Forward in Faith regrets the decision of the Governing Body of the Church in Wales to authorize the ordination of women as bishops without first agreeing arrangements for those who, for theological reasons, will not be able to receive episcopal ministry from them.

We cannot see how a female bishop could be what a diocesan bishop should be – a Father in God and a focus of unity for all within his diocese. This vote therefore makes the question of the provision of episcopal ministry for those who continue to uphold catholic faith and order in the Church in Wales even more pressing.

Experience in Wales and elsewhere does not give us confidence that the promised ‘code of practice’ could offer the level of assurance that would encourage growth and flourishing – so sorely needed in Wales – or the degree of certainty that would remove the possibility of damaging and distracting disputes.

Our brothers and sisters in Credo Cymru will seek to enter into dialogue with the Welsh bishops. We can only hope that their representations will be met with the generosity of spirit that ought to be the hallmark of Christian episcopacy. Meanwhile, we continue to pray for and with our Welsh sisters and brothers, encouraging them to follow St David in being joyful and keeping the faith.

†  JONATHAN FULHAM                                      

The Rt Revd Jonathan Baker, Bishop of Fulham                       

Chairman    

The Council of Forward in Faith seeks to appoint a (non-executive) Treasurer for a term of four years.

The Treasurer will

• oversee financial administration of the Charity by the Director and staff
• have relevant experience (e.g. in accountancy, or in financial oversight of a charity or small business, and in working with auditors)
• be eligible to serve as a Trustee of the Charity
• be able to attend Council and Executive meetings and meet the Director as necessary
• be a member of Forward in Faith or willing to join.

Please send enquiries, expressions of interest and recommendations tocolin.podmore@forwardinfaith.com by 1 October 2013