Statement by the Deans of the Convocations of the ACN Concerning the Meeting of the Primates
February 26, 2005
For Immediate Release
The Deans of the Anglican Communion Network rejoice in the action of the Primates of the Anglican Communion to reaffirm the authority of Scripture, uphold the traditional teaching and practice of the Communion on human sexuality and exercise discipline over the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Church of Canada. The request that they voluntarily withdraw from the Anglican Consultative Council effectively suspends these two Provinces from Communion structures and makes clear that real repentance is needed or their “walking apart” will become a permanent separation.
The Deans will meet this week with Bishop Robert Duncan, Moderator of the Anglican Communion Network, along with other US leaders and representatives of the Anglican Network in Canada. We will issue a further statement at the conclusion of our gathering.
We are so very much aware of the many faithful clergy and lay leaders who are standing for the Gospel courageously and at great cost. As Paul wrote to the Corinthians to encourage them to persevere, “We know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in his presence. All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. Therefore we do not lose heart” (2 Corinthians 4:14-16).
Your servants in Christ,
The Rev. John A. M. Guernsey
Dean, Mid-Atlantic Convocation
The Rev. William H. Ilgenfritz
Acting Dean
Forward in Faith North America Convocation
The Rev. James McCaslin
Dean, Southeastern Convocation
The Rev. Ronald L. McCrary
Dean, Mid-Continental Convocation
The Rev. William Murdoch
Dean, New England Convocation
The Rev. William A. Thompson
Dean, Western Convocation