PEP Argument Briefing Paper
Background Episcopal Relief & Development is the well-respected relief agency of The Episcopal Church. The Presiding Bishop designated the first Sunday in Lent as Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday in 2008. Argument Although the diocese has a history of supporting Episcopal Relief & Development (formerly Presiding Bishop’s Fund for World Relief), under Bishop Duncan, Anglican Relief & Development Fund, a more ideological agency, became the preferred relief agency supported by the diocese. After the October 4, 2008, schism, it is important that the diocese once again show its support for the Episcopal Church agency. Designating a particular Sunday to recognize and raise funds for Episcopal Relief & Development will raise awareness in the diocese of this fine agency. Supporting Information Resolution (from Preconvention Journal 2009, page C-1, http://www.episcopalpgh.org/wp-content/uploads/file/Documents/2009%20DioConv/2009DioConventionPacketV3.pdf):
1. Title: Establish the First Sunday of Lent as Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday
Be it Resolved, that the Diocese of Pittsburgh dedicate the first Sunday in Lent as Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday and that parishes and individuals be encouraged to support Episcopal Relief & Development's life-saving work through prayer and a special offering that will help heal a hurting world.
EXPLANATION In 2008, the Presiding Bishop designated the first Sunday in Lent as Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday and as an annual celebration of Episcopal Relief and Development's role in our collective mission to seek and serve Christ in all persons. The Episcopal Church's ongoing commitment to fight poverty and disease around the world is lived out in a variety of ways. Advocacy with our government for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals is one vital way. Another is through the ministry of Episcopal Relief & Development, which, as the relief and development arm of the Episcopal Church, works to alleviate hunger, fight disease, and strengthen communities.
Sponsors: Jacqueline Thomas Och, St. Paul’s, Mt. Lebanon Joan Morris, St. Andrew’s, Highland Park |