Whilst remaining opposed to the ordination of women to the priesthood and the episcopate, Forward in Faith welcomes the clarity which results from the motion, in the name of the Archbishop of York, which was agreed by the General Synod today. There is now much work to be done in preparing legislation which will give practical effect to that decision. Forward in Faith pledges itself to play a lively part in the discussions which will ensue. It remains to be seen whether it is possible to meet the demands of those in favour of this innovation whilst honouring the oft-repeated assurances of an honoured place within the Church for those who cannot in conscience accept it.
The motion, moved by the Archbishop of York, was passed unamended as follows:
‘That this Synod welcome and affirm the view of the majority of the House of Bishops that admitting women to the episcopate in the Church of England is consonant with the faith of the Church as the Church of England has received it and would be a proper development in proclaiming afresh in this generation the grace and truth of Christ.’
|
|
Bishops |
Clergy |
Laity |
|
Ayes |
31 |
134 |
123 |
|
Noes |
9 |
42 |
68 |
