Portland - We Have Arrived!

Just a quick GC update.  Arrived safely in Portland yesterday.  My shuttle to the hotel took an hour for them to get me but such is life.  Ate supper with Carl Nord with whom I am sharing a room.

This morning we registered and got ourselves accustomed to the convention center.  I saw several friends I've made over the years - from Arkansas, from Texas, from Indiana, and other places.  Good seeing them again.

Worship this afternoon to kick things off followed by the beginning of the business for the week.  Mostly preliminary stuff. It is clear that there is concern about the possibility of disruption and protest.  Lots of reminders of how we should treat one another, of what it means to be in covenant with each other, etc.  There were some carrying signs in support of  "full inclusion" as well as signs held by those who support scriptural authority and righteousness.  More will follow to be sure.

Overall a rather quiet day, although there was a gathering earlier this morning of those from the lgbtq community that was reported to include a ceremony of some type.  Some of the websites might be giving the details of what took place.

I was going to post some pictures but having some issues.  Oh well.  Keep praying!!   Blessings!