February 20, 2007

Dear Member of the Standing Committee,

The Vestry and Rector of All Saints Episcopal Church, Hilton Head Island, Diocese of South Carolina, voted last evening to convey to you our support for Bishop-Elect Mark Lawrence as he and the Diocese of South Carolina seek your consent for his apostolic ministry. As a moderate parish, clearly in step with the Episcopal Church, USA, and with the actions of the most recent General Convention, we are keenly aware of the many issues and concerns facing Standing Committees throughout the country. Although he does not share our theological perspective about prominent issues facing our Church, Mark Lawrence nevertheless has our support and we are hopeful that he will have the opportunity to lead our diocese.

To a person, our delegation found him to be thoughtful, open, engaging and inclusive. We came away convinced we would share in the ministry of this diocese with Bishop-Elect Lawrence. Therefore, we ask that you consider, or reconsider, his confirmation as our next diocesan bishop.

Our position is one of faith, in that we believe Mark Lawrence has been called to this apostolic ministry by God at this time in the life of our diocese, and in this sensitive time in the life of our Church. We believe he is a person of immense integrity and with depth of faith that will encourage us in our own ministries.

We realize your decision has not been, or will it be, easy, as you consider other matters beyond our diocese. We have managed to walk with this diocese in what we believe is a faithful process, with a great degree of faith, trusting in the power of God to do infinitely more than we can ever imagine. We ask your help in confirming Mark Lawrence as Bishop of the Diocese of South Carolina.

Sincerely in Christ,

Richard Carroll Lindsey
Rector

Robert Moore
Senior Warden