By Their Colors You Shall Know Them

I'm in Birmingham now. I've checked in, took a quick survey of the area, registered, and gotten my blue badge. Blue badges are for commissioners, observers wear yellow, PC (USA) staff wear red, local volunteers wear light blue, the press wear green, guests wear black, exhibitors wear gold, and advisory delegates wear navy. I've seen a couple of folks wearing a lot of colors attached to their badges. Either they are part of the Rainbow Coalition or they have multiple functions and identities during this assembly.

I still have to see badges in Braille, but I've seen a couple of folks on crutches and wheelchairs registering. I am glad that the organizers made sure that those who have disabilities are able to participate and are welcome.

The PC(USA) staff and local volunteers have been very efficient in ensuring that our arrival and registration go smoothly. I have no doubt that this will be an enjoyable and well-run assembly. I am very thankful to the Committee on Local Arrangements and our local host -- the Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley.

So how many Presbyterians does it take to have a general assembly? It takes 2,900 participants and 2,000 volunteers. Daghang salamat, local hosts.