The following is from + Mike’s blog on 11/02/10
This week is General Synod. The
focus was very much on the Archbishop of Canterbury’s
Presidential address and a motion from Mrs Lorna Ashworth inviting Synod to
be desirous of being “in Communion” with the Anglican Church of North
America (ACNA) – a coaliton of churches and Dioceses which have left the
Episcopal Church over a number of issues.
I thought the Archbishop’s address was excellent in
clarifying a number of things about the whole issue of freedom in a world of
human rights. It was very well received. The Lorna Ashworth motion carried
more emotional energy for me as I had to move an amendment which was seen by
some as a weakening of Mrs Ashworth’s motion by “recognising and affirming
the desire of ACNA to remain within the Anglican family” and putting that
“reception” into a formal process.
The debate was pretty good and felt very charitable despite
the huge amount of emotion in all this for many. In the end my amendment was
carried and the final amended motion passed by a very large minority.
There’s a certain amount of relief to have this behind me!
The following is from + Lee’s blog for 15/02/10
Two services in Purton yesterday morning, with an excellent
breakfast in between. St Mary’s has developed an annual service in
celebration of marriage which works well. There were a good number of
couples preparing for their wedding, plus others who married recently. The
fact that Valentine’s Day fell on a Sunday – and outside of Lent – made it
an excellent choice. A great opportunity to speak into the gift that
marriage is for individuals and society.
The CofE has been looking to up its game in the connecting
with those who want to get married and a task group has been on the case.
There are many misunderstandings around so it is important we do our best to
correct them. I have produced articles for regional magazines and churches
are getting involved in local wedding shows. Churches like Purton have built
up a strong ministry among those looking to get married. Christ Church
Swindon recently held a marriage preparation day for around 12 couples,
serving chili with jackets and a range of desserts for lunch. We need to be
exceeding people’s expectations in our marriage ministries. How about
working together to provide excellent marriage preparation?
