The statement from the extraordinary meeting of Primates at Lambeth has not totally disappointed the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement. The General Secretary the Revd Richard Kirker said today (16th Oct):
“We are heartened by the Primates’ call for the Church to listen to lesbian and gay people.
“Church leaders have an ideal opportunity to put this into practice by attending our Conference in Manchester “Halfway to Lambeth” 24th – 26th October.
“We call on Archbishop Rowan Williams to lead by example! Show us your undoubted sincerity and once again take up the invitation to attend our Conference. Ignore those who have already shut their ears.
“We welcome the protection this statement offers to lesbian and gay Christians from persecution within the church. We can now be guaranteed help against homophobic bishops.
“The emphasis on legalism and canon law is to be regretted. We would have welcomed an international commission on Human Sexuality as a sign of the Communion’s commitment to listening and dialogue.
“The statement proposes considerable legal changes within the Anglican Communion, the structure outlined would have prevented the ordination of women to the priesthood and may yet be used to stop their ordination as bishops.
“While acknowledging the sorrow many feel, we remind the Primates there are many millions of Anglicans who rejoice at the decisions of the General Convention ECUSA and of people in the diocese of New Westminster and New Hampshire.”ends
(Editors please note: The Rt Revd Michael Ingham will be attending our conference “Halfway to Lambeth” – Bishop elect Gene Robinson of new Hampshire will be there by live video-link. Other speakers from Africa and South America will attend. Bids for interviews only through Martin Reynolds – Press Officer by email martin.reynolds1@virgin.net )
