News
As the General Synod of the Church of England voted allowing women to serve as bishops, an issue under discussion in the church since a long time, posing challenges for its internal and external relationships, the World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit expressed his hopes and prayers “that this decision proves to be a blessing for the mission of the Church of England”.
The vote which was passed by an overwhelming majority at the meeting of the General Synod in York, United Kingdom on 14 July will later be presented for confirmation by the Houses of Parliament and will be received by Queen Elizabeth II in her role as titular head of the national church.
The Church of England is a member church of the WCC.
“After long and serious reflection, the Church of England has made this significant decision. I trust that this decision will encourage women in the Church of England to use their gifts in all positions of Christian ministry to which their church now may call them,” said Tveit.
“The WCC member churches welcome the use of the gifts God has given to both men and women, and respect one another's traditions,” he added.
Following the approval of the legislation introducing women bishops, according to media reports, the first woman diocesan bishop in the Church of England is likely to be appointed by the end of year.
Church of England to have women bishops (Church of England news release of 14 July 2014)
