You will be aware by now that the General Synod has voted for the legislative process to begin which will open the way to the consecration of women bishops, possibly as early as 2012. The majorities for this change were substantial in all three houses of bishops, clergy and laity. For many this will be a cause for rejoicing. As Paul says in Romans XII: 15, we are to “rejoice with them that rejoice and weep with them that weep”. The question remains of how to honour the promises made when women were ordained to the priesthood that those who could not accept the decision of General Synod as one authorised by scripture and tradition would continue to have a secure and honoured place in the life of our church. It was clear from the debate on Monday that there are profound doubts about whether a national code of practice could provide such a “secure and honoured place”.
I believe that the London Plan has provided a secure framework within which we have not only been able to live together in one church for more than ten years but we have been able in unity to address the agenda which God has put before us as a Christian community called to serve him at the beginning of the 21st century.
Interesting to note where the Sacred Synod is taking place…
[blockquote] The question remains of how to honour the promises made when women were ordained to the priesthood that those who could not accept the decision of General Synod as one authorised by scripture and tradition would continue to have a secure and honoured place in the life of our church.[/blockquote]
Simple. As in TEC it will be repudiated.
My Lord of London has sat on the fence, ostentatiously, for a great deal too long. It may be that he will try unilaterally to effect what Synod has failed to do–provide a real haven for Catholics. But then he will retire, and it is certain that he will not be replaced by a Catholic-minded opponent of WO. More courage and less diplomacy (and perhaps less anti-Roman prejudice) are needed.
Forgive my cynicism, but, ummm, isn’t this the same Bisop of London who permitted the “Pete and Dave Roadshow” at Great St. Barts?