What is going on here in Bedford?
Bedford for us Anglicans is the end of the beginning. We have struggled, some of our congregations for over 30 years, with issues that have been forced upon us by the Episcopal Church. We’ve come to a point where we are not operating in force anymore.
Rick Warren told the ACNA not to be “reactionary.” What did he mean?
He means the war [in the Episcopal Church], it’s not yours anymore. That’s behind. God has a whole new work for you. We are trying to move on. Get over the wounds, get over the hurts, get over the lawsuits, get over all the stuff.
What is the ACNA’s plan for outreach?
The congregation is God’s fundamental way of doing things, just like the family is God’s fundamental building block for society. We have to disciple. We have to teach people to love God … and share their faith. We have to teach them how to engage the world in service, in Christ’s love.
What is your message for Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams?
He should understand that there really is realignment in Anglicanism. There is a new reformation in the Christian West. I hope he sees the unity despite our diversity. It’s a unity in Christ. He should see the passion for mission. I trust he sees a people who look recognizably Anglican.
What do you say to those who criticize the ACNA for being against gays?
Jesus was not against anybody. We’re not against anybody. The Father’s desire is to reach out to everyone—all of us are broken. What I hope people experience from us is the love of God. The starting place is meeting people where they are. What we have embraced as our clear statement is the transforming love of Jesus Christ. I hope that people come out and test us.
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Christianity Today has a special section on division in Anglicanism, including:
Too Unorthodox Even for the Episcopal Church? | Church leaders appear to have vetoed a bishop-elect for the first time since the 1930s. But few opponents are celebrating. (June 8, 2009)
Conservative Anglicans Create Rival Church | Top leader Duncan expects to see Episcopal Church ‘displaced.’ (December 14, 2008)
Defending the Faith | Conservatives face huge obstacles in putting Anglicanism back together. (October 13, 2008)
