"Resolution R-7, adopted by the 202nd Annual Council, created a Dialog Group to focus on issues of human sexuality.

A status report on the Dialog Group was given by the Rev. Martyn Minns & the Rev. Rosemari Sullivan at the 203rd Annual Council.

In her report, Ms. Sullivan focused upon the importance of moving from hostility to hospitality as we reflect on and articulate 'our experiences, views and understanding of human sexuality' stressing the importance of 'listening with attention and care. The R-7 Dialog provides a place where deeply held beliefs are shared and strangers can become friends,' 'she said .

Mr. Minns conveyed his concerns about what may be irreconcilable traditions about Scripture. 'There is one tradition that begins with Scripture and allows Scripture to interpret one's own experiences. Then there are others who would, again with experiences, allow that to interpret Scripture'. Subsequently, Mr. Minns placed his hope 'in the Lord, who is able to bring unity where there seems to be no possibility of unity' and shared his conviction with Ms. Sullivan that 'hospitality in truth will win out.'

Resolution R-3 of the 203rd Annual Council, endorsing The Kuala Lumpur Statement on Human Sexuality, was referred to the Dialog Group on Human Sexuality.

The Kuala Lumpur Statement read, in part, 'The Scripture bears witness to God's will regarding human sexuality which is to be expressed only within the life-long union of a man and a woman in (holy) matrimony. The Holy Scriptures are clear in teaching that all sexual promiscuity is sin. We are confined that this includes homosexual practices between men or women, as well as heterosexual relationships outside marriage. We believe that the clear and unambiguous teaching of the Holy Scriptures about human sexuality is of great help to Christians, as it provides clear boundaries.'

'We find no conflict between clear biblical teaching and sensitive pastoral care. Repentence precedes forgiveness and is part of the healing process. To heal spiritual wounds in God's name we need his wisdom and truth ... We encourage the Church to care for all those who are trapped in their sexual brokenness and to become the channel of Christ's compassion and love towards them. We wish to stand alongside and welcome them into a process ob being whole and restored within our communities of faith. We would also affirm and resource those who exercise a pastoral ministry in this area'

Resolution R-13, which bears upon maintaining unity, love and witness as the body of Christ, was adopted by the 203rd Annual Council and reads as follows: 'Whereas, there are parishioners and congregations within the Diocese of Virginia who have found themselves unable to support, morally and financially, many of the programs, initiatives and policies of the general Church; now therefore be it Resolved, that this Docese commits itself to work actively to maintain our unity in the Body of Christ in the spirit of humility, faithfulness and generosity'" (Journal of the 203rd Annual Council, Diocese of Virginia, February 6-7, 1998).