…the resolutions passed at our Episcopal Diocesan Convention concern appropriate clergy behavior. The Episcopal Diocese of Albany does not discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation in allowing men or women into the ordination process. But that does not mean, for example, that a man of heterosexual orientation would be a suitable candidate for ordination if his behavior included adultery. He is to be an example to the flock.
If he or she is single, he or she is called to be celibate by the church as an example to the faithful and to the youth. The diocese does not discriminate on the basis of orientation but only on the basis of actual behavior.
This accords with both the teaching and canon law of the whole Episcopal Church, not simply the Diocese of Albany.
It’s always interesting to see a declaration like this. Does it cover *laymen*, that is, communicants, as well? Are laymen expected to follow these guidelines, like no adultery? Is there any thing in the known universe that can exclude a person from communion in the the Anglican Communion? If so, it is news that should knock anything found by the Martian explorer off the headlines.
Re #1
nwlayman,
[blockquote] Is there any thing in the known universe that can exclude a person from communion in the the Anglican Communion?[/blockquote]
No.
ICXC NIKA
John
As a general observation I am not comfortable with the ordination of persons of homosexual orientation to the clergy unless there is an established track record (I favor at least 10 years) that they are able to resist their particular passions. We all have passions and temptations to sin which we must fight constantly. That battle does not end until we die.
In the Orthodox Church persons who believe they have a religious calling and who suffer from this cruel affliction are generally steered towards the monastic life. There are very few unmarried Orthodox clergy who serve as parish priests, widowers excepted. I think this is a pretty good way of approaching the matter.
ICXC
John
Re #1
nwlayman,
[blockquote]Is there any thing in the known universe that can exclude a person from communion in the the Anglican Communion?[/blockquote]
Yes. Let’s look at TEC.
First and foremost, you’re on the Honor System (see the Exhortation, BCP 1979). “For, as the benefit is great, if with penitent hearts and living faith we receive the holy Sacrament, so is the danger great, if we receive it improperly, not recognizing the Lord’s Body. Judge yourselves, therefore, lest you be judged by the Lord.”
Secondly, we have the Disciplinary Rubrics (also BCP 1979):
“If the priest knows that a person who is living a notoriously evil life intends to come to Communion, the priest shall speak to that person privately, and tell him that he may not come to the Holy Table until he has given clear proof of repentance and amendment of life.
The priest shall follow the same procedure with those who have done wrong to their neighbors and are a scandal to the other members of the congregation, not allowing such persons to receive Communion until they have made restitution for the wrong they have done, or have at least promised to do so.
When the priest sees that there is hatred between members of the congregation, he shall speak privately to each of them, telling them that they may not receive Communion until they have forgiven each other. And if the person or persons on one side truly forgive the others and desire and promise to make up for their faults, but those on the other side refuse to forgive, the priest shall allow those who are penitent to come to Communion, but not those who are stubborn.
In all such cases, the priest is required to notify the bishop, within fourteen days at the most, giving the reasons for refusing Communion.” (Also see Canon I.17.6.)
Lastly, there’s Canon I.17.7: No unbaptized person shall be eligible to receive Holy Communion in this Church.
Obviously, some deranged priests have exercised their Free Will to disregard the above.
Someone needs to inform +J. Jon Bruno and his clergy.
Yes- if you happen to be orthodox and believe that women’s ordination is not in keeping with true faith- then most so called ‘communion services’ are off limits to you and you are pushed to the very margins of the church and treated like social outcasts.
Mind you that will probably end in July when Synod goes back on its word and ensures that the provision offered is so scant that we must leeave. Then I will be excommunicated from my own church for good.
Ad Orientem –
While I understand your feelings here:
[i][blockquote]As a general observation I am not comfortable with the ordination of persons of homosexual orientation to the clergy unless there is an established track record (I favor at least 10 years) that they are able to resist their particular passions. We all have passions and temptations to sin which we must fight constantly. That battle does not end until we die.[/blockquote][/i]
I don’t know of data that the power of the urges or the likelihood to act upon them is any different (assuming equally strong theological prohibition and belief therein) between homosexual/lesbian adults and single heterosexual adults. Additionally, many who are gay or lesbian will say they have roughly ten years of not acting upon those desires before giving in and admitting to themselves and others their sexual preferences. Please understand, I believe firmly in the Biblical prohibition against homosexual acts – and do not believe anyone engaging in homosexual/lesbian sex should be active in the priesthood (unless it is a singular event, they confess to their bishop and repent), neither do I believe a heterosexual person engaging in sex outside of marriage should be active in the priesthood (with the same caveat noted above). Just my two bits.