Bishop Glyn's Immediate Reflections

Bishop Glyn shares his immediate reflections on the vote at General Synod this afternoon:  "Whilst today's vote in General Synod didn't come as any great surprise it doesn't necessarily mean that we're not shocked at the outcome.  However, the tone of the debate was positive, gracious and even generous from all quarters.  The fact that this was so, gives me hope for the future and for our honoured place as Catholics in the Church of England.  Even more importantly I continue to trust in Christ's Lordship over His Church. 

I hope this is enough for the moment to accompany this statement, because what I believe we need now, is a time of reflection, to take stock and pray before saying too much about how I see the future.  However if anyone reading this is anxious or worried please don't hesitate to get in touch with me."

Statement from the Council of Bishops

Many in the Church of England are celebrating today, following final approval of the legislation to permit women to be ordained as bishops.

While recognizing this, we deeply regret the further obstacle that this decision places in the path to the full, visible unity of the whole Church.

We do, however, welcome the provision that has been made in the House of Bishops’ Declaration. It recognizes that our theological convictions about ministry and ordination remain within the spectrum of Anglican teaching and tradition. It assures us that bishops will continue to be consecrated within the Church of England who can provide episcopal ministry that accords with those theological convictions. It makes provision for parishes to gain access to that episcopal ministry by passing resolutions.

This gives us confidence in our future as catholics who are called to live out our Christian vocation in the Church of England. For this we give thanks to God.

On behalf of the Council of Bishops                         

+ TONY PONTEFRACT                                         

Rt Revd Tony Robinson                                            

Bishop of Pontefract

Chairman

Bishop Glyn will be hosting a series of meetings for his clergy throughout this week - detail here.