The Primates gave considerable attention to the report of the Windsor Continuation Group. It addressed the strained relationships within the Communion over matters of sexuality and unity, and provides recommendations for ways forward in deepening and in some cases restoring Communion. A very significant recommendation, which the Primates whole-heartedly affirmed, is to examine the Instruments of Communion, their respective roles and the manner in which they relate to one another.
The moratoria on the selection of Bishops in same-gender unions, rites of blessings for same-sex unions and cross-border interventions were much discussed. The Primate’s letter acknowledges that deep differences over these matters are held with great conviction. There was a continuing call for gracious restraint on all three fronts.
“….I am compelled to say that those issues over which we experience so much stress and strain within the Church, as important as they are pale in comparison to the overwhelming suffering of humanity.”
B.S. Translator On:
“Something is bound to be worse than the mess I’ve enabled in this Province, so think about that for awhile and leave me alone to do what I see fit”.
B.S. Translator Off.
1. “My observation is that in those dioceses where resolutions have been passed requesting the authorizing of rites for blessing same-sex unions the Bishops have shown gracious restraint.”
Here we have a revisionist definition of “gracious restraint”.
2. “Notwithstanding differing views on matters of sexuality and unity, the majority of the Primates do not believe that the blessing of same-sex unions ought to be a Communion-breaking issue.”
Really?