Canon, Communion, and Controversy: What We Can—And Should—Learn from the “Communion without Baptism” Debate

In the lead up to the the 80th General Convention of the Episcopal Church, the legislative committees of the House of Bishops and the House of Deputies considered a resolution put forward by the Episcopal Diocese of Northern California. Titled “All Are Welcome at the Table,” this resolution (C028) petitioned the General Convention to “repeal CANON I.17.7 of the Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church …, which states: ‘No unbaptized person shall be eligible to receive Holy Communion in this Church.’”

While the proposal never made it out of committee for the consideration of either of the convention’s houses, its appearance on the legislative docket created a firestorm of controversy in print and social media in the period leading up to the meeting. Proponents of the measure framed repeal of the canon as a matter of justice and hospitality. Opponents worried that repealing the canon would imperil the theological, liturgical, and formational connection between the rites of baptism and eucharist.

What too often seemed to be missing from the contest between these competing goods was a spirit of charity. Those on one side of the debate frequently failed to inquire into what was felt to be at stake by those on the other, and vice versa. Little attempt was made to identify areas of possible convergence, where sincerely held commitments could be maintained while taking action that addressed the concerns of others. In the rush to take sides, many seemed to forget that we are all actually on the same side, as loyal members of the Episcopal Church and disciples of Jesus Christ.

Panelists

• The Rt. Rev. Megan Traquair – Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern California
• The Rev. Br. Simeon (Lewis) Powell, CG – Deacon in residence, St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church in Rocklin, CA; chair, Northern California deputation to the 80th General Convention
• The Rev. James Richardson – Former interim dean, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, Sacramento, CA; first clergy alternate, Northern California deputation to the 80th General Convention
• The Rev. Stephen R. Shaver, PhD – Rector, Episcopal Church of the Incarnation, Santa Rosa, CA; liturgical theologian.

Program

After introductory remarks from Mr. Martin Heatlie, who proposed the resolution to the Northern California diocesan convention, the panelists will make brief presentations of their perspectives on the controversy over this important issue, the principles at stake in it, and what the church can learn from it about how to disagree charitably, productively, and lovingly. After interacting with one another, the floor will be opened for an extended period of conversation, as they respond to questions posed by those in the room and those attending by livestream.

Registration

Use this link to register to attend in person, attend online, or receive a recording after the event.