C056 approved

As expected, C056 was approved by the house of deputies.

Lay:78-23 with seven divided deputations (meaning count as no)
Clergy: 74-27-7

So, in 2012 the committee will come back with forms for the blessings of all people of this church. I hope that the forms they present as all identical for m/f and s-g marriage blessings.

For me, this is the important part of C056

That the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music, in consultation with the House of Bishops, collect and develop theological and liturgical resources, and report to the 77th General Convention.

That may seem like a small step, or even just a not to what is going on, but, it is a huge step forward. I think I will live to see a gender neutral language marriage rite in the BCP.

GD09 will be seen as the Equal Justice Convention by historians and theologians.

UPDATE: Episcopal Life reports on this here.