A Statement from Primates of the Anglican Communion
It is with profound sadness that we have arrived at this moment in the history of the Anglican Communion. Having met, at the invitation of the Archbishop of Canterbury, for two days, October 15-16, we struggled to find a way to reconcile our divergent views on human sexuality. We looked at the grave consequences that would ensue should ECUSA proceed with its planned consecration of a practicing homosexual to the episcopate. We reaffirmed our commitment to Lambeth Resolution 1.10.
Within a week of that historic emergency meeting, the Presiding Bishop of ECUSA has written to let us all know that the consecration of Gene Robinson will proceed as schedule on November 2, 2003. By this action, ECUSA has willfully introduced erroneous teaching into the life, mission and ministry of the Communion. We regret that they have not only affronted the entire body of Primates they have rejected the historic faith and order of the Church.
As Primates of the Anglican Communion, we give assurance that we will not abandon the teaching of the Church throughout the ages and around the world. We promise solidarity and Episcopal support to those dioceses, bishops, clergy, and laity in ECUSA, Canada and other parts of the Communion who continue to uphold the historic faith and order of the Church.
As leaders who represent over fifty million Anglicans we have a solemn responsibility to protect the life of our own communities and those who are one with us in matters of faith and order. We will now put in place mechanisms and structures that will uphold historic Anglicanism and advance our common faith, life, mission and ministry.
We are challenged and hopeful about the future while we grieve for those who have chosen to walk another way. We call on all faithful Anglicans to a season of prayer for repentance, renewal and reconciliation in Christ. To God alone be glory in the Church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.