The Church of England is still bitterly divided over the issue of gay clergy and gay marriage, while the general synod has rejected his compromise formula for the introduction of women bishops, which would have installed male co-bishops to appease traditionalists. Repeatedly, over the years, Dr Williams’s attempts to mediate between disputing factions of his church have been rebuffed. Hardline evangelicals have at times treated his leadership with barely concealed contempt; liberals have despaired over his refusal to risk church unity by standing with them.
But when he has managed to break free from ecclesiastical firefighting, Dr Williams has contributed much to the quality and tone of public debate….
Read it all.
Guardian Editorial–Rowan Williams: Farewell to a man of intellect, integrity and spirituality
The Church of England is still bitterly divided over the issue of gay clergy and gay marriage, while the general synod has rejected his compromise formula for the introduction of women bishops, which would have installed male co-bishops to appease traditionalists. Repeatedly, over the years, Dr Williams’s attempts to mediate between disputing factions of his church have been rebuffed. Hardline evangelicals have at times treated his leadership with barely concealed contempt; liberals have despaired over his refusal to risk church unity by standing with them.
But when he has managed to break free from ecclesiastical firefighting, Dr Williams has contributed much to the quality and tone of public debate….
Read it all.