Statement by Archbishop Gregory Venables (So. Cone)

Concerning the Report of the Panel of Reference on the Conflict
in New Westminster, Canada

Given that the Panel of Reference process has taken twenty painfully slow and drawnout months to do what was considered desperately urgent at the onset, it is now tragic to receive a report that fails to address the crisis in New Westminster adequately. It simply does not reflect the depth nor the severity of the crisis that has been precipitated by Michael Ingham's actions.

While the Windsor Report had the stated aim of "a mutually agreed commitment to effecting reconciliation,” the last two years have merely and obviously seen an entrenchment of the attitudes and commitments of those whose actions have "torn the fabric of the communion." Whilst Kingdom values call us to be open to the possibility of repentance, it is unreasonable and irresponsible to continue to wait for what has been so clearly refused. There is not the tiniest indication that Michael Ingham might have any intention of turning away from pursuing an agenda that the instruments of Unity of the Communion have already rejected as being outside the boundaries of the Christian faith.

It is unrealistic and most unwise to send Biblically committed clergy and congregations back to a synod and bishop who have so tragically abandoned the foundations of the faith. These faithful clergy and people need the jurisdiction of a bishop who is fully committed to Biblical faith and Anglican tradition and practice.

Global South Primates are committed to working with Communion structures to implement the steps and solutions that the crisis requires. Unless there is a radical revision of the Panel's operation, it does not appear that it will offer solutions of adequate or appropriate substance.

The Most Revd Gregory J. Venables
Primate of the Southern Cone
October 13, 2006