STATEMENT OF THE ANGLICAN PRIMATES OF THE GLOBAL SOUTH

Anglican Church of Nigeria website ^ | 2 November 2003 | Most Revd Peter J. Akinola

[ahadams2]

STATEMENT OF THE PRIMATES OF THE GLOBAL SOUTH IN THE ANGLICAN COMMUNION IN RESPONSE TO THE CONSECRATION OF GENE ROBINSON ON 2 NOVEMBER 2003

02 November 2003

It is with profound sadness and pain that we have arrived at this moment in the history of the Anglican Communion.

We are appalled that the authorities within the Episcopal Church USA (ECUSA) have ignored the heartfelt plea of the Communion not to proceed with the scheduled consecration of Canon Gene Robinson. They have ignored the clear and strong warning of its detrimental consequences for the unity of the Communion which was contained in the Statement from the Primates' Meeting of October 15th and 16th which was unanimously assented to by the thirty-seven Primates present including the presiding bishop of ECUSA.

The consecration of a bishop, who divorced his wife and separated from his children now living as a non-celibate homosexual, clearly demonstrates that authorities within ECUSA consider that their cultural-based agenda is of far greater importance than obedience to the Word of God, the integrity of the one mission of God in which we all share, the spiritual welfare and unity of the worldwide Anglican Communion, our ecumenical fellowship and inter-faith relationships. The overwhelming majority of the Primates of the Global South cannot and will not recognize the office or ministry of Canon Gene Robinson as a bishop.

We deplore the act of those bishops who have taken part in the consecration which has now divided the Church in violation of their obligation to guard the faith and unity of the church. A state of impaired communion now exists both within a significant part of ECUSA and between ECUSA and most of the provinces within the Communion. By its actions, ECUSA is held solely responsible for this division. In addition to violating the clear and consistent teaching of the Bible, the consecration directly challenges the common teaching, common practice and common witness within the one Anglican Communion.

As ECUSA has willfully disregarded the strong warnings given at Lambeth that such an action would "tear the fabric of the communion at its deepest level", we can now have no basis whatsoever for any further confidence that ECUSA will pay any regard to the findings of the recently announced Commission set up by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

We urge the Archbishop of Canterbury to bring forward urgently a mechanism to guarantee "adequate provision of episcopal oversight"[i] for parishes and clergy within ECUSA dioceses and the Diocese of New Westminster with whom we remain in fellowship. We also call on those persons who have already placed lawsuits that further tear the fabric of our common life to withdraw their destructive worldly actions As Primates who represent over fifty million Anglicans, we have a solemn stewardship to steadfastly uphold and promote the historic and universal Apostolic Faith and Order of the Church throughout the ages as well as to protect those who are one with us in this same. We therefore affirm the ministry of the bishops, clergy and laity in ECUSA who have, as a matter of principle, and in fidelity to the historic teaching of the Church, opposed the actions taken at General Convention and objected to the consecration. We will continue to recognize and support their membership within the worldwide Communion fellowship and promise them our solidarity and episcopal support. We will now do everything that is necessary to uphold historic Anglicanism and advance our common faith, life, mission and ministry.

We cannot now uniformly define the further implications of this impairment created by ECUSA. As each province lives into the "emerging" character of this impairment of communion according to the theological and legal demands of their respective churches[ii], we pledge support of each other in our common response to the willful decision of ECUSA authorities to oppose the Communion's teaching.

We are challenged and hopeful about the future while we grieve for those who have defiantly chosen to walk another way. We call on faithful Anglicans to a season of prayer for repentance, renewal and reconciliation in Christ and for the unity of our Anglican Communion rooted in truth and love.

To God alone be glory in the Church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations for ever and ever! Amen.

Most Revd Peter J. Akinola DD. For and behalf of the working committee for the Primates of the Global South.

[i] Primates' Statement October 16 2003 [ii] Commission's Mandate October 29 2003 Paragraph 2.

[ahadams2]

Conservative Primates Response Ping.

[VRWC_minion]

The bombshell

As ECUSA has willfully disregarded the strong warnings given at Lambeth that such an action would "tear the fabric of the communion at its deepest level", we can now have no basis whatsoever for any further confidence that ECUSA will pay any regard to the findings of the recently announced Commission set up by the Archbishop of Canterbury

[ken5050]

just wondering..am I the only one who's starting to think that "impaired communion" is an oxymoron......?..it's either communion, or not...IMHO

[ahadams2]

To the best of my knowledge, the term 'impaired communion' was used in order to indicate that the Global South is willing and able to assist the Christian portions of ecusa as they seek to move out into the new province.

[jboot]

We cannot now uniformly define the further implications of this impairment created by ECUSA. As each province lives into the "emerging" character of this impairment of communion according to the theological and legal demands of their respective churches[ii], we pledge support of each other in our common response to the willful decision of ECUSA authorities to oppose the Communion's teaching.

Are they merely keeping thier options open, or does this mean something deeper?

[ahadams2]

Yep and now we know why the archdruid has been tapdancing so hard these last few weeks...'cause he knew that was what was coming from Global South.

[ken5050]

I understand the context...my point was that like Humpty-Dumpty..the thing can't be put back together....also, did you see the AAC statement a few days ago about how many of its members may seek RC affiliation/conversion...

[ahadams2]

Part of what they're getting at here is that (unlike our Roman brethren) each Anglican Province's canon law is somewhat different...and therefore the responses will be somewhat different as well. This allows the Global South to respond more flexibly in their assistance of Christian Anglicans in North America, while at the same time insuring that both ecusa, and Canterbury know beforehand that there is no possibility of the acceptance by Global South of any blanket assurances.

[ahadams2]

oh I don't think there's any intention of allowing ecusa back into the Communion, at least not in it's current state of apostasy. Also, while I (as an Evangelical Charismatic) will mourn the loss of our Anglo-Catholic brethren who decide to 'cross the Tiber', their actions under the present circumstances are entirely understandable.

[jboot]

Thanks! The "stately" language of these press releases poses a challenge, at least to me. They often seem to be using a lot of words to say nothing at all.

[torqemada]

While the Primates are boldly declaring their continued recognition, protection, and support for the "faithful" in ECUSA, I'd just like to ask...what about the rest of us? What about the "faithful" who rightly recognized the developing apostasy in ECUSA 30 years ago and departed from the unbelievers then? What about the "faithful" who, having recognized ECUSA's arrogance, and suffering vindictive attacks by ECUSA's heretical leadership, chose to shake the dirt from their sandals and move on in recent times? The ABC and the Primates of the Worldwide Anglican Communion need to speak to this question of "What about us?" Unless and until they include the rest of us out here in the "nether regions" of the Communion, they will only pay lip service to the admirable goal of unity, and they will remain, essentially, irrelevant. Primate Akinola, himself, categorically states that, "We do not have to go through Canterbury to get to God." He and the other Primates would do well to remember that the same could be said for The Communion. Jesus calls on them to shepherd his flock...the whole flock. "...what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses once coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and seek diligently until she find it? And when she has found it, she calls her friends and neighbors together, saying 'Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I lost!" (Luke 15:8-9). One commentary on the Bible says, "Like the woman who searched for her coin, we can be assured that we are special to God. Like the one sentimental coin, we hold unique value and worth to our Father. For we are his valued possession, giving glory to Him. We can have the confidence that He will light our way, look for us, and when He find us, pick us up and rejoice."

And, so, I ask the ABC, the Primates, and those in America who wish to lead this realignment of the Anglican Communion...what do you intend to do find and pick up all these precious coins scattered about? What about the rest of us....?

[ahadams2]

I'm not sure which part of the Continuum you're in, but my first suggestion would be to have someone simply start asking questions of the AAC and FiF/NA; regarding reintegration of the Continuum, or at least of those portions wishing to be reintegrated. As far as anything formal goes, I'd expect that to be occurring at the bishop and archbishop levels, so we may not hear anything about it for at least a week or so until things slow down a bit.

[TheRevEN]

Thanks, ahadams2, for your (as usual) accuracy and perception.

Your reply to jboot concerning, "What does this all mean" is right on target. The Global South Primates are essentially saying that real Communion with ECUSA is no longer possible in any meaningful way. There is no legal procedure in place to do this, so they are doing it in terms of our relationships across the various Provinces. However, they are remaining in Communion with the "Faithful Remnant" which is coalescing from within ECUSA.

The truth is that the split between the Global South and North America already happened: it was a done deal at the Primates' Meeting on Oct 15-16. They said right then that Communion was no longer a reality; they just gave ECUSA a final window of opportunity to repent and turn around before going through with Vicky Gene's desecration.

And yeah, the language can be really annoying to Americans. All that British-style politeness and polish! They couch their terms so carefully that it is easy to lose the point -- but the point is clear. ECUSA is OUT. The ECUSA structure will NOT be coming "back in." They are being replaced (apparently --I do trust) by the genuine, orthodox Church which is forming up under the current (temporary?) title of "Network of Confessing Dioceses and Parishes." It is fascinating to me that Archbishop Rowan was the one to choose that name. The "Confessing Church" was the name of the faithful and resisting Lutheran Church in Nazi Germany. (Draw your own conclusions)

The statement from Mr Robinson through all this that really made my blood boil was that *he* offered *us* the invitation to "Come Back" to the loving embrace of him and Frank and the others whenever we want. &#@&%&%#*!!! WAS that an ice skating rink you were sitting on V.G. -- or do you really think hell *has* frozen over??? If I have time a couple of days after the Apocalypse, I'll think over your offer.

Your answer to torquemanda (!!?!) was also accurate. Check in with the AAC, guy. Part of the plan does seem to be the regathering of as much of the Continuum as wishes to be gathered. However, be aware that the AAC policy is a "live and let live" stance in regards to women's ordination. Ordained women do have a place in the AAC grouping. However, those opposed to women's ordination will be honored for their consciences and will *not* be pressured to change in any way.

Meanwhile, the development of the Conference of North American Anglican Bishops is a very important step. This "Re-alignment" thing that everyone is talking about is happening one step at a time, but it probably won't take as long as most people had thought. This Bishops' Conference is designed to protect the bishops who protect the dissenting priests and parishes. The Canadian Synod had already started proceedings against poor dear Bp Buckle who was trying to protect the New Westminster dissenters. Now he has "A Place to Stand" too.

My own bishop (Thank the Good Lord!!) is one of the members of this new Conference, so we have no real worries where I am. However, lefty priests within our diocese, while a small minority, are trying to do everything they can think of to make his life miserable. (so much for tolerance and inclusivity -- as usual)

As the AAC gathers up the priests and parishes who are making a faithful stand, the bishops' conference will solidify the bishops' position. The Archbishop of Canterbury was commissioned by the rest of the Primates to oversee the whole realignment process so that when the dust settles, we will still be in possession of our true Communion as the legitimate Church. This is the really important part: We are NOT leaving "The Church." The faithless ECUSA institution has left the Church of Jesus Christ and the Anglican Communion is making that as clear as they can given our besetting sin which is really our demonic politeness.

I am amazed and thankful to God for the provision He is making to take care of His own.

Meanhwile, keep those prayers a-comin', brethren -- we need all the Grace we can get!. The end is not yet in sight. The Rev EN

[torqemada]

I have done what you suggest. I have forwarded my question to the ABC, Primate Akinola, FIFNA, AAC, etc. I understand that such discussion take place at higher levels. The basis for my concern is that throughout this crisis, the silence has been deafening with regard to the status of continuing Anglicans, who have long existed without ANY recognition as legitimate members of the Body of Christ. There remains, today, on the part many individuals I've talked to in recent weeks, a refusal to acknowledge that the continuing Provinces deserve a seat at the table in any discussions of "realignment." Some have gone so far as to sniff that "unifying all those 'factions' is impossible!" Those of us who sit in the pews of these Churches deserve to know NOW whether we are to be included in these discussions and plans, or whether we are to remain maginalized.

[torqemada]

>>However, be aware that the AAC policy is a "live and let live" stance in regards to women's ordination. Ordained women do have a place in the AAC grouping. However, those opposed to women's ordination will be honored for their consciences and will *not* be pressured to change in any way.<<

And that's another thing...why is it that some refuse to even consider the possibility that women's ordination might have played a supporting role in ECUSA's headlong rush to apostasy? Why is this issue NOT worth reconsideration in any realignment and reunification? This laissez faire, "do your own thing," approach to Church governance is precisely what has led to the disaster we have today. When any Province, Diocese, or Parish acts unilaterally to change the traditions or doctrine of the Faith, they display an arrogant disregard for the well-being of anyone else that make up the healthy, functioning, Body of Christ. It doesn't matter if it's the issue of women's ordination, or consecrating homosexual Bishop's, or re-writing the Prayer Book to make it gender neutral. Unless such issues are taken up and agreed upon by the whole of the Anglican Communion, then we are nothing more than the loose confederation of Churches who "claim" Anglicanism as the basis for their worship. That's what exists today. I ask you...what good is it?

[LiteKeeper]

SPOTREP - ANGLICAN

[TheRevEN]

Bishop Duncan did a very good job of explaining the AAC policy. He said that it would take at least 3 generations for the full Church to discern and receive or reject the Biblical validity (or not) of women's ordination. Eventually the whole Church will have to discern the Will of God on this issue as the whole Church works through the texts of Holy Scripture and the practice of those parts of the Church which have begun to ordain women. This is not the cut-and-dried issue that sexual immorality presents. There are texts in Scripture that do tend toward the possibility of women's leadership. Only the 12 were at the Last Supper, but there were soon a lot of other people doing all sorts of ministries.

The issue is way too big to try to discuss, and *truly*, I would appreciate it from the bottom of my heart if we could avoid getting into this painful issue right now in consideration of the current difficulties. Let it go for now -- please -- ok? I have more on my plate than I can possibly handle.

I agree with you that the general attitudes and cavalier approach to Holy Scripture got us to this point. However, there a lot of extremely orthodox Bible-believing totally-sold-out-to-Jesus and Yes! Catholic women who are ordained and trying to serve God's people as best they can by His Grace.

The whole Body of Christ IS split and fragmented. We have no real unity anywhere at this point in history. The early ideal of unity has not been with us for many, many centuries. That is just the way it is -- sadly, regretably, but we can't pretend otherwise. I have come to the conclusion that we *cannot* and *will not* ever be able to cobble It back together again by our feeble efforts at doctrinal consensus -- however well meant those efforts might be.

The only thing that will restore our unity will be our determination to repent of our infidelities, to commit ourselves totally to the Lordship of Jesus as only Way Truth and Life and to beg His Grace to accomplish in us more than we could ever ask or imagine.

We are going to see Him do some mighty works out of our desperate situation.

Meanwhile, let me assure you that the leadership of the Continuing Churches has been and is meeting to discuss their place in recent developments. Ask your pastors about the recent meeting in Atlanta and the most recent meetings -- I think in the last month -- to discuss options. It IS going on.

Many blessings to you and yours The Rev EN

[VRWC_minion]

We are being asked to place the concept of unity ahead of scripture. If the vast majority believe X, then X is canonical regardless of what scripture says.

[dangus]

As a Catholic, I find this misuse of the phrase "crossing the Tiber" to be quite amusing. The Tiber is what seperates the Vatican City from Rome. The "Roman" Catholic Church is a bit of a misnomer, since the Vatican is not in Rome. (The use comes from the Pope's title, Bishop of Rome, but since St. Peter's execution, the distance of the Bishop from Rome is a symbol that the Church is in exile in the present. Even when Charlemagne named his Empire, the Holy Roman Empire, the pope remained outside Rome.)

Thus, "Crossing the Tiber" means leaving the the decadence and evil of Imperial Rome/Babylon to join the holiness of the Catholic Church. Somehow I don't think that's how you meant it.