Why is the present Measure unsatisfactory?
Because it allows no room for our theological position
All members of the Church of England will be obliged to accept the oversight of women bishops. This is quite different from the current settlement over women priests, whereby no one it compelled to receive the priestly ministry of women.
Because it breaks solemn promises made to us
The provisions under resolutions A and B, and under the Act of Synod, were said to be permanent, without time limit, as long as they were needed. The breaking of those promises injures not only us, but undermines all assurances made by the Church of England in the future.
Because it enforces conformity on an issue which cannot be proved in Scripture
This contravenes Article VI of the 39 Articles of Religion; this is something which should concern all Anglicans.
Because it is unfair
Both proponents and opponents should be provided with episcopal oversight in the same way, i.e. by Stature or Measure.
Because it is sexist
It simply allows people to substitute a man for a woman. We cannot collude in this. The problem is departure from Holy Orders as the Church of England has received them.
Because it requires the Measure to be approved before the Code of Practice is seen.
We are being asked to approve a Measure without any sense at all of how it will actually be implemented.
