Lots of waiting and then . . . .

When Rowan wrote his Pentecost letter it was the end of a very long period of waiting for some leadership from the top. I was cheered when he wrote, "We are at a point in our common life where broken communications and fragile relationships have created a very mistrustful climate." I saw in these words a recognition and an assumed desire to see relationships put on the road to restoration and some degree of trust placed on the menu. For credibility and integrity to be presented as a way forward for all.

The reiteration that 'restraint' was one of the hallmarks sought coupled with a plea for others to respect the moratoria now seems rather hollow in the light of the disclosures over Southwark and Rowan's support for Jeffrey John.

Rowan commented on our dealings with other Christian communions and the diversity which we so cherish and spoke of putting forward people who were so obviously, "At odds with what the Communion has formally requested or stipulated." Rowan continued that, "This does not seem fair to them or to our partners." I agreed and yet where is the difference between them and us in the current happenings?

Unlike others at the time I was glad for the measured approach Rowan presented even though for many it was too little, too late! Judging by the people who have spoken to me there are a number of people who are obviously confused with the place we now find ourselves. They ask me, "Isn't Rowan supporting what he has acted against (well, spoke of acting against perhaps) in other places?' Does look like it on the surafce, doesn't it?

Using Rowan's words, are we not ourselves in danger of, "Moving away from what is recognisable and acceptable within the Communion?"

Solid, consistent and unequivocal leadership is needed and yet we find, potentially, none of this in the current affair. Seeing past Jeffrey John into the finer detail it seems that we are to be the pariah amongst many other Christian denominations because doing what is right as the ABC and doing what personal preference or relationships demands are potentially in conflict here.

I was amazed that the schism never came whilst Carey steered the ship and am saddened that the rocks loom large whilst the band plays and the fools dance.