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A Clear Choice
by Martyn Minns
TRURO (3/5/2005)--The February meeting of the Primates of the Anglican Communion had eagerly been awaited. Which way would they go? Would they find the power and resources of the Western Alliance impossible to resist? Or, would they embrace the Global South alliance and its commitment to traditional Anglican teaching and practice? Would the Anglican Communion shatter? Or, would they try one more .fudge.? Nobody was too sure about the outcome, including the participants themselves!
What happened, however, was a "miracle" according to several of the Primates. As the final communiqué made clear, the Primates of the Anglican Communion unreservedly embraced traditional teaching and practice on human sexuality (as described in Lambeth 1998 Conference Resolution 1.10, see TFN pg. 3). In so doing, the Primates gave the Episcopal Church USA and the Anglican Church of Canada a clear choice. The western provinces must choose one of two options: either (1) turn back from support of same-sex blessings and the ordination of non-celibate homosexuals, or (2) no longer be a constituent member of the world-wide Anglican family of churches.
To underscore the seriousness of this choice, both provinces were asked to withdraw their members from the Anglican Consultative Council (ACC) and to provide an explanation for their behavior and actions at the next meeting of the ACC. This measure - an unprecedented rebuke of both Churches - has produced a wide range of responses, including a rather truculent statement from Presiding Bishop Griswold, "I cannot imagine saying .We got it wrong..."
The stakes have never been higher. The choice is now clear. Dioceses and congregations within ECUSA are being presented with two competing visions for the church. One is grounded in historic Anglicanism; the other rejects many of the basic tenets of classical Christianity. This dichotomy is not based simply on questions of sexual ethics, but includes topics such as the uniqueness of Christ and the authority of Scripture.
What does all this mean for Truro Church? We already have made our choice. We will remain faithful Anglicans. It is not clear what decision ECUSA will make, although early indications are that it will continue in its present trajectory.
As I outlined on Sunday afternoon at the Parish Meeting we have a lot of work to do. We have to:
– Recognize and respond to the brokenness within our Church
- Work and pray for repentance
- Prepare for the ever-increasing possibility of separation
In the middle of all of this, we must also remain winsome witnesses and faithful disciples for Christ. The world is watching and needs to know that we are motivated by a passion for all people and a desire to see Jesus Christ lifted up, so that all may be drawn to him and experience his redemptive love. These are exciting times. To God be the Glory!
–The Rev. Martyn Minns is rector, Truro Episcopal Church, Fairfax, Virginia
