What does being “liberal in ethics” while being supposedly evangelical and orthodox in other areas really mean in practice? Well, in this case it means that the new dean can live as an active homosexual, marry another man – that’s the “ethics” bit – and expect everyone to believe his claim to orthodoxy elsewhere.

The problem is that by adopting a code of sexual ethics – one that coincidentally benefits him – that runs counter to clear Biblical injunctions and 2000 years of Christian teaching, he invites scepticism about his real attachment to evangelical preaching, orthodox Trinitarian theology and fervent discipleship. When his alleged orthodoxy becomes less than entirely convenient what is to stop Father Kennington becoming as “liberal” in that – assuming he isn’t already – as he is in his tolerance for homoerotic liaisons?

From here (page 1):

The next Dean of the Diocese of Montreal and Rector of Christ Church Cathedral

Father Kennington, who was selected after a year-long search, succeeds Very Rev. Michael Pitts, who

retired last year after serving in the post since 1991 and who is also from Britain, although he was already serving in Montreal at the time of his appointment. Another point in common is that both men were in contact with Russia and Russian Orthodoxy in their early careers.

In a biographical note supplied to the cathedral, Father Kennington describes himself as “liberal in ethics, evangelical in preaching, catholic in liturgy and orthodox in his understanding of Trinitarian theology and Christology.” He “is passionate about mission and about helping people grow in faith to become fervent disciples of Christ so that the Christian Community can build God’s Dominion of love, justice and peace.”

Father Kennington also writes that he will enter into a civil partnership in May. His partner, Jonathan, will join him in Montreal shortly after that. Father Kennington has three adult children – a son and two daughters – from a previous marriage.

The article goes on to say:

Paul is highly qualified, is a man of faith, gives priority to pastoral matters, encourages lay ministries, understands the importance of liturgy and music in worship, is a wonderful preacher, lives a good Christian life, and is delightful to meet.

I’m sure he is a lovely bloke, but how did we get from the point where the qualifications for being a Deacon included “the husband of one wife” to “the ex-husband of one wife and now the husband of one man – but he lives a good Christian life; really, he does”. No wonder the Anglican Church of Canada is a laughing stock.