Press Release from the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement

Date: 23^rd July 2002

LGCM Welcomes Dr Rowan Williams' Appointment

The Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement [LGCM] has warmly welcomed the announcement today that Dr Rowan Williams is to be the new Archbishop of Canterbury.

LGCM General Secretary, the Reverend Richard Kirker said:

"This is extraordinarily good news and we are tremendously excited. We applaud the courage and vision of those who have made this bold and brave decision. Dr Williams' demonstrable commitment to justice and dignity for all people, including lesbians and gay men gives us great heart.

For the first time lesbian and gay Anglicans can feel that they have a real friend at Lambeth. No longer will we need to feel shut out of the heart of the Church. Rowan counts many of us as his friends, his knowledge and understanding of the feelings of exclusion we have experienced can only lead to greater understanding of our lives.

For too long the Church of England has marginalised lesbian and gay people. It has been responsible for legitimising prejudice, discrimination and injustice. Dr Williams' reputation as a man of prayer and reflection gives us great hope that those days are now coming to an end. Dr Williams has had many friends over the years from our community. He understands our stories and has listened to our grievances.

Dr Williams has made it clear time and again during his ministry that human rights and justice for all are non-negotiable. As the new spiritual and pastoral leader of the Anglican Communion it is clear that he will have no truck with discrimination practised in his name. Nothing will change overnight but we are confident that his appointment heralds a new era for the Church.

It is not only lesbians and gay men for whom this is excellent news. It is good for the whole Christian church. A church that excludes is a weaker church. A church that welcomes is a stronger church more able to proclaim the Gospel to all.

The new Archbishop's intellect is outstanding. He will apply intellectual rigour to the deliberations of the Church. There will be no woolly thinking in a church led by Rowan Williams. Homophobia will be challenged and intolerance rooted out.

His gifts as pastor and teacher are universally admired. Lesbian and gay people, and the whole church can be encouraged at the prospect of being led by a man of his stature."