* FINAL VERSION - Concurred
Resolution:A178
Title:Establish the First Sunday in Lent as Episcopal Relief and Development Sunday
Topic:ERD
Committee:13 - Prayer Book, Liturgy and Church Music
House of Initial Action:Bishops
Proposer:Episcopal Relief and Development Board of Directors

Resolved, the House of Deputies concurring, That this 76th General Convention of The Episcopal Church encourage dioceses, congregations and individuals to remember and support the life-saving work of Episcopal Relief and Development during Lent through prayer and a special offering that will help heal a hurting world; and be it further

Resolved, That any costs incurred by the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society to implement this action shall be reimbursed by Episcopal Relief & Development, provided such costs are approved by Episcopal Relief & Development in advance.


EXPLANATION

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 globally to alleviate hunger, fight disease and strengthen communities.

In 2008, the Presiding Bishop designated the first Sunday in Lent as Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday and as an annual celebration of Episcopal Relief & Development's role in our collective mission to seek and serve Christ in all persons.

The Board of Episcopal Relief & Development believes that a Resolution of General Convention designating the first Sunday of Lent as Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday would focus the church's attention on the important work of healing a hurting world.





* Note: The final language, as well as the final status of each resolution, is being reviewed by the General Convention office. The Journal of the 76th General Convention and the Constitution and Canons will be published once the review process has been completed.