[torqemada]

This is a recent e-mail sent to me for "consideration & sharing" by Dr. Toon, which I believe has great merit. I would hope that the Anglican Communion Network & its common cause partners will consider this very learned advice. I think wise men would adopt Dr. Toon's suggested affirmation as their "instrument of unity" rather than become embroiled in some great hair-splitting debate over 7 specific statements that may only result in more disunity. If you agree & you have the ear of any of these ACN or Common Cause partners, may I suggest you pass it on?

[pravknight]

I think the Anglo-Catholics would strenuously object.

[Peanut Gallery]

ping

[bobjam]

A few remarks....

On saints and icons:
The 39 Articles decry the "Romish doctrine" of the veneration of saints as well as of relics and images. This does not mean we cannot have icons and that we should not remember great saints, just that we should avoid the "Romish" doctrine concerning them. One could argue this item was written prior to key Roman councils that clarified Roman dogma and is therefore no longer necessary, but the popular piety exhibited in many Roman parishes and the growth of the cult of Mary (derisively dubbed "Mariolotry" by some) underscore the need to keep this particular article around.

On apostolic succession:
Apostolic Succession is not merely an elaborate ordination genealogy. It is adherence to the Apostolic Faith. Episcopalians erred by concerning themselves more with maintaining the historic line and less with making sure the person being ordained believed, practiced and taught the Faith Once Delivered. As a result, Gene Robinson is considered "valid" whereas Billy Graham is not. Whom would you rather have celebrate Communion in your parish?

On the BCP:
Archbishop Cranmer's most important reform may have been making Scripture and worship readily available to the people. That was accomplished by translating the material into the proper language of the day (without compromising theology) and using the most efficient medium for its dessimination. How does using Shakespearian English in the liturgy today compare with using Latin in the 16th century?