Good post Benedict (and your 5:18pm one too). What I find strange though is that the CofE already allows women to serve as vicars. There may be different interpretations of the texts but if you're going to take the Bible as the authority on this subject surely you have to either allow women to serve in all positions of leadership or none at all? What the CofE needs at this time is strong leadership who have the courage to say "we have studied the texts, interpreted them this way and made a decision based on that interpretation." That would send a message that the leadership of the Anglican Church has studied the Bible, discussed their theological differences among themselves and then had the courage to make a decision - even if it turns out to be the wrong one. If I were an Anglican I would have a far greater trust and respect for that decision - even if I disagreed with it. Sadly, what comes across at the moment is that neither side is particularly convinced they've got it right....and in my opinion that is far more damaging to the church than taking a strong position either way. Although some might see that as a bit dictatorial I don't. The church isn't a democracy and there are many times I've disagreed with my pastor, but each time I have a choice. Is my disagreement so fundamental to my faith that I'm prepared to leave the church? Invariably the answer to that is no....let's face it, wanting women bishops is hardly questioning the virgin birth or the resurrection is it?
Voice For Victims
Voice for Victims is a campaign aimed at promoting the rights of those affected by child sexual abuse.
