Ethos of Anglicanism "betrayed"

The Modern Churchpeople’s Union is a theological organization founded within the Church of England. It promotes liberal theology based on scholarly learning.

As liberal Christians we reject outright the claim of The Fellowship of Confessing Anglicans to be the representatives of orthodox Anglicanism. Their claim to be traditionalists is as bogus as their claim to speak on behalf of half of the world’s Anglicans.

Contrary to their claims, the Anglican Communion is traditionally one that embraces difference and respects diversity. Since the reign of Henry VIII the Church of England has sought to encompass a range of opinions because it recognized that no one group has special access to truth. Therefore engagement with those with whom you disagree is essential in pursuit of truth.

The formation of FOCA is nothing less than a pre-emptive first strike by those who are determined to have their own way come what may. Their abandonment of serious theological discussion and debate is a betrayal of the ethos of Anglicanism.

Jonathan Clatworthy, General Secretary of the MCU said: “They tried to take over, using homosexuality as a rallying-cry and threatening to split the Anglican Communion. Finding their more extreme demands rejected they have finally decided to go their own way. This will be an opportunity for the Anglican Communion to reaffirm its traditional openness and diversity, recognizing that nobody has all the answers”.

John Plant, Chair of the MCU added: “We deplore their personal attacks on the Archbishop of Canterbury who has been selfless and courageous in the quest to find a way forward. This group routinely calls for discipline but feels free to ignore it whenever it applies to them.”

Next week’s MCU Conference, “Saving the Soul of Anglicanism” reflects more authentically the true ethos of Anglicanism. It will provide a proper context for listening and theological debate. The conference will be chaired by Archbishop of Wales Dr Barry Morgan and speakers represent the diversity of Anglicanism including Bishop Gene Robinson and Bishop Trevor Mwamba, bishop of Botswana and Dean of the Province of Central Africa.