Palm Sunday. Could I love our church anymore? I don't think so.
After the service, oldest daughter (who visits very often) got waylaid by our priest to mention something about her impending, but not planned yet, no engagement as of yet, no 'will you marry me?' yet situation. He told her that with the mood in the world today, the church is changing its habit of allowing the building to be used for marriages outside the church membership, and even though I'm a member, she'd have to be on the roll herself to qualify. I'm in total agreement. The church doesn't want to be caught in a lawsuit turning someone down for the privilege of using the building for a wedding that goes against what we believe is right in God's eyes. You know where I'm going with this. Bottom line, she has to become a member. Her non-fiance doesn't, but the Vestry is trying to cover all the bases.
As opposed to the mainline Episcopal church in America these days, we (the reformed Episcopal church aka Anglican) strongly take a stand against abortion, same-sex marriage and while divorce is frowned upon, there are several members who have divorced and remarried. Hence the Anglican church is making a strong comeback, acquiring members from the Episcopal flock who just can't stand the direction that group is taking.
So, go us.
Just a little background. If you don't know what to ask, you might not know, and I don't like for anyone to think we're keen on the huge Episcopal church in America. They really have embraced everything that I believe Christ's church is against.
Added after initial post: For clarity, since it can be confusing. Anglicans are Episcopalians. The term Anglican is used more in Great Britain, with Episcopalian being more American in usage. Conservative Episcopalians in the US are starting churches including their beautiful history, but using the name Anglican. That makes a safe distinction from their brothers/sisters who are in the baser liberal Episcopal church. Ask a conservative cradle Episcopalian about the degradation of the church and you'll see heads roll. Passion. My goodness.
