There is a great deal which I hope to say about a range of issues which concern our flourishing life as a diocese. It would be absurd not to start with what is occupying all of our minds, hearts and prayers today around the debate and vote on the Draft Legislation to enable the ordination and consecration of women as bishops in the Church of England. What we are doing today is of great significance because we are contributing to the discernment process of the whole Church. I remind us all that we are not voting on whether women can be bishops: the Church has already decided this point in the affirmative.
We are seeking to discern whether this legislation, which is already a compromise, should be supported. If it is passed by us, then we are likely to move to a following motion. What I both expect and commend to you as those who may speak in the debate, as well as those who listen carefully to all the arguments and contributions, is serious and adult listening to one another, properly seeking to persuade but also alert to the impact of what we say on others because the issues are so deeply felt as well as believed. I want no one to leave this hall today feeling that they have been demonised or written out of the book of life. Even when we do not accord integrity to a specific point or argument, we must respect the integrity of the person who makes that argument on whatever side of the debate. I am not going to speak in the debate. I shall vote on the main motion. If we get to the following motion, I shall abstain on the grounds that I am not prepared to vote against a desire for recognition and protection, even if I do not agree with the approach….