Still, there were moments of ….[tension?] Bishop Mouneer Anis told the bishops that their decision to consecrate Robinson created “one of the most difficult disputes in the communion in our generation” and that some “think you are a different religion.”<\/p>\n
“If you appreciate being members of the global Anglican family, then you have to walk alongside the members of your family,” Anis said, according to a text of his remarks that was circulated.<\/p>\n
Yet no one expects Episcopal leaders to completely reverse course. Theological conservatives are a minority in the denomination and some wish to stay in the church.<\/p>\n
Williams will work with Anglican leaders and with members of the Anglican Consultative Council, an international lay-clergy panel, in evaluating whatever statement Episcopal bishops make before they end their gathering Tuesday.<\/p>\n
Pittsburgh Bishop Robert Duncan, head of a network of conservative Episcopal dioceses and parishes that are considering splitting from the Episcopal Church, said that Williams is “de-emphasizing the ultimatum piece to try to get the best results” from American leaders.<\/p>\n
“A great number of the primates see that deadline very much as a real deadline,” Duncan said, “just as many of us had.”<\/p>\n