Anglican Schism: Canada

In 2005 the Anglican Network in Canada asked the Archbishop of Canterbury for "Adequate Episcopal Oversight", essentially a device which allows churches in doctrinal dispute with their bishop and diocese to continue within the Anglican communion but under external supervision. The basic reason behind the dispute was concerns over the appointment of homosexual priests.

In response, the Archbishop established a Panel of Reference to hear the application. To cut a very long story short, from the onset the Panel was hostile to the Network.

Now, after a convoluted controversy, the panel has decided to exclude the Anglican Network from its deliberations. So the situation will continue to be that described by the Network when announcing its decision to appeal: directly to the Archbishop.

In the diocese of New Westminster, not only have priests and elected wardens been fired and congregations locked out of their own buildings, but many parish youth have been waiting more than 5 years for confirmation from an orthodox bishop and new orthodox ministers cannot be ordained for these congregations.