Secular and church media, both from Canada and overseas, tried to pin the primate-elect down on where he stood on the controversial issue which is scheduled to be debated ”“ and perhaps decided ”“ by General Synod on June 23.
But Bishop Hiltz would only voice his support for the “synodical process,” or the church’s legal procedures, adding that he believed that the church needed to follow its processes and listen to the recommendations both of the Canadian church’s St. Michael Report (which examined the issue of whether same-sex blessings were a matter of doctrine) and the international Windsor Report, which recommended ways of keeping the Anglican Communion together in spite of deep divisions.
“We need, as a church, to look at all the dimensions,” said Bishop Hiltz, naming Scriptural study and matters of pastoral care as examples. “I have personal views, but I am conscious of the office I hold as a bishop and as a primate-elect. I don’t think it’s appropriate to declare my position ”¦ The conversation must go forward in the way that the church has decided it should go forward.”
Cagily hiding what he thinks is to be expected from a politician, but is unworthy of any bishop.
#1…Wilfred…I think you’ve got it reversed. Stating his position could be construed as lobbying for (or against) the position vote (political). Keeping silence allows all the voters to vote their positions without influence from the head (acting like a good bishop).
I’m sure everyone knows his position, so silence doesn’t rob him of his voice (so to speak) as a bishop, but maintains the dignity of the archepiscopal office.
IMO, such a major issue demands that a leader, well not go put too fine a point on it, LEADS.
Why elect a leader, who will not or cannot lead?
I would love to see and hear clarity of action and thought from the leaders. If they are bent on revising the church’s teachings, it’s best to know this so we can pray for them to see the light of Christ. If they are determined to defend the church’s teachings, let’s hear this, so we can pray for them, too, that they be strengthened!
Peace
Jim Elliott