STATEMENT FROM THE CATHOLIC GROUP IN GENERAL SYNOD

on the announcement of the Working Group for Women Bishops’ proposals

The Catholic Group in General Synod reaffirms its commitment to engaging fully and positively in the process of achieving fresh legislation for women bishops.

The House of Bishops has already stated that this will need to embrace “ a clear embodiment of the principle articulated by the 1998 Lambeth Conference ‘that those who dissent from, as well as those who assent to, the ordination of women to the priesthood and episcopate are both loyal Anglicans.’ ”

The vital task, then, of the new House of Bishops Working Group is to build a big consensus so that there is no danger of legislation failing again at Final Approval.

To this end, the legislation will need to inspire confidence among those who are opposed to women bishops as well as those who are in favour.

ENDS

19th December 2012