How disillusioning it all must be to non-churchgoers as they look in at all these Church leaders refusing to sit with one another and discuss their problems? The Anglican Communion certainly does not appear to be a body "in communion".
But when two sides are so firmly divided on core issues - homosexuality being the sore point currently polarising the Anglican Communion - how is it possible for them to find communion together with one another on these issues?
One side clearly states that homosexuality is a sin. The other side says that accepting homosexuality within the Church is simply just and fair. Christians are taught not to compromise with sin - teach the correct way of life, preach reconciliation and forgiveness: as Jesus reveals in John 8, "Then neither do I condemn you. Go now and leave your life of sin".
Jesus, the one in whom all Christians are following taught us that not even he condemns. But what else does he teach? Now leave your life of sin. This last part must not be brushed aside.
If one side maintains that homosexuality is a sin, of course they should not condemn, but then if there is no repentance and U-turn from the sinful life, then how can these believers just accept that and "be in communion" them?
It seems like a lost battle; the beliefs are just too in contrast with one another.
It certainly looks like a bleak future for the Anglican Communion as we know it. But then again it is at these seemingly darkest of times that Christians have to turn to Jesus Christ to find strength and guidance from above, and to entrust everything into His hands. If all sides can do this, then just maybe a miracle can happen.
However - and Bishop Schori would do well to take note here - to turn to Jesus, you must first have faith in Jesus:
"Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" - John 14:6, NIV
