A lengthy debate on a resolution concerning the blessing of same-sex couples took place at the convention of the Diocese of Pennsylvania Nov. 8-9 at the Cathedral of the Saviour in Philadelphia.

The resolution requests the 72nd General Convention to direct the Standing Liturgical Commission to develop and propose to the General Convention of 2000 a liturgy for the blessing of committed relationships between persons of the same sex for inclusion in the Book of Occasional Services.

The outcome was decided in a vote by orders, with clergy favoring the resolution, 101 to 43 with three abstentions, and lay persons in favor, 75 to 53 with five abstentions.

Among other resolutions adopted were those which oppose the death penalty, support the Concordat of Agreement and change various diocesan canons.

The Rev. Charles E. Bennison, Jr., bishop coadjutor-elect [TLC, Nov. 10], addressed convention and thanked delegates for their confidence in him.

The Rt. Rev. Armando Guerra, Bishop of Guatemala, Pennsylvania's companion diocese, preached at the Eucharist.

Bishop Allen Bartlett, the diocesan, spoke of the General Convention, to be held in Philadelphia, as "an extraordinary opportunity. It is the great Episcopal family reunion."

Suffragan Bishop Franklin Turner spoke of "the good work of several diocesan programs and ministries."

Another speaker was Bishop Roy Almquist of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, who urged delegates to support the Concordat of Agreement.

A 1997 budget of $3.38 million was adopted.