Fallout
Monday, November 03, 2003
The fallout from Gene Robinson’s consecration continues today.
LONDON (Reuters) - Conservative Anglicans refused Monday to recognize the consecration of an openly gay bishop in New Hampshire and accused the Episcopalian Church in the United States of "declaring independence."From Latin America to Africa, prelates thundered their disapproval of Canon Gene Robinson's appointment which has plunged the 450-year-old Church into one of its biggest crises.
"The devil has clearly entered the Church. God cannot be mocked," said Kenya's Archbishop Benjamin Nzimbi who cut all ties with the U.S. Church.
Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams issued a statement that reads in part:
It is clear that those who have consecrated Gene Robinson have acted in good faith on their understanding of what the constitution of the American church permits. But the effects of this upon the ministry and witness of the overwhelming majority of Anglicans particularly in the non-western world have to be confronted with honesty.
Does Williams mean to say that those who oppose the inclusion of gays and lesbians into the Kingdom of God get veto power? This was a topic in our Pastoral Care class this morning. My take:
It isn’t up to humans to define whom God wants at the table. God seems to speak clearly that everyone is welcomed. Jesus’ ministry to the marginalized is evidence enough of this. Of course, there can be legitimate debate over such difficult questions. But the American Anglicans deserve praise for taking such a bold and prophetic step and for forcing the question.
For those interested in an American Anglican take you ought to visit this blog by Karen Johanns.