SEAD Conference Seeks 'Dynamic Orthodoxy'
Episcopal News Service. April 30, 1993 [93083L]
hundred theologians, scholars, bishops, clergy and laity gathered at Virginia Seminary April 15 for a conference on Renewing Anglicanism: The Case for Dynamic Orthodoxy. The fourth Scholarly Engagement with Anglican Doctrine (SEAD) conference continued a commitment to "the healthful renewal of the church," as described by co-chairs David Scott and Christopher Hancock. "Our stand for dynamic orthodoxy as the best, most stimulating and creative way forward for the Episcopal Church at the present time is part of a wider reawakening within the mainstream churches," they said. Scott and Hancock are convinced that "many thoughtful Episcopalians find theology politicized, piety marginalized, diversity and creativity, scholarship and depth of reflection impoverished." In recognizing the "potential to make a rich contribution to the life and mission of the Anglican Communion, Archbishop of Canterbury George Carey blessed the efforts and said that "at a time when our growing Communion is under strain, we need to undergird our common life with a firm base in Anglican doctrine and devotion and worship." Drawing on papers presented at the conference, SEAD hopes to begin issuing teaching materials that could be used by parishes for adult education, by bishops struggling to shape diocesan policies and by the church at large.