DUNCAN TO NETWORK: "Primates refuted revisionist theology and innovations"

Main Entry: pri'mate
Pronunciation: *pr*-*m*t or esp for 1 -m*t
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English primat, from Old French, from Medieval Latin primat-, primas archbishop, from Latin, leader, from primus
Date: 13th century

1 often capitalized : a bishop who has precedence in a province, group of provinces, or a nation
2 archaic : one first in authority or rank : LEADER
3 [New Latin Primates, from Latin, plural of primat-, primas] : any of an order (Primates) of mammals comprising humans, apes, monkeys, and related forms (as lemurs and tarsiers)
-pri'mate-ship \-*ship\ noun
--pri-ma'tial \pr*-*m*-sh*l\ adjective

Following the recent meeting of the Anglican Communion Primates, the Rt. Rev. Robert Duncan, Moderator of the Anglican Communion Network (ACN) and Bishop of Pittsburgh, has commented on the end of drift that has come as a result of the gathering in Northern Ireland.

Not only was the meeting a significant reaffirmation of historic Biblical faith, Bishop Duncan observed that it may well prove to be one of the most definitive re-affirmations of the church's teaching since the Reformation.

Although the language was diplomatic and gracious, the statement was a fundamental refutation of revisionist theology and innovations. Noting the season of transition in which the church finds itself, Bishop Duncan sought to offer encouragement to those affiliated with the ACN.

"The work of the Primates represents a turning point in a long and often frustrating journey," Bishop Duncan said. "Let me assure you that the Primates of the Anglican Communion have decisively addressed theological innovations contrary to Anglican teaching and practice and have intervened in our situation in a powerful way.

The Primates are clear in upholding the tenets of Lambeth 1.10 as the Communion's teaching on human sexuality. They also recognize, however, that sexuality is only the presenting symptom. The core disease is a challenge to the authority of Scripture and received Christian teaching."

Bishop Duncan also outlined five recommendations for those committed to maintaining historic Biblical faith in North America offered by a large number of Anglican Primates. First, the teaching of the faithful in North America is the teaching of the Anglican Communion while the changed doctrine of ECUSA and the Anglican Church of Canada are contrary to traditional Anglican faith and practice.

Within that context, according to Bishop Duncan, there is a clear choice to be made - each individual, congregation, diocese and the two provinces must choose whether or not they will repent, thereby embracing the teaching and practice of Anglicanism, or continue the current course. Choosing theological and doctrinal innovations will result in ultimate separation from the Communion.

"The choice in many ways is between a church captured by its culture and a worldwide Christian Communion," Bishop Duncan explained.

In order to walk through this transitional period, Bishop Duncan noted the importance of reorganizing and unifying the diaspora to work actively together as the third recommendation.

"This work has a strong foundation in the Common Cause partnership forged over the last several months," Bishop Duncan said.

Bishop Duncan noted that a critical component of unity is a determination to "grow up", to embrace holiness and maturity, and while the transitional period will be difficult, perseverance and strength must characterize the faithful.

The Primates Communiqué addressed the need to provide oversight and protection for those in "serious theological conflict with their bishop or province" by establishing a Panel of Reference appointed by the Archbishop of Canterbury. The Communiqué makes it clear that the panel is being established as a matter of urgency. It will insure the adequacy of care that Delegated Episcopal Pastoral Oversight (DEPO) failed to offer because the determination of adequacy must rise from those who receive oversight rather than the opinion of revisionist bishops. While the primates agreed that the panel provides protection so they do not have to "encourage nor initiate ... cross boundary interventions," they have also made it clear that they will not abandon those with whom they have already established relations.

Bishop Duncan's final recommendation encouraged those in conflict to engage the Panel of Reference as soon as it is operational.

"It is critical that those in vulnerable situations seek protection as soon as possible," said Bishop Duncan. "The Anglican Communion Network office is committed to serving as a vehicle and champion of those seeking that protection."

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