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Conservative Episcopalians Form Rival Branch

By the Associated Press

Posted Dec 3, 2008 6:38 PM CST

(AP) – Theological conservatives upset by liberal views of US Episcopalians and Canadian Anglicans formed a rival North American province today. The development is the culmination of a five-year rift that erupted when Episcopalians in New Hampshire consecrated the first openly gay bishop. The split represents a new challenge to the already splintering, 77-million-member Anglican fellowship—the world's third largest Christian body—and its spiritual leader, the archbishop of Canterbury.

The new province includes four breakaway Episcopal dioceses, many individual parishes in the US and Canada, and splinter groups that left the Anglican family years ago. Its status within the Anglican Communion, which traces its roots to the Church of England, is unclear. Bishop Robert Duncan, who leads the breakaway Diocese of Pittsburgh, is the proposed new leader. He called today's announcement an "exciting and remarkable moment" for traditionalists.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, is the Anglican spiritual leader. Conservatives are forming a new branch in North America.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, is the Anglican spiritual leader. Conservatives are forming a new branch in North America.   (AP Photo)
U.S. bishop V. Gene Robinson is seen in a file photo. His ordination five years ago has led to an Episcopalian rift.
U.S. bishop V. Gene Robinson is seen in a file photo. His ordination five years ago has led to an Episcopalian rift.   (AP Photo/PA, Gareth Fuller)
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COMMENTS
Showing 1 of 1 comment
Thinker
Dec 3, 2008 7:17 PM CST
Why not just become Baptist?

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