Church conventions can be some...
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Church conventions can be some of the most down-and-dirty occasions in the church. A recent one of which I was a part was frequented with hostile and fear-driven exchanges. Speeches from the floor were booed and hissed, or wildly applauded. Criticism and attacks on the Chair were not infrequent. Throughout the painful two days, the Chair repeatedly and gently coaxed us to refrain from incendiary remarks, to listen to one another, and to not be divisive. When personally attacked, he carefully listened, and he did not strike back. By the conclusion of the convention, the mood of the house had noticeably altered. The closing resolution recognized the reconciling efforts of the Chair, stating that "upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his stripes, we are healed."
