As a Catholic I think it wonderful and a testament to the Glory of God, that GAFCON has issued this statement. I do not mind tht it is a clear expression of Protestant Christianity. I think those with a more Catholic/Orthodox view of the Sacraments and the meaning of “Church” do need to asses what this means for them.
But the Anglican Church simply can not continue to be all things for all people. True that started out with every good intention and for a long time it worked (at least on the surface). But it also meant that those who advanced women’s ordination and other innovations were able to argue “ but we have always had our differences and see how well things work out”. The people who forced gay rights as the 11th commandment were able to condemn the very thought of schism by appealing to the the “Rodney King” settlement. Truth is secondary the important thing is to get along.
So Global Anglicans have decided to define themselves as Protestant. That is a good thing it means they can have a clear meaning of what wil and will not fly in that communion. This allows those who gracefully disagree to depart without rancor. More importantly it allows the drawing up of disciplinary procedures for those who would defy the faith as taught and expressed within the communion.
So God bless and keep all those who have prayed, worked and hoped for this day.
Agreed. Clarity is critical and beneficial.