Former Bishop of San Joaquin 'withdraws' from Lambeth after Archbishop of Canterbury reportedly suggested "it is better that he not attend"

The recently deposed and now former Episcopal Bishop of San Joaquin. John-David Schofield will not attend the Lambeth Conference.

But the real Episcopal Bishop of San Joaquin, the Rt. Rev. Jerry Lamb will attend.

David Virtue reports Schofield 'withdrew' after Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams wrote Primate of the Southern Cone, the Most. Rev. Gregory Venables, and "made it clear that while he affirms the ministry of Bishop Schofield, it is better that he not attend."

Virture writes that "In his letter to Schofield, Williams wrote: 'I understand that Bishop John-David Schofield has been accepted as a full member of the episcopal fellowship of the Province of the Southern Cone within the Anglican Communion and as such cannot be regarded as having withdrawn from the Anglican Communion. However, it is acknowledged that his exact status (especially given the complications surrounding the congregations associated with him) remains unclear on the basis of the general norms of Anglican Canon Law, and this constitutes one of the issues on which we hope for assistance from the Windsor Continuation Group. BishopSchofield has elected to decline the invitation to the Lambeth Conference issued to him last year although that decision does not signal any withdrawal from the Communion. I hope there may be further careful reflection to clarify the terms on which he will exercise his ministry.'"

Virture tried to put a positive spin on the unexpected development, saying the deposed bishop was "thrilled to learn that Archbishop Williams continues to recognize him as a bishop in good standing and in communion with the See of Canterbury."

If true, the Archbishop of Canterbury's action dissuading Schofiled's participation could open the door to reconciliation among the bishops at Lambeth.