The Church of England has reached an historic agreement on the consecration of women bishops.
After years of struggle to avoid schism, bishops have agreed a formula that enshrines the principle of equality for male and female bishops while appeasing opponents of women’s ordination. The first women bishops could take their place in the Church of England within three years.
The deal, published in a new report yesterday, provides for a class of “complementary” traditionalist bishop for parishes that refuse to accept a woman diocesan bishop. Such “flying” bishops would have to abide by the authority of the woman bishop, according to the accompanying code of practice.
Yes, what the Church of England needs: more bishops.
And bishops for bishops. And …
How to pay for? Easy. Close a few more parishes.