My denom's general assembly is this week in Ft. Worth, Texas. The last major stop for the cattle drives on the legendary Chisholm Trail. Once known as "Hell's Half Acre," for an area of town filled with gambling parlors, saloons, and dance halls. Oh! My! But even though I plan to immerse myself in the local culture of Cowtown, you will not find my behind on the back of no mechanical bull!
I wanted to share with you some of the other resolutions we will be debating. I already wrote about a resolution regarding abortion here.
#0721 on the Elimination of Torture: Recognizing that all individuals are created in the image of God and are worthy of honor and respect; and that Jesus calls us to love our enemies (Luke 6:27); and that Jesus himself was a victim of torture, the general assembly shall declare that any and all use of torture is totally unacceptable - that it is contrary to the Word of God and in opposition to the foundational principles of a democratic society. Disciples are also asked to sign the statement by the National Religious Campaign Against Torture found here. Finally Disciples are challenged to join organizations and actively work for the elimination of torture.
#0724 on Children's Health Care: This resolution notes the dismal state of health insurance coverage for over nine million children living in the richest land on earth. It also notes that the President failed to take the necessary steps to provide better coverage for children in 2006 and certainly anticipates that our Great Leader has already vowed to veto the bipartisan legislation working its way through congress. The resolution asks that Disciples educate ourselves on this issue and become advocates for immediate action to ensure health and mental health care for every child in America in 2007 as a first step to adequate health care for all.
#0726 on Faith United Against Tobacco Use: The Youth Council has brought this resolution to the assembly. I only hope and pray that the good Disciples of the fine state of Kentucky will take it easy on these tenderfeet.
#0728 on the Church's Response to the War in Iraq: Finally we have a resolution demanding that the general assembly condemn the war in Iraq as contrary to the teachings and example of Jesus Christ and immoral and unjust by "Just War" standards. Brought to the floor by the Disciples Peace Fellowship, the resolution also affirms the statement of the World Council of Churches that "we lament with special anguish the war in Iraq, launched in deception and violating global norms of justice and human rights." I'm praying this will pass easily, but, unfortunately, I expect some spirited debate.
#0729 on Faith and Our New Neighbors: Calls for ongoing reflection and education on immigration issues, but not in isolation. It challenges Disciples to embrace and form relationships with immigrants. Get to know personally our new neighbors. AND THEN become advocates for humane and compassionate legislation. What a concept!
I'm sure Our Glorious Leader would rather we spent our time in Ft. Worth shopping.
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