Reflections on General Assembly
by Olga L. Malave, CFP Ruling Elder Commissioner to GA
One of the things that I like about the PC(USA) is how it lives into the phrase “Reformed and always Reforming.” Many of the issues discussed in the 226th General Assembly had to do with inclusiveness. Hebrews 13:2 reminds us, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” The hospitality that I experienced in Salt Lake City, UT was amazing. From the moment we arrived to the end of our stay the members of the Presbytery and all the people involved in the organization, received and treated us with love, care and respect.
Romans 12:15-18 talks about how we need to accompany others. “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Within the ordinances presented, during the days we gathered we discussed many topics. One of them that resonates with me as an Hispanic Latina was, “[RSG-05] A Resolution Addressing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and the Realities of Hispanic Latino-a-e Ministry.” As I said during Plenary, Hispanic Latino-a-e people have been part of the Presbyterian Church for many years and with God’s favor we will continue to be part of it. But we need more opportunities and preparation to continue to work and serve more effectively within the body of Christ, in the present time.
Although the work was sometimes tiresome and the decisions that I and hundreds of people made were hard. At the end of the time at General Assembly (which took 9 intense days), I finished with a great sense of accomplishment and happiness. Knowing that we together as one make the best decisions for the future of our denomination. For all people and not just for some.
Romans 12:15-18 talks about how we need to accompany others. “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Within the ordinances presented, during the days we gathered we discussed many topics. One of them that resonates with me as an Hispanic Latina was, “[RSG-05] A Resolution Addressing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and the Realities of Hispanic Latino-a-e Ministry.” As I said during Plenary, Hispanic Latino-a-e people have been part of the Presbyterian Church for many years and with God’s favor we will continue to be part of it. But we need more opportunities and preparation to continue to work and serve more effectively within the body of Christ, in the present time.
Although the work was sometimes tiresome and the decisions that I and hundreds of people made were hard. At the end of the time at General Assembly (which took 9 intense days), I finished with a great sense of accomplishment and happiness. Knowing that we together as one make the best decisions for the future of our denomination. For all people and not just for some.