Explanation

In these uneasy times when conflict is rampant in our society and discourse often more strident than civil, it is imperative that the Episcopal Church uphold the ideals of Becoming a Beloved Community and stand fast by the Baptismal Covenant such that conflicts within any church body be subject to prayer, discernment, and a path toward reconciliation. Across the church there have been incidents when parishioners were denied participation in parish life and the sacraments, as well as entrance to church premises, and were not given access to a process of reconciliation. Amending canon I.17.6 strengthens the mandate to “specify the steps required for readmission to Holy Communion.”