GC 81 Day 4

Day 4 was a historic day for all Episcopalians but for us convention deputies it was a day of highs and lows and especially emotional ones. The day started with Eucharist in all languages of the church to include French, Haitian Creole, Hawaiian, Native, African, English but primarily Spanish. Before dismissal the Bishops were invited to leave and proceed to Christ Cathedral where they would be sequestered to vote on the next Presiding Bishop. We as the deputies started our legislative day fully expecting not to hear from the Bishops until after our lunch break, but you could feel the anticipation throughout the room. We all understood the significance of this day. Just as we got ready to adjourn we got word that messengers had arrived from the bishops. This meant only one thing, the bishops had finished their election but we had to wait until we reconvened at 2 pm to find out. The buzz in the house was electric. This could only mean that it took one vote. At 2 pm the house was gaveled back into session and the place was buzzing. There were 828 deputies, lots of alternates and a packed gallery to hear the confirmation committee come back and tell the room of the decision of the bishops. Then we 828 deputies had to electronically vote to confirm the choice which we did. The Rt Rev Sean Rowe was confirmed. The room was filled with clapping and shouting. It literally brought tears to my eyes. More writing to come later. Let’s say it was a long day and night ending at 9pm.