Date: May 23, 2007
To: The Office of the General Convention (gcsecretary@episcopalchurch.org)
From: The Standing Committee of the Diocese of Missouri
(Compiled on behalf of the Standing Committee by Peter E. Van Horne, D.Min, President of the Standing Committee)
Subject: Response to Draft Anglican Covenant
(1) Do you think an Anglican Covenant is necessary and/or will help to strengthen the interdependent life of the Anglican Communion? Why or why not?
Some on the Standing Committee noted that the idea of a Covenant makes good sense. However, this is a draft document, and it should be seen as that. At the same time, we do not think that this is a process that can be hurried. We would like a clear statement that we are going to take our time in this process, allow people to make suggestions, and not assume that these early drafts are going to be all that great. We would like to see a longer process and broader participation.
We think that one question that should be asked is whether this is a Covenant, or an attempt to do an “end run” around the Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church. We think this seems to be more of an attempt to produce a constitution than a covenant.
When we speak of a “covenant,” we are reminded of the Baptismal Covenant and the positive impact it has had on the church. On the other hand, this draft does not have the feel of something that has a positive impact on the life of the church.
Furthermore, what we Episcopalians in American think of as normative Anglicanism is not a norm that is widely held in the Anglican Communion. This is particularly truer today because many ordinands in other parts of the Communion are not familiar with the writings of Richard Hooker. In other words, what is going on is something different; the larger segment of Anglican Communion has a different theological bent.
(2) How closely does this view of communion accord with your understanding of the development and vocation of the Anglican Communion?
We fear that the outcome of the Draft Covenant would be to move us from a relational-based fellowship to a theologically-based fellowship. Reformation covenants did not prevent further splitting of the church.
(3) Is this a sufficient rationale for entering into a Covenant? Why or why not?
It is our opinion that this rationale is very general and is not much of a rationale for a covenant. Communion is a process, covenant is a relationship, but this draft results in juridical statements.
Furthermore, we wonder if the Rationale is suggesting there is too much pluralism in the Anglican Communion. Do they think our theological understanding is too fuzzy? We are of the opinion that the leg of “Reason” from the three-legged of Scripture, Tradition and Reason is being left out. Of course, another question that should be faced is what we mean by “Reason” in a post-modern context.
What has been the genius of the Anglican Communion is that there are a few things we are clear about together, and there are other matters that allow for discussion, debate and disagreement. One strategy that comes through this text is that differing voices must be silenced, and that differences must not have center stage.
It also should be noted that the Eucharist does not enter into this Draft Covenant.
(4) Do these six affirmations adequately describe The Episcopal Church’s understanding of “common catholicity, apostolicity, and confession of faith”? Why or why not?
Affirmation #5 does not describe The Episcopal Church’s understanding of “common catholicity, apostolicity, and confession of faith.”
Affirmation #2 uses the term “uniquely,” and we note that the term does not appear in the Chicago-Lambeth Quadrilateral. Should the term be read in terms of natural versus revealed theology?
Affirmation #5’s reference to the Thirty-nine Articles and to the 1662 Book of Common Prayer will be addressed elsewhere in these responses.
(5) The Thirty-nine Articles of Religion and the 1662 Book of Common Prayer (of the Church of England) are not currently authoritative documents for The Episcopal Church. Do you think they should be? Why or why not?
The Thirty-nine Articles should be seen today as historical documents that at one time were formative in the life of the Anglican Communion. However, they no longer have that formative role, and they should not be imposed as prescriptive standards.
The 1662 Book of Common Prayer is part of our heritage, yet liturgical renewal since the 1950’s has resulted in forms of worship that are broader and more appropriate for our cultural contexts.
(6) Is each of these commitments clear and understandable with respect to what is being asked of the member churches and are they consistent with statements and actions made by the Episcopal Church in the General Convention? Why or why not?
We have serious reservations about the statement concerning “biblically derived moral values.” Also, there is no conscience clause and no suggestion of respect for minority opinions. We do not know what the driving force is for this desire to impose uniformity. We believe it is wrong, and there should not be an attempt to dictate in detail a commonly-held belief. This is contrary to what we have sought in The Episcopal Church. We wish to avoid any attempt to impose Puritanized moral values of the church.
The Episcopal Church is a creedal church, not a confessional church, and one result of the Draft Covenant would be to lead us into Puritanism. Again, we feel the Draft Covenant is juridical in nature and would serve to discourage diverse thinking and, instead, would attempt to “keep people in line.”
We would like to think that the church would welcome others to the Table, yet we are greatly troubled to learn that some might not be invited to the feast. We need to be more inclusive.
(7) Is the mission vision offered here helpful in advancing a common life of the Anglican Communion and does this need to be a part of the Draft Covenant? Why or why not?
It is our opinion that this entire conversation is about out vision of catholicity. Do we in the Episcopal Church have an American set of blinders? The issue of how we relate to the rest of the world is important. We need to work at a relationship with the Communion in the name of greater inclusivity and catholicity, and be open to the insights of others around the world. This document is not inclusive.
(8) Does this section adequately describe your understanding of the history and respective roles of the “Four Instruments of Communion”? Why or why not?
The question of how the Instruments of Communion are supposed to work is not adequately addressed in the Draft Covenant. We also believe that this document represents a “power grab” by the Primates.
(9) Do you think there needs to be an executive or judicial body for resolving disagreements or disputes in the Anglican Communion? If so, do you think it should be the Primates Meeting as recommended by the Draft Covenant? Explain.
We do not think there needs to be “an executive or judicial body” to resolve conflicts or disagreement within the Communion. If one is needed, perhaps it should be the A.C.C. rather than the Primates. The Primates seem to be giving themselves more weight than they deserve. Overall, it seems the Draft Covenant is leaning toward developing an ecclesiastical court system designed to discourage diversity of thought and practice. If there is to be a juridical system as the result of this Draft Covenant, there also should be a Bill of Rights so that the many will not trample on the rights of the few.
There also should be a process that will outline how members of the Communion who do not agree with each other still can engage in conversation and dialogue. Up to now, we have been able to agree to disagree, and we only needed to agree on the Quadrilateral. Do we have to agree on all else?
(10) What does the phrase “a common mind about matters of essential concern. . .” mean to you?
Laughter erupted among the members of the Standing Committee when this question was read aloud. “Essential” is not a category that works for us. It would seem that the Draft Covenant is attempting to nail down too many things. Instead, we wish to recapture the “center” in the Communion Center and make that center work again.
(11) Can you affirm the “fundamental shape” of the Draft Covenant? Why or why not?
We cannot affirm the shape of the Draft Covenant. Our answers in the sections above should explain our position. We agree with those who have said that the Draft Covenant is a “deeply flawed document.”
(12) What do you think are the consequences of signing such a Covenant as proposed in the Draft?
The consequences of agreeing to such a Covenant would be disastrous, and any Covenant should not take this form.
(13) Having read the Draft Covenant as a whole do you agree with the CDG’s assertion that “nothing which is commended in the draft text of the Covenant can be said to be ‘new’”? Why or why not?
As to the question of whether there is nothing here that can be said to be new, the immediate response of one member was, “Baloney!” One has only to look, for example, at the sections concerning the anticipated roles of the Instruments of Communion to see that there is much here that is new and which discourages the diversity of Anglican thought and practice that has been a hallmark of our Communion.
(14) In general, what is your response to the Draft Covenant taken as a whole? What is helpful in the draft? What is not-helpful? What is missing? Additional comments?
Again, laughter erupted among the members of the Standing Committee when this question was read aloud. Please review our responses above to see what we believe is helpful, not helpful, and missing. We are trying to appreciate that a long work has begun, and there is much to be done and the inclusion of more voices would be helpful.
Published here with permission of the President of the SC.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Sunday, June 3, 2007
Response to Draft Covenant
Responses to the 14 Questions posed in the Study Guide to the Draft Anglican Covenant
(1) Do you think an Anglican Covenant is necessary and/or will help to strengthen the interdependent life of the Anglican Communion? Why or why not?
No. The Covenant sounded like a potentially positive idea when proposed at the 2006 General Convention. My understanding was that we would enter into a long process (many years), during which time the provinces could gather and reflect on our commonality. These reflections would lead to a concise statement of what makes us uniquely Anglican.
I do not believe that an Anglican Covenant process as reflected in this draft document will strengthen the interdependent life of the member churches. This draft goes much further than the CDG’s representation that the purpose here is to state our common foundations.
You cannot legislate trust as the CDG seems to attempt in this rushed process. We have conflicts within our communion, and rushing to put together a document without a common mind is not helpful or trust building. This document seems more like an amalgam of two viewpoints, rather than a covenant written from a common mind.
The document speaks with two voices: it begins with relational wording; but later shifts to a list of rules. The Anglican Communion members are not of common mind, and that is reflected in the Draft Covenant. The timing is too soon for a document of this type.
(2) How closely does this view of communion accord with your understanding of the development and vocation of the Anglican Communion?
Mostly, this is section acceptable. I have concerns with “mutual commitment and discipline” as well as “historic faith” in this section. Looking at the document as a whole, I am concerned these phrases may be used in a legalistic and punitive context, and therefore not supportive of our interdependence and autonomy.
(3) Is this a sufficient rationale for entering into a Covenant? Why or why not?
It is a helpful start, but needs more. We are autonomous, we are different, we interpret Scripture differently, yet together we offer God’s love in our broken world. We recognize that unity is a sign of God’s presence. We acknowledge that unity does not mean uniformity.
(4) Do these six affirmations adequately describe The Episcopal Church’s understanding of “common catholicity, apostolicity, and confession of faith”? Why or why not?
No. The purpose of this section is to provide a precise statement of our common beliefs. Replace Section 2 with the following:
Each member church, and the Communion as a whole, affirms:
¨ The mission of the church is to restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ.
¨ The Apostle’s Creed and the Nicene Creed state our basic beliefs about God.
¨ The Trinity is one God: Father, Son & Holy Spirit.
¨ The great sacraments of the Gospel are Holy Baptism and Holy Eucharist. We recognize other sacramental rites including confirmation, ordination, holy matrimony, reconciliation of a penitent, and unction.
¨ The Holy Scriptures consist of the Old Testament, New Testament, and Apocrypha. We believe the Scriptures are the Word of God because God inspired them and God still speaks to us through the Bible. We recognize that each of our provinces struggle with what it means to proclaim the Good News faithfully in our distinctive cultural context.
¨ The ministers of the church are lay persons, bishops, priests and deacons.
¨ The tradition of common prayer is foundational to the Anglican Communion.
(5) The Thirty-nine Articles of Religion and the 1662 Book of Common Prayer (of the Church of England) are not currently authoritative documents for The Episcopal Church. Do you think they should be? Why or why not?
No. See above. The purpose of the covenant is to provide a precise statement of our common beliefs. The standing of these historical documents is not uniform within the communion as a whole, and this section needs to be deleted as written.
(6) Is each of these commitments clear and understandable with respect to what is being asked of the member churches and are they consistent with statements and actions made by the Episcopal Church in the General Convention? Why or why not?
No. Need to delete “biblically derived moral values” language. We do not have a uniform understanding of the meaning of scriptures within our communion as a whole. We need to acknowledge that.
We acknowledge that each province struggles with what it means to proclaim the Good News faithfully within the context of its own history, tradition, culture, and mission imperatives. Differences of interpretation may be seen as occasions to respectfully challenge each other to a greater understanding of one another’s culture as well as deeper faithfulness to biblical faith.
(7) Is the mission vision offered here helpful in advancing a common life of the Anglican Communion and does this need to be a part of the Draft Covenant? Why or why not?
Yes, it is helpful. Delete phrase “with mutual accountability.” Add/include in list:
¨ To seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving our neighbors as ourselves;
¨ To strive for justice and peace among all people; and
¨ To respect the dignity of every human being.
(8) Does this section adequately describe your understanding of the history and respective roles of the “Four Instruments of Communion”? Why or why not?
No. Section 5 of the draft covenant is not accurate.
In the 2nd paragraph, delete first sentence, retain 2nd sentence “While each member Church orders and regulates its own affairs …”
Replace the rest of Section 5 with the following:
The Archbishop of Canterbury is the spiritual leader and senior clergyman of the Church of England, recognized by convention as the head of the worldwide Anglican Communion. The archbishop, although without legal authority outside England, is recognized by convention as primus inter pares ("first among equals") of all Anglican primates worldwide. Since 1867 he has convened more or less decennial meetings of worldwide Anglican bishops, the Lambeth Conferences.
The Lambeth Conferences are the periodical assemblies of bishops of the Anglican Communion. The conferences began in 1867. The Lambeth Conference has no “constitution” or formal powers; it is not a formal Synod or Council of the bishops of the Communion.
The Anglican Communion Primates' Meetings are regular meetings of the Anglican Primates, i.e. the senior archbishops and bishops of each ecclesiastical province of the Anglican Communion. The Primates come together from the geographic Provinces around the world. The Archbishop of Canterbury chairs the meetings, with the Secretary General of the Anglican Communion serving as secretary. The Primates' Meeting was established in 1978 as an opportunity for “leisurely thought, prayer and deep consultation”. The first meeting was held in 1979.
The Anglican Consultative Council was created by a resolution of the 1968 Lambeth Conference. The council, which includes Anglican bishops, clergy and laity, meets every two or three years in different parts of the world. The Anglican Consultative Council has a permanent secretariat (the Anglican Communion Office), based at Saint Andrew's House, London. The Archbishop of Canterbury is ex officio the President of the Council. The council has eight functions:
1. To share information about developments in one or more provinces with the other parts of the Communion and to serve as needed as an instrument of common action.
2. To advise on inter-Anglican, provincial, and diocesan relationships, including the division of provinces, the formation of new provinces and of regional councils, and the problems of extra-provincial dioceses.
3. To develop as far as possible agreed Anglican policies in the world mission of the Church and to encourage national and regional Churches to engage together in developing and implementing such policies by sharing their resources of manpower, money, and experience to the best advantage of all.
4. To keep before national and regional Churches the importance of the fullest possible Anglican collaboration with other Christian Churches.
5. To encourage and guide Anglican participation in the ecumenical movement and the ecumenical organizations; to co-operate with the World Council of Churches and the world confessional bodies on behalf of the Anglican Communion; and to make arrangements for the conduct of pan-Anglican conversations with the Roman Catholic Church, the Orthodox Churches, and other Churches.
6. To advise on matters arising out of national or regional Church union negotiations or conversations and on subsequent relations with united Churches.
7. To advise on problems on inter-Anglican communication and to help in the dissemination of Anglican and ecumenical information.
8. To keep in review the needs that may arise for further study and, where necessary, to promote inquiry and research.
(9) Do you think there needs to be an executive or judicial body for resolving disagreements or disputes in the Anglican Communion? If so, do you think it should be the Primates Meeting as recommended by the Draft Covenant? Explain.
No. Issues can be addressed through our currently available bodies of communication. Section 6 presents a host of problems as written. What are “matters of essential concern”? There appears to be no limit as to what might qualify under this provision.
Section 2 seems fine, except “all therefore need to be tested by shared discernment in the life of the Church.” What does that mean?
Section 3 seems to be moving us towards uniformity, rather than “unity in spirit.” Our tradition supports unity in diversity.
Section 4 -- replace “heed” with “respectfully consider”. Who determines which matters “threaten the unity of the Communion”?
Section 5 -- keep first sentence, ending at “mutual admonition and counsel.” Delete 3 points following.
Section 6 – delete entirely. Juridical, penal, dishonest. No juridical authority should be created.
(10) What does the phrase “a common mind about matters of essential concern. . .” mean to you?
Too ambiguous. Such a phrase would need definition. Does it mean matters identified in the creeds? Salvation issues?
(11) Can you affirm the “fundamental shape” of the Draft Covenant? Why or why not?
See comments above. I could support a covenant that truly stated what we share as Anglicans, a document that described our relationship with one another within the Anglican Communion. This document attempts to do much more than that. The leanings toward uniformity, the blatant misrepresentations of the “Instruments of Communion,” and the attempt to introduce juridical authority are serious problems.
(12) What do you think are the consequences of signing such a Covenant as proposed in the Draft?
I cannot even contemplate signing a document with the type of problems identified above. If thoroughly rewritten as suggested above, the consequences of signing a covenant would be a positive reaffirmation of our commitment to remain in communion with the other members of the Anglican Communion.
(13) Having read the Draft Covenant as a whole do you agree with the CDG’s assertion that “nothing which is commended in the draft text of the Covenant can be said to be ‘new’”? Why or why not?
No. The Primates Meeting is new as an “Instrument of Communion.” I do not affirm the Primates’ meeting as a traditionally accepted “Instrument of Communion.” The entire Section 6, especially the granting of juridical powers to excommunicate a member church, is also not a reflection of current Anglican Communion structures.
(14) In general, what is your response to the Draft Covenant taken as a whole? What is helpful in the draft? What is not-helpful? What is missing? Additional comments?
¨ The covenant should not be a legal document.
¨ Description of roles of “Instruments of Communion” is not helpful or accurate.
¨ Imposition of uniformity is not helpful.
¨ The timing is too rushed. This fast pace means that the members of our congregations do not have much time to review and reflect and pray about this draft before responding. This is not the Anglican way, as I have lived it and understand it.
¨ We celebrate unity in diversity. Missing
¨ We look to scripture, tradition and reason. Missing.
¨ Common prayer. Missing.
¨ Concise statement of what makes us uniquely Anglican. Missing.
¨ Acknowledgment that we interpret scripture differently within the Anglican Communion. Missing.
¨ A covenant needs to be an honest statement of our relationship with one another within the Anglican Communion. It needs to accurately describe the roles of the Archbishop, Lambeth, ACC, and Primates. It needs to acknowledge our differences.
Thank you for seeking and considering our comments.
Kathryn Dyer
Deputy – Diocese of Missouri
2049 Rule Avenue
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
(1) Do you think an Anglican Covenant is necessary and/or will help to strengthen the interdependent life of the Anglican Communion? Why or why not?
No. The Covenant sounded like a potentially positive idea when proposed at the 2006 General Convention. My understanding was that we would enter into a long process (many years), during which time the provinces could gather and reflect on our commonality. These reflections would lead to a concise statement of what makes us uniquely Anglican.
I do not believe that an Anglican Covenant process as reflected in this draft document will strengthen the interdependent life of the member churches. This draft goes much further than the CDG’s representation that the purpose here is to state our common foundations.
You cannot legislate trust as the CDG seems to attempt in this rushed process. We have conflicts within our communion, and rushing to put together a document without a common mind is not helpful or trust building. This document seems more like an amalgam of two viewpoints, rather than a covenant written from a common mind.
The document speaks with two voices: it begins with relational wording; but later shifts to a list of rules. The Anglican Communion members are not of common mind, and that is reflected in the Draft Covenant. The timing is too soon for a document of this type.
(2) How closely does this view of communion accord with your understanding of the development and vocation of the Anglican Communion?
Mostly, this is section acceptable. I have concerns with “mutual commitment and discipline” as well as “historic faith” in this section. Looking at the document as a whole, I am concerned these phrases may be used in a legalistic and punitive context, and therefore not supportive of our interdependence and autonomy.
(3) Is this a sufficient rationale for entering into a Covenant? Why or why not?
It is a helpful start, but needs more. We are autonomous, we are different, we interpret Scripture differently, yet together we offer God’s love in our broken world. We recognize that unity is a sign of God’s presence. We acknowledge that unity does not mean uniformity.
(4) Do these six affirmations adequately describe The Episcopal Church’s understanding of “common catholicity, apostolicity, and confession of faith”? Why or why not?
No. The purpose of this section is to provide a precise statement of our common beliefs. Replace Section 2 with the following:
Each member church, and the Communion as a whole, affirms:
¨ The mission of the church is to restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ.
¨ The Apostle’s Creed and the Nicene Creed state our basic beliefs about God.
¨ The Trinity is one God: Father, Son & Holy Spirit.
¨ The great sacraments of the Gospel are Holy Baptism and Holy Eucharist. We recognize other sacramental rites including confirmation, ordination, holy matrimony, reconciliation of a penitent, and unction.
¨ The Holy Scriptures consist of the Old Testament, New Testament, and Apocrypha. We believe the Scriptures are the Word of God because God inspired them and God still speaks to us through the Bible. We recognize that each of our provinces struggle with what it means to proclaim the Good News faithfully in our distinctive cultural context.
¨ The ministers of the church are lay persons, bishops, priests and deacons.
¨ The tradition of common prayer is foundational to the Anglican Communion.
(5) The Thirty-nine Articles of Religion and the 1662 Book of Common Prayer (of the Church of England) are not currently authoritative documents for The Episcopal Church. Do you think they should be? Why or why not?
No. See above. The purpose of the covenant is to provide a precise statement of our common beliefs. The standing of these historical documents is not uniform within the communion as a whole, and this section needs to be deleted as written.
(6) Is each of these commitments clear and understandable with respect to what is being asked of the member churches and are they consistent with statements and actions made by the Episcopal Church in the General Convention? Why or why not?
No. Need to delete “biblically derived moral values” language. We do not have a uniform understanding of the meaning of scriptures within our communion as a whole. We need to acknowledge that.
We acknowledge that each province struggles with what it means to proclaim the Good News faithfully within the context of its own history, tradition, culture, and mission imperatives. Differences of interpretation may be seen as occasions to respectfully challenge each other to a greater understanding of one another’s culture as well as deeper faithfulness to biblical faith.
(7) Is the mission vision offered here helpful in advancing a common life of the Anglican Communion and does this need to be a part of the Draft Covenant? Why or why not?
Yes, it is helpful. Delete phrase “with mutual accountability.” Add/include in list:
¨ To seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving our neighbors as ourselves;
¨ To strive for justice and peace among all people; and
¨ To respect the dignity of every human being.
(8) Does this section adequately describe your understanding of the history and respective roles of the “Four Instruments of Communion”? Why or why not?
No. Section 5 of the draft covenant is not accurate.
In the 2nd paragraph, delete first sentence, retain 2nd sentence “While each member Church orders and regulates its own affairs …”
Replace the rest of Section 5 with the following:
The Archbishop of Canterbury is the spiritual leader and senior clergyman of the Church of England, recognized by convention as the head of the worldwide Anglican Communion. The archbishop, although without legal authority outside England, is recognized by convention as primus inter pares ("first among equals") of all Anglican primates worldwide. Since 1867 he has convened more or less decennial meetings of worldwide Anglican bishops, the Lambeth Conferences.
The Lambeth Conferences are the periodical assemblies of bishops of the Anglican Communion. The conferences began in 1867. The Lambeth Conference has no “constitution” or formal powers; it is not a formal Synod or Council of the bishops of the Communion.
The Anglican Communion Primates' Meetings are regular meetings of the Anglican Primates, i.e. the senior archbishops and bishops of each ecclesiastical province of the Anglican Communion. The Primates come together from the geographic Provinces around the world. The Archbishop of Canterbury chairs the meetings, with the Secretary General of the Anglican Communion serving as secretary. The Primates' Meeting was established in 1978 as an opportunity for “leisurely thought, prayer and deep consultation”. The first meeting was held in 1979.
The Anglican Consultative Council was created by a resolution of the 1968 Lambeth Conference. The council, which includes Anglican bishops, clergy and laity, meets every two or three years in different parts of the world. The Anglican Consultative Council has a permanent secretariat (the Anglican Communion Office), based at Saint Andrew's House, London. The Archbishop of Canterbury is ex officio the President of the Council. The council has eight functions:
1. To share information about developments in one or more provinces with the other parts of the Communion and to serve as needed as an instrument of common action.
2. To advise on inter-Anglican, provincial, and diocesan relationships, including the division of provinces, the formation of new provinces and of regional councils, and the problems of extra-provincial dioceses.
3. To develop as far as possible agreed Anglican policies in the world mission of the Church and to encourage national and regional Churches to engage together in developing and implementing such policies by sharing their resources of manpower, money, and experience to the best advantage of all.
4. To keep before national and regional Churches the importance of the fullest possible Anglican collaboration with other Christian Churches.
5. To encourage and guide Anglican participation in the ecumenical movement and the ecumenical organizations; to co-operate with the World Council of Churches and the world confessional bodies on behalf of the Anglican Communion; and to make arrangements for the conduct of pan-Anglican conversations with the Roman Catholic Church, the Orthodox Churches, and other Churches.
6. To advise on matters arising out of national or regional Church union negotiations or conversations and on subsequent relations with united Churches.
7. To advise on problems on inter-Anglican communication and to help in the dissemination of Anglican and ecumenical information.
8. To keep in review the needs that may arise for further study and, where necessary, to promote inquiry and research.
(9) Do you think there needs to be an executive or judicial body for resolving disagreements or disputes in the Anglican Communion? If so, do you think it should be the Primates Meeting as recommended by the Draft Covenant? Explain.
No. Issues can be addressed through our currently available bodies of communication. Section 6 presents a host of problems as written. What are “matters of essential concern”? There appears to be no limit as to what might qualify under this provision.
Section 2 seems fine, except “all therefore need to be tested by shared discernment in the life of the Church.” What does that mean?
Section 3 seems to be moving us towards uniformity, rather than “unity in spirit.” Our tradition supports unity in diversity.
Section 4 -- replace “heed” with “respectfully consider”. Who determines which matters “threaten the unity of the Communion”?
Section 5 -- keep first sentence, ending at “mutual admonition and counsel.” Delete 3 points following.
Section 6 – delete entirely. Juridical, penal, dishonest. No juridical authority should be created.
(10) What does the phrase “a common mind about matters of essential concern. . .” mean to you?
Too ambiguous. Such a phrase would need definition. Does it mean matters identified in the creeds? Salvation issues?
(11) Can you affirm the “fundamental shape” of the Draft Covenant? Why or why not?
See comments above. I could support a covenant that truly stated what we share as Anglicans, a document that described our relationship with one another within the Anglican Communion. This document attempts to do much more than that. The leanings toward uniformity, the blatant misrepresentations of the “Instruments of Communion,” and the attempt to introduce juridical authority are serious problems.
(12) What do you think are the consequences of signing such a Covenant as proposed in the Draft?
I cannot even contemplate signing a document with the type of problems identified above. If thoroughly rewritten as suggested above, the consequences of signing a covenant would be a positive reaffirmation of our commitment to remain in communion with the other members of the Anglican Communion.
(13) Having read the Draft Covenant as a whole do you agree with the CDG’s assertion that “nothing which is commended in the draft text of the Covenant can be said to be ‘new’”? Why or why not?
No. The Primates Meeting is new as an “Instrument of Communion.” I do not affirm the Primates’ meeting as a traditionally accepted “Instrument of Communion.” The entire Section 6, especially the granting of juridical powers to excommunicate a member church, is also not a reflection of current Anglican Communion structures.
(14) In general, what is your response to the Draft Covenant taken as a whole? What is helpful in the draft? What is not-helpful? What is missing? Additional comments?
¨ The covenant should not be a legal document.
¨ Description of roles of “Instruments of Communion” is not helpful or accurate.
¨ Imposition of uniformity is not helpful.
¨ The timing is too rushed. This fast pace means that the members of our congregations do not have much time to review and reflect and pray about this draft before responding. This is not the Anglican way, as I have lived it and understand it.
¨ We celebrate unity in diversity. Missing
¨ We look to scripture, tradition and reason. Missing.
¨ Common prayer. Missing.
¨ Concise statement of what makes us uniquely Anglican. Missing.
¨ Acknowledgment that we interpret scripture differently within the Anglican Communion. Missing.
¨ A covenant needs to be an honest statement of our relationship with one another within the Anglican Communion. It needs to accurately describe the roles of the Archbishop, Lambeth, ACC, and Primates. It needs to acknowledge our differences.
Thank you for seeking and considering our comments.
Kathryn Dyer
Deputy – Diocese of Missouri
2049 Rule Avenue
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
Saturday, May 26, 2007
What the MO deputies said...
Melanie Barbarito did a fabulous job of taking notes at the meeting of the Mo Deputies and here are our thoughts on the covenant:
Response to Draft Anglican Covenant
Diocese of Missouri
Deputation to General Convention
The Rev. Jack Fleming, the Rev. Lydia Agnew Speller,
The Rev. Tamsen Whistler, the Very Rev. Ronald Clingenpeel,
the Rev. Melanie Barbarito
Kathy Dyer, Mike Clark, Margie Bowman
Many of us agreed at the 2006 General Convention that the idea of a covenant is not a bad idea. But this is way too fast. Some of us were under the impression that this process could take up to ten years.
We presumed that this type of document would be a jumping off place.
While we affirm the idea of an Anglican Covenant, this seems more like a constitution than a covenantal document. We are not in favor of a constitution.
Responding to the Executive Council by the deadline honors that we are complementary to the HOB—recognizes the participation of laityBut we are disappointed not to have more time to educate members of parishes to get a wider response.
The Document as Written
Document is not historically accurate. Does not represent the evolution of the 4 Instruments of Communion; does not represent a consensus among the provinces about the Instruments of Unity.
This document contains historical inaccuracies that lead to erroneous assumptions.
The beginning of the reports states that: nothing which is commended in the draft text of the Covenant can be said to be “new”, but this is not true. It recommends previously unknown innovations.
The document speaks with two voices: it begins with relational wording; but later shifts to a list of rules. The Anglican Communion members are not of common mind, and that’s reflected in the Draft Covenant.
The preamble implies a process, but this document is not relational.
Nothing in the document calls for dialogue on even playing field.
While this is called a covenant, it reads more like a constitution.
Instruments of Unity
Some of the Instruments of Unity have existed before, but the Primates Meeting is new as Instrument of Unity.
Primates cannot declare themselves as Instruments of Unity.
Inclusion of Primates Meeting as Instrument of Unity is a “specious innovation”
We do not affirm the Primates’ meeting as a traditionally accepted Instrument of Unity.
Primates are all men but one. We believe it is an unhealthy innovation for a group of male bishops to be passing judgment. If there is to be such a body, then it should include presbyters and be equally represented by lay people and women.
We think it is important that the Anglican Consultative Council not be sidelined.
Anglican Consultative Council has never been asked to pass judgment and enforce and is now being asked to do so.
We don’t accept the idea that Primates are above ACC
Different symbols of unity are not in union with one another. For example, Canon Kieran at General Convention 2006 spoke for Anglican Consultative Council rather than Archbishop of Canterbury.
We are not clear that there is an unbroken tradition that these are Instruments of Unity nor is there a clear consensus that these are the unquestioned Instruments of Unity holding authority over the actions of indvidual provinces.
Paragraph 5, section 3—Archbishop of Canterbury as “first among equals” is ambiguous. 1st among Instruments or among primates or bishops?
These Instruments of Unity are 19th and 20th century developments. It remains to be seen what new appropriate ways can be developed to be in conversation.
There are world-wide gatherings of Anglican women. Maybe in the future the case should be made for allowing them to have the kind of voice that Lambeth has that is not authoritative but is listened to.
We believe that we are bound together by Baptism and Eucharist.
Sacraments as Instruments of Unity not addressed.
Foundational Documents
The tradition of common prayer is foundational but not the 1662 prayer book.
We question the statement that 1662 BCP is foundational. The first American Prayer Book drew heavily upon the Scottish Prayer Book of the time.
The 39 articles are not mandated in Episcopal Church.
Chicago-Lambeth quadrilateral is hardly reflected.
Reason needs to be defined, per philosophical debate. Nothing in document refers to or reflects our Anglican three-legged stool.
The 1662 BCP and 39 articles are “touchstone documents” not foundational. Wish to look also to Hooker’s Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity.
Assumptions have been made, for example when the document refers to the creeds, which ones are being referred to?
As a communion, we don’t even agree on the invocation of the Holy Spirit in the Eucharist. The document needs to be more tightly written.
Polity
The Episcopal Church comes from a strongly democratic tradition. This document seeks to move communion to something more autocratic.
We feel we need to teach other parts of the Anglican Communion about our polity which has been a part of this member church since its inception. We strongly affirm and seek the input of all baptized.
Neither our primate nor our bishops speak exclusively for us. We have a wider participation by all baptized members of our church.
We do not judge the individual polity of other member churches, and we don’t seek to impose our polity on other member churches. It needs to be made very clear that every church is allowed its own polity.
There needs to be a place to say more about our diverse and varied polity.
New technology could allow for virtual gatherings of baptized people.
It would be good not to suggest that these relatively new ways of holding communion together are only ways to do it.
We cannot live by deadlines that are inappropriate to our polity, process and people.
Why This? Why Now?
This seems to have a tone which suggests that “obviously we should have had this in place all the time and we’re doing this in order to say, ‘step out of line and you’re out.’ ’”
Paragraphs 5 & 6 seem to be about creating grounds for exclusion so that they make the entire document suspicious.
This is not the time to be assenting to a document of this type. Much more conversation needs to happen among all of us before we trust one another in the honoring this document.
This document is a rush job on something that should not be rushed. Leads to the result that “you’re out or you’re in.” Says it’s not juridical, but it is.
Our recommendation: The committee needs to go back to the drawing board. This should be a long-term, not a rushed process.
Response to Draft Anglican Covenant
Diocese of Missouri
Deputation to General Convention
The Rev. Jack Fleming, the Rev. Lydia Agnew Speller,
The Rev. Tamsen Whistler, the Very Rev. Ronald Clingenpeel,
the Rev. Melanie Barbarito
Kathy Dyer, Mike Clark, Margie Bowman
Many of us agreed at the 2006 General Convention that the idea of a covenant is not a bad idea. But this is way too fast. Some of us were under the impression that this process could take up to ten years.
We presumed that this type of document would be a jumping off place.
While we affirm the idea of an Anglican Covenant, this seems more like a constitution than a covenantal document. We are not in favor of a constitution.
Responding to the Executive Council by the deadline honors that we are complementary to the HOB—recognizes the participation of laityBut we are disappointed not to have more time to educate members of parishes to get a wider response.
The Document as Written
Document is not historically accurate. Does not represent the evolution of the 4 Instruments of Communion; does not represent a consensus among the provinces about the Instruments of Unity.
This document contains historical inaccuracies that lead to erroneous assumptions.
The beginning of the reports states that: nothing which is commended in the draft text of the Covenant can be said to be “new”, but this is not true. It recommends previously unknown innovations.
The document speaks with two voices: it begins with relational wording; but later shifts to a list of rules. The Anglican Communion members are not of common mind, and that’s reflected in the Draft Covenant.
The preamble implies a process, but this document is not relational.
Nothing in the document calls for dialogue on even playing field.
While this is called a covenant, it reads more like a constitution.
Instruments of Unity
Some of the Instruments of Unity have existed before, but the Primates Meeting is new as Instrument of Unity.
Primates cannot declare themselves as Instruments of Unity.
Inclusion of Primates Meeting as Instrument of Unity is a “specious innovation”
We do not affirm the Primates’ meeting as a traditionally accepted Instrument of Unity.
Primates are all men but one. We believe it is an unhealthy innovation for a group of male bishops to be passing judgment. If there is to be such a body, then it should include presbyters and be equally represented by lay people and women.
We think it is important that the Anglican Consultative Council not be sidelined.
Anglican Consultative Council has never been asked to pass judgment and enforce and is now being asked to do so.
We don’t accept the idea that Primates are above ACC
Different symbols of unity are not in union with one another. For example, Canon Kieran at General Convention 2006 spoke for Anglican Consultative Council rather than Archbishop of Canterbury.
We are not clear that there is an unbroken tradition that these are Instruments of Unity nor is there a clear consensus that these are the unquestioned Instruments of Unity holding authority over the actions of indvidual provinces.
Paragraph 5, section 3—Archbishop of Canterbury as “first among equals” is ambiguous. 1st among Instruments or among primates or bishops?
These Instruments of Unity are 19th and 20th century developments. It remains to be seen what new appropriate ways can be developed to be in conversation.
There are world-wide gatherings of Anglican women. Maybe in the future the case should be made for allowing them to have the kind of voice that Lambeth has that is not authoritative but is listened to.
We believe that we are bound together by Baptism and Eucharist.
Sacraments as Instruments of Unity not addressed.
Foundational Documents
The tradition of common prayer is foundational but not the 1662 prayer book.
We question the statement that 1662 BCP is foundational. The first American Prayer Book drew heavily upon the Scottish Prayer Book of the time.
The 39 articles are not mandated in Episcopal Church.
Chicago-Lambeth quadrilateral is hardly reflected.
Reason needs to be defined, per philosophical debate. Nothing in document refers to or reflects our Anglican three-legged stool.
The 1662 BCP and 39 articles are “touchstone documents” not foundational. Wish to look also to Hooker’s Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity.
Assumptions have been made, for example when the document refers to the creeds, which ones are being referred to?
As a communion, we don’t even agree on the invocation of the Holy Spirit in the Eucharist. The document needs to be more tightly written.
Polity
The Episcopal Church comes from a strongly democratic tradition. This document seeks to move communion to something more autocratic.
We feel we need to teach other parts of the Anglican Communion about our polity which has been a part of this member church since its inception. We strongly affirm and seek the input of all baptized.
Neither our primate nor our bishops speak exclusively for us. We have a wider participation by all baptized members of our church.
We do not judge the individual polity of other member churches, and we don’t seek to impose our polity on other member churches. It needs to be made very clear that every church is allowed its own polity.
There needs to be a place to say more about our diverse and varied polity.
New technology could allow for virtual gatherings of baptized people.
It would be good not to suggest that these relatively new ways of holding communion together are only ways to do it.
We cannot live by deadlines that are inappropriate to our polity, process and people.
Why This? Why Now?
This seems to have a tone which suggests that “obviously we should have had this in place all the time and we’re doing this in order to say, ‘step out of line and you’re out.’ ’”
Paragraphs 5 & 6 seem to be about creating grounds for exclusion so that they make the entire document suspicious.
This is not the time to be assenting to a document of this type. Much more conversation needs to happen among all of us before we trust one another in the honoring this document.
This document is a rush job on something that should not be rushed. Leads to the result that “you’re out or you’re in.” Says it’s not juridical, but it is.
Our recommendation: The committee needs to go back to the drawing board. This should be a long-term, not a rushed process.
Friday, May 25, 2007
A little humor break
This cartoon about Lambeth invitations is not really germaine to the subject of this blog but I had to post it anyway. It is from the wonderful Dave Walker whose website is to be found here: http://www.cartoonchurch.com/blog/
He gives people permission to post his cartoons as long as they include a link. For 35 Pounds Sterling you can have a license to use his cartoons all year long in your publications. St Mark's had a Dave Walker cartoon illustrated annual report this year.
Comments from a member of St Timothy's
These thoughtful comments by Gary Stansbery are posted with his permission:
Here are my comments on the Draft Anglican Covenant: The numbered sections follow the numbered questions in the Study Guide.
(1) I do not think an Anglican Covenant is necessary. There is no more need now than in the past. I believe the Anglican Covenant is a device by the conservative Anglican Primates to facilitate coercing the Episcopal Church in the U.S.A. (ECUSA) into not honoring the human rights of gays and lesbians, and in particular not allowing gays and lesbians to be ordained bishops. Once the ECUSA is coerced in this area, the coercion will be applied in other areas.
However, since the General Convention has agreed to participate in the Covenant process, I accept the idea of a Covenant but would urge that the language allow us to form our faith and practice in a manner that we think is right , without coercion from the conservative Primates.
(2) It does not accord with my understanding, since it views the Anglican Communion as one unitary body, a kind of “super church”, requiring “mutual commitment and discipline”, rather than an association of related autonomous Churches. I believe the “mutual commitment and discipline” in the text refers to action by the conservative Primates to coerce the ECUSA to do or not do what the conservative Primates wish.
(3) It would be a sufficient rationale if the language of the Covenant itself were appropriate. It is not a rationale for the coercive aspect of the Covenant.
(4) The first four adequately describe the ECUSA’s understanding of our faith, except that somewhere the reference to Scripture should be expanded to include the full formula of “scripture, tradition and reason”.
I recognize that item 2 tracks the language of the Chicago – Lambeth Quadrilateral. Since we are expanding on the Quadrilateral in this and other sections of the Covenant, I believe that there should be a clear reference to “scripture, tradition and reason” for the Covenant.
This is important because the Covenant is trying to force a conservative, literal application of scripture, while the “scripture, tradition and reason” formula broadens and expands how we form our faith and practice.
(5) Item 5 reflects an effort by the drafters to compel us to conform to the Thirty-nine Articles and the 1662 Prayer Book, which we should resist. The ECUSA has rejected these documents as authoritative, and we should not be forced to change our faith and practice. Item 5 should be deleted.
(6) Some parts are not clear and understandable and /or need to be altered.
Para. 1. The words “moral values derived from scripture, tradition and reason” should be substituted for “biblically derived moral values” in order to broaden the criteria for moral values. In addition, the words “the vision of humanity received by and developed in the communion of member Churches” should be deleted. This language is ambiguous. My interpretation is that the only vision that the ECUSA can implement is a vision developed by all the member churches. In other words, all the member churches must agree before the ECUSA can implement a vision of humanity (such as that homosexuality is innate, rather than a voluntary sin, or that women should be admitted to the priesthood and episcopate). This relates to the basic issue of whether the conservative Primates can coerce the ECUSA. This statement may provide a rationale for such coercion.
Para. 3. I am not sure what is meant by “bishops and synods’ , but I suspect that these words may exclude clergy and lay persons. The words “governing bodies of the member churches” should be used instead.
In addition, this reference to biblical texts is not clear, and could be construed to support conservative literal interpretation and application. A statement should be added that a dynamic interpretation is permitted, whereby the central tenants of Christianity are employed and applied to current situations, even if particular detailed provisions are ignored as being not appropriate.
(7) I believe it is helpful and should be a part of the Covenant. A Covenant should have a section on mission.
(8) No, this section does not adequately describe my understanding. My understanding was that the Anglican Communion was an association of churches and the “Instruments of Communion” existed to facilitate communication and interaction, including analysis and discussion of current problems. This description makes them into watchdogs of doctrinal purity, which is a different role.
(9) No, I do not believe there needs to be a body for resolving disputes, because “resolving” in this context means coercing a Province which takes a minority view to conform to the views of the majority.
If we are must have such a body, the Primates Meeting is badly flawed for this purpose because it is not a representative body. It does not include clergy and lay persons. In addition, not all members were originally elevated to the status of bishop in a democratic manner. Also, women are excluded by some Provinces from the episcopate and from the process of selecting bishops, and so of necessity are excluded from being Primates.
(10) A “matter of essential concern” is a matter that some party believes is important enough to label it “essential”. The criteria of what is essential is very subjective, and will be manipulated by all parties to advance their agendas. A “common mind” means we must all agree. This is accomplished, hopefully first by discussion and discernment, and finally by those in power coercing dissenters. I note that this meaning is repeated by the phrase “common standards of faith”, which mean that standards held by the minority must be conformed to those held by the majority. Otherwise , such standards would not be ‘common”.
I note that, in the same para. 3, “Scripture” is used again without reference to tradition and reason.
In my opinion, Section 6 of the Covenant is the most important section. And the most important subject in Section 6 is the subject of sanctions. By “sanctions” I mean exclusion from the Communion, reduced status in the Communion, denial of voice and /or vote in Communion proceedings, denial of Communion privileges, etc. If the “Instruments of Communion” do not have the power to impose sanctions, then the Covenant will have little detrimental effect. The “Instruments of Communion” will function as advisory bodies, with no enforcement power. If they do have sanctions, then the ECUSA will be subject to them, and the situation will be drastically changed in that the ECUSA will be subject to intimidation and coercion.
In my opinion, the drafters of the Covenant intend for the “Instruments of Communion” to have the sanctions listed above. However, they have obscured this subject by veiled language which conceals this reality. In para. 4 they refer to “respect” for the “Instruments of Communion”. Then in para. 6 they refer to “a process of restoration and renewal will be required”. In my opinion, this veiled language refers to sanctions of some kind. Since the sanctions are not spelled out, in effect what the Covenant does is create an ecclesiastical police authority which is given a blank check as to what it can do to transgressors.
I would respond to this situation as follows: A) I would specifically bar the “Instruments of Communion” from using any of the above sanctions. This would be done in the text of the Covenant with a specific list and a specific prohibition. B) If that fails or is not possible, then I would specifically list all the above sanctions as powers of the “Instruments of Communion”. We will not have lost anything, because the “Instruments of Communion” will assume the power to apply these sanctions. The value of a specific listing is that it will force the deputies and bishops who vote on the Covenant to face the fact that they are voting to make themselves subject to sanctions, and it will at least defeat the effort to obscure this reality.
(11) The “fundamental shape” of the Covenant is O.K. if changes in the text discussed above are made.
(12) The consequences of signing the Covenant would be to facilitate the conservative Primates in their effort to cause the ECUSA to change its policies on gays and lesbians, beginning with gay bishops ands eventually extending to the overall treatment of all gays and lesbians. After the ECUSA is forced to change on this issue, the conservative Primates will apply their new found power to other issues, which will be deemed “essential” for this purpose.
(13) I do not agree because the function of the “Instruments of Communion” as the watchdog of doctrinal purity, with authority to enforce their opinions and decisions, to my knowledge has no precedent in the Anglican Communion. The statement that there is nothing “new” in the Draft is not true.
(14) Taken as a whole, my response is that it is a document designed to facilitate oppression of the ECUSA, and other Provinces with similar views, by the conservative Primates. There is little that is helpful in the Draft. It is wholly unacceptable to me unless it is drastically reworked as described above.
Gary Stansbery
Here are my comments on the Draft Anglican Covenant: The numbered sections follow the numbered questions in the Study Guide.
(1) I do not think an Anglican Covenant is necessary. There is no more need now than in the past. I believe the Anglican Covenant is a device by the conservative Anglican Primates to facilitate coercing the Episcopal Church in the U.S.A. (ECUSA) into not honoring the human rights of gays and lesbians, and in particular not allowing gays and lesbians to be ordained bishops. Once the ECUSA is coerced in this area, the coercion will be applied in other areas.
However, since the General Convention has agreed to participate in the Covenant process, I accept the idea of a Covenant but would urge that the language allow us to form our faith and practice in a manner that we think is right , without coercion from the conservative Primates.
(2) It does not accord with my understanding, since it views the Anglican Communion as one unitary body, a kind of “super church”, requiring “mutual commitment and discipline”, rather than an association of related autonomous Churches. I believe the “mutual commitment and discipline” in the text refers to action by the conservative Primates to coerce the ECUSA to do or not do what the conservative Primates wish.
(3) It would be a sufficient rationale if the language of the Covenant itself were appropriate. It is not a rationale for the coercive aspect of the Covenant.
(4) The first four adequately describe the ECUSA’s understanding of our faith, except that somewhere the reference to Scripture should be expanded to include the full formula of “scripture, tradition and reason”.
I recognize that item 2 tracks the language of the Chicago – Lambeth Quadrilateral. Since we are expanding on the Quadrilateral in this and other sections of the Covenant, I believe that there should be a clear reference to “scripture, tradition and reason” for the Covenant.
This is important because the Covenant is trying to force a conservative, literal application of scripture, while the “scripture, tradition and reason” formula broadens and expands how we form our faith and practice.
(5) Item 5 reflects an effort by the drafters to compel us to conform to the Thirty-nine Articles and the 1662 Prayer Book, which we should resist. The ECUSA has rejected these documents as authoritative, and we should not be forced to change our faith and practice. Item 5 should be deleted.
(6) Some parts are not clear and understandable and /or need to be altered.
Para. 1. The words “moral values derived from scripture, tradition and reason” should be substituted for “biblically derived moral values” in order to broaden the criteria for moral values. In addition, the words “the vision of humanity received by and developed in the communion of member Churches” should be deleted. This language is ambiguous. My interpretation is that the only vision that the ECUSA can implement is a vision developed by all the member churches. In other words, all the member churches must agree before the ECUSA can implement a vision of humanity (such as that homosexuality is innate, rather than a voluntary sin, or that women should be admitted to the priesthood and episcopate). This relates to the basic issue of whether the conservative Primates can coerce the ECUSA. This statement may provide a rationale for such coercion.
Para. 3. I am not sure what is meant by “bishops and synods’ , but I suspect that these words may exclude clergy and lay persons. The words “governing bodies of the member churches” should be used instead.
In addition, this reference to biblical texts is not clear, and could be construed to support conservative literal interpretation and application. A statement should be added that a dynamic interpretation is permitted, whereby the central tenants of Christianity are employed and applied to current situations, even if particular detailed provisions are ignored as being not appropriate.
(7) I believe it is helpful and should be a part of the Covenant. A Covenant should have a section on mission.
(8) No, this section does not adequately describe my understanding. My understanding was that the Anglican Communion was an association of churches and the “Instruments of Communion” existed to facilitate communication and interaction, including analysis and discussion of current problems. This description makes them into watchdogs of doctrinal purity, which is a different role.
(9) No, I do not believe there needs to be a body for resolving disputes, because “resolving” in this context means coercing a Province which takes a minority view to conform to the views of the majority.
If we are must have such a body, the Primates Meeting is badly flawed for this purpose because it is not a representative body. It does not include clergy and lay persons. In addition, not all members were originally elevated to the status of bishop in a democratic manner. Also, women are excluded by some Provinces from the episcopate and from the process of selecting bishops, and so of necessity are excluded from being Primates.
(10) A “matter of essential concern” is a matter that some party believes is important enough to label it “essential”. The criteria of what is essential is very subjective, and will be manipulated by all parties to advance their agendas. A “common mind” means we must all agree. This is accomplished, hopefully first by discussion and discernment, and finally by those in power coercing dissenters. I note that this meaning is repeated by the phrase “common standards of faith”, which mean that standards held by the minority must be conformed to those held by the majority. Otherwise , such standards would not be ‘common”.
I note that, in the same para. 3, “Scripture” is used again without reference to tradition and reason.
In my opinion, Section 6 of the Covenant is the most important section. And the most important subject in Section 6 is the subject of sanctions. By “sanctions” I mean exclusion from the Communion, reduced status in the Communion, denial of voice and /or vote in Communion proceedings, denial of Communion privileges, etc. If the “Instruments of Communion” do not have the power to impose sanctions, then the Covenant will have little detrimental effect. The “Instruments of Communion” will function as advisory bodies, with no enforcement power. If they do have sanctions, then the ECUSA will be subject to them, and the situation will be drastically changed in that the ECUSA will be subject to intimidation and coercion.
In my opinion, the drafters of the Covenant intend for the “Instruments of Communion” to have the sanctions listed above. However, they have obscured this subject by veiled language which conceals this reality. In para. 4 they refer to “respect” for the “Instruments of Communion”. Then in para. 6 they refer to “a process of restoration and renewal will be required”. In my opinion, this veiled language refers to sanctions of some kind. Since the sanctions are not spelled out, in effect what the Covenant does is create an ecclesiastical police authority which is given a blank check as to what it can do to transgressors.
I would respond to this situation as follows: A) I would specifically bar the “Instruments of Communion” from using any of the above sanctions. This would be done in the text of the Covenant with a specific list and a specific prohibition. B) If that fails or is not possible, then I would specifically list all the above sanctions as powers of the “Instruments of Communion”. We will not have lost anything, because the “Instruments of Communion” will assume the power to apply these sanctions. The value of a specific listing is that it will force the deputies and bishops who vote on the Covenant to face the fact that they are voting to make themselves subject to sanctions, and it will at least defeat the effort to obscure this reality.
(11) The “fundamental shape” of the Covenant is O.K. if changes in the text discussed above are made.
(12) The consequences of signing the Covenant would be to facilitate the conservative Primates in their effort to cause the ECUSA to change its policies on gays and lesbians, beginning with gay bishops ands eventually extending to the overall treatment of all gays and lesbians. After the ECUSA is forced to change on this issue, the conservative Primates will apply their new found power to other issues, which will be deemed “essential” for this purpose.
(13) I do not agree because the function of the “Instruments of Communion” as the watchdog of doctrinal purity, with authority to enforce their opinions and decisions, to my knowledge has no precedent in the Anglican Communion. The statement that there is nothing “new” in the Draft is not true.
(14) Taken as a whole, my response is that it is a document designed to facilitate oppression of the ECUSA, and other Provinces with similar views, by the conservative Primates. There is little that is helpful in the Draft. It is wholly unacceptable to me unless it is drastically reworked as described above.
Gary Stansbery
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Question Three: Why are we doing this?
One of the questions I ask a lot is, "Why are we doing this?" When we are planning something at church, especially if we are making some kind of difficult decision, the "Why?" question can be clarifying. Question 3 is that kind of question, asking of the Preamble, "Is this a sufficient rationale for entering into a Covenant? Why or why not?" The preamble is not very long, so I'll quote it.
We, the Churches of the Anglican Communion, under the Lordship of Jesus Christ , solemnly covenant together in these articles, in order to proclaim more effectively in our different contexts the Grace of God revealed in the Gospel, to offer God’s love in responding to the needs of the world, to maintain the unity in the Spirit in the bond of peace, and to grow up together as a worldwide Communion to the full stature of Christ.
In my opinion, this would be a fine reason. Obviously to the extent that the church can live out the gospel by living in unity and by striving for reconciliation in the conduct of our common life, everything we do should help us in this aim. The rationale acknowledges that we are not all proclaiming the Grace of God in the same way or offering God's love to the neds of the world in the same wy but each "in our different contexts." The difficulty I see is that the covenant as a whole does not seem to be an agreement to "stay in relationship" as each of our provinces struggles with what it means to proclaim the Good News faithfully in our distinctive cultural context but an agreement designed to exclude and restrain some provinces from doing that unless the primates of all the provinces (each very different culturally) think it is okay.
We, the Churches of the Anglican Communion, under the Lordship of Jesus Christ , solemnly covenant together in these articles, in order to proclaim more effectively in our different contexts the Grace of God revealed in the Gospel, to offer God’s love in responding to the needs of the world, to maintain the unity in the Spirit in the bond of peace, and to grow up together as a worldwide Communion to the full stature of Christ.
In my opinion, this would be a fine reason. Obviously to the extent that the church can live out the gospel by living in unity and by striving for reconciliation in the conduct of our common life, everything we do should help us in this aim. The rationale acknowledges that we are not all proclaiming the Grace of God in the same way or offering God's love to the neds of the world in the same wy but each "in our different contexts." The difficulty I see is that the covenant as a whole does not seem to be an agreement to "stay in relationship" as each of our provinces struggles with what it means to proclaim the Good News faithfully in our distinctive cultural context but an agreement designed to exclude and restrain some provinces from doing that unless the primates of all the provinces (each very different culturally) think it is okay.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Unity
While I was away at CREDO last week, I found myself wondering whether Unity and Wholeness are always the same thing. Just what I mean by this brilliant question, I am not sure. But all this working to hold together the unity of the Anglican Communion, by increasingly coercive means like the Primates' Communique and its deadlines, may preserve Unity but work against Wholeness, since the price of Unity seems to be that people are expected to keep silent about who they truly are, that some provinces are supposed to disenfranchise some believers, that when bishops gather some of them are not welcome. If all the provinces of the communion are willing to make these sacrifices of their integrity and allow the covenant to dictate how disputes are to be settled and to cut some off from communion, the unity we will have will be the opposite of wholeness.
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