elections and would establish a grant program for election technology and administration improvements.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Resolution 5
Episcopal Relief and Development Sunday
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark affirms Bishop Croneberger's designation of the fourth Sunday of Lent, March 10, 2002 as a day for our diocese to lift up Episcopal Relief and Development in prayer and in stewardship, and encourages every congregation to distribute educational materials concerning Episcopal Relief and Development and to remember the fund in prayer and financial support on that Sunday.
Submitted by: The Rev. John F. Stanton, Vicar, St. Matthew's Church, Paramus, ERD Co-Coordinator, Diocese of Newark
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
In 1940, the General Convention of the Episcopal Church established
The Presiding Bishop's Fund for World Relief. The organization's initial
mission was to assist refugees fleeing the war in Europe. This mission
soon expanded to address human needs throughout the world. The fund's
name was changed to Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) at the General
Convention in 2000 to reflect the growing focus on proactive development
projects and to identify the agency with the Episcopal Church.
Over 40,000 individual Episcopalians contribute directly to ERD each
year through donations or bequests. Many Episcopalians also contribute
to ERD through their local parishes and dioceses.
ERD provides emergency assistance and ongoing rehabilitation support
to people affected by natural disasters, war, and civil strife and provides
funds for development projects around the world. Recent funding includes
financial assistance to victims and their families, to Seamen's Church
Institute and to affected dioceses in the wake of the September 11 terrorist
attack on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon
Emergency relief grants are made immediately when natural disasters
occur, such as hurricanes, floods, droughts, fires and famines or man-made
disasters such as wars, civil unrest and terrorist attacks. ERD provides
grants for proactive development projects that focus on improving conditions,
solving problems and addressing the root causes of human suffering,
such as malnutrition, poverty, homelessness, ill-health and illiteracy.
Development grants support projects such as job training, small-scale
credit programs, adult literacy, health care clinics, disease prevention
and education, and food banks. In 2000, development grants of more than
$6 million went to projects around the world.
Resolution 6 (revised and adopted)
Urban Mission
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark gratefully commends the bishop for the good progress in developing the urban ministry of this Diocese and urges him to convene a task force to propose further and specific elements of a continuing urban and suburban strategy for the diocese of Newark drawing on the findings reported in Staying in the City: A Report of the Urban Hearings from November 3rd/4th and 5th.
Submitted by: The Rev. Geoff Curtiss, All Saints' Parish, Hoboken; The Rev. Canon Elizabeth Kaeton; The Women's Commission
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
All the sociological data indicates how the Episcopal Diocese of Newark is increasingly divided geographically between the haves and the have nots. Since 1970 the census data points to the suburbanization of Northern New Jersey and the crisis created for our urban centers as a result. Hudson, now Essex along with parts of Bergen and Passaic counties are under a direct assault as economic resources are deployed to the enhance the sprawl into the western and central parts of our State. This is a spiritual issue of great magnitude the growing separation and divide between the rich and the poor. Is the Episcopal Diocese of Newark going to abandon the poor and move with the middle and upper classes into only suburban stations for ministry and mission or is the Episcopal Diocese of Newark going to share equitably its financial and human resources to overcome the socio-political forces that are dividing our state? About half of the human population of our Diocese reside in communities bounded to the west by the Garden State Parkway and to the north by Route 80 but only 30 of the 120 mission stations are located in these communities and most of them are at a subsistence level struggling for survival. It takes about twice the human resources as well as the financial resources to operate a congregation within this area than in a suburban or rural community. To achieve the same pledged income will take twice the number of units because of t he inequity in income stratification between suburban and urban communities. Are we willing to build an urban strategy that will decide if we as a Diocese are going to put some of our collective resources not only into maintaining ministry in the city but reaching out to the human need of the city as a mission field?
[The report, Staying in the City: A Report of the Urban Hearings, can be found on the diocesan web site; www.dioceseofnewark.org/cityrpt.htm]
CONSENT CALENDAR
Resolution 7
Domestic Violence Prevention Training
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark requests that the Committee on Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Child Abuse Awareness Training of the Diocese of Newark provide effective tools, training and information during the year of 2002 so that clergy and congregations can more effectively respond to incidences of Domestic Violence in their congregations.
Submitted by: The Committee on Sexual Misconduct Prevention
and Child Abuse Awareness
Training, The Rev. Margaret A. Gat, Chairperson
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
Every 15 seconds someone is the victim of Domestic Violence. About 1/3 of all women in the United States have experienced some form of violence in the home. Domestic Violence is the leading cause for women to seek care in Emergency Rooms. Since September 11th there has been a sharp increase in reported incidents of Domestic Violence in this country. Domestic Violence is in our congregations.
Resolution 8 Adopted
Bethsaida Team Project Compliance with ADA
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark asks all congregations and organizations in the diocese to review their facilities to determine if they are in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act; and, if not, to develop a plan of commitment and compliance that will lead to full program and facilities accessibility by 2006; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Bethsaida Team monitor this project, provide instructional materials and educational opportunities to congregations, assist with program and facility assessment, collaborate with the Diocesan Director of Development in seeking sources of funding for these projects, communicate regularly with the Diocesan Council, and report its findings annually to Diocesan Conventions through 2007.
Submitted by: The Bethsaida Team (co-chaired by Jan Hardy, St. George's, Maplewood and The Rev. Canon Elizabeth Kaeton), The Oasis, the Commission on Christian Education, The Women's Commission, The Mission to Dismantle Racism.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
General Convention, 1985 adopted Resolution A-106a, that established a national Task Force on Accessibility. This prompted the 112th Convention the Episcopal Diocese of Newark (1986) to pass Resolution XI to establish an Accessibility Task Force, "which shall be available to assist local congregations to develop facilities and programs accessible to all persons with disabilities," and to "work in conjunction with the Task Force on Accessibility of the National Church and shall report its activities to the 113th Convention of this diocese." This was referred to Church Structures Committee of Diocesan Council. (General Convention Deputies: Robert Maitland, Dillard Robinson, John Rollins, F. Sanford Cutler, Marjorie Christie, E. Joseph Piel, Audrey M. King and Joseph Leidy.)
The churches of this diocese, assisted by the Diocesan Council, have had 15 years to examine their facilities and make them fully accessible to people with disabilities. Many have. Most have not. This resolution suggests, with understanding and respect for the financial constraints facing many communities of faith but with growing frustration and impatience of many disabled people, that churches need to focus their efforts over the next five years in order to make good the intentions set forth by this church 15 years ago. In this way, the next generation of people with disabilities may be able to rejoice, to proclaim with integrity, "The Episcopal Church Welcomes You."
Members of the Bethsaida Team Project are available to visit churches, raise congregational awareness and provide on-site assessments of their facilities in order that they may be accessible to persons with disabilities. The Bishop Anand Resource Center has a resource lending library available that people may gain more information on this issue. The Episcopal Disability Network (www.edn4ministry.org) has many resources available, including the helpful publication, "More Than Fifty Ways to Make Your Parish Accessible with Little or No Cost Involved." Finally, Bill Gaventa of the Boggs Center, Robert Woods Johnson Hospital, is an indefatigable resource for congregations wishing to seriously address accessibility issues.
Resolution 9 Adopted
Human Sexuality Education for Diocesan Youth and Young Adults
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark commends the collaborative effort of the Commission on Christian Education, the Youth Commission and The Oasis to promote human sexuality education to our youth and young adults which is based on principles of moral decision-making, and on the values of self worth, sexual health, responsibility and justice; and, asks that these bodies report their progress to the 129th Convention.
Submitted by: The Oasis (The Rev. Canon Elizabeth Kaeton, Missioner), The Commission on Christian Education, The Youth Commission, The Women's Commission, the OWL (Our Whole Lives) Trained facilitators: Jeffrey Alexis, Kitty Costello, Mary Jane Herron, Elizabeth Kaeton, Bonnie Magnuson, Sarah Sterling-Laldee, Richard Williams, Richard Bardusch, Charelle Hanley, Val Hoskins, Dana Longstreet, Pam Malone, Kevin Thomas.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The following is a description of the Program Values of the Our Whole Lives Curriculum.
SELF WORTH: Every person is entitled to dignity and self-worth and to his/her own attitudes and beliefs about sexuality.
SEXUAL HEALTH:
1. Knowledge about human sexuality is helpful, not harmful. Every individual
has the right to accurate information about sexuality
and to have her/his questions answered.
2. Healthy sexual relationships are:
a. Consensual (both people consent)
b. Non-exploitative (equal in terms of power,
neither person pressures or forces the other into activities/behaviors.)
c. Mutually pleasurable (both receive pleasure).
d. Safe (no or low risk of unintended pregnancy,
sexually transmitted diseases and emotional pain).
e. Developmentally appropriate (appropriate
to the age and maturity of persons involved).
f. Based on mutual expectations and caring.
g. Respectful (including the values of honesty
and keeping commitments made to others).
3. Sexual intercourse is only one of the many valid ways of expressing
sexual feelings with a partner. It is healthier for young
adolescents to postpone sexual intercourse.
RESPONSIBILITY:
4. We are called to enrich our lives by expressing sexuality in ways
that enhance human wholeness and fulfillment and that express
love, commitment, delight and pleasure.
5. All persons have the right and obligation to make responsible sexual
choices.
JUSTICE:
6. We need to avoid double standards. People of all ages, races, genders,
backgrounds, income levels, physical and mental
abilities and sexual orientations must have equal value and rights.
7. Sexual relationships should never be coercive or exploitive.
8. Being romantically and sexually attracted to two genders (bisexual),
the same gender (homosexual) or another gender (heterosexual)
are all natural in the range of human sexual experience.
Resolution 10 Adopted
Deployment Strategy of Justice
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark urges the bishop to appoint a Task Force on the Development of a Diocesan Deployment Strategy of Justice for Minorities, giving consideration to race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexuality and physical ability; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Task Force report its findings to the 129th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this Convention urges all congregations
and related organizations to commit themselves to unbiased employment
practices, and to state their commitment publicly in congregational
profiles and advertising related to employment opportunities.
Submitted by: The Oasis (The Rev. Canon Elizabeth Kaeton, Missioner),
The Women's Commission, The Commission on Christian Education, The Mission
to Dismantle Racism.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
There is documented evidence that clergy who are women, people of color, gay, lesbian or bisexual, or "of a certain age" are either unemployed or underemployed. The only way to handle deployment bias based on gender, age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and physical ability is to address it directly with a strategy to encourage congregations to consider clergy in these categories as their rector or vicar. Insofar as we are able to tell, no such model of deployment process with a justice strategy is available for us to emulate.
Resolution 11 adopted
Mobilization Against Poverty
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Diocese of Newark endorses the decision of the New Jersey Council of Churches to be a pilot state in the National Council of Churches Mobilization Against Poverty; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That diocesan members join the effort to address the high incidence of poverty in the State of New Jersey by becoming better informed about poverty in their particular communities, attending hearings as they are held in locations across the diocese and by responding to legislative alerts.
Submitted by: Marge Christie, Christ Church, Ridgewood;
and Martha Gardner, St. George's Church, Maplewood
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The NJCC is currently sponsoring hearings in collaboration
with the Anti-Poverty Network of New Jersey (hearings have been held
in Union, Mercer and Essex County so far), and learnings from a conference
in Trenton in early December will be available for Diocesan Convention
Deputies at the pre-convention meetings.
According to certain criteria, New Jersey is considered to be one of
the wealthiest states of the nation, yet other criteria show it to be
one of the poorest. For example, NJ is one of the most expensive states
to live in, resulting in folks spending too high a percentage of their
income on rent (and also resulting in a high level of homelessness);
and NJ ranks #49 out of 50 in the provision of school breakfast programs.
Some of our cities are considered the poorest in the nation. The gap
between the wealthiest and poorest of our state is growing every day.
The year 2002 offers many challenges and opportunities for us to assist those who are suffering the most. We have a new governor and a new legislature, yet are facing a large state budget deficit. On the national level, the re-authorization of welfare reform will take place. It is important that we be part of this discussion and let our policymakers know where we stand on these issues. Although many folks have successfully moved off welfare in the last few years, most of them have not moved out of poverty.
In New Jersey we have the unique opportunity to work with two initiatives. The New Jersey Council of Churches is the first Council to sign on as a pilot state with the National Council of Churches' decade-long Mobilization to Overcome Poverty. As part of this effort, on Sunday, January 27, 2002 from 4 to 6 p.m. at St. Luke's, Montclair, there will be a northern New Jersey training session for anyone interested in doing congressional advocacy on these issues. Also, we have met with the dean of Drew Seminary and are planning a symposium in 2002 about how to think and talk about these issues theologically.
In addition, the Jubilee Officer, in her capacity as director
of the Episcopal Public Policy Network of New Jersey, is active in the
2 year old Anti-Poverty Network of New Jersey. This network, consisting
of grass-roots organizations, faith-based groups, people living in poverty,
advocacy
organizations, labor unions, etc., meets regularly to share reports
about poverty and about actions and developments that will have a significant
effect on poverty and low-income people.
We encourage the individuals and congregations of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark to avail yourselves of the opportunities to become better educated about poverty in New Jersey, an all-encompassing problem that must be addressed in an all-embracing way, and make your voices heard.
Resolution 12 adopted
Public School Education
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark urges all congregations to work with governmental and civic institutions to strengthen and encourage creative initiatives in the public school system such as congregations adopting and mentoring neighboring schools; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this Convention expresses its concern for the quality of education in the public school systems of the State of New Jersey and registers its opposition to school voucher programs which bolster private schools rather than strengthen public schools; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Commission on Christian Education form a Committee on Education in Public Schools to encourage congregations in their efforts to support neighboring public schools and inform congregations of opportunities to be advocates for public education; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this committee report its efforts and actions to the 129th Convention; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention forward copies of this resolution to the Governor, the leaders of the State Senate and Assembly and the New Jersey Department of Education.
Submitted by: Marge Christie, Christ Church, Ridgewood, for the General Convention Deputies
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
This is a concern of the 2000 (Denver) General Convention.
Resolution 13
In Support of a Death Penalty Moratorium in New Jersey
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal
Diocese of Newark calls for a moratorium on the application of the death
penalty in New Jersey so that the state legislature may study issues
regarding capital punishment; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Convention urges the Legislature to study
alternative methods for the punishment and/or treatment of violent criminals
and explore a range of methods to reduce problems of violence in society;
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention advise the Governor's office and leaders of the State Senate and Assembly of the Episcopal Church's longstanding opposition to capital punishment and urge the passage of legislation that will suspend executions; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention advise the Governor of New Jersey that this Convention urges him to declare an immediate moratorium on executions pending action on the above-described legislative action.
Submitted by: Janet Beddoe and The Rev. Fletcher Harper, St. Luke's Church, Haworth
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
New Jersey re-enacted the death penalty in 1982. People as young as 18 are eligible for death sentences and mentally ill or mentally retarded people are not exempt.
Sixteen people currently await execution on New Jersey's Death Row. Three of the 16 have exhausted their state appeals and estimates as to when the first execution will take place range from 12 to 18 months, or some time in late 2002 or early 2003. Since bills before the legislature can take months, sometimes years, to pass, work on the moratorium effort now is critical to ensure that the first execution in New Jersey since re-enactment of the law does not take place. Many people believe that a virtual moratorium exists in this state and do not appreciate the urgency of the situation.
With recent efforts to speed up the time from conviction to execution, the risk that an innocent person will some day be executed in New Jersey is real. Innocent persons have been convicted of murder and rape in New Jersey and spent years in prison before being exonerated.
Although better than many states, New Jerseys death penalty system is still flawed due to factors such as inadequate resources available for capital case defendants and the geographic location, social class and race of defendant and victim.
New Jersey has issued 59 death sentences since 1982. Forty-two were reversed or downgraded, giving the state a 70 percent reversal rate, higher than the national rate.
New Jerseyans for a Death Penalty Moratorium (NJDPM), the lead group in the state supporting the moratorium campaign, is able to provide consultation and speakers to congregations wishing to contact local representatives or educate parishioners on this issue. They may be reached through www.njmoratorium.org.
Resolution 14 Adopted
Supporting "Justice for Janitors" Organizing Campaign
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark endorses the "Justice for Janitors" Campaign organized by Service Employees International Union Local 32BJ, a campaign to provide a living wage, health benefits and full-time working hours to janitors in northern New Jersey; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention communicate this resolution to the leadership of SEIU Local 32BJ.
Submitted by: The Rev. Fletcher Harper, St. Luke's Church, Haworth; The Rev. Canon Elizabeth Kaeton, The Oasis, Newark; The Rev. David Wolf, St. Paul's, Paterson; The Rev. William Parnell, Christ Church, Hackensack.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
Over 10,000 men and women work as janitors in northern New Jersey office buildings, maintaining the work space of many of the wealthiest firms in the world. Office space and occupancy is expanding in this region of the state, given its proximity to New York City and its perceived safety in the wake of September 11.
In New York, most janitors are union members who earn a living wage and receive health benefits. This is not the case in New Jersey where most janitors are paid less than $7/hour, receive no health benefits, and have been fired or had their jobs threatened for speaking to union organizers.
"Justice for Janitors" is a union organizing campaign aimed at gaining janitors a living wage, health benefits and full-time work hours. SEIU Local 32BJ is organizing similar efforts in Fairfield County, Connecticut and Westchester County, New York. Success in northern New Jersey would add important momentum to efforts in these and other locations.
Justice for Janitors is an historic effort by building cleaners to lift their families out of poverty and achieve the American Dream. Justice for Janitors is a national organizing campaign of SEIU. SEIU Local 32BJ represents 70,000 building service workers in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut and affiliated with SEIU which represents 1.4 million workers nationwide, including 185,000 janitors. Last year, 12,000 janitors nationwide joined SEIU, including nearly 2,000 in New York and 2,000 in Connecticut.
Office cleaners who work in Northern New Jersey are some of the poorest paid janitors in the United States. Many earn only $5.25 to $6.50 per hour and have no health insurance. Most janitors in nearby Manhattan earn living wages and receive family health care benefits and pensions.
Thousands of janitors throughout northern New Jersey are organizing now to win better wages, benefits and respect on the job. In May 2001, more than 300 janitors at buildings in Hudson, Essex and Morris counties went on strike to protest unfair treatment and violations of their right to organize, and workers at many other buildings honored their picket lines. The struggle is expected to continue through 2002.
Additional information about "Justice for Janitors" may be found at www.justiceforjanitors.org.
Resolution
15A - ORIGINAL VERSION - defeated
In Support of War
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention
of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark holds the September 11 attacks on
New York and Washington to be attacks on the United States of America
and believes them to constitute acts of war; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That we thereby find the use of force and arms in the defense
of the our nation and innocent victims theologically to be fully justified
and we therefore support the government of the United States in the
employment of such force and arms.
Submitted by: The Rev. William R. Coats, St. Clement's Church, Hawthorne; The Rev. William Gannon, St. Andrew's Church, Harrington Park
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
Holy Scripture portrays the establishment of the state and the legal government of states (Romans 13) as gifts of God to God's people for their common good and order, their material enhancement and the protection of their Worship of God and a direct attack on the state thereby threatens the good purposes of God for human order and proper worship.
Resolution 15B adopted as amended
September 11th
(This resolution was amended by the Resolutions Committee without the
consent of the original mover. The original version was numbered 15A
and is titled "In Support of War.")
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal
Diocese of Newark condemns the terrorist acts of September 11, 2001,
which resulted in the destruction of the World Trade Center in New York
City, damage to the Pentagon in our nation's capital, the annihilation
of passengers of four commercial aircraft, and untold suffering and
loss of life and livelihood; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this Convention shares in mourning the losses suffered
by so many communities and congregations in this Diocese; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That this Convention expresses its gratitude to all involved in the succeeding rescue and recovery efforts, and to those in our armed forces and law enforcement agencies who seek to defend our people; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this Convention commends to all members of this Diocese a discipline of daily prayer for peace, for ourselves and for our enemies, for the collaborative efforts of nations to eradicate terrorism, and for all who suffer from oppression, violence and war; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this Convention commends to all members of this Diocese a discipline of daily prayer for peace, for ourselves and for our enemies, for the collaborative efforts of nations to eradicate terrorism, and for all who suffer from oppression, violence and war.
RESOLVED, That this Convention encourages all of our congregations to:
1. Identify within our local communities those men and
women now serving in the armed forces, and to develop concrete ways
to minister to their needs and the needs of their families;
2. Continue working with the Islamic center of Passaic County and other
faith groups in encouraging Muslin, Christian and Jewish dialogue.
3. Provide our resources to Episcopal Relief and Development to assist
those now suffering from poverty and violence in the Middle East, especially
Afghanistan.
4. Through the diocesan task force on Immigrants and Refugees work diligently
to defend and protect the human rights of Middle
Eastern Americans and immigrants, especially those now being held in
New Jersey jails and detention centers.
5. Engage in community dialogue regarding American foreign policy in
the Middle East, especially towards Israelis and Palestinians.
Resolution 16 adopted
Youth Ministries Support
(This resolution was amended by the Resolutions Committee without the
consent of the original mover. The original version follows and is also
titled "Youth Ministries Support.")
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark commends to the districts and congregations that an effective and well implemented youth ministry is a vital element of any successful Christian community; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this Convention requests that representatives from the Youth Ministries Board and Cross Roads Outdoor Ministry meet with clergy, youth leaders and young persons twice in each district of the diocese during the year 2002 for the purpose of discussing ways to both create and/or strengthen youth ministries in and among congregations and at the district level.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The Graduate Center of City University of New York (CUNY) recently completed a survey of 50,000 adults called the American Religious Identification Survey (ARIS). Their findings are consistent with other surveys. Namely, the Episcopal Church, along with most mainline churches, continues to lose members. Moreover, the survey also found that the average age of the membership of mainline churches continues to rise. Ironically, our greatest loss of membership is among our own children. At each milestone in life (Confirmation, Graduation, etc.) we loose more than half of those children who are still active in the church. They drop out because there is nothing for them. Although some return to the church when they marry and have children of their own, it is an increasingly smaller number. If the church is to survive it must reverse this trend.
Resolution 16 - ORIGINAL
VERSION
Youth Ministries Support
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark commends all clergy to meet twice at the district level during the year 2002 for the purpose of discussing ways to both create and/or strengthen youth ministries in their respective district and parishes; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Convention commends to the districts, parishes, and missions that an effective and well implemented youth ministry is a vital element of any successful Christian community.
Submitted by: The Youth Ministries Board; The Rev. Rich Bardusch, Youth Ministries Director
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The Graduate Center of City University of New York (CUNY) recently completed a survey of 50,000 adults called the American Religious Identification Survey (ARIS). Their findings are consistent with other surveys. Namely, the Episcopal Church, along with most mainline churches, continues to loose members. Moreover, the survey also found that the average age of the membership of mainline churches continues to rise. Ironically, our greatest loss of membership is among our own children. At each milestone in life (Confirmation, Graduation, etc.) we loose more than half of those children who are still active in the church. They drop out because there is nothing for them. Although some return to the church when they marry and have children of their own, it is an increasingly smaller number. If the church is to survive it must reverse this trend.
Resolution 17 Adopted
Covenant of Sustainability
Note: This resolution originally appeared in the Appendix of Proposed Resolutions.
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark endorses the State of New Jersey's goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 3.5 per cent below 1990 baseline levels by 2005; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Diocese and all congregations of the Diocese be urged to join in the Covenant of Sustainability with the State of New Jersey as a pledge to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 3.5 per cent below 1990 baseline levels by 2005; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention advise the Office of the Governor of the State of New Jersey and the Commissioner of the Environment Protection Agency of this resolution.
Submitted by: the Diocesan Environmental Commission (Don
Roberts and the Rev. Mark Lewis, Our Saviour, Secaucus; The Rev. Ed
Hasse, St. Paul's, Montvale; and the Rev. Fletcher Harper, St. Luke's,
Haworth
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The energy issue dominates the environmental agenda with local, regional and global impacts. From the broader perspective of long-term sustainability, energy lies at the heart of the global warming crisis.
Our own state has taken the initiative by setting a reduction goal for New Jersey greenhouse gas emissions of 3.5% below 1990 levels by the year 2005. One strategy to achieve this goal includes the State partnering with various sectors of society in "Covenant Agreements". "Partners for Environmental Quality" (PEQ), a not-for-profit faith coalition, is coordinating the program for all New Jersey congregations to sign the Covenant Agreement and pledge to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to help the state meet its goal.
After the Covenant is signed, PEQ will work with congregations to inventory sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Next PEQ will provide an action plan that will not only help reduce a congregation's greenhouse gas emissions, but will also help to reduce electricity usage, and reduce costs through efficiency and conservation measures. More than 80% of New Jersey's GHGs are from CO2, which is the result of the combustion of fossil fuels for heating, electrical generation and use, and transportation. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Sustainability - Greenhouse Gas Action Plan identifies specific measures and actions that can help achieve this goal, including, but not limited to:
• Increasing the rate of lighting upgrades
• Increasing the rate of heating/cooling and distribution of system
tune up/maintenance to reduce both the electric requirement
and the non-electric fuel use
• Increasing building efficiency through upgrade use of newer energy
building codes and Energy Star Building programs
• Increasing the use of higher efficiency HVAC equipment including
geothermal systems and microturbines
• Increasing use of combined heat and power system and more efficient
use of waste heat
• Increasing use of renewable energy systems including photovoltaics
and fuel cells
• Increasing the rate of office equipment upgrade to Energy Star
level
Long term operating costs can be lowered by including
energy efficiency measures for heating, cooling, ventilation and other
electric uses and by including renewable energy technologies.
The capital cost of these high energy efficiency and renewable energy
technologies may be higher than standard HVAC equipment and this incremental
capital cost increase may in part be subsidized through the utilities'
funding for energy efficiency and Class I renewable energy program established
by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities in consultation with the
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
Internet links for further information may be found by clicking to "Annual Convention" then "Resolutions Proposed" on the Diocese's web page at www.dioceseofnewark.org.
On the Web
New Jersey - Global Climate Change and Greenhouse Gases (http://www.state.nj.us/dep/dsr/gcc/gcc.html)
Covenant of Sustainability - New Jersey Green House Gas Initiative (http://www.state.nj.us/dep/dsr/gcc/gcc-covenant.htm)
Energy Interfaith Alliance - Sustainability Covenant (http://www.peqnj.org/iea2.htm)
APPENDIX: RESOLUTIONS REMOVED BY THE RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE
The Rules of Order give the Resolutions Committee the authority, by a two-thirds vote, to determine not to offer any proposed resolution on the floor of the Convention. The resolutions listed in this appendix were removed by the Committee. These resolutions may be permitted on the floor of Convention by a majority vote of all Convention Deputies.
Green Buildings
Energy Star Congregations
Energy Efficient Rebates
Sustainable Coffee
Each of these resolutions was moved by the Diocesan Environmental Commission.
The Resolutions Committee feels that these issues are matters of education
rather than legislation. The Environmental Commission has the opportunity
to present a report to the Diocesan Convention. It also has the opportunity
to offer a workshop at the Convention where each of these issues can
be given more thorough attention. We respectfully suggest that these
are more appropriate avenues for bringing these issues to the attention
of the Diocese.
Pledge of Nonviolence and the Birmingham Pledge
These statements were adopted last year at the 127th Convention. The
(Denver 2000) General Convention Deputies have the opportunity to make
these statements available to the Convention once again for signature.
The Resolutions Committee does not see a need, however, for this Convention
to reaffirm a Resolution adopted only last year.
Maternity/Paternity Leave Policy
The Diocese of Newark's Commission on Clergy Compensation is charged
to bring a report before the Convention each year, and the Resolutions
Committee refers this matter to them for consideration. Matters of clergy
compensation and benefits are more appropriately addressed by that body,
which may then present its findings to the Convention for action.
The Reverend William C. Parnell
Chair, Resolutions Committee
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese
of Newark urges that congregations undergoing new construction or major
reconstruction consult a LEED certified architect and carry out building
programs using LEED certification for environmental health and efficient
operation of congregational facilities; and be it further
RESOLVED, That environmental performance be considered in review of applications to the diocese for grants and loans for building purposes.
Submitted by: the Diocesan Environmental Commission (Don Roberts and the Rev. Mark Lewis, Our Saviour, Secaucus; The Rev. Ed Hasse, St. Paul's, Montvale; and the Rev. Fletcher Harper, St. Luke's, Haworth.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
LEED is a self-assessing rating system designed for new
and existing commercial, institutional, and high-rise residential buildings.
It evaluates environmental performance from a "whole building"
perspective over a building's life cycle, providing a definitive standard
for what constitutes a green building. LEED is based on accepted energy
and environmental principles and strikes a balance between known effective
practices and emerging concepts
.
Certification is provided by the U.S. Green Building Council, the nation's
foremost coalition of leaders from across the building industry working
to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable,
and healthy places to live and work.
Certification considers a building's relationship to its community,
involving among other things, efficient utilization of energy, use of
recycled and recyclable materials, use of healthy and non-polluting
materials, efficient landscaping, and its location within its natural
and social environment.
Internet links for further information may be found by clicking to "Annual
Convention" then "Resolutions Proposed" on the Diocese's
web page at www.dioceseofnewark.org
Green Building Standards on the web:
US Green Building Council -- LEED (http://www.usgbc.org)
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Network (http://www.eren.doe.gov/)
EREN - Building (http://www.eren.doe.gov/buildings/)
EREN - Building - building topics (http://www.eren.doe.gov/EE/buildings.html)
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark urges congregations to join the Energy Star for Congregations program sponsored by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Submitted by: the Diocesan Environmental Commission (Don Roberts and the Rev. Mark Lewis, Our Saviour, Secaucus; The Rev. Ed Hasse, St. Paul's, Montvale; and the Rev. Fletcher Harper, St. Luke's, Haworth.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
ENERGY STAR assists congregations in their stewardship
of natural resources, as well as their operating budget. The ENERGY
STAR label stands for superior energy performance, a commitment that
also helps prevent air pollution, while lowering energy costs.
With so many pressing and legitimate demands on your congregation's
financial resources, does it make sense to pay higher energy bills?
Of course not--nor does it make sense environmentally. Ineffective energy
use also wastes the earth's precious natural resources and causes pollution.
With no-cost technical support from EPA's voluntary ENERGY STAR for
congregations service, you can reduce your operating costs, while helping
protect the environment. Congregations that practice environmental stewardship
can expect to save an average of 20 - 30% on their utility bills. The
program focuses on use of ENERGY STAR rated products as well as providing
other sound information on reduction of energy use.
ENERGY STAR congregations are eligible for no-cost services, regular
e-mails, efficiency awards, and a link from the EPA web site. ENERGY
STAR Congregations receive
* Toll-free helpline (1-888-STAR YES) to answer questions and provide
coaching.
* Award-winning Web site with its growing finance directory.
* Online library of success stories and calculation tools.
* One hundred page guidebook, Putting Energy into Congregations; other
publications; and software.
* National awards program publicizing outstanding success stories.
Internet links for further information may be found by clicking to "Annual
Convention" then "Resolutions Proposed" on the Diocese's
web page at www.dioceseofnewark.org.
Energy Star on the web
Energy Star for Congregations (http://www.epa.gov/congregations/)
Putting Energy into Stewardship - Energy Star for Congregations - PDF
(http://www.epa.gov/smallbiz/doc/congregations.pdf)
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark endorses programs of environmental and financial stewardship; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That congregations be urged to participate in the Smart Start Buildings rebate program available through their local New Jersey utility in order to receive rebates of up to 75 percent of the cost difference between standard and energy efficient equipment, and to reduce long term costs of lighting, heating and cooling; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That congregations be urged to participate, where possible, in the New Jersey Clean Energy Program available through their local New Jersey utility in order to receive technical assistance and financial incentives of up to 60 percent of the cost of clean energy generation systems; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That all requests to the Diocese for grants and loans for building purposes be reviewed for applicability for rebates under the Smart Start Buildings program and the New Jersey Clean Energy Program.
Submitted by: the Diocesan Environmental Commission (Don Roberts and the Rev. Mark Lewis, Our Saviour, Secaucus; The Rev. Ed Hasse, St. Paul's, Montvale; and the Rev. Fletcher Harper, St. Luke's, Haworth
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
Smart Start Buildings rebates are available for new construction and
replacement projects. Financial incentives and technical support is
available through your local utility for New Jersey Smart Start Buildings
program. These incentives were developed to help offset some, if not
all, of the added cost to purchase qualifying energy-efficient equipment,
which provides significant long-term energy savings. A wide range of
incentives is available for qualifying equipment (depending on type,
size and efficiency).
New Jersey Smart Start Buildings can help you explore design and equipment options by providing no-cost technical assistance for projects under 50,000 sq.ft. of conditioned space. This assistance may include: * Plan review and analysis of energy-efficiency options * Walk-through audit of current facility * Consultation on selecting and specifying energy-efficiency measures * Basic design assistance (small new construction and/or remodeling) * Basic measure/system/project analysis and recommendations * Assistance with incentive applications and program compliance. Up to eight hours of technical assistance per project is available.
The New Jersey Clean Energy Program offers support for installation of renewable, clean energy generation technologies and systems. To assist in startup, the program includes financial incentives (up to 60 per cent of cost) to owners who install qualified clean energy generation systems in New Jersey. These systems will enable owners to generate their own electricity (reducing utility costs) while helping protect the environment and reducing strain on the grid (existing electric transmission and distribution systems).
The program supports a variety of technologies, such as fuel cells, photovoltaics (solar electricity), small wind, and sustainable biomass equipment. Once you enroll, you will receive a range of information to guide you in becoming more energy-efficient and more self-sufficient. You'll learn technology basics, what costs to expect, what benefits you'll enjoy and how to make informed purchases.
Internet links for further information may be found by clicking to "Annual Convention" then "Resolutions Proposed" on the Diocese's web page at www.dioceseofnewark.org
New Jersey Green Building Programs on the web
New Jersey Smart Start Buildings (http://www.njsmartbuildings.com/)
Clean Energy for New Jersey (http://www.njcleanenergy.com/)
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark urges all coffee drinkers in the Diocese to buy and consume sustainable coffee, marketed as Fair Trade and Shade Grown Coffee; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Diocese and all congregations of the Diocese serve sustainable coffee at all functions at which coffee is provided; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That Convention reaffirms the Resolution of the 115th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark which urged the congregations and the Diocese to cease using styrofoam cups and/or plates at church functions; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That information about the economic and ecological significance of the purchase of sustainable coffee be placed on the Diocesan web site and be disseminated to all congregations.
Submitted by: the Diocesan Environmental Commission (Don Roberts and the Rev. Mark Lewis, Our Saviour, Secaucus; The Rev. Ed Hasse, St. Paul's, Montvale; and the Rev. Fletcher Harper, St. Luke's, Haworth
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The mission of the Environmental Commission is to foster sound environmental practices which promote Christian stewardship of God's creation. The purchase and consumption of sustainable coffee and cessation of the use of styrofoam products are initiatives which serve this purpose.
Sustainable coffee is coffee grown by small land holders under natural canopy which provides its own natural fertilizer (leaf litter). The development of sun-tolerant coffee strains has resulted in the clearing of land, the deforestation and degradation of natural habitat, and the use of commercial fertilizers and agricultural chemicals. This loss of natural canopy has created a significant and documented drop in wildlife and migratory song bird populations. By supporting shade tree coffee production, this Resolution seeks to maintain bio-diversity.
Additionally, the ever-expanding growth of sun-tolerant coffee farms has created a world coffee glut and a sharp decline in farmers' earnings. Traditional shade tree coffee growers have been reduced to poverty, forcing them to leave their lands. This resolution supports the Fair Trade coffee movement which, regardless of the volatile market created by sun-tolerant coffee production, seeks to pay such small land holders a fair price for their harvests, providing a living wage and financial independence.
The Environmental Commission will make available information about sources of sustainable coffee.
The following organizations endorse sustainable coffee: American Birding Association, American Friends Service Committee, Atlanta Audubon Society, Conservation International, Consumer Choice Council, Equiterre-A Just Coffee Campaign, Fair Trade Federation, Global Exchange, International Federation for Alternative Trade, Lutheran World Relief, National Arbor Day Foundation, Oxfam America, Seattle Audubon Society, Smithsonian Institution, Songbird Foundation, Rainforest Alliance, TransFair USA.
Internet links for further information may be found by clicking to "Annual Convention" then "Resolutions Proposed" on the Diocese's web page at www.dioceseofnewark.org.
Web Links to Organizations Supporting Sustainable Coffee
American Birding Association
American Friends Service Committee
Atlanta Audubon Society
Conservation International
Consumer Choice Council
Equiterre- A Just Coffee Campaign
Fair Trade Federation
Global Exchange
International Federation for Alternative Trade
Lutheran World Relief
National Arbor Day Foundation
Oxfam America
Seattle Audubon Society
Smithsonian Institution
Songbird Foundation
Rainforest Alliance
TransFair USA
Pledge of Nonviolence and the Birmingham Pledge
RESOLVED, That the members of this 128th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark affirm the resolution passed at the Diocesan Convention last year by individually signing the Pledge of Nonviolence and the Birmingham Pledge; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the members of this Convention make the pledges available for signatures in their individual congregations.
Submitted by: Marge Christie, Christ Church, Ridgewood, for the General Convention Deputies
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The General Convention Deputies brought the two pledges to the Diocesan Convention, but since they were on the consent calendar little or no individual attention was paid to them. The events of September 11 have given us a new understanding of the levels of violence in our world as has some of the ethnic hatred which erupted following that tragic day. Reminding ourselves that "peace must start within ourselves" may help us to retreat from the levels of reciprocal violence to often seen and heard. Both pledges can be found in the 2001 Diocesan Journal on pages 62 & 63.
Maternity/Paternity Leave Policy
RESOLVED, That this 128th Convention of the Diocese of Newark adopts the maternity/paternity leave policy recommended by the General Convention meeting in Denver in the year 2000.
Submitted by: Marge Christie, Christ Church, Ridgewood, for the General Convention Deputies
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The recommended policy is:
• a member of the clergy who has been employed by
the church for one full year and is the designated "primary child-care
parent is entitled to leave for the birth or adoption of a child for
a minimum of eight weeks with pay and up to eight additional weeks may
be taken without pay. The member of the clergy may elect to use vacation
leave or sick leave during this latter period.
• a member of the clergy who has been employed by the church for
one full year and is the non-primary care parent is entitled to leave
for the birth or adoption of a child a minimum of two weeks with pay
an up to ten additional weeks without pay.
• a member of the clergy not employed by the church for one full
year is entitled to the same numbers of weeks leave. Pay during this
period is negotiated between the employer and the member of the clergy.
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