Caution:: Rare religious post
As an Episcopalian, it makes me uneasy to read about the discord in the Episcopalian church surrounding the upcoming vote for confirmation of Bishop Gene Robinson. The official vote will happen in about a half hour, but it looks very good. There always seems to be some sort of controversy in our church but I'm always prouder as each one is addressed. We updated the Prayer Book (BCP) in 1976 and that alone angered many that would soon leave the church for another church or another Episcopal Church that still went by the old 1928 Book Of Common Prayer. Then we had the women priest controversy. And against much discord against it, decided that it was a good idea. Our open-minded, loving church gained many more followers. And each step the Church takes, the firm foundation becomes more solid. I became confirmed into the church in 1982 because of their liberal, understanding, non-discriminatory ways. I hadn't belonged to any church in years, amidst a growing spiritual thirst. It was the first church I'd been to that didn't treat you any differently if you were divorced, gay, a single parent, or for what you wore to church. Not just kissing up to your face at church and ignoring you as they passed by you in the liquor store. The Episcopal Church is what I think a church should be. Treating us all as God's children unconditionally. Just as your Mother or Father would treat you unconditionally and genuionely welcome you into their home at all times.

Some other time I'll tell you about my first priest, Father Louis Oats, aka Smoky. I was truly the 'devil's advocate' when we met. And he's still one of the most influential people that ever crossed my path.