GAFCON Reflections - the Rev. Dr. Grant Lemarquand
It would be stating the obvious to say that the last years have been difficult ones for ‘conserving’ Anglicans of various stripes – anglo-catholic, charismatic and evangelical – within North America. The increasing rejection of the faith in the Anglican Church of Canada and in The Episcopal Church has led some to abandon Anglicanism as a failed experiment. It has caused others to capitulate to the pressure to conform. Still others have given in to despair and anger.
We have watched as traditional Christian morality has been rejected, the scriptures mocked and central theological truths such as the atonement and the resurrection of Jesus overturned. We have watched faithful leaders persecuted, marginalized, deprived of a livelihood and deposed. We have cried, “how long?”
GAFCON has provided a sign of hope. Here we have gathered with sisters and brothers from many nations, tribes and languages. We have worshipped together with great freedom and joy. We have heard words of hope and encouragement from Anglican leaders from around the world. We have shared our hopes and fears with one another in small groups, workshops and provincial gatherings.
It is becoming clear, I think, that we have a long way yet to go. There are some deep disagreements here regarding some important (and less important) issues. We will need to treat each other with grace and charity in the days ahead.
That said, there is hope here. We will need patience as we move forward, but we do have a hope that we can move forward. We may make mistakes as we attempt to walk together, but we do have a confidence here that there can be a faithful Anglican future.
The Rev. Dr. Grant LeMarquand is associate professor of Biblical Studies and Mission, as well as Academic Dean at Trinity seminary in Ambridge, PA.