Rome’s Anglican Annex

From the Washington Post:

The Vatican is making it easier for Anglicans — priests, members and parishes — to convert to Catholicism. Some say this is further recognition of the substantial overlap in faith, doctrine and spirituality between the Catholic and Anglican traditions; others see it as poaching that could further divide the Anglican Communion. What do you think?

My favorite panelist responses to the question are found here: Bill Tully, George Weigel, Brad Hirschfield.

Don’t miss the informative article in today’s WSJ, “Pope’s Wooing of Anglicans Challenges Archbishop,” which includes the idea that if enough conservatives take up the Vatican’s offer, it could diminish the need for a “two tier” approach in the Anglican Communion.

Ironically, some say that the Vatican’s appeal could simplify the church’s politics going forward. “This could be the answer to [Archbishop Williams's] prayers,” said Forward in Faith’s Mr. Parkinson.

Recently, while in London for the Annual Meeting of the Compass Rose Society, I had the pleasure of hearing Archbishop Williams speak about the ongoing difficulties of the Communion and the need, while working hard to maintain the deepest bonds of affection possible, to also remain focused on the Gospel imperatives.  “What ever goes on at the level of hierarchies and councils and so forth,” Rowan stated, “what is most remarkable about the Anglican Communion is that it carries on at the grassroots level, delivering the Gospel in areas of real need, practically and theologically.”  He reminded us that the opportunity to live the Gospel and build communities of transformation remains greater than ever.

Anglicanism is not at its core merely a unique system of belief or ecclesiology. It is first and foremost a way of following God in the way of Christ that is generous, orthodox, and open.  Hands to the plow my friends.