Anglican Mainstream

We are beginning to see the thrust of the controlling theology here at Lambeth.

First, all views should be represented.  There is a continual gnawing at the bone that over a quarter of the bishops invited are not here. This has been raised by the Archbishop of Canterbury in his welcome address, and Bishop de Chickera in the opening sermon.  Archbishop Philip Aspinall commented on this at length in answer to a question at the opening press conference. His answer is illuminating.

He said in answer to a question:  “I am greatly saddened by Archbishop Jensen’s decision not to come.  Sydney comes from the evangelical tradition – a vital part – and that perspective will be weaker because they are not here. We will have to find other ways to engage that perspective.  It will delay us. Other bishops have important things to say that they (the Sydney bishops) need to hear.  There is sadness among us all.” 

In other words, the liberal vision is to have all views expressed at a meeting.  However, this will always be in the controlling framework of being on a journey and never being able to settle on an answer.

The opening sermon stressed “ a journey” ;  “The second reality is the reality that we are a wounded community. Some of us are not here, and that is an indication that all is not well. Certainly the crisis is complex. It is not a crisis that can be resolved instantly. The journey ahead is a long arduous one – a journey that will demand our prayers, our faithfulness, our mutual trust in each other, and of course our trust in God who makes reconciliation possible.”

But there seems to be some selectivity in what issues can be resolved “instantly” and which not:  the preacher mentioned crises in Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan and Iraq. Presumably he would not give similar counsel to the parties in those conflicts.

Note also that the absence of the Archbishop of Sydney and others is held responsible for “delay”.   But we have already been told that there can be no hurry.

The question of course lies begging: if the Archbishop of Sydney were present, would he have been invited to be the preacher, or to give a plenary address, or a major presentation on evangelism and church planting through the gospel?

The sleight of hand is the paramountcy of the liberal world view: we want all views present, and all must be willing to be received as part of that ongoing journey.  It is fascinating how upset people are that some have not come.  Is it because it calls into question the ability to hold the ring for all the views that can be expressed – but only within the one framework?  In that case the most effective counterargument to the imperialism of ideas is simply not to turn up.
 

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