[Tantumergo]

"Archbishop Hepworth, a former Catholic priest ... what's with that?"

That is what jumped out at me from the article as well. This is the first time I have heard he was a former Catholic priest.

I wonder if anybody out there would know what his situation is from the canonical p.o.v. if the TAC did reconcile with Rome? Does anyone know if he has married since becoming an Anglican? Would it be likely that he would be able to retain his position if they were in communion with the Catholic Church?

[sitetest]

Dear Tantumergo,

I had read once that Archbishop Hepworth would insist on the capacity of married men to be elevated to the episcopacy. I recall the word "dealbreaker" as being used if this couldn't be arranged.

From my own perspective, although I don't see a biblical requirement for episcopal celibacy, the tradition is so ancient that I can't imagine that Pope Benedict would give in on this point. I especially think this to be the case because I believe that the Orthodox just wouldn't accept it.


sitetest

[kalee]

Yes he is married, as is the Bishop of the Eastern Diocese of the ACA, which is the TAC in America. The Bishop of the Eastern Diocese was also Roman Catholic before he became Anglican.
While they may want to go home, the people in the pews are not ALL so gung-ho with this idea, so as I have said before the numbers will probably be less than Rome or the TAC hierarchy expect. I know of a couple churches who have already left for other jurisdictions. My parish has so far taken a wait and see attitude, but we have told our bishop that we are considering our options. True TRADITIONAL Anglicanism is catholic and reformed. If the laity nad clergy want to be Roman Catholic they should just be honest and convert. But hey, then the clergy couldn't remain clergy and be married, so I doubt that will happen.

[gbcdoj]

+Hepworth has offered (publicly, I believe) to resign in the event of a successful union.