Fresno Bee: San Joaquin diocese faces big decision

A yes vote also sets into motion a list of other issues and questions.

Realignment of the diocese: The Anglican Church of the Southern Cone of South America recently extended an invitation to the diocese for membership on a temporary and emergency basis, but nothing has been decided. The Church of the Southern Cone, which consists of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay, is based in Buenos Aires.

The issue is likely to be added to the convention’s agenda for discussion and vote. The Right Rev. Frank Lyons, bishop of Bolivia, who extended the invitation in behalf of the Southern Cone, will be at the convention.

The parishes that don’t want to leave: Congregations such as Holy Family Episcopal Church in Fresno, St. John the Baptist Parish in Lodi and St. Anne Parish in Stockton, whose delegates voted last year against the split, plan to stay affiliated with the Episcopal Church, Smith said. They say they plan to remain as the Diocese of San Joaquin.

Distribution of church property: Schofield already has informed parishes not wanting to leave the Episcopal Church that they won’t be penalized. Schofield said those parishes can retain property on the condition they don’t leave debt with the Diocese of San Joaquin.

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Posted in * Anglican - Episcopal, Episcopal Church (TEC), TEC Conflicts, TEC Conflicts: San Joaquin