'Making way for Women Bishops'
A Fulcrum Statement
Following the vote by General Synod in July 2008, the Revision Committee on Women in the Episcopate has been meeting to draft legislative proposals for the next Synod meeting in February. After their discussion in October they announced a way forward which seemed directly at variance with the decision made by the General Synod. That decision had been for a simple measure which would avoid enshrining in law any distinction in the status of men and women bishops. Instead, the Revision Committee suggested provisions for the statutory transfer of authority:- vesting particular functions in bishops who would provide oversight for those unable to receive the Episcopal or priestly ministry of women.
The last few weeks has seen considerable turmoil as members of the General Synod, WATCH and many other church organisations have protested about these proposals. Some have argued that they would have resulted in legalising a two-tier episcopate. However, at its most recent meeting on November 13 the Revision Committee was unable to draw enough support for the specific draft provisions from both those in favour of women in the episcopate and those against. All the proposals for vesting were defeated and the Committee announced that suggestions for the statutory transfer of authority have now been dropped. This means that arrangements for those unable to receive the Episcopal ministry of women will need to be made through delegation from the diocesan bishop.
This is much closer to the decision made by General Synod, and to be welcomed. Fulcrum reiterates its own position that on the basis of biblical theology we positively advocate the consecration of women to the episcopate for the sake of the Church and its mission. We therefore hope to see a Measure which will give an unequivocal affirmation of their ministry. We are aware that the Revision Committee will still have its work cut out to bring proposals to the General Synod in February 2010 that both recognize the full inclusion of women to the episcopate and show concern and respect for those who in conscience are not able to accept women’s Episcopal leadership. The Commission will need to explore carefully the shape of the proposed legislation and in particular decide whether to adopt the simplest possible legislation, or to include a statutory code of practice. Fulcrum will be praying for the committee as it meets and works through the issues.
