In 1991, one of the more controversial resolutions to come before General Convention in Phoenix proposed that all members of the clergy abstain from sexual relations outside of holy matrimony. Known as the "Frey resolution" because Bishop William Frey proposed it, the legislation was defeated after considerable debate.

The resolution is back, having been proposed in several diocesan conventions this fall. A similar version was adopted in Quincy with little debate [p. 6], and it's on the agendas for conventions in a wide range of dioceses from Massachusetts to Fort Worth. The bishops who brought presentment charges against Bishop Walter Righter last year have said they will present similar legislation to the 1997 General Convention [TLC, June 16].

In Pittsburgh, the matter has gone a step further. Its bishop and bishop coadjutor have issued a pastoral letter stating that clergy "shall limit their sexual expression to the spouse of their marriage," or they shall abstain from sexual relations if single [p. 6].

Many of those who have voted against these and similar resolutions have claimed they are unnecessary, that the matter already has been addressed in previous General Convention resolutions. Others look at such legislation as anti-gay and reject it on those grounds.

What is being created is different standards for clergy in different dioceses. Sexual behavior of priests permitted in one diocese may be forbidden in another. What is likely to follow is ordination of non-celibate homosexuals being permitted in some dioceses and prohibited in others, and same-sex couples being blessed only in certain dioceses. The fact that the Episcopal Church is simply a federation of dioceses will be emphasized all the more strongly.

While it may be encouraging to see dioceses take a stand for traditional morality, there is little chance of such legislation being adopted by General Convention. We are more likely to be left with "local options" being in effect, creating further chaos, bewilderment and division.