The Living Church

Year Article Type Limit by Author

The Living ChurchSeptember 6, 1998Deeply Divided 217(10) p. 14

In the days following the Lambeth Conference, it has been fascinating to read the various opinions, perspectives, criticisms and praise of the resolution on homosexuality [TLC, Aug. 30]. Most enlightening have been the accounts of those persons who were involved in the drawing up of the original resolution. No less a figure than the Archbishop of Canterbury referred to the "agony" involved in reaching a decision. Reports of the meetings of the section which produced the resolution indicate those dealings were tense and emotional, and the discussions along with the debate which followed during the plenary session indicated the bishops were deeply divided over the issue of homosexuality. Nearly three hours were consumed discussing the matter as amendment after amendment was proposed. From all indications, the controversial resolution was put together thoughtfully and prayerfully. Its impact on the Anglican Communion, and particularly the Episcopal Church, has yet to be determined.