Tales from Assembly: Why I Dissented

“Pragmatism or principle” was the duelling dynamic for commissioners as we wrestled with how we would rank the four pathways proposed by the Special Committee of Former Moderators. For many who hold onto classical theology, only two pathways – ‘A’ (tradition) and ‘C’ (three streams) – were seriously considered. ‘B’ (inclusion) and ‘D’ (accommodation) were non starters. … Read More

General Assembly 2019

WOW! We didn’t see that coming. 145th General Assembly lived up its advanced billing. It was intense, deeply emotional, and contentious. In the end, commissioners choose Pathway B – Inclusion – that disappointed and dismayed us. However, the remits (printed below), to be sent down to presbyteries for approval, propose a much less exclusionary avenue. … Read more

A Commissioner Scans the Pathways

What will best serve the Kingdom – politics or principle? That is one of several questions I have as I consider the four pathways laid out by the Special Committee of Former Moderators, whose long-awaited report was released May 21 (posted here). The committee’s report is in response to General Assembly 2018’s direction to “propose … Read more

GA 2018: Collision Avoided.

WATERLOO — Faced with a divisive vote on same-sex marriage, General Assembly 2018 chose a more peaceful path, directing a special committee of former moderators to recommend a way forward in an effort to preserve unity. The committee, which will consist of moderators from 2005-2017, is tasked “to propose a way ahead that allows the … Read more

Resources for the PCC Human Sexuality Discussions

The Presbytery of Hamilton hosted a day-long forum entitled “Speaking Truth in Love: A Forum on Human Sexuality” on Saturday, January 30th, 2016, at Chedoke Presbyterian Church, Hamilton, Ontario. Some of the transcripts from this forum are available. Setting the Tone – Rev. Dr. Clyde Ervine How are we to talk respectfully and honestly about … Read more

Print Resources for the PCC Human Sexuality Discussions

There has been a request for resources that come from an evangelical/conservative point of view.
A Letter from the Committee on Church Doctrine in response to the Body, Mind and Soul Study Guide.
Video Resources: The Presbytery of Hamilton hosted a day-long forum entitled “Speaking Truth in Love: A Forum on Human Sexuality” on Saturday, January 30th, 2016. Videos are posted from presentations by Clyde Ervine, Kevin Livingston and Karla Wubbenhorst. … Read More
Print Resources: Links following the titles are where e-books or hard copies may be purchased. … Read More
Channels Articles: 13 articles on sexuality have appeared on this site in the past. … Read More

Experiencing General Assembly

In fellowship and prayer. I had the privilege of attending General Assembly last month as a visitor in my role with the Renewal Fellowship. Let me share some highlights of my time there. I experienced General Assembly in WORSHIP. General Assembly 141 was kicked off with wonderful opening worship that included uplifting singing and an … Read more

Reflections on General Assembly 138

I have experienced General Assembly as a student representative, twice as a commissioner, twice as a one-day visitor and this year as part of the local arrangements committee. Each gives you a unique perspective. Each has its advantages. Because my responsibilities included staying close to our local arrangements table for most of assembly, rather than … Read more