(Dr Giddings is not an extremist, but is a lay leader, a central Evangelical and long time friend of the Bishop of Oxford)
Dr. Giddings responds to Archbishop's letter
Tuesday 24th June 2003
I refer to the letter which the Archbishop of Canterbury has written to his fellow Bishops in the Church of England, the text of which was released earlier this afternoon. We are encouraged that the Archbishop's statement acknowledges that: 'The concerns of many in the diocese of Oxford are theologically serious, intelligible and by no means based on narrow party allegiance or on prejudice.'
The Archbishops says that these concerns 'must be addressed and considered' .We agree.We have sought, and will continue to seek, to bring those concerns to the attention of those within whose power it lies to resolve the crisis in which this diocese - and the wider church - now finds itself. We remain convinced that the way to achieve that resolution is for the appointment of Dr John as Bishop of Reading not to take place.
I repeat that the many clergy and laity who oppose the appointment remain committed to sharing the Christian gospel and offering welcome and pastoral support to all people, Christian and non-Christian, heterosexual or homosexual.This is not a question of discrimination against homosexuals. It is a mater of following the teaching of Scripture and 2000 years of Christian tradition about the qualities required in those called to the office of bishop in the church of God.
We call on all members of our churches to pray for Archbishop Rowan that God will guide him as he seeks to find a resolution to these painful issues.
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