Diocese of Lexington, ECUSA

[Stacy Sauls <sfsauls@ure.net>]

Dear Louie,

	We are, better late than never, just beginning some conversation
on issues of human sexuality in the Diocese of Lexington.  There is much
work to be done, and you and I have already talked about that to some
degree.

	It is my intention that there will be many opportunities to hear
from gay and lesbian persons in the year to come.  Some of that is
starting to happen.  I have two out clergy, though neither are in
relationship, and at least one of those has started to speak up as the
subject has been broached at clergy gatherings.  I have high hopes for the
years to come, but I have not gone beyond planning for the current year.

	We as clergy are beginning some very intentional conversation.  
Our clergy conference, coming up in October, is being devoted to the
topic.  Our three clergy days between then and May, 2002, are being
devoted to that subject. I will lead the clergy conference and will be
bringing in outside people for the clergy days.  It is my intention that
gay and lesbian voices be heard at these clergy days.

	I have been in regular contact with a newly forming Integrity
chapter in the diocese, which has my support.  I just met with them for
the first time last week.  Other meetings will be scheduled.

	I have asked the Integrity group to help me put together small
group discussions along the model of the "host" groups in Atlanta.  My
goal for this would be to include lay leadership first and then broaden to
a wider constituency.  I don't know yet how the Integrity chapter will
respond. They didn't seem terribly warm to the idea last week.  There are
real risks to being out here.

	Other ideas and strategies will emerge here.  I'm excited to see
what those may be.  I hope, for one thing, that you will publish your
findings so that I can use it as a resource.

	All the best.

Peace,
+Stacy Sauls