Episcopal deputies try to mend ties
RESOLUTION IS AIMED AT CONSERVATIVES
By Frank E. Lockwood
HERALD-LEADER RELIGION WRITER

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Deputies to the Episcopal Church's 75th general convention approved a resolution yesterday aimed at mending ties with more conservative Anglican churches around the world.
But more contentious issues relating to human sexuality lie ahead.

Conservatives and liberals called for the 2.2 million-member U.S. denomination "to seek to live into the highest degree of communion possible" with the 37 other national churches that make up the 77 million-member Anglican communion.

The churches, which trace their roots to the Church of England, have been divided since 2003, when the Episcopal Church voted to approve the ordination of an openly gay bishop, Lexington native Gene Robinson. The vote sparked an international controversy and warnings of schism.

The Rev. Ellison Pogo, primate and archbishop of the Church of Melanasia, said he is encouraged by yesterday's vote for greater communion.

"It is a very important sign," said Pogo, who is attending the convention. "Dialogue and conversation can only truly take place if we stay together."

The leader predicted the international communion won't crumble. the rest