Archbishop of Canterbury's Presidential Address to General Synod

The Archbishop of Canterbury delivered today, Tuesday 9 February, a wide-ranging and strong presidential address to the General Synod. Archbishop Rowan touched upon many subjects, of national and international interest. Nationally, he refers to the debate which continues in the British Parliament around the "Equality Bill", and the question of assisted suicide which is being widely discussed. With regard to the ordination of women as bishops, and the life and unity of the Anglican Communion internationally, the Archbishop urges a closer listening to each other, to refrain from demonising opponents. He went on to say that a freedom claimed in one part of the Church can have a "devastating impact" on the freedom of others elsewhere. The Archbishop urges us to strive for a discovery of  "an ecclesial fellowship in which we trust each other to act for our good". It is a difficult message provoking reaction from liberals and conservatives alike.

You can read the full text of the Archbishop's Presidential address (prefaced by a press release) here.

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