At the outset of today’s plenary session, an amendment to the rules was offered and passed overwhelmingly whose purpose is to bring unity even in the face of disunity. The amendment will have the effect of re-ordering the timing of the resolutions regarding gay ordination. Now, the first resolution will be to affirm that contrary points of view will be respected and the “bound conscience” of all will be honored. This amendment to the order was passed by a vote of 73% to 27%.

I can attest to a mood of reconciliation in the halls even before the votes are taken. Based on previous actions of this assembly, there is a sense that the recommendation to allow gay clergy is likely to pass. Based on this assumption, many are already seeking to hold out the olive branch.