The formation of a separate ecclesiastical structure was called for by conservative Anglican leaders in the Global South last September. Former Episcopal Presiding Bishop Frank T. Griswold had raised concerns, saying such a move would open the way to “multiple divisions across other provinces.”
Still, conservatives see The Episcopal Church drifting apart and say they want to stay aligned with the rest of the communion.
“We met deeply aware that we have arrived at a critical moment in the history of mainstream Anglican witness in North America. God has led us to repentance for past divisions and opened the way for a united path forward,” said Duncan in a statement.
Though some were expecting the announcement of a complete new structure in place this week, forming a separate Anglican body is only in its initial stages.
“To have the brand new squeaky clean thing in place [right now] is simply not realistic,” said the Rt. Rev. Martyn Minns, missionary bishop of the Anglican breakaway CANA (Convocation of Anglicans in North America). “Such a thing, frankly, takes far more time.”
“But we can begin working together far more deliberately,” he noted.
And Albany did NOT sign on.
We were told today that, “we are in a holding pattern.”
How long, Oh Lord…………
Lumen Christie, Albany is going no where. You’re going to be in that holding pattern for a long long time, maybe even longer than it takes for your bishop to give that report on the March HOB meeting that he promised six months ago. Remember, “I’m on the road and will give you my impressions in a few days.” Take a look at the diocesan website. The Common Cause meeting wasn’t even posted. He doesn’t want his attendance at that event to cause any controversy. There’s no way he’ll sign on to the Common Cause statement because he’s trying to hold an evenly split diocese together. Everyone knew where the former bishops stood on these issues and let the chips fall where they might. One became a Roman Catholic and the other a CANA bishop. By contrast, this man values unity over truth. When the book on the history of Anglicanism in North America is written, this bishop will not be among its profiles in courage. Will there ever be a group from this diocese who will recognize this and form an AMiA, CANA or some GS mission? Certainly there must be some folks who are disenchanted with what has been going on.
Uh huh…it only takes a few days to ordain four new missionary bishops for what, 30 parishes? But to establish real unity “takes time.” Forgive me if I’m underwhelmed.
Can you imagine Joshua saying, “Choose this day whom you shall serve, but as for me and my family we’re in a holding pattern?”