“When you’re trying to keep from drowning, you don’t pause to discuss the finer points of synchronized swimming with the guy on the next dock.”
But, AAM, the devil is in the details and The Church has on a number of occasions discussed the “finer points” while trying to keep from drowning, Nicea and the 7th Ecumenical Council spring to mind.
As lastchance said, GAFCON has determined to define itself as Protestant. That’s fine; indeed under the circumstances its truly wonderful, but its not “catholic” or “Catholic” nor “orthodox” or “Orthodox” as The Church defines those terms. I believe that is regrettable as I had hoped for a move towards Rome or Constantinople and an expression of appreciation for the danger of communion even with those who themselves are in communion with soul destroying heresy let alone with heresy itself.
Both ECUSA and Canterbury have done everything they could for five years to AVOID discussion of the issues (or alternatively to ensure endless discussion of the issues with no decision). That suits their goals.
Also, everybody at those councils was a Christian. I am no longer at all sure that the folks in charge in the U.S. or England are, actually and in truth, Christians.
This is a case of "fly from the wrath to come." GAFCON is escaping from the wreckage and went with a definitive stand for evangelicalism and 'low' Anglican. Under the circumstances, they had to make a strong theological stand.
I understand why they did it, of course it's a disappointment to those of us who hoped to see the 'high' wing reconcile with the Church, but it's better than remaining yoked to unbelievers.
When one's church is realigning, it is important to understand the theological implications of this realignment. Both you and K have frequently called attention to your own moves to Roman Catholicism and Greek Orthodoxy, respectively. From your posts, it has been clear that in your decisions you carefully considered what some might consider “finer points” of theology and its reflection in the liturgy. Whether or not you were “drowning” when you made your move, you chose paths which derive their legitimacy in part from an unquestionable apostolic succession and an understanding of the sacraments that carried forth from the first centuries.
It is truly a great blessing that Anglo-Protestants now have a clearer future, but it is important for orthodox Anglo-Catholics to understand that this announcement appears to do little to address their path forward. At this point, their options appear unchanged: to join a Continuing Anglican (”Affirmation of St. Louis”) Church, to embrace Protestantism, or to swim the Tiber or Bosphorus.