Facts vs assertions

We need to be so careful when discussing the Church of England.

We live in an era of social media where too often facts are replaced by assertions and accusations, even in Christian circles. And assertions and accusations – if repeated – can then be assumed to be true, even when not. Here are some statements I believe to be true.

1. The CofE’s aim of ‘mutual flourishing’ for those on both sides of the debate about women bishops is not really working at the moment. Since the legislation on women bishops, 14 women have been appointed as bishops, and two suffragan bishops who do not ordain women have been announced, but no diocesan bishops who are comple-mentarians have been installed. That said, I understand two conservative evangelicals are in the ‘leadership pool’ from which many, if not all, bishops are picked.