Canon Gene Robinson Statement issued 19 September 2003


The Rev. Canon V. Gene Robinson, who will become bishop of New Hampshire, USA, on Nov. 2, will join the Halfway to Lambeth Conference as a keynote speaker by satellite downlink to Manchester, UK 24-26th October 2003.

Canon Robinson and The Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement, sponsor of the conference, determined by mutual agreement that the timing of the conference and his consecration one week later now made it impractical for him to appear in person.

"I fully support the conference and the important work it is doing. It is so important to follow up on the 1998 Lambeth Resolutions by opening this long-needed dialogue with gay and lesbian Christians throughout the Anglican Communion," Canon Robinson said.

The General Secretary of LGCM, the Rev. Richard Kirker, has accepted an invitation to be an official guest at Bishop Robinson's consecration on November 2.

"Canon Robinson has rightly decided that his priorities should be to remain in America while the conference is taking place," Rev Richard Kirker said. "We respect his decision and are thankful for his commitment to this conference. LGCM is delighted he will be available by satellite link."

The other keynote speakers in Manchester are Bishop Michael Ingham (Canada) Christopher Senteza (Uganda), Rev Mario Ribas (Brazil) and Rowan Smith, Dean of Cape Town (South Africa).

Canon Robinson has accepted an invitation from LGCM to speak in Britain at a later date after his consecration.

END
19 September 2003

Details of the Halfway to Lambeth Conference are obtainable at http://www.lgcm.org.uk/halfwaytolambeth/default.htm.