It's always helpful to be reminded of the calculated, methodical, long-term political strategy that has gone into the takeover of the Episcopal church by revisionist activists.
I have written before that I do not reject political activism as a helpful tool, nor do I believe that it is wrong to engage in political action within an organization. "Politics" is nothing more than engaging in the *ordering* of human organizations, and if one is a member of such an organization, one should engage in politics as a responsible member. Otherwise, of course, one leaves a vacuum that other members fill with their own action.
But many traditionalists have been compliant, passive, lazy, and cowardly over the years, with the result that we have "lost our knowledge" and while we were at it, lost a denomination. Hence the need to learn from the best! ; > )
Are you an active member of a parish or diocese and wondering what and how to learn? There are plenty of places to pick up strategy and tactics.
Take, for instance, this 2002 Integrity Handbook for Diocesan Networks
I encourage any traditionalist still within ECUSA to peruse this helpful handbook to 1) learn more about political strategy, 2) recognize our Worthy Opponents' tactics, and 3) acknowledge one area among many where we got snookered and outplayed.
A good third of the document is titled "FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT: A Combat Manual for Diocesan Convention.
And it opens with this "pre-convention" advice:
Gain Political Power
For too long gay and lesbian Episcopalians have depended on supportive straight folks to fight our battles. Although their support is much appreciated and will hopefully continue, we must be directly involved and secure political power for ourselves at all levels of the church. For instance:
• Are there any gay and lesbian people on your vestry? If not, volunteer for a spot and serve with diligence.
• Run for election as a diocesan convention delegate from your parish. If delegates are appointed rather than elected, let the parish decisionmakers know you want the job.
• Run for diocesan standing committee or diocesan counsel of your diocese. If the bishop appoints members, your chapter should nominate a gay or lesbian person for a seat.
• Provincial synod is an often overlooked level of the church. Since the province is largely apolitical, it is easier to get elected as a deputy. (Running as an openly gay candidate, I was elected as a lay deputy to Province III last year.) One elected to provincial synod, it is easier to get elected to General Convention.
• Run as a General Convention deputy. Even if you are chosen as an alternate, this will probably give you a voice at your diocesan convention and allow you to attend the meetings of your deputation before General Convention.
Build Coalitions
Your Integrity chapter should network with other progressive groups in your diocese. For instance, you might seek the support of the Union of Black Episcopalians, the Episcopal Women’s Caucus, your diocesan racism or women’s commission, and other diocesan groups and commissions concerned with justice, peace, and the environment. If we support their issues, they will support ours.
BTTT