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CONSENT CALENDAR (adopted)
Resolution 2004-1
BLOOD DONATION GUIDELINES
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark
calls upon the United States Food and Drug Administration, the American Red Cross and regional blood centers to
reexamine and rescind the blanket exclusion of homosexual males as blood donors, and to continue effective testing
of all blood donations for the HIV virus as well as other communicable diseases; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention communicate this resolution to the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, the
President of the American Red Cross and the regional blood centers serving the State of New Jersey.
Submitted by Dr. Timothy Eustace, Christ Church, Hackensack; The Rev. William C. Parnell, Christ Church, Hackensack;
Ms. Marjorie Jingo, Christ Church, Hackensack; The Rev. Dr. Allison Moore, Church of the Good Shepherd, Fort Lee;
The Rev. Elizabeth Kaeton, St. Paul's, Chatham.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
FDA guidelines, which are recommendations to regional blood centers, specify that "any man who has had sexual
contact with another man, even once since 1977" should be permanently deferred as a donor of blood as a means
of protecting the blood supply from the HIV virus. All blood donations are tested for HIV, as well as other communicable
and sexually transmitted diseases. Furthermore, HIV infection is not, and never has been, an affliction of any
one group of people. (The fastest growing rate of HIV infection is presently among heterosexual females.) Given
the availability of reliable and affordable tests for HIV, the current policy of targeting "high risk groups"
seems rooted not in legitimate efforts to protect the blood supply, but rather in the perpetuation of stereotypes
and the continuation of discrimination. No one disputes that every effort needs to be made to keep the blood supply
safe through appropriate testing of all blood donations for HIV, hepatitis, and other communicable diseases for
which testing is available. With diseases for which no test is presently available and where transmission through
blood is suspected or proven (such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), the human form of mad cow disease), the
identification and deferral of high-risk donors may well be an appropriate strategy for insuring the safety of
blood donations. With ever-increasing demands on the blood supply, and perennial and often critical shortages of
blood (especially in major metropolitan areas), the permanent deferral of "any man who has had sexual contact
with another man" places an unnecessary limit on the available pool of donors.
CONSENT CALENDAR (adopted)
Resolution 2004-2
MULTI-ETHNIC MINISTRY TOLL FREE NUMBER
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark
show its support of multi-ethnic ministry by establishing a designated toll free telephone number, for at least
one year, offering information about worship and opportunities for ministry in Spanish within the Diocese, and
by advertising that number throughout Northern New Jersey through public service announcements.
Submitted by The Hispanic Ministry Task Force (The Rev. David B. Wolf, St. Paul's, Paterson; Ms. Adriana Clavijo,
St. John's Montclair, co chairs); the Mission to Dismantle Racism
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
To enhance and develop multi-ethnic ministry within the geographic area of this diocese requires a process of reaching
into its various cultural/linguistic communities to increase an awareness of the Episcopal presence. Potentially,
we imagine information about other languages and cultures being made available on the toll free phone number as
well, but we think it advisable to at least start with a toll free number that advertising our Hispanic ministry
opportunities in Spanish (as well as English). To respond to the searching Hispanic/Latino population where they
are suggests the importance of providing information in their dominant language. One of the more efficient and
cost effective ways of doing this is to invite their presence into our faith communities through the use of modern
technology and public service media.
As far as logistics are concerned, we understand the following is required to set up a toll free number via Verizon:
(1) the number must be attached to a business of some kind, profit or not-for-profit (such as a church); (2) A
second line can be installed on an existing account that will take toll free numbers exclusively or an organization
can simply maintain a single line and, if the single line is busy, the toll free caller can be routed to a voice
mail system; (3) Set up cost is approximately $75 with an ongoing cost of $5 per month for service, plus the cost
of each incoming call (We do not have a cost estimate here).
From what we understand we believe the budget impact would range from $1000 to $1500.
CONSENT CALENDAR (adopted)
2004-3Resolution
2004-3
GENERAL SUPPORT FOR THE SEAFARING COMMUNITY & THE ORGANIZATIONS THAT ASSIST MARINERS
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark
commends ministry which provides for the mental, physical and spiritual well-being of the world's seafarers and
promotes community awareness of issues facing seafarers, and calls upon the congregations and the Diocesan Council
of the diocese to:
· Urge public authorities and private facilities to recognize seafarers' need for shore leave and access
to shore-based seafarer welfare and medical care facilities;
· Demand that chaplains be given access to vessels in port,
· Support ministry to seafarers through educational forums, sermons, prayers and services and encourage
volunteer efforts at The Seamen's Church Institute of NY & NJ's ship visiting and hospitality center at Port
Newark.
Submitted by The Rev. Margaret Gat, St. John's, Dover; Ms. Cheryl Brocking, St. Luke's, Montclair; and The Rev.
Dr. Robert Schiesler, St. Luke's, Montclair.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
There are 361 ports in the United States that are an integral part of our nations commerce or United States ports
handle over 95 percent of the United States overseas trade.
Seafarers are essential to our nation's and the world's economy and security and face unique hardships of extended
periods away from home in challenging living situations and long working hours.
The provisions of the Seafarers' Welfare Convention, 1987 has reaffirmed the necessity for providing adequate welfare
facilities and services for seafarers both in port and on board ship for all seafarers, irrespective of nationality,
race, color, sex, religion, political opinion or social origin and irrespective of the State in which the ship
on which they are employed is registered.
SCI and our many volunteers from parishes within the diocese make daily, significant contributions to seafarers'
physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being and also to the fulfillment of the Seafarers' Welfare Convention,
1987.
Recent changes in U.S. visa regulations make it more difficult for seafarers to obtain shore leave.
We are convinced that seafarers need shore leave and access to shore-based seafarer welfare facilities, including
medical care.
CONSENT CALENDAR (adopted)
Resolution 2004-4
RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF UNITED STATES RATIFICATION OF INTERNATIONAL LABOR ORGANIZATION CONVENTION 185, SEAFARERS'
IDENTITY DOCUMENTS CONVENTION (REVISED), 2003.
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark
calls upon the the government of the United States of America to ratify and fully implement the Seafarers' Identity
Documents Convention (Revised) of the International Labor Organization Convention 185, including the acceptance
of Seafarers' Identification Documents as substitutes for crewmember visas for shore leave purposes; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, that the Secretary of Convention convey this resolution to the President of the United States and to
the Senators and representatives in Congress from the State of New Jersey.
Submitted by The Rev. Margaret Gat, St. John's, Dover; Ms. Cheryl Brocking, St. Luke's, Montclair; and The Rev.
Dr. Robert Schiesler, St. Luke's, Montclair.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The provisions of the Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic, 1965, as amended, that has
been ratified by the United States of America, and which has, inter alia, established a right for foreign crew
members to be entitled to shore leave without visas, while their ship on which they arrived is in port, provided
that the formalities on arrival of the ship have been fulfilled and the public authorities have no reason to refuse
permission to come ashore for reasons of public health, public safety or public order.
Seafarers work and live on ships involved in international trade and that have access to shore facilities and shore
leave are vital elements of seafarers general well-being and, therefore to the realization of safer seas and cleaner
oceans.
The International Labor Organization Convention 185, Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention (Revised) will enhance
maritime security by setting international standards for Seafarers' Identification Documents that provides reliable,
positively verifiable and internationally acceptable identification.
Seafarers' Identification Documents offer the best possible balance between legitimate port security requirements
and the need for crews to attend to their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs on shore leave.
The standards for Seafarers Identification Documents enumerated in Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention (Revised)
satisfy the technical requirements of the United States Enhanced Border Security and Visa Reform Entry Act of 2002
(e.g. machine-readable, tamper-proof, digital photograph, biometric indicator) and should therefore be acceptable
by American immigration authorities as a substitute for a visa or the basis for a visa waiver.
International acceptance of the Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention (Revised) depends upon the United States'
ratification and full acceptance of its requirements relating to shore leave visas.
CONSENT CALENDAR (adopted)
Resolution 2004-5
RESPONSE TO THE MURDER OF SAKIA GUNN
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark
commends Mayor Sharpe James of Newark for his proposals in response to the tragic bias death of Sakia Gunn; and,
be it further
RESOLVED, That this Convention urges Mayor James to continue his work to
· establish a community center and counseling program for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-gendered (LGBT)
youth in the city of Newark
· review police protection policies for downtown Newark
· foster dialogue between the city government and the LGBT community and; be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention convey this resolution to Mayor Sharpe James and request a progress
report on these efforts.
Submitted by The Oasis Commission (Mr. John Simonelli, Trinity, Solebury; Ms. Donna Cartwright, Good Shepherd,
Fort Lee; Ms. Nancy Read, St. Peter's, Clifton; Mr. Peter Madison, St. John's, Union City; Mr. Christian Paolino,
Christ, Belleville; The Rev. Mildred J. Solomon; The Rev. Hank Dwyer, St. Peter's, Clifton; Mr. Greg Perez, AIDS
Resource Center, Newark; Dr. Tim Mundy, Grace, Newark) and the Mission to Dismantle Racism (Ms. Kathleen Ballard,
Christ, East Orange; Ms. Marge Christie, Christ, Ridgewood; Dr. Louie Crew, Grace, Newark; The Rev. Jeannette DeFriest,
Messiah, Chester; The Rev. Michael Gerhardt, Christ, Teaneck; Ms. Clara Horsley, Christ, East Orange; The Rev.
Ken Near, St. Paul's, Englewood; Ms. Nesta Stephens, Trinity, Montclair; and The Very Rev. C. David Williams, Trinity
+ St. Philip's Cathedral, Newark)
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
At 3:30 a.m. on the morning of Sunday, May 11, 2003, five young women, ages 15 to 17, were waiting for a bus at
the corner of Market and Broad Streets, Newark, after an evening spent in Greenwich Village. Two men approached
the teenagers who tried to start a conversation with them, but were rebuffed. The teens told the men that they
were lesbians and not interested in their advances. The men got out of their car leading to an argument and an
altercation that left one of the teens, Sakia Gunn, mortally wounded by a knife stab to the chest. She died shortly
after at the hospital. Sakia Gunn was a sophomore at West Side High School.
Based on the statements of the young women, police labeled the attack as a bias crime. New Jersey is one of 29
states with hate crime laws covering sexual orientation.
The Sakia Gunn murder is an apt example of gay bashing and the exercise of a hate crime made egregiously horrific
because of unsympathetic politicians, empty rhetoric, inaccurate reporting by the media, apathy from the wider
gay and lesbian communities, lack of support from the foundations of society - schools, churches, civic groups,
apathy towards this just being one more inner city murder keeping the victim invisible, and unfulfilled promises.
Mayor Sharpe James attended the funeral service and promised to establish a gay and lesbian counseling center,
would review police protection policies for downtown Newark, and announced that administration officials would
meet with the members of the gay and lesbian community to begin the work on the center within a week. To date,
nothing has happened toward fulfilling the promises for a gay and lesbian teen center.
Adopted as amended
Resolution 2004-6
MDR TO LEAD TASK FORCE ON DISCUSSION OF REPARATIONS
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark
urges the bishop to appoint a task force, with representation from the Mission to Dismantle Racism, for study and
diocesan discussion on the theology, history, issues and feasibility of restitution for descendants of Africans who were enslaved
in America for
over a period of
246 years; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the task force will report to Diocesan Convention in 2005.
Submitted by the Mission to Dismantle Racism Commission (Ms. Kathleen Ballard, Christ, East Orange; Ms. Marge Christie,
Christ, Ridgewood; Dr. Louie Crew, Grace, Newark; The Rev. Jeannette DeFriest, Messiah, Chester; The Rev. Michael
Gerhardt, Christ, Teaneck; Ms. Clara Horsley, Christ, East Orange; The Rev. Ken Near, St. Paul's, Englewood; Ms.
Nesta Stephens, Trinity, Montclair; and The Very Rev. C. David Williams, Trinity + St. Philip's Cathedral, Newark)
The Resolutions Committee recommends adoption, pending the open
hearing.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
Institutional and individual racism as we know it in the United States has its roots in the system of slavery.
Knowledge and understanding of the impact of slavery on those who were enslaved, their descendants and our entire
society are essential to our efforts to meet our commitment to become a transformed, anti-racist diocese, church
and society.
The Mission to Dismantle Racism (MDR) Commission believes that to be more effective at our anti-racism work, we
need to do more than complete a mandated series of Anti-Racism Dialogues. MDR is committed to providing a broader
support for diocesan anti-racism efforts, including a willingness to lead the study and discussion of the issues
of reparations and the effect on the social, political and economic life of our nation.
While reconciliation, restitution, and reparations are difficult, complex and painful areas for discussion for
everyone, they are important issues for all of us who are concerned about human rights, equity, anti-racism and
justice. We need to be intentional about creating opportunities to address the issues in settings that allow for
safe, instructional and productive discussion.
In the Episcopal Church and in the Congress of the United States, resolutions, discussions and bills on reparations
for other groups who have been unjustly treated or interned have been able to reach creative, reconciling and successful
resolution. Bills on reparations for Africans who were enslaved have been introduced in the United States Congress
since 1867; the most recent and current one is H.R. 40, originally introduced in 1987 and re-introduced every year
since 1989 by John Conyers, calls for the establishment of a commission to study reparations proposals for African
Americans.
Adopted
Resolution 2004-7
NUCLEAR PROLIFERATION
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark
recognizes that the nuclear danger is increased by policies that threaten to lower the nuclear threshold and encourage
nuclear proliferation; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this Convention endorses "For Episcopalians: An Urgent Call", which proposes a realistic
set of steps that can be taken to reduce the nuclear danger; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark urges its congregations and individual
members to study and endorse "For Episcopalians: An Urgent Call".
Submitted by The Episcopal Peace Fellowship (Janet Beddoe, The Rev. Geoff Curtis, Martha Gardner, Kathleen Kellaigh,
K. Tyler Miller, Thomas J. Minet The Rev. Allison Moore, Maren Sugarman, Johanna Young, and Nancy L. Young)
The Resolutions Committee recommends adoption, pending the open
hearing.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The Presiding Bishop, Frank Griswold, has endorsed "For Episcopalians: An Urgent Call", and has spoken
out in support of this Call. Furthermore, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America 2003 Churchwide Assembly endorsed
a slightly modified version called "For People of Faith: An Urgent Call" and the ELCA Presiding Bishop
Mark S. Hanson has spoken out in support of this Call. The full document, including the endorsement form will be
available at the Episcopal Peace Fellowship booth at Convention. A copy is also available at http://www.episcopalpeacefellowship.org.
The Churches' Center for Theology and Public Policy, an interfaith organization based at Wesley Seminary in Washington
D.C. is taking the lead on both "For Episcopalians: An Urgent Call" and "For People of Faith: An
Urgent Call". For a complete list of religious leaders endorsing Urgent Call or for more information, please
point your browser to http://www.nrdi.org.
A decade after the end of the Cold War, the peril of nuclear destruction is mounting. The great powers have refused
to give up nuclear arms, other countries are producing them, and terrorists are trying to acquire them. Poorly
guarded warheads and nuclear material in the former Soviet Union may fall into the hands of terrorists. The Bush
administration is developing nuclear 'bunker busters' and threatening to use them against non-nuclear countries.
The risk of nuclear war between India and Pakistan is grave.
Despite the end of the Cold War, the United States plans to keep large numbers of nuclear weapons indefinitely.
The latest U.S.-Russian treaty, which will cut deployed strategic warheads to 2200, leaves both nations facing
"assured destruction" and lets them keep their total arsenals (active and inactive, strategic and tactical)
at more than 10,000 warheads each.
The dangers posed by huge arsenals, threats of use, proliferation, and terrorism are linked: The nuclear powers'
refusal to disarm encourages proliferation, and proliferation makes nuclear materials more accessible to terrorists.
The events of September 11 brought home to Americans what it means to experience a catastrophic attack. Yet the
horrifying losses that day were only a fraction of what any nation would suffer if a single nuclear weapon were
used on a city. The drift towards catastrophe must be reversed. Safety from nuclear destruction must be our goal.
We can reach it only by reducing and then eliminating nuclear arms under binding agreements.
We therefore call on the United States and Russia to fulfill their commitments under the Nonproliferation Treaty
and move together with the other nuclear powers to the abolition of nuclear weapons. As steps toward this goal,
we call on the United States to:
* Renounce the first use of nuclear weapons.
* Permanently end the development, testing, and production of nuclear weapons.
* Seek agreement with Russia on the mutual and verified destruction of nuclear weapons withdrawn under treaties,
and increase the resources available here and in the former Soviet Union to secure nuclear warheads and material
and to implement destruction.
* Take nuclear weapons off hair-trigger alert in concert with the other nuclear powers-the UK, France, Russia,
China, India, Pakistan and Israel-in order to reduce the risk of accidental or unauthorized use.
* Cut all research and development dollars for Star Wars and ban deployment of weapons in space.
* Initiate talks on further nuclear cuts, beginning with U.S. and Russian reductions to 1,000 warheads each.
For More information on "For People of Faith: An Urgent Call", contact The Rev. Richard Killmer, Program
Director, Churches' Center for Theology and Public Policy, an interfaith organization at Wesley Seminary in Washington
D. C., at 202-885-8684 or send e-mail to rkillmer@wesleysem.edu. There is an Episcopal version of Urgent Call, "For Episcopalians: An Urgent
Call", which is identical to "For People of Faith: An Urgent Call. "For Episcopalians: An Urgent
Call" is a joint initiative of the Episcopal Peace Fellowship and the Churches' Center for Theology and Public
Policy. For more information about the Episcopal Peace Fellowship's role in the nuclear disarmament initiative,
please contact Dr. K. Tyler Miller, leader of the nuclear abolition and disarmament interest group of the Episcopal
Peace Fellowship (drktyler202@earthlink.net) or Jackie Lynn, Executive Director of the Episcopal Peace Fellowship at 312-922-8628
or epfnational@ameritech.net
Defeated
Resolution 2004-8
Reduction of Convention Costs
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark
urges the bishop to appoint a task force to study creative ways to reduce significantly the cost of our Annual
Convention through, for example, the use of non-hotel venues; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this convention recommends that the cost reduction thus realized by congregations be used to increase
funds allocated for Diocesan and congregational outreach ministries to assist the hungry and the homeless.
Submitted by The Rev. Elton Smith, Grace Church, Westwood
The Resolutions Committee recommends adoption, pending the open
hearings.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
§ The cost of the Annual Convention is about $65,000; this cost is funded by the $125 registration fee paid
by each deputy to attend the convention.
§ The intent of this resolution is that each parish allocate the savings (difference between the current $125
registration fee and a smaller fee resulting from reduction in the cost of the Annual Convention) to outreach ministries,
either directly at the parish level or through an increased contribution to the Diocese for its outreach ministries.
§ The state of the American economy is not strong and many of our parishes have members who are experiencing
unemployment and homelessness.
§ Many of our parishes are themselves experiencing the need to economize in the carrying out of our work of
common ministry.
§ Principles of Christian stewardship are fundamental in the ordering of our common life as a Diocese as we
seek to embrace the call of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to serve Christ in all persons, especially those caught
in the throes of poverty and social injustice.
§ The reallocation of our financial resources proposed in this resolution will send a strong message that
we are willing to live by our principles.
Adopted as amended.
Resolution 2004-9
INTERNATIONAL RELIEF AND DEVELOPMENT
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark
accepts the challenge of the 74th General Convention to contribute .7% of pledge and investment income to international
development programs, which has been the practice of this diocese
since 1999; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this convention encourages the congregations and individual members of the Diocese of Newark to
contribute the same percentage at a minimum to such programs; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this convention calls upon the United States, as a signatory to the United Nations Millennium Development
Goals, to fulfill its commitment to fund international development aid at .7% of the US GNP; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of convention convey this resolution to the president of the United States and the
senate and congressional representatives of the state.
Submitted by the General Convention 2003 Deputation: Ms. Lyn Headley-Moore, St. Mark's, West Orange; Dr. Louie
Crew, Grace, Newark; Mr. Michael F. Rehill, Grace, Westwood; Ms. Martha Gardner, St. George's, Maplewood; Ms. Marge
Christie, Christ, Ridgewood; Mr. Sidney King, Incarnation, Jersey City; Mr. George Hayman, Grace, Madison; Mr.
Steven Boston, St. John's, Ramsey; The Rev. Elizabeth Kaeton, St. Paul's, Chatham; The Rev. Edward M. Hasse, II,
St. Paul's, Montvale; The Rev. Jeannette DeFriest, Messiah, Chester; The Rev. Geoffrey Curtiss, All Saints', Hoboken;
The Rev. Ken Near, St. Paul's, Englewood; The Rev. Joseph Pickard, St. John the Divine, Hasbrouck Heights; The
Very Rev. C. David Williams, Trinity + St. Philip's Cathedral, Newark.
The Resolutions Committee recommends adoption, pending the open
hearings.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
At the 74th General Convention, Resolution D006 (Supporting International Relief and Development) reaffirmed the
commitment of the 73rd General Convention to challenge all dioceses and congregations to contribute 0.7% of their
annual budgets to fund international development programs. Since 1999, at least .7% of the Diocese of Newark's
pledge and investment income has been designated for international outreach. This resolution reaffirms the policy,
as well as challenging congregations to do the same.
The resolution of the 74th General Convention also reminds us of the United States government's commitment, as
one of the 191 national signatories to United Nations' Millennium Development Goals, to fund international development
aid at 0.7% of U.S. GNP, and encourages us to contact our elected representatives to urge them to support the U.S.
government's fulfillment of its commitment.
Adopted
Resolution 2004-10
LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER CIVIL RIGHTS
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark supports the enactment of laws at the local,
state and federal level that prohibit discrimination based on gender identity or expression as well as sexual orientation,
so that all members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community will be protected from discrimination;
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention convey this resolution to the members of the New Jersey State Senate
and Assembly and the New Jersey representatives in the U.S. Senate and Congress.
Submitted by the Oasis Commission (Mr. John Simonelli, Trinity, Solebury; Ms. Donna Cartwright, Good Shepherd,
Fort Lee; Ms. Nancy Read, St. Peter's, Clifton; Mr. Peter Madison, St. John's, Union City; Mr. Christian Paolino,
Christ, Belleville; The Rev. Mildred J. Solomon; The Rev. Hank Dwyer, St. Peter's, Clifton; Mr. Greg Perez, AIDS
Resource Center, Newark; Dr. Tim Mundy, Grace, Newark)
The Resolutions Committee recommends adoption, pending the open
hearings.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
It has long been the policy of the Diocese of Newark to oppose discrimination in all its forms. The diocese was
a strong, active voice in support of the enactment of civil rights legislation to protect gay and lesbian people
from unfair, discriminatory and harmful employment and housing practices.
In view of social changes and increased knowledge and understanding in recent years, it is necessary to adjust
our human rights policies to match our new knowledge and understanding of concepts of identity and community. Current
usage often refers to the "lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community," more accurately and specifically
reflecting the diversity of the people in the community.
Although lesbian, gay and bisexual people have made considerable advances in winning civil rights at the local
and state levels in the last two decades, a great deal remains to be done, particularly at the federal level. Civil
rights protection for transgender people -- transsexuals and others who are seen to differ from societal gender
norms -- lags far behind. Only four states now have statutory civil rights protection covering gender identity
and expression, compared to more than a dozen that have prohibited discrimination against lesbians, gay men and
bisexuals.
This gap must be closed. Discrimination harms both those who are its targets and society as a whole. To oppose
discrimination and prejudice and support equal opportunity and protections in any form is moral, Christian and
just.
Adopted as amended
(see the versions below for comparisons).
Resolution 2004-11 - FINAL VERSION
ON UNITY OF THE CHURCH IN THE SPIRIT OF THE GOSPEL
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark
recognizes that the grace and love of God and the faith that unites us as one Church is immeasurably greater than
the current issues that threaten to divide us; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That we will, in the midst of this time of challenge and opportunity, in solidarity with the Diocese
of Upper South Carolina and the whole Episcopal Church, move forward in mission and faithfulness to the Gospel
of Christ Jesus and to one another seeking continued dialogue and relationship, reaffirmation and reconciliation
in our commitment to the unity of the Episcopal Church as faithful members of the Anglican Communion; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention convey this statement to Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church and
the Bishop of the Diocese of Upper South Carolina.
Adopted.
Resolution 2004-12
OPPOSITION TO THE PROPOSED FEDERAL MARRIAGE AMENDMENT
(This resolution was presented as a New Matter at the start of
Convention.)
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark,
seeking to be faithful to our baptismal vows to respect the dignity of every human being, to strive for justice
and peace among all people, and to seek and serve Christ in all persons, opposes any attempt to amend the Constitution
of the United States or any attempt to pass other legislation designed to discriminate against same-gender couples
and prohibit federal, state and local governments from honoring and supporting those relationships; and be it further,
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention convey this resolution to the President of the United States, the New
Jersey representatives in the U.S. Senate and Congress, and the members of the New Jersey State Senate and Assembly.
Submitted by: The Rev. Hank Dwyer, St Peter's Clifton; for The Oasis Commission
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
What follows is the first resolved and supporting information of a resolution of the 129th Convention.
Resolution 17 (Adopted) Support for Same Gender Couples
RESOLVED, That this 129th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark calls upon the State of New Jersey to affirm
the rights of same- gender couples who choose to marry and share fully and equally in the rights, responsibilities,
and commitment of civil marriage; and, be it further
Marriage is a civil right that belongs to everyone. Loving, committed same-sex couples form families and provide
emotional and economic support for each other and for their children just like other couples do. This inequality
in access to marriage should end, just as our nation has abolished prior discriminatory exclusions. Less than forty
years ago, many states prohibited interracial couples from legally marrying. In Loving v. Virginia, a married interracial
couple was arrested in Virginia and faced up to five years in prison. The state court upheld their conviction because
it found interracial relationships to be "unnatural". Similar arguments are used against recognizing
same-sex relationships today. But the U.S. Supreme Court held in its 1967 decision in the case that restricting
marriage to same-race couples was unlawful discrimination. The government's restriction of marriage to different-sex
couples is discriminatory as well. The choice of a marriage partner belongs to each individual, not to the state.
For those couples desiring the full structure and status of marriage, domestic partner benefits are inadequate.
In certain cities, states or companies, there is limited recognition of relationships between unmarried partners,
often including both different-sex couples and same-sex couples.
As domestic partners, couples may gain access to health care coverage and certain other basic family benefits.
But many couples wish to structure their families around a broader set of rights and responsibilities. For these
couples, domestic partnership is no substitute for civil marriage.
Civil Unions are an important step forward, but separate is still unequal. Vermont offers "civil unions"
to same-sex couples. Civil unions provide a set of rights and responsibilities within Vermont that parallels marriage.
This is an important step forward. It is not marriage, however, and its implications beyond Vermont have yet to
be determined by the courts. It is a separate and unequal institution, setting same-sex couples apart for second-class
citizenship in the eyes of others, which will carry over into how such couples are treated in other areas of their
lives. Having the choice to marry is full equality. A separate, gay-only institution is not.
Allowing all families access to marriage, if they believe the structures and protections of marriage are appropriate
for them, promotes stability for communities overall. Same-sex couples build their lives together like other couples,
working hard at their jobs, volunteering in their neighborhoods, and valuing the responsibilities and love that
their family commitments provide to them and to the children they may have. These families have everyday concerns,
like being financially sound, emotionally and physically healthy, and protected by adequate health insurance. These
concerns heighten when there are children in the family. Marriage provides tangible protections that address many
of these concerns. Promotion of support and security for families is a benefit to the entire community.
Additional Supporting Information from The Human Rights Campaign.
Although not explicitly endorsing an amendment denying marriage for same-sex couples, the President came dangerously
close in his remarks to supporting efforts to write discrimination into the Constitution. The President also misrepresented
the proper role of the courts in protecting rights and freedoms by criticizing "activist judges."
In more than 200 hundred years of American history the Constitution has never been amended to deny basic rights
and responsibilities. It is always wrong to use the Constitution to discriminate against any American. The Constitution
should never be used to deny fundamental rights like the ability to visit a partner in the hospital, or the protection
of Social Security Survivor benefits.
The bottom line is that gay Americans live in more than 99 percent of the counties in this country, and more than
one million children in this country are being raised by same-sex couples. Those families and children deserve
the rights and protections of marriage, and we are deeply disappointed that the President used the State of the
Union address to attack our families and divide the country. Tonight, the President missed an opportunity to discuss
issues that bring the nation together, like combating hate violence and ending employment discrimination.
The courts have long played a key role in helping to ensure that all Americans enjoy equality under the law even
when it has run contrary to popular opinion. For example, Brown vs. the Board of Education, which ended 'separate
but equal,' and Loving vs. Virginia which knocked down interracial marriage bans were both controversial in their
time, but today we know that the courts did the right thing."
HJ Res 56: SECTION 1. Marriage in the United States shall consist only of the union of a man and a woman. Neither
this Constitution or the constitution of any State, nor state or federal law, shall be construed to require that
marital status or the legal incidents thereof be conferred upon unmarried couples or groups.'.
From the "State of the Union Address" of Pres George W. Bush:
A strong America must also value the institution of marriage.
I believe we should respect individuals as we take a principled stand for one of the most fundamental, enduring
institutions of our civilization. Congress has already taken a stand on this issue by passing the Defense of Marriage
Act, signed in 1996 by President Clinton. That statute protects marriage under federal law as the union of a man
and a woman, and declares that one state may not redefine marriage for other states. Activist judges, however,
have begun redefining marriage by court order, without regard for the will of the people and their elected representatives.
On an issue of such great consequence, the people's voice must be heard. If judges insist on forcing their arbitrary
will upon the people, the only alternative left to the people would be the constitutional process. Our nation must
defend the sanctity of marriage.
(State of the Union Address Delivered 20 January 2004)
Resolution 2004-11 (THIS
WAS NOT ADOPTED.)
ON UNITY OF THE CHURCH IN THE SPIRIT OF THE GOSPEL
(This resolution was amended by the Resolutions Committee without
the consent of the original mover. The original version follows and is also titled "On Unity of the Church
in the Spirit of the Gospel.")
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark recognizes that the grace and love of God
and the faith that unites us as one Church is immeasurably greater than the current issues that threaten to divide
us; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That we believe the Episcopal Church in the United States of America has responded boldly and faithfully
to the demands of the Gospel by consenting to the election of The Rev. Canon V. Gene Robinson as Bishop Coadjutor
of New Hampshire, and by recognizing the blessing of same-sex unions as "within the bounds of our common life",
while we acknowledge that these same decisions have caused pain and dismay to faithful Episcopalians and to others
throughout the Anglican communion; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That, in the spirit of the resolution offered by the Diocese Upper South Carolina's General Convention
Response Committee, and adopted by the Convention of that diocese, we will;
- Support our Bishop and his teaching and expectations dealing with human sexuality and stewardship;
- Move forward, in the midst of this time of painful challenge and opportunity, in mission and faithfulness to
God and to one another;
- Implore the Bishop, clergy, and lay leadership of this Diocese and our congregations and institutions to lead
us-by their example, by their witness, and by their teaching-to deeper unity, more profound love, and more faithful
discipleship, and
- Support in prayer our Diocese and its mission and respond to our present situation with patience, faith, and
charity for all, affirming that God's grace is more than sufficient for these times; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of Convention convey this statement to the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church,
the Bishop of Upper South Carolina, and the Bishop Coadjutor of New Hampshire.
Submitted by Mr. Paul Hausman, The Rev. Richard R. Swanson, St. Peter's, Morristown; Ms. Martha Gardner, St. George's,
Maplewood; The Rev. Elizabeth Kaeton, St. Paul's, Chatham; The Rev. David Wolf, St. Paul's, Paterson; The Rev.
Kenneth M. Near, St. Paul's, Englewood; Mr. George Hayman, Grace, Madison; Mr. Louie Crew, Grace, Newark, member
of the Standing Committee and member of the Newark Deputation to GC 2003; Ms. Lyn Headley-Moore, General Convention
2003 Deputy, Justice Missioner, St. Mark's, West Orange.
The Resolutions Committee recommends adoption, pending the open
hearings.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
In General Convention in Minneapolis last summer, the National Episcopal Church consented to the election of Gene
Robinson to serve as Bishop of the Diocese of New Hampshire. Bishop Robinson is an openly gay man, living in a
committed relationship.
Also in Convention, the National Church passed Resolution C051, stating "that, we recognize that local faith
communities are operating within the bounds of our common life as they explore and experience liturgies celebrating
and blessing same-sex unions."
In response to these actions, some dioceses, parishes, and individuals who opposed these actions have withheld
funds from the National Church and from others whom they saw as supporting them. Some even threaten to break from
the Episcopal Church USA with the intent of forming an alternative Anglican church.
The Diocese of Upper South Carolina is one of many that voted against both of these actions in the House of Bishops
and the House of Deputies. In their diocesan convention, that diocese also was presented with various resolutions
in response to General Convention actions. But rather than following the lead of those who seek schism or seek
to punish the National Church for its chosen course of action, the Diocese of Upper South Carolina voted to set
aside all of these resolutions. They did so not because they believe in the actions of General Convention, but
because they did not want "want polarization around these issues further to interfere with the ministry, mission,
and unity of the Diocese". Through their resolution, they are committed to seek "deeper unity, more profound
love, and more faithful discipleship."
The sponsors of this resolution believe that such faithful response to diversity, especially on the part of those
with whom we may disagree, deserves our recognition and respect.
Diocese of Upper South Carolina: GCRC Adopted Resolution
Whereas we face a crisis of unity in the Church because of the votes on the confirmation of the bishop-coadjutor-elect
of New Hampshire, and the recognition of same-sex blessings as being within the bounds of our common life;
Whereas Provinces have been urged by the Primates of the Anglican Communion to avoid precipitous action for twelve
months, during which time the Archbishop of Canterbury's Commission will study means by which to strengthen the
unity of our Communion and report its findings to the next meeting of the Primates;
Whereas we support our Bishop, his leadership, and his commitment to unity not only in the Diocese but within the
Anglican Communion;
Whereas we do not want polarization around these issues further to interfere with the ministry, mission, and unity
of our Diocese;
Therefore, be it resolved that we set aside all other resolutions dealing with the actions of the 74th General
Convention, and that, as the Diocese of Upper South Carolina:
- We join with the clergy of this Diocese, the Diocesan Executive Council and the General Convention Response Committee,
in supporting our Bishop, his Pastoral Letter, and his teaching and expectations dealing with human sexuality and
stewardship;
- We will, in the midst of this time of painful challenge and opportunity, move forward in mission and faithfulness
to God and to one another as ONE BODY, ONE MISSION, CHANGING LIVES;
- We implore the Bishop, clergy, and lay leadership of this Diocese and our parishes, missions and institutions
to lead us-by their example, by their witness, and by their teaching-to deeper unity, more profound love, and more
faithful discipleship.
Furthermore, we ask all to support in prayer our Diocese and its mission and to respond to our present situation
with patience, faith, and charity for all. We affirm that God's grace imore than sufficient for these times.
Resolution 2004-11 - (THIS
WAS NOT ADOPTED.)
ORIGINAL VERSION (presented as information under the Rules)
ON UNITY OF THE CHURCH IN THE GOSPEL
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark, in solidarity with the people of the Episcopal
Diocese of Upper South Carolina who have committed the diocese to unity of the Church in the Gospel (EDUSC adopted
resolution GCRC, 2003), recognizes that the grace and love of God and the faith that unites us as one Church is
immeasurably greater than the current issues that threaten to divide us; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That we believe the Episcopal Church in the United States of America has responded boldly and faithfully
to the demands of the Gospel in consenting to the election of Gene Robinson as Bishop in the Episcopal Church as
well as in recognizing the blessing of same-sex unions as "within the bounds of our common life." Yet
we acknowledge that these same decisions have caused pain and dismay to faithful Episcopalians in all dioceses
of the church; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That we will, in the midst of this time of challenge and opportunity, in solidarity with the Diocese
of Upper South Carolina and the whole Episcopal Church, move forward in mission and faithfulness to the Gospel
of Christ Jesus and to one another seeking continued dialogue and relationship, reaffirming our commitment to the
unity of the Episcopal Church as faithful members of the Anglican Communion; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this statement be conveyed to Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, the Bishop of the Diocese
of Upper South Carolina, and the Bishop-Coadjutor of New Hampshire.
Submitted by Mr. Paul Hausman, The Rev. Richard R. Swanson, St. Peter's, Morristown; Ms. Martha Gardner, St. George's,
Maplewood; The Rev. Elizabeth Kaeton, St. Paul's, Chatham; The Rev. David Wolf, St. Paul's, Paterson; The Rev.
Kenneth M. Near, St. Paul's, Englewood; Mr. George Hayman, Grace, Madison; Mr. Louie Crew, Grace, Newark, member
of the Standing Committee and member of the Newark Deputation to GC 2003; Ms. Lyn Headley-Moore, General Convention
2003 Deputy, Justice Missioner, St. Mark's, West Orange.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
In General Convention in Minneapolis last summer, the National Episcopal Church consented to the election of Gene
Robinson to serve as Bishop of the Diocese of New Hampshire. Bishop Robinson is an openly gay man, living in a
committed relationship.
Also in Convention, the National Church passed Resolution C051, stating "that, we recognize that local faith
communities are operating within the bounds of our common life as they explore and experience liturgies celebrating
and blessing same-sex unions."
In response to these actions, some dioceses, parishes, and individuals who opposed these actions have withheld
funds from the National Church and from others whom they saw as supporting them. Some even threaten to break from
the Episcopal Church USA with the intent of forming an alternative Anglican church.
The Diocese of Upper South Carolina is one of many that voted against both of these actions in the House of Bishops
and the House of Deputies. In their diocesan convention, that diocese also was presented with various resolutions
in response to General Convention actions. But rather than following the lead of those who seek schism or seek
to punish the National Church for its chosen course of action, the Diocese of Upper South Carolina voted to set
aside all of these resolutions. They did so not because they believe in the actions of General Convention, but
because they did not want "want polarization around these issues further to interfere with the ministry, mission,
and unity of the Diocese". Through their resolution, they are committed to seek "deeper unity, more profound
love, and more faithful discipleship."
The sponsors of this resolution believe that such faithful response to diversity, especially on the part of those
with whom we may disagree, deserves our recognition and respect.
Diocese of Upper South Carolina: GCRC Adopted Resolution
Whereas we face a crisis of unity in the Church because of the votes on the confirmation of the bishop-coadjutor-elect
of New Hampshire, and the recognition of same-sex blessings as being within the bounds of our common life;
Whereas Provinces have been urged by the Primates of the Anglican Communion to avoid precipitous action for twelve
months, during which time the Archbishop of Canterbury's Commission will study means by which to strengthen the
unity of our Communion and report its findings to the next meeting of the Primates;
Whereas we support our Bishop, his leadership, and his commitment to unity not only in the Diocese but within the
Anglican Communion;
Whereas we do not want polarization around these issues further to interfere with the ministry, mission, and unity
of our Diocese;
Therefore, be it resolved that we set aside all other resolutions dealing with the actions of the 74th General
Convention, and that, as the Diocese of Upper South Carolina:
o We join with the clergy of this Diocese, the Diocesan Executive Council and the General Convention Response Committee,
in supporting our Bishop, his Pastoral Letter, and his teaching and expectations dealing with human sexuality and
stewardship;
o We will, in the midst of this time of painful challenge and opportunity, move forward in mission and faithfulness
to God and to one another as ONE BODY, ONE MISSION, CHANGING LIVES;
o We implore the Bishop, clergy, and lay leadership of this Diocese and our parishes, missions and institutions
to lead us-by their example, by their witness, and by their teaching-to deeper unity, more profound love, and more
faithful discipleship.
Furthermore, we ask all to support in prayer our Diocese and its mission and to respond to our present situation
with patience, faith, and charity for all. We affirm that God's grace is more than sufficient for these times.
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. Either of these resolutions may be permitted on the floor of Convention by a majority vote of all Convention
Deputies. If they are restored by such a vote, they will be included in the hearings of the Resolutions Committee.
The Resolutions Committee, after careful consideration of all the resolutions submitted to the 130th Annual Convention,
has chosen to not offer two of the resolutions.
Resolution on Same Sex Blessings
The first is a resolution on same-sex unions. Celebrations of same-sex unions have been held in the Diocese of
Newark for many years and in many of our congregations. The Convention has long been on record supporting such
couples. In fact, only last year the Convention overwhelmingly passed a resolution calling for the State of New
Jersey to remove barriers which prevent same-gender couples from marrying. We do not see how this resolution calls
us to anything new. Secondly, it is the Bishop who authorizes liturgies for a diocese, not the Convention as stated
in the second clause of the resolution. Finally, the Oasis has for many years assembled resources and rites for
such celebrations, thus the call in the third clause to form a committee to do so seems unnecessary.
Reaffirmation of Prison Ministry Resolutions
The second resolution which the Committee has determined not to put forward is a resolution reaffirming prison
ministries. As is noted in the resolution, the Diocese is already on record, as recently as last year, affirming
this work and calling our congregations to greater efforts to respond to those in prison. This resolution neither
calls us to this work in a new way, nor does it ask us to offer a specific public witness. The Committee has, therefore,
removed it.
The Reverend William C. Parnell
Chair, Resolutions Committee
RESOLUTION ON SAME-SEX BLESSINGS
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark concurs with the commitment of General
Convention "to continued prayer, study and discernment of the pastoral care for gay and lesbian persons,"*
and concurs in the recognition "that local faith communities are operating within the bounds of our common
life as they experience liturgies celebrating and blessing same-sex unions";** and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this Convention, desiring to support relationships "characterized by fidelity, monogamy, mutual
affection and respect, careful honest communication, and the holy love which enables those in such relationships
to see in each other the image of God" existing "throughout the church,"* does hereby authorize
the conduct of ceremonies to celebrate such relationships by the clergy of this diocese, with the approval of the
Bishop, respecting their pastoral discretion; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That this Convention requests that the Bishop appoint a committee to assemble resources and rites for
use by clergy of the diocese to effect the previous resolutions.
Submitted by The Oasis and the Newark Deputies to General Convention
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
General Convention 2000 pointed to the need for services celebrating committed, monogamous same-sex relationships
and General Convention 2003 noted with approval that such services are being widely held throughout the Episcopal
Church. Such services have been held in this diocese.
The goal of this resolution is to make clear that services blessing committed, same gender relationships are approved
in this diocese, with the concurrence of the bishop, although no member of the clergy is obliged to officiate at
such a service. The resolution also calls for the diocese to assemble and/or write appropriate rites so that they
are available to clergy wishing to use them.
* Resolution D039, GC2000
** Resolution C051, GC2003
REAFFIRMATION OF PRISON MINISTRY RESOLUTIONS
RESOLVED, That this 130th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark reaffirm the 71st General Convention's
emphasis on ministry to prisoners as a "ministry priority" by calling upon all churches and missions
within this diocese to commit significant resources to ministries with clear links to the specific teachings of
Jesus, particularly with regard to visiting prisoners (Matt. 25:36); and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Diocese take stock of the progress made to date on Resolutions 24 and 24b, adopted at the 124th
Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark in January, 1998 and Resolution 9, adopted at the 129th Convention
in January, 2003, and encourage its member parishes to contribute more obediently to the findings of these diocesan
resolutions and of the 71st General Convention.
Submitted by the Diocese of Newark Prison Ministry Committee
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
The 71st General Convention declared its support of ministry to prisoners and called for the "support of ministry
to the incarcerated as a ministry priority" and encourages "individual parishes to establish a relationship
with an inmate through their Parish Visitation Program and to seriously consider adopting an initiative expanding
their mission to include the support of a newly discharged inmate through the time necessary for that person to
become self-sufficient in society", so that the essential and inevitable place of these ministries within
the full meaning of the baptismal covenant can no longer be left in doubt.
Resolution 9, 129th Diocese of Newark Convention: In Support of Prisoners and their Families
Resolved, that this 129th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark commends the work of the Prison Ministry
Committee and calls upon the congregations of the diocese to witness to the teaching of the Gospel according to
Matthew 25:36, ("I was in prison and you visited me.") by proclaiming and encouraging ministry to the
incarcerated, ex-offenders, and their families.
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