DALLAS: ACTIVIST LAYMAN EXHORTS DIOCESE TO STAND FIRM IN THE FAITH AND NETWORK

Subject: Executive Council Vote on the Network

Richardson, Texas

Sunday, 7 March 2004

Dear Bishop, Executive Council Members, and Central Convocation Members,

I have been in prayer and reflection concerning the diocese’s position on the Network of Anglican Communion Dioceses and Parishes…

I too fear the polarization of the diocese; however, my analysis is that the actions of 74th General Convention have — in fact — already polarized the diocese and the country and the Anglican Communion at large…

As part of my research, I re-read the bishop’s remarks at the October 17th Diocesan Convention…

"We will not become narrow or exclusive. We will be a welcoming Church to all who come to us… We will honor our Anglican heritage… We will give special attention to how the next generation of clergy… may be educated, trained and inspired to champion the Gospel — all of it."

The fact that we have been in dialogue over sexuality for much of the past 26 years — and the precipitous actions of the 74th General Convention — leads me to believe the time is now for the Diocese of Dallas to move forward… by endorsing the Network of Anglican Communion Dioceses and Parishes.

And I am encouraged that we are in good company… when I read the Archbishop of Canterbury’s remarks made February 9th 2004…

"I remain fully committed to searching for arrangements which will secure a continuing place for all Episcopalians in the life of the Episcopal Church… I’ve been following sympathetically the discussions around the setting up of a network within the Episcopal Church…" — Rowan Williams, 2004

I am confident in the theological foundation of the Network… The Network’s charter pledges it to remain in full communication with Canterbury and the Commission formed by him, and with the Primates and Bishops of the Communion who stand for and actively work toward the Communion’s strengthening and mission.

Lastly, I revisited C.S. Lewis’s Screwtape Letters, and was reminded… Evil is overcome by simple, clear actions and thought.

Personally, I know how essential it is for all of us to be in prayer… We at Trinity Dallas are praying for the actions of the Executive Council…

John B. Crosby, Jr.

Central Convocation Chair