Church of England bishops have drawn up plans for a “rule book” of beliefs that would expel liberals who refuse to abide by it.<\/p>\n
The proposals to introduce Papal-style laws come despite warnings that they could lead to a split in the Church.<\/p>\n
The confidential document from the House of Bishops, seen by The Sunday Telegraph, claims that a “narrower definition of Anglican belief” is crucial to prevent the Anglican Communion from becoming embroiled in future disputes over issues such as homosexual clergy.<\/p>\n
The paper reveals the determination at the highest levels of the Church to impose powers to quash dissenters, backing a covenant – or set of rules – that would block Anglican clergy from pursuing liberal and potentially divisive policies.<\/p>\n
There is no official policy that governs the clergy’s behaviour, but instead each of the world’s 38 Anglican provinces is autonomous.<\/p>\n