The election of Rt Rev Katharine Jefferts Schori, the most liberal of the candidates nominated for Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, has pushed the worldwide Anglican Communion that much closer to a split.  Almost immediately upon the announcement of her selection, the Diocese of Fort Worth appealed to Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams for alternative primatial oversight, in effect declaring that it no longer wishes to remain in the Episcopal Church.  Others will probably follow shortly.

Thus, the dire reports appearing in London newspapers.  The Daily Telegraph headline reads, “Conservative Texas speeds schism over female bishop”.  The Times of London reports, “Anglicans ‘are close to anarchy’ in dispute over female bishop”, while The Times’ leader says “A house divided: The Archbishop of Canterbury must be bolder or schism is inevitable".  Times religion reporter Ruth Gledhill adds on her blog, “Episcopal Church unravels as Fort Worth appeals for ‘alternative oversight’”.

The Anglican Communion needs prayer more than ever.  Most especially should prayer be offered for Rowan Williams, who seems to be in an impossible position.

This prayer is taken from “An Order for Compline” in the 1959 Canadian Book of Common Prayer.  (It originates, I think, in the 7th-century Gelasian Sacramentary.)

Be present, O merciful God, and protect us through the silent hours of this night, so that we who are wearied by the changes and chances of this fleeting world, may repose upon thy eternal changelessness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Another indication that the whole world is watching events in Columbus right now is that CaNN was deluged with so much traffic today that its server crashed.  So, the latest news from the GenCon06 blog and the other vitally important and informative CaNN-hosted sites has been unavailable for most of the day.  This underlines the need for both prayer and increased financial support for Classical Anglican News Net.  Please visit their donation page.

Fortunately, Binky took the initiative to launch a backup blog at Elfbunker, so check there if the regular site isn't responding.

Elfbunker link via Prydain.