A message from the Very Reverend John Witcombe, Dean of Coventry regarding yesterdays historic vote in the Synod: We are delighted with the debate and decision yesterday in General Synod to move forward in ordaining women to the Episcopate. Many of us have waited a long time for this, and we are grateful for the generosity and patience of many on different sides of the debate. There is a real sense of the Spirit moving in ways that are familiar to us in Coventry, with our history of work for reconciliation - and we are proud and grateful for the part played by Canon David Porter in supporting the process which has led us to this point. The ministry of women as bishops will bring great gifts to a needy church at a time when we have real opportunity and challenge in ministry and mission in this country. In many places, including our own city and county, society is looking to the church for leadership and community building. At the same time, there are challenges to our voice, as we can appear increasingly marginalised from widespread views and attitudes which many consider both compassionate and reasonable. The vote yesterday will help us retain our place in public debate. We pray with thanksgiving for a diverse church as we continue to respond in obedience to the Spirit of God, revealing Gods presence in the midst of a needy world.
Posted on: Tue, 15 Jul 2014 06:59:39 +0000