Possibly the most controversial subject that has hit the Anglican Church in the last 200 years is the subject of the Windsor report.  Homosexuality is a subject that for many years has been 'swept under the carpet'. However, the happenings in the USA, Canada and elsewhere during the last few years, culminating in the consecration as Bishop of an openly self-confessed practicing homosexual and the blessing of same-sex unions gave rise to the need for a careful and considered statement on 'where the Anglican Communion stands' on this subject.

The Windsor Report covers many pages and trying to read it becomes tedious. The distribution at synod of a summary of the report was therefore most welcome.  Bishop Clive introduced the subject and drew attention to the highlights of where the church was going - treading very carefully on dangerous ground.   Open discussion by the delegates drew attention yet again to the pitfalls of the subject.  Attention was drawn to the biblical directives and speakers spoke of the sanctity of marriage and of particular importance for those of us who live in an Islamic society, the complete abhorrence of open homosexuality in the Muslim world.

Although most of the discussion centred on the attitude of those of us who come from European or Eastern cultures, one speaker drew attention to the manner in which the problem has completely split the Episcopal Church of the USA (ECUSA). It would appear that some parishes are being disenfranchised by their Bishop for not toeing the line which he supports.

So where do we go from here? The Report is not a judgement but part of a process and pilgrimage towards healing and reconciliation.  Needless to say this will be a very long process - there are bound to be casualties along the way and we all have to pray for guidance and understanding. The whole fabric of the Anglican Communion is under the microscope and the primary focus has to be on its unity and mission.

The Report which was chaired by The Most Revd. Dr. Robin Eames, Archbishop of Armagh, warns of the real danger of choosing not to have reconciliation and healing our differences. "The real challenge of the Gospel is whether we live deeply enough in the love of Christ and care sufficiently for our joint work to bring love to the world.  We should make every effort " ...to maintain the
Unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. " (Eph.4.3) "

Copies of the 7 page summary referred to above are available from the Cathedral office.   Rod Taylor