With elections to Synod getting under-way, we need to hold candidates and electors in our prayers. This is the last chance to right the wrongs of the last Synod and undo the shameful treatment of loyal, orthodox Anglicans. So appalled were our Archbishops at the mistreatment of 'traditionalists' that they put their authority on the line by putting down an amendment that was rejected by the very people the church has done most to help; a sign of things to come unless the secular feminist band-wagon is stopped before it is too late. Many former members must be saddened to have played the feminist tune orchestrated by the bitter women of WATCH who are unable or unwilling to discern Christ's example.
For some orthodox Anglicans it is already too late and they eagerly look forward to the promised land of the Ordinariate. For others it is too difficult or, perhaps through unfortunate circumstances, not an option. For these, and simply for the integrity of the Church of England, provision must be made as promised. Much has made of the role of the Holy Spirit when it suits advocates of the ordination of women. If God helps those who help themselves, some have helped themselves to the detriment of others, contrary to the principles of what they are supposed to stand for.
So now is the time for action. Anyone involved in the Synodical process, must make sure that the 'traditionalist' cause is not lost to the enduring shame on the Church of England.
Brave noises, but honestly the fat lady has sung, the game is over, we should not be wasting our time and resources on a failed Synodical system. We are not wanted here, so let's go where we ARE welcome.
ReplyDeleteI bow to your wisdom Father but what of those unable to make the journey, the divorced and re-married, gay or just too old or feeble to want to make the journey. Are they to be abandoned?
ReplyDeleteThose particular groups, in addition to all traditional Anglo-catholics, have been abandoned by Synod and this is a sad thing.
ReplyDeleteI agree that it is important to provide a home to those who feel they cannot presently join the Ordinariate, but isn't it unhelpful to be providing false hope to these people - by suggesting that women bishops will be overturned - at the same time?
Ultimately it's a question of wanting to the make the journey as AncientBriton has stated. Some people do not want to leave, which is to be respected, but it should be noted that the abandoning has been done by Synod, not by other anglo-catholics who are following their conscience just as much as those who do are not - for the present - Ordinariate bound.
In addition, just to note, being gay or divorced (and not remarried/cohabiting in which case annullment should be investigate) shouldn't be an impediment to joining.
Welcome to my Blog Jakian.
ReplyDeleteIt wasn't my intention to suggest that "women bishops will be overturned", rather that more acceptable provision should be made for those not in favour of the move.
If I recall correctly, Archbishop Rowan referred to unfinished business after the defeat of his Amendment in Synod. It is worth remembering that to the enduring chagrin of their Archbishop, a similar measure was defeated in the Church in Wales in the absence of previous assurances given.
As for the journey, some may be prevented from doing so. In that respect, Fr Michael Gollop's contribution on http://letnothingyoudismay.blogspot.com/2010/09/catching-up-with-developments.html is far more helpful than the contributions on some other Blogs.
Thank you for your welcome, AB! Apologies, also for my loose language "women bishops will be overturned" In my haste to comment I do sometimes miss the crux of the matter!
ReplyDeleteIndeed the Ordinariate isn't for everyone, but I think the mixed reactions to the new CoE society are understandable since it appears that small groups are becoming smaller.
It is so important that bad feeling isn't sown between those of CoE going to the Ordinariate immediately and others to the Society. Not only because it would be un-catholic to do so, but I have an inkling that the fortunes of both will be interdependent in their respective initial stages and beyond. I think that both can be successful and thrive together so long as they each help one-another and display effective Christian witness and companionship - in effect following the Holy Father's example of reaching out to Anglo-Catholics in the first place.
I listened to the july synod exchange on the WB proposals - the first time I have ever heard Synod discussions - and my word they were not pretty (especially what Beverly had to contend with!). Hence, I would share +Edwin's concerns for future synod concessions, although interestingly, a successful Ordinariate launch could assist the cause for improved provisions for society members.
Thank you for the link to Fr. Gollop's blog! I have followed it for sometime and appreciate his grace-filled postings which are a rock of sense!