England's Bishops Reassure Those Still Opposed to Ordination of W omen
Episcopal News Service. January 15, 1993 [93004]
In a January 14 statement at the conclusion of their meeting, the Church of England's bishops reassured those opposed to the November decision clearing the way for the ordination of women to the priesthood. "The majority of bishops, like the majority of those who voted throughout the synodical structure, welcome the Synod's decision and look forward to new gifts which the ministry of women priests will bring to the life of the church," the House of Bishops statement said.
The statement acknowledged the continuing opposition and said the "question of women's ordination to the priesthood is being tested" in the Anglican Communion and the universal church. Those who hold views opposed to the ordination of women will "remain valued and loyal members of the Anglican family."
The statement pleaded for openness among those with differing views. "At the same time as we affirm that differing views about the ordination of women to the priesthood can continue to be held with integrity within the Church of England, we encourage a willingness on the part of all to listen with respect to the views of those from whom they differ and to afford a recognition of the value and integrity of each other's position within the church."
The bishops said that "the Anglican ethos and tradition which has been developed under God through our experience and history gives us particular resources for living through our present disagreements and uncertainties and doing so together."
Affirming that the church can draw on "a shared commitment to belong together" and face "the reality of living with our differing convictions," the bishops said they were determined to keep the process of selection for ordination "fair, open and welcoming to different shades of opinion."
The process "should not discriminate between candidates on the ground of their views about the ordination of women to the priesthood." Neither would there be any discrimination "in preferment of priests to the episcopate or other senior positions in the church."
The bishops also expressed their "firm intention to maintain the ecclesial integrity of the church, including the historic threefold ministry of bishops, priests and deacons, while acknowledging the need to accommodate a diversity of convictions." In considering the practical implications for the life of a diocese and the oversight of diocesan bishops, the House of Bishops suggested that bishops opposed to the ordination of women to the priesthood may call on suffragan bishops or bishops from other dioceses to participate in ordinations.
Several bishops may be appointed to act as "provincial visitors" to work with diocesan bishops in providing pastoral care for those on both sides of the issue and to "act as spokesman and adviser for those who remain opposed to the ordination of women to the priesthood and to assist the archbishops in monitoring arrangements made for them."