Jonathan LeMaster-Smith

The opening plenary session was mostly procedural (read: not that exciting).

But there are few things to note.

1)The addition of rule 15(5):
Delegates are free to vote according to their conscience without interference by others observing, monitoring, or recording their votes. Persons shall not give or accept bribes or threaten delegates in order to influence voting.

This addition comes in response to the allegations of voter manipulation at past General Conferences. It is not a call to not allow actual lobbying, debating, and compromise.

2) Several suggested amendments to the rules from the floor were focused on equity, transparency, acknowledging history and culture, and a move toward unity in diversity.

3) The resolution that was came form the floor that calls the Commission on the General Conference to give a detailed transparent explanation was one that seeks to address the accusations that the Commission on General Conference did not follow through with their role to support all delegates around the world.

4) Can we get everyone the right print outs and right food? I mean, come on, the multiple requests for the correct cultural and dietary foods (or give per diem/reimbursements) and documents in the the correct language. It seems like they are working this out.

What this is pointing us toward is a church that acknowledges our flaws, works toward transparencies, and embraces differences. We are learning from our mistakes, and building a new future.