Letter: Help for opponents of women's ordination
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: In your item on the recently announced proposals of the House of Bishops to help meet the needs of those who oppose the ordination of women ('Carey hopes roving bishops will curb revolt', 15 January), you quote Christina Rees, of the Movement for the Ordination of Women, as saying that such proposals are 'against the whole spirit of the legislation'.
For once Ms Rees is wrong. The bishops' proposals are exactly in line with the legislation. What has been lost from view in the middle of so much of the continuing debate is that the legislation contained two thrusts. The first was to provide for the ordination of women to the priesthood and the second was to provide for the consciences of those who would not feel able to agree with such a move. Most of the text of the measure deals with the second point.
When first drafted, the conscience parts of the measure were only going to remain in place for about 20 years. In November 1989 this time limit was deliberately dropped from the measure because it was either implying that people's consciences could be worn down or, alternatively, that those holding such views were being given 'notice to quit'.
What this means is that, since the measure was passed, the Church of England recognises two positions of integrity with regard to women's ordination. It is, therefore, the task of the bishops of a united church to service both those positions of integrity - if necessary for ever.
The alternative is schism and probably the end of a credible national church with its mission to serve the people of this country.
Yours faithfully,
GAVIN MAIDSTONE
Bishop of Maidstone
The Diocese of Canterbury
Charing, Kent
17 January
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments