Leader says Theological Task Force won't 'slug it out' By John H. Adams The Layman Online Thursday, May 29, 2003 215th General Assembly Denver, Colo. May 24-31, 2003 General Assembly news index DENVER – The Rev. Gary Demarest, co-chairman of the Theological Task Force on Peace, Unity and Purity, told commissioners to the 215th General Assembly on Wednesday night not to expect that group to "slug it out until there's a winner." He said the purpose of the task force was not to replicate the denomination's battles, but to lead the church in spiritual discernment on key issues – Christology, the authority and interpretation of Scripture, the denomination's ordination standards and power and decision-making. The task force was appointed in 2001. In nearly two years of meetings, its 20 members have debated none of those issues, although they have conducted studies on Christology and Scripture. "We have met five times and will continue to meet three times each year until completion of our work" in 2006, Demarest said. The focus of the task force has been to develop stronger personal relationships among its members. "This has become a unique and life-shaping experience to each of us on the task force," he said. He called his work on the task force a "deeply rewarding part of my spiritual journey." Demarest noted that the task force members were "chosen because of our differences. For most of us, this was indeed a new experience. Many of us bring significant experience working with affinity groups. … We gather for three days, open ourselves to God and to each other. There is a great deal of personal sharing, theological study and reflection, study of our polity and governance, worship and prayer and Bible study." Demarest said the task force was not instructed to work in isolation from the rest of the denomination. "Our assignment is to work with you at every level." "We maintain no illusions," he said. "The conflicts in our church will not be resolved by any single group. We work with trust in God … and we work with trust in you." Quoting 1960s theologian Harvey Cox, Demarest said, "I have neither optimism nor pessimism, but I am filled with hope." He said the task force members realize they are being watched. "We receive all kinds of communications and comments. I assure you we welcome them all. Some are affirmations and assurances of prayer and hope. Some are unrealistic expectations that this task force is supposed to resolve all of our conflicts and come up with some magical answer." Demarest's comments accompanied a written report that was included in commissioners' material. No action on the report was required.

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