Questions and Answers…
about Richard Wood’s position
(click on the questions to see answers)

5) What’s wrong with being Patron of “Changing Attitude”?

The stated goal of Changing Attitude is ‘the day when the Anglican Churches fully accept, welcome and offer equality of opportunity to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.’

However, their understanding of ‘full acceptance’ is one with which the Church of England has repeatedly disagreed.

‘Changing Attitude’ want practicing lesbian etc people in Christian leadership where they will teach that such lifestyles are godly choices for Christians to make.

In promoting these goals, the Bishop therefore wants to see Christian leaders at every level teaching as right what the bible says is wrong.

The Bishop of Chelmsford maintains his Patronage of Changing Attitude is a matter of listening. However, it is difficult to accept that one can be Patron of an organization with which one has fundamental disagreements. Indeed you become Patron of something if you want to promote that particular cause.

The Church of England has tended to allow a wide leeway to its members on matters of belief (perhaps too wide). However, it has made clear that a leader of the Church, tasked with upholding and defending its doctrine, cannot be permitted the same breadth of opinion and action as the fringe member uncertain of their faith.

Richard’s views in this matter are those of the wider Church. Yet he is not allowed to teach what the wider church believes in, whilst the bishop promotes a campaign to welcome leaders who do not teach historic truth.

6) Is Richard being manipulated by his vicar?

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