"Marriage Matters" to be focus of Diocese of Los Angeles Clergy Conference

Super delighted to share that the Diocese of Los Angeles will focus its annual spring clergy conference on "marriage matters" ... because (... wait for it:) Marriage Matters.  

From "The Angelus" -- our monthly email newsletter:

The topic of our spring clergy conference will be "Marriage Matters" and during our three-day gathering (Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, May 3-5), we will consider "What makes a marriage Christian and holy?"

Marriage is both a sacred covenant and a civil contract. Whether we're preparing a couple for marriage, counseling a couple in a troubled marriage or answering questions about where the Episcopal Church stands on marriage equality -- whether we serve a mission or parish, urban or rural, large or small - marriage is an issue that we all "touch" as clergy.

Over the last three years the Task Force for the Study of Marriage - convened by the 2012 General Convention - has been working on its charge to identify and explore biblical, theological, historical, liturgical, and canonical dimensions of marriage" and to "address the pastoral need for priests to officiate at a civil marriage of same-sex couples in states that authorize such."

The Task Force framed its work with the question "What does the Episcopal Church have to say to today's world as to what makes a marriage Christian and holy?" And that is the question we want to consider together at this year's clergy conference.

We are honored to have as our keynote speaker Dr. Rosemary Radford Ruether. Rosemary Radford Ruether is arguably an embodiment of the theological vocation well lived. Her scope is awesome, her writing compelling, her commitment to a livable planet unceasing. The impact of her work can be found in so many fields and hearts that she fairly defines the term "scholar activist," teaching and mentoring generations of appreciative colleagues. Dr. Radford Ruether will help us ground our reflections in and exploration of theology, marriage and family in the 21st century.

This year's conference will also include expanded opportunities for interaction and consultation with workshop and breakout sessions focused on a wide range of marriage matters, including: 

• Pre-marital Counseling Best Practices;
• Navigating Life as a Clergy Couple;
• Pros and Cons of Clergy Acting as Agents of the State;
• Challenges & Opportunities of Interfaith Couples;
• Same-sex Marriage: What's Next in the Church and the Courts.

We will also have one breakout session for further conversation with Dr. Ruether and the opportunity to consult with a representative from CPG (Clergy Pension Group) on benefits and beneficiaries.

- From the Conference Planning Committee