Scripture interpretation drives Episcopal church's split

At the first church service since leaders of the Episcopal Church of the Advent announced plans to leave the church, a packed-house heard a plea to stay by a representative of Florida Bishop S. Johnson Howard.

The issue — mainly stemming from the consecration of a gay New Hampshire bishop in 2003 — also hinges on the interpretation of Scripture spanning at least four decades, said Rev. Kurt Dunkle, the bishop's representative from Jacksonville.

The Revs. Robert Coon Jr. and Travis Boline of Advent made the announcement last week. Coon estimates about 70 percent of the 850 members will leave with him and become Anglican; he's not certain of a date. If Advent members leave, they'll request to buy the church property, owned by the Episcopal Church.

During Advent's Sunday service, some members wiped away tears. After Boline's sermon, Dunkle said, "I know there's a big elephant in the room: will there be an Episcopal Church of the Advent? Reverend Coon and Reverend Boline are my brother and sister in Jesus Christ," he said. "Your diocese loves you. One of the positive consequences of this controversy is what it means to be a part of a greater church."

To read more, see Monday's Tallahassee Democrat. Scripture interpretation drives Episcopal church's split
Tallahassee.com, FL