In subsequent discussions a very considerable advance was made on the
positions here laid down. It was felt that if ever reunion was to become
a reality the question of order must be frankly faced, and the following
statements were put forth for the consideration of the churches
concerned, not as a final solution, but as the necessary basis for
discussion in framing a practical scheme:
1. That continuity with the historic Episcopate should be
effectively preserved.
2. That in order that the rights and responsibilities of the whole
Christian community in the government of the Church may be
adequately recognised, the Episcopate should re-assume a
constitutional form, both as regards the method of the election of
the bishop as by clergy and people, and the method of government
after election. It is perhaps necessary that we should call to mind
that such was the primitive ideal and practice of Episcopacy and it
so remains in many Episcopal communions to-day.
3. That acceptance of the fact of Episcopacy and not any theory as
to its character should be all that is asked for.
Pages:
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101