R2007-06: A resolution to study and make policy recommendations to the 134th Diocesan Convention about environmentally sustainable community economic development

Resolved, that the Diocese of Southern Ohio commit ourselves to a year of serious study of just, reasonable, and environmentally sustainable economic development throughout the diocese, with special attention to communities of color, Appalachian communities, and other vulnerable communities which bear the brunt of our abuse of God’s good earth, and be it further

Resolved, that the bishop will establish an ad hoc committee whose task it will be to consult with the diocesan committees, deaneries and congregations as they undertake to study the relevant issues.  After consulting with the affected parties, this ad hoc committee will report to the 134th convention of the diocese with specific policy recommendations about sustainable economic development, and be it futher

Resolved, that the clergy of the diocese, including the bishops, and all lay leaders with relevant knowledge and the gift of teaching be encouraged to teach and preach publicly about sustainable economic development, informing the conscience of God’s People from Scripture, tradition and reason, and be it further

Resolved, that the ad hoc committee make full use of the full spectrum of diocesan communications to facilitate a free and extensive conversation among Southern Ohio Episcopalians about sustainable economic development, and be it further

Resolved, that recognizing the conscientious nature of our disagreements as well as the serious nature of the issues before us, we commit ourselves to conduct this dialogue in charity as we seek God’s will together, and be it further

Resolved, that the secretary of convention be caused to send a copy of this resolution to the conventions of the dioceses of Ohio, Kentucky, Lexington, West Virginia, Pittsburgh, Central Pennsylvania, Bethlehem, Northwest Pennsylvania, Maryland, Tennessee, East Tennessee, Georgia, Upper South Carolina, North Carolina, Western North Carolina, Southwest Virginia, Alabama and Mississippi.