Inclusive Church on Women Bishops - and for our next trick

I quote this post from Inclusive Church, following Monday's voting down of provision for those who cannot accept the ministry of women bishops, so that I can highlight the clear indications it contains that this is not the last step. Inclusive Church says in its introduction, "InclusiveChurch.net was born on 11th August 2003 at a Eucharist in Putney. following deep unease within the Church of England regarding the resignation of Jeffrey John as Bishop of Reading." Evangelical supporters of the vote, please note the meaning of the term 'inclusion' in this context.

Inclusive Church is delighted that General Synod voted by a large majority to move to the consecration of women as bishops.

Canon Giles Goddard, Chair of IC, said "It is a time for rejoicing. We have reached another milestone in the long process of removing the barriers to inclusion in the Church of England. The gospel is a gospel of welcome and this decision will make us more able to be welcoming in our churches. "

Inclusive Church includes many catholics, liberals and evangelicals among our supporters, who have recognised that a national code of practice is the best way forward. Through a code of practice, the concerns of those who do not yet accept the ministry of women can be recognised, but there will not be "no go areas” for women. It has worked in other provinces and no doubt it will work in England.

Although the response of some of our ecumenical partners has been negative, we have no doubt that many members of other churches will welcome the decision.

We pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit as the Church of England continues to try to fulfil its role as the Established Church. There is still a great deal of work to do to complete the process. We look forward to working with our partners and, we hope, with those who are opposed to the decision. We hope that helpful past dialogues can be revitalised to make sure that the legislation and the code of practice are as effective as they can be. Read here

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