Explanation

No parent deputy should have to choose between serving the church and being a parent. The first years of life are vital to the development of children, and the bond that is created through parental feeding is an important component in this development. It is important for the child’s immune system, and in the case of nursing, it’s important for a parent to nurse regularly for their health. In the Episcopal Church, we desire to have the involvement of more younger adults and families; to fully live into this call, the Episcopal Church must welcome those with children to participate in leadership roles. The Episcopal Church must find ways to make this possible and easy for a parent to care for their young children while still being active participants in the greater life of the church.