OXFORD: ORTHODOX THEOLOGIANS WEIGH FUTURE OF ANGLICAN COMMUNION

Anglican Mainstream

April 19, 2004

Leading orthodox theologians—including Kendall Harmon (South Carolina), Paul Zahl (Birmingham, AL), and George Sumner (Toronto)—gathered at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford, to address the Anglican crisis.

Why are you here?

George Sumner: “Theologians have a role to give a theological rationale for our Communion—especially in light of the global, Southern perspective.”

What’s your hope?

Kendall Harmon: “We haven’t lost Gospel hope—even in crisis. God is still God.”

What do you expect from this meeting?

Paul Zahl: “Encouragement from brothers like Alister McGrath and Oliver O’Donovan—and possibly a quiet, scholarly statement of Gospel orthodoxy that might make a real impact.”

All three agreed: the presence of the Lord is assured—and that makes all the difference.

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CANADA: NORTH VANCOUVER CHURCH CUTS TIES WITH ANGLICANS OVER SAME-SEX ISSUE

By Jane Seyd

North Shore News

May 17, 2004

St. Simons Anglican Church in North Vancouver has severed ties with the Anglican Church of Canada over Bishop Michael Ingham’s approval of same-sex blessings.

The Rev. Ed Hird and his congregation have placed themselves under the oversight of a Rwandan Anglican bishop—becoming, in effect, a “missionary church” in Canada.

Hird insists:

“The issue is being faithful to Anglican teachings. This is a violation of basic scriptural teachings and Christian morals.”

The diocese counters that parishes cannot unilaterally secede—only individuals may leave. Property remains under diocesan control.

St. Simons has retained legal counsel and believes it has “a good case” for independence.

Hird stresses:

“Gays and lesbians are still welcome. It’s not about rejecting people.”

He compares homosexuality to alcoholism—asserting that change is possible through grace.

This is the second North Vancouver parish in legal conflict with Bishop Ingham; St. Martin’s lawsuit over ousted lay leaders remains pending.

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