In the CofE’s case, the straw that is breaking the camel’s back is not just the possible consecration of a gay bishop – Dr. Jeffrey John specifically – but women bishops.
As Ed Tomlinson points out, though, the real problem is the substitution of a subjective experience derived pseudo-faith for faith that has been revealed by God:
As an Anglican priest likely to accept Rome’s offer I urge Synod to think again. We reach a crossroads and clarity is vital if pain is to be kept to a minimum. Either the Church of England wants to profess the revealed faith or one being revealed through innovation. So set your course that your members might know where they stand.
In truth the continuing desire to consecrate women is answer in itself. So I urge no provision at all but sincere commitment to release buildings and funds to those whose future lies elsewhere. Stop fudging, it no longer works, and what you are going to do, do quickly. Amiable separation is preferable to an abusive, damaging union.
I admire that last paragraph for its invincible optimism. The fact is Anglicanism in the West has little interest in Christianity – instead, it is obsessed with power, institutionalism and money: as in North America, the lawsuits will begin as soon as those whose future lies elsewhere switch allegiance and try to stay in their buildings.
What is also quite likely is – to take a leaf out of the ACoC book – procrastination through conversation; woolliness through waffling. Or as Fred Hiltz might put it: “embracing our differences in a Spirit-led watershed moment by having more conversation – that’s an action which makes me proud to be Anglican.”
I have a feeling that putting forth John’s name is window-dressing for more delay and wooliness. Betty Windsor won’t go for it, and at her age she would probably love to do something that’s just not done; interfere. In other word, “not on my watch” At least let us hope that is the scenario. But it’s only another delay towards the day when Charles takes over and we’ll see the first Imam appointed Archbishop of Canterbury.
In fact, I think it could have been said that “Betty Windsor” might have done more to have prevented the C of E’s sad slide into TEC-style revisionism, theological/spiritual anarchy, and decline, that is, thirty years ago; then, perhaps, things could have been turned around or put back on the right course. Perhaps now is too late. Maybe she was trying to do things then, and failed, if she did, it was surely secret and we’ll never know. “Charles … first Imam ABC” – yes, you can’t be faulted, there. The pity is that on some issues Charles seems very sane and possessed of real values – on others though … like global warming … Errgh!
“Stop fudging, it no longer works, and what you are going to do, do quickly. Amiable separation is preferable to an abusive, damaging union.” Some while ago, I said (on my website) that the C of E should indeed split; that there were two different kinds of Christianity here, and adherents of each should simply go their separate ways, with diginity and mutual respect (respect was possible, if this amicable split had been made 5 or so years’ ago – perhaps, now, we have missed our chance on this).
“Anglicanism in the West has little interest in Christianity” – I can’t see how anyone can seriously dispute this. Sad.