Here is one:
Sir, It is deeply disappointing that you choose to describe possible provision by the Church of England for those who cannot accept the ordination of women to the episcopate as “enshrining discrimination”. (Leader, July 3).
The issue has always been one of how best to hold together in one Church of England loyal Anglicans with differing convictions on a disputed question of faith and order, so that all may flourish. The signatories to the open letter to the Archbishops of Canterbury and York are not “threatening to defect,” if women are consecrated as bishops, but making plain their concerns about the need for provision which has theological integrity and is secure in law. Nor are they “defying” anyone. The note from the Archbishops which accompanied the publication of the text of the motion to be debated at the General Synod on Monday makes it clear that they are looking for an open discussion, in which all options will be given a fair hearing. The Archbishops have not, for very good reasons, declared their mind as to which outcome they might favour. Above all, they need our prayers as they weigh and ponder how best to lead the Church at this time.
The Rev J.M.R. Baker
Principal
Pusey House, Oxford
Well said Fr Jonathan!
A century and a half later – it’s interesting to reflect whether it was Newman or Pusey who more perceptively diagnosed the spiritual reality of the Church of England.
So much for honoring the assurances made in 1992 and 1993. The catholics have been pushed under the bus by General Synod.
One wonders if Rome is watching closely?
Has the ascendant liberal wing of Anglicanism ever made a promise to traditionalists that has been observed, in any province? It would be an interesting study. Seems to me to have been an utterly ruthless blitzkrieg, marked by shameless misrepresentation.