The Christmas Day sermon by the archbishop of Canterbury is the centerpiece of the Church of England’s seasonal celebrations. However, with the resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby, Anglicans will have to make do with a homily from the bishop of…
Archbishop of Canterbury waffles, bringing more pain for survivors
In his first public speech since announcing his resignation, the archbishop of Canterbury struck a “frivolous tone” that left childhood abuse victims “dismayed” and “disgusted.” “Whether one is personally responsible or not,” a head had to roll, said the archbishop,…
The two men behind the possible schism in the Church of England
At the start of each year in the United Kingdom, the monarch doles out “honors” to citizens who’ve contributed to the betterment of British society. This year, both Justin Welby, the archbishop of Canterbury, and his longtime friend, Nicky Gumbel,…
What would happen if clergy unionized?
From the successful unionization of Starbucks baristas in Buffalo to striking actors and writers in Hollywood, support for labor unions is on the rise in a post-pandemic world. A Gallup poll from August reported 67% of Americans approve of unions…
African Anglican leaders criticize Church of England over same-sex marriage decision
The Church of England’s decision to allow same-sex couples to receive blessings in the church has drawn rebukes from church leaders in Africa. A majority of Church of England synod members, comprising bishops, clergy and laity, voted in favor of…
The Church of England’s compromise on same-sex relationships is disastrous for everyone
The Church of England’s formal separation from Rome five centuries ago began over a dispute about marriage. Now, it appears it will soon end as we know it over a dispute about marriage. Despite a busy news week that included…
Church of England tries to make a middle way on same-sex unions, but …
The archbishop of Canterbury will not personally follow a new opportunity for Church of England clergy to “bless” same-sex unions, but the archbishop of York says he will. This new option — not what either side in the controversy really…
Church of England won’t allow same-sex marriage but may allow a liturgical blessing of civil unions
The Church of England will not allow same-sex marriage, despite renewed debate and calls for change in the state church. Bishops met Jan. 17 to finalize a recommendation after five years of debate on the issue that already has ripped…
In South Africa, should the Anglican Church bless a new Zulu king?
In South Africa, a new Zulu king was crowned in October for the first time in 51 years — and Anglican bishops rituals to “bless” the new King have sparked furor. The 12 million Zulus are South Africa’s biggest ethnic…