Opening Business Session of the Historic 51st Session of the General Conference
By Rev. Dr. Maxine L. Thomas, TCR Columnist
The Opening Business Session of the 51st Quadrennial Session convened during the global pandemic that halted the gathering a year ago. While the setting did not bring the mega numbers in real-time as in past quadrennials, the group hailed from two global continents, Africa and America, and garnered international attention and acclaim. The delegation comprised attendees from the first through the twentieth Episcopal Districts and observers from the same.
We knew it would not be just business as usual because the agenda set forth would reflect the Lord’s business agenda on the heels of a worldwide crisis that has left us grateful to be alive and hopeful for a new beginning that will encompass the new normal coupled with a majestic presence and performance of eternal glory.
The tone was set as the historic hybrid general conference was called to order by Senior Bishop Adam J. Richardson. With an intentional inquiry into the number of delegates in each Episcopal District convening in Orlando, Florida, and in countries within Africa and South Africa, when a quorum was reached, the business proceeded.
The Credentials Committee chaired by the Rev. Dr. Joseph Cousin (6th District) was given and was approved by the General Conference. The report highlighted a total of 1723 delegates were elected.
Next, the Rules Committee, chaired by the Rev. Dr. David Cousin (1st Episcopal District), read its report. Protocol as related to safety procedures during the convening of the General Conference were elaborated. A dialogue ensued as about restrictions and limitations of episcopal candidate’s campaign teams. Following only a few revisions, the report was voted on and accepted.
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie took the chair for the following part of the meeting and called for the Election Committee Chair by Bishop Clement Fugh. A motion was passed to empower the General Secretary to cast one unanimous vote on behalf of the General Conference. Accordingly, Rev. Dr. Harold Mayberry from the Fifth Episcopal District was elected, and the meeting adjourned.
