Most of the Episcopal Church's South Carolina Deputation left the 77th General Convention early on Wednesday, saying they could not "continue with business as usual" after it easily passed resolutions authorizing a rite of blessing for same-sex relationships and affirmed the full inclusion of transgender people in the life of the church, including for ordinations.

Five of seven deputies did not return to the house floor after the House of Deputies reconvened for business on Wednesday an effort to "differentiate themselves" from actions taken by the convention, the diocese said in a statement on Wednesday.

"We all agree that we cannot and will not remain on the floor of the House and act as if all is normal," the deputation wrote in a statement. The two remaining deputies "demonstrate that our action is not to be construed as a departure from the Episcopal Church."

Diocesan Bishop Mark Lawrence, who spoke in a private session of the House of Bishops on Wednesday, requested and received a point of personal privilege, where he expressed gratitude for the "intentional engagement in honest and collegiality with fellow bishops" but also expressed "grievous concern" with changes to the church canons through the resolutions.

"These resolutions in my opinion," said Lawrence, "are disconcerting changes to the doctrine, discipline and worship of the Episcopal Church--to which every bishop, priest and deacon is asked to conform.

More importantly they mark a departure from the doctrine, discipline and worship of Christ as this Church has received them, therein making it necessary for me to strongly differentiate myself from such actions."

Rev. Lawrence also said he would not be continuing in the remainder of the convention.

The diocese says Rev. Lawrence will be sending a statement to diocesan clergy that will be read in parishes this upcoming Sunday.

"Our deputation and I appreciate the prayers of so many in the Diocese of South Carolina," said Lawrence. "I know that some did not think we should attend the 77th General Convention, but I believe our presence and witness was important and even respected by many on both sides of the theological divide. As St. Paul states regarding his ministry, '…we refuse to practice cunning or to falsify God's word; but by the open statement of the truth we commend ourselves to the conscience of everyone in the sight of God.'" (2 Corinthians 4:2).