Episcopal panel to weigh response to world criticism
Gathering opens amid controversy over gay bishops, civil unions that Anglicans spurn
By RICHARD VARA
Houston Chronicle

COLUMBUS, OHIO - The Episcopal Church's national meeting may face its most critical juncture today when a special committee takes up concerns of the worldwide Anglican Communion over the consecration of an openly gay bishop and the blessing of same-sex unions.

The church's triennial General Convention opened Tuesday with the church's House of Deputies and the House of Bishops taking up the first of nine days of national church business and legislation that could determine whether the U.S. church remains in the 77-million member worldwide communion. the rest