"Churches that offer liberal interpretations of Scripture quickly lose their ability to critique the prevailing culture and become politically correct pawns." -- IRD President James W. Tonkowich
Contact: Loralei Coyle, 202-682-4131, 202-905-6852 cell, lcoyle@ird-renew.org; Radio Interviews: Jeff Walton, jwalton@ird-renew.org; both with The Institute on Religion and Democracy
WASHINGTON, July 21 /Christian Newswire/ -- The head of the Anglican Communion has told the once-a-decade gathering of bishops that the church is facing "one of the most severe challenges" in its history.
Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams told the bishops assembled at the Lambeth Conference this week that the Anglican family's most immediate need is for "transformed relationships" that will not break apart over interpretations of the Bible, particularly regarding homosexuality, according to the Associated Press.
Taking place every ten years, Lambeth brings together hundreds of bishops from around the Anglican Communion convened by the Archbishop of Canterbury for discussion and common worship. About a quarter of the invited bishops are boycotting Lambeth because Episcopal leaders who consecrated Robinson have been invited.
IRD President Rev. Dr. James W. Tonkowich commented,
"Dr. Williams' stated goal of a Communion that will not break apart over interpretations of the Bible is laudable, but this crisis is not about conflicting interpretations, it is about longstanding church tradition and the authority of the Bible itself.
"Studies from respected organizations such as the Pew Forum have confirmed what has been observed for some time now: churches that are the most orthodox in their teaching are the ones that are seeing membership growth.
"Churches that offer liberal interpretations of Scripture quickly lose their ability to critique the prevailing culture and become politically correct pawns. Ironically enough, churches that seek to appeal to that culture find themselves losing membership. The Church should show leadership even when it may seem unpopular."
The Institute on Religion and Democracy, founded in 1981, is an ecumenical alliance of U.S. Christians working to reform their churches’ social witness, in accord with biblical and historic Christian teachings, thereby contributing to the renewal of democratic society at home and abroad.
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