As everyone probably knows, the General Convention of the Episcopal Church has been immersed in controversy. However, a little-known resolution concerning the humane treatment of animals did pass and is now an official policy of the Episcopal Church. A copy of this important church legislation is copied below. I am extremely happy that churches are finally realizing the importance of treating our fellow non-humans with kindness and respect.
FINAL VERSION - Concurred
Resolution D016
Topic/Title: Stewardship: The Protection of Animals from Cruel Treatment
Proposer: The Rev. Canon David Shoulders (Indianapolis)
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 74th General Convention recognize that responsible
care of animals falls within the stewardship of creation; and be it further
Resolved, That the Episcopal Church encourage its members to ensure that husbandry methods for captive
and domestic animals would prohibit suffering in such conditions as puppy mills, and factory-farms;
and be it further
Resolved, That the Episcopal Church’s Peace and Justice Office identify existing guidelines
to educate its members to adhere to ethical standards in the care and treatment of animals; and be
it further
Resolved, That the Episcopal Church, through its Office of Government Relations, identify and advocate
for legislation protecting animals and effective enforcement measures.* Resolution is final but status
and text are still under review before publication."
http://submitresolution.dfms.org/view_leg_detail..aspx <http://submitresolution.dfms.org/view_leg_detail.aspx?id=D016&type=FINAL>
Marijo Anne Gillis - Founder
WAG-New York (Welfare for Animals in Greece - a Lobby Group)
www.canadianvoiceforanimals.org/WAG_NewYork.html <http://www.canadianvoiceforanimals.org/WAG_NewYork.html>
® Action Against Poisoning -- www.actionagainstpoisoning.com -- e-mail: info@actionagainstpoisoning.com
http://www.actionagainstpoisoning.com/pages/uk/episcopal.html -- Last updated on August 30, 2003