Legal struggles don't smother the gospel

From the Convocation of Anglicans in North America:

The leader of a conservative group of Anglican churches in the United States says years of legal battles with the Episcopal Church have not hampered the spread of the gospel.

In 2003, the Episcopal Church USA -- amidst much controversy -- ordained Vicky Gene Robinson, an open homosexual, as a bishop of New Hampshire. Shortly after that, many congregations began leaving the denomination and partnering with conservative African bishops. Recently, the conservative congregations formed the Convocation of Anglicans in North America (CANA).

This past weekend Martyn Minns, missionary bishop of CANA, spoke to chaplains in Orlando. He says although many Anglican congregations in the U.S. have had to fight lawsuits by ECUSA to take their property and assets, conservative leaders are staying focused.

"In fact, I think it's actually given them an opportunity to really show to the world that the church is finally about people called by Christ to get on with the work of ministry," Minns responds. "It's not about building or institutions. I think it gives [those churches] a chance to make that point really clear."

So far, more than 75 congregations and 150 clergy have joined CANA.