Church of England Panel of Reference Meets in Anglican Communion Office

The Church of England Panel of Reference has met in the Anglican Communion Office, London, and Lambeth Palace 12–14 July to discuss the work to be done by the Panel, as well as the rules of procedure to be adopted by the Panel.

Members of the Panel began by expressing their sympathy for all those affected by last Thursday’s suicide bombs in London and their continued prayers for them.

The discussion also involved a look at the progress of the schemes of extended, shared or delegated Episcopal ministry established by various Provinces of the Communion.

Members of the Panel acknowledged a concerted effort by the Provinces to address concerns raised by those in serious theological dispute with their bishops or Provinces regarding the outcome of recent theological debates on Christian doctrine and discipline.

The Panel of Reference was established by Archbishop Rowan Williams in response to a request by Primates and Moderators of the Provinces of the Anglican Communion in their Communiqué issued from Dromantine, Northern Ireland, to mediate and make recommendations in cases where parishes are in conflict with the oversight of their dioceses or diocesan bishops.

Archbishop Peter Carnley summed up the meetings: "The creation of the Panel of Reference is a new development within Anglicanism. It is our hope and prayer that we can make a significant contribution to the Church’s mission through resolving tensions between Anglicans. I am grateful for the professional and expert way in which members of the Panel have focussed upon the tasks with which we have been charged by the Anglican Communion."

He added: "Amongst all our members I discerned a deep desire to serve the witness of the Anglican Communion to the new life found in Christ by working to bring reconciliation and understanding in situations of deep division where there is disagreement about the nature of the Gospel which we proclaim."