DALLAS: ORTHODOX BISHOP FACES SERIOUS OPPOSITION IN HIS DIOCESE

On March 3, 2004, 17 clergy members of the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas wrote to Bishop James M. Stanton and the Executive Council expressing concern over his affiliation with the Network of Anglican Communion Dioceses and Parishes.

While affirming respect for the Bishop’s personal decision, they urged the Executive Council not to take any official action endorsing or rejecting the Network—insisting that such a consequential decision must be made by the full Diocesan Convention after thorough, prayerful study by clergy and laity.

They warned that premature action—especially perceived endorsement—could polarize the diocese, cause internal parish conflicts, and foreclose meaningful discernment.

The letter requests plans for diocese-wide study opportunities (e.g., regional forums) to examine the Network’s theological and organizational charters, so delegates can make informed decisions.

Signatories include priests from major Dallas-area parishes:

The Rev. Chuck Treadwell & The Rev. Virginia Holleman (St. Peter’s, McKinney)

The Rev. Stephen Waller & The Rev. Christianne McKee (St. Thomas the Apostle)

The Rev. Joy Daley, The Rev. J. D. Godwin, & The Rev. Barbara Sajna (Transfiguration)

The Rev. Dru Ferguson (St. Paul)

The Rev. Ernie McAfee & The Rev. Donald Johnson (St. Barnabas)

The Rev. Paul Strickland (Episcopal School of Dallas)

The Rev. Wylie Miller & The Rev. Trudie Smither (St. Christopher’s)

The Rev. Doug Neel (Holy Trinity by the Lake)

The Rev. Ray Ball (All Saints)

The Rev. Gerry Sevick (St. Anne’s, Desoto)

The Rev. Sharon Turner