An article on the Diocese of Niagara’s decision to start blessing same-sex couples in the Niagara Falls Review:
Gay and lesbian couples in Niagara will soon be able to have their marriages blessed by Anglican priests, under a new rite introduced by Bishop Michael Bird, head of the Niagara diocese.
“The short answer is we believe God is calling us to move in this direction. There’s a strong sense of that across the diocese.” Bird said in an interview about the Niagara Rite of Blessing.
The Niagara diocese will be the second in Canada where a bishop has allowed parish priests to perform ceremonies blessing the marriages of same-sex couples who are already in a civil union. The New Westminster diocese in British Columbia was as the first.
People need to be free to “experience the presence of God in their own way,” Bird said.
Free from the influence of the Bible, one presumes.
Christianity’s historical refusal to recognize gay marriage is rooted in scripture passages like the Genesis description of God’s destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.
But Bird said there “are various ways of interpreting what is meant by these acts.”
“I don’t personally believe those passages present a barrier for us embracing people who are gay and lesbian brothers and sisters who seek a full life in the church,” Bird said.
[.........]
There’s at least one same-sex couple in Fort Erie already planning to have their civil marriage blessed once the Niagara Rite takes effect, said Rev. Ken Cardwell, an archdeacon serving as the interim parish priest at St. John’s Ridgemount and All Saints Ridgeway parish.
One couple in Fort Erie plans to take advantage of the flood gates being opened – and the church split and lawsuits and condemnation from 70% of the world’s Anglicans.
Cardwell, involved in the ministry for 30 years, said he’s “very comfortable” with the new approach and will officiate the blessing of same-sex marriages.
“It’s part of a Biblical social-justice issue. Our understanding of human sexuality has changed over the years,” Cardwell said, echoing Bishop Bird’s explanation.
Cardwell said his parishioners knew the change was coming and accept it.
“My sense is it’s not a big issue for them.”
Other Anglican priests in Niagara Falls wouldn’t unequivocally confirm they would take advantage of the new rite to bless same-sex marriages.
Rev. Lynne Corfield, the rector at St. John the Evangelist on Portage Road and an archdeacon, said she has been “heavily involved in this process and strongly support this development.”
But she said the bishop was the best person to explain it.
Rev. Kevin Block, at Christ Church Anglican, also deferred to Bird.
“Bishop Michael Bird’s office is the best place to find answers to your questions,” Block, the rector at Christ Church Anglican wrote in an email.
When the Niagara Rite takes effect in September, it shouldn’t prompt a mass exodus of Anglicans in Niagara, Bird said..
The same-sex marriage debate has gone on for years. Most people who disagree with the crushes [sic - Freudian slip?] direction have already left.
“The debate that has gone on in the church for some time, people have already made up their mind about what they would be doing…“The majority of people have already made a decision around this,” Bird said.
These last two paragraphs from Bishop Bird seem to be a rather stark admission that, within the recent past, there has been little to no intention of listening to conservatives. In fact, now they’re gone the diocese can get down to business: so much for inclusion, listening and conversation.
Cardwell says- “Our understanding of human sexuality has changed over the years.” no argument there, says I. However there is absolutely no evidence anywhere, of any source, including stretching the imagination that indicates that our Creator God changed His understanding. This leaves only one conclusion – changed understanding of human sexuality must be seriously flawed.
P.S. It is almost humorous to see Post-modern or is it New Age thinkers putting their foot in their mouth. No,no, sorry it’s called Self mind-ful foot washing, no honest it’s in scripture. .. uuhhhh ask my Bishop.
Well, there’s the first week or three of the five years. No intentions of ever stepping back from their agenda. No more judgementalism of the ones “outside” the Christian Church is where the Diocese of Niagara now finds itself at the hands of Bird.
I have no doubt that Bird is correct in saying he has received a calling. Unfortunately for him, and those in his diocese, the calling is not from God. Pray for them.
The Anglican Crush of Canada. Has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it? And the letters (ACC) even stay the same!
Michael Bird might well “bless” same-sex unions but a warning for persons seeking same. It does not matter what Bird or his apostate colleagues might say or do, God will NOT and does NOT bless same. It is worse than tragic to see how our so-called leaders in the church have deceived and misled our people.
Pray for their conversion and repentance.
And they wonder why so many of us have joined ANiC???
it’s embarrassing to be an anglican these days, the church has been infiltrated with driven,articulate and well connected homosexuals.
Anyone who disagrees with their agenda is dismissed as a homophobe and a bigot. The Anglican Journal seems to be on board as well. Our ecumenical partners have been alienated by Inghams and Birds “theology” How on earth do you attract new members in this morass of conflict and lawsuits.
I was born in Fort Erie, and remember a Godly old rector or two from St. John’s, although I wasn’t an Anglican then. For this reason, Mr Cardwell’s comments hit me especially hard, and made me feel sick to my stomach.
#3 So Gerry you still think they will last 5 years? This is our Father’s world – far as I’m concerned the weirder it gets the less time looseafur knows he has…….Even So, COME LORD JESUS
“When the Niagara Rite takes effect in September, it shouldn’t prompt a mass exodus of Anglicans in Niagara, Bird said.. The same-sex marriage debate has gone on for years. Most people who disagree … have already left…. “The debate that has gone on in the church for some time, people have already made up their mind about what they would be doing…The majority of people have already made a decision around this,” Bird said.”
In a nutshell: now that all those people we don’t like have been driven away by our actions, we’re free to be — inclusive!!
Stuck – Maybe less, I really like your spelling to bypass!! They are on the road, next is Ottawa, Montreal, Huron and goodness knows who else……Down the drain
I prefer to think of it as ANiC gaining it’s first Diocese or at least another Bishop or two along with at least doubling her membership.
How do you spell relief…….J-E-S-U-S
Be Blessed Gerry
Some of what Michael Bird has to say is worth a listen:
Love it – and it makes a lot more sense than the utterances of his doppelgänger, the bishop.
#14 Fantastic , never heard of this guy who did the video but will watch out for more, it’s sure to ruffle some feathers….,
To Stuck:
Well, if ANiC is going to gain some from the actions of Bird, they should move soon……The longer the good apple stays in the barrell with the rotten ones, the quicker that apple also rots. This hanging around in a church that is quickly sinking totally befuddles me. I’m sure God must have some reason for keeping some of HIS people in ACC, however, still sounds to me like God is being spelled JOB and/or retirement or whatever other word can be used.
Blessings,
Gerry
The arrogance of a single Bird defies logic. I wish the Bird would fly away but as he won’t we will. Gradually the congregations will get smaller & smaller, only then will the bird realize he is killing his food source.
Bishop Birds decision spells out the how the final chapters of the Anglican Church in Niagara will be written, which is a great pity, because many of them are on a Building schedule to improve access.
Having had a lifetime in a big industry where money is carefully managed, and the emphasis on Profit & control is foremost in the management eye’s, how long will it be before bankruptcy will affect many churches and they have to close because the Banks foreclose on their debt.
The future does not look good for numerous churches in The Niagara Diocese, that will have to close or become community centers to pay off the Mortgage.
-#17 In my life I have (more times than I care to remember) compromised myself and diminished my faith by taking the easy road. Those people who remain in the ACoC because their livelihood depends on it or because pensions are near are doing the same thing. However who can say they have not taken the easy road once in awhile. I don’t believe there is anyone who qualifies. Therefore in the Presence of God there would be no one to cast the first stone. There are many others who believe they are walking the the road less travelled to attempt to bring repentence to this wayward thinking. TEC’s Bishop Love is a prime example. I personally felt in the past, as I believe you do Gerry that communicating with their feet is the best way to bring this about. After listening to Bishop Love (“Anglican TV” [tec's gen. convention]) I was able to see into the heart of those whose motives are as pure as our own ACNA. In fact, truth be told, ACNA needs them exactly were they are.
It is time I think to leave the ACoC and TEC, to their own devices and to simply pray protection and success to the endeavours of our othodox brothers and sisters who remain.
ACNA, ANiC et al are entering the frey against principalities powers and public opinion. The Church needs most of all to recognize the almost impossible battle that looms. Than, seeing the “Way” forward, relax, smile and fill with Love, knowing the battle has already been won.
My my, I do carry on, forgive my preaching (can you imagine me with a collar and a pulpit) ….Our Father DOES know best.
Brotherhood and Grace be upon you
Stuck (#19),
Do you think that shepherds and those charged with teaching the flock should be held to the same standard as those whom they are shepherding? Can one remain within an institution, be financially dependent on that institution, and yet take a stand against much of what it represents – without making significant compromises? somewhere?
With regard to pensions – they are untouchable and if a priest/bishop or whatever leaves the ACoC their pension is still safe and belongs to them.
#19 – Stuck…..yep The easy road is one we have all wandered down once in a while, however, I just cannot fathom this road as being one that says nothing but “Dead End”. The sheep follow their Shepherd and they know his voice. I wonder how they can know the voices now if the Shepherds aren’t leading them.
Peace to You,
Gerry
I was reading on Anglican Mainstream where they passed legislation not permitting propaganda of the gay lifestyle to be taught to children. THe EU was not happy with them,but they stuck to their guns. I would say to “Stuck in Toronto” that she is right about going back to Ted Scott for a lot of our problems such as Bishop Bird’s destructive rights. I worked with Ted on a Diocesan Social Work committee when he was rector of St Matthews in Winnipeg. My Dad who was a Priest told me that Ted’s Theology was out of line and not up be accepted. How right he was. Look wher we are today.
I was reading on Anglican Mainstream where they passed legislation not permitting propaganda of the gay lifestyle to be taught to children. THe EU was not happy with them,but they stuck to their guns. I would put our downward accelaration into a fuzzy Anglicanism to Ted Scott which eventually has brought us to Bishop Bird’s pronouncement. I worked with Ted on a Diocesan Social Work committee, which I enjoyed, when he was rector of St Matthews in Winnipeg. My Dad who was a Priest Warned me me that Ted’s Theology was somewhere in left field even though his social agenda had benefits. How right he was. Look where we are today theologically in the ACOC.
1. Hi Warren, we are all called to a Royal Priesthood. Our shepherds, shepherd they do not teach, Jesus taught and the Holy Spirit brings all things to remembrance. It seems to me that our past church was covetous of the Hiarchal order and consequently often missed great potential sitting quietly the pews. I do believe Bishop’s are called to a higher accounting as in fact was our Lord who was the only one to meet God’s full expectation. I believe the “13″ did just what you think cannot be done. My I suggest that you go to Anglican TV and Listen to the interview with TEC Bishop Love.
Stuck (#25), you’ve lost me on this one. Shepherds do not teach??? Want to quote chapter and verse on this one (and I mean from the Bible, not the canons and constitution of the Anglican Church). I was just listening to a sermon by a very hard-hitting preacher by the name of Paul Washer and he made the point that false teachers are often the judgement of God on a people who don’t want to hear about the things of God and who would rather have their ears tickled with things that appeal to their carnal nature. It got me thinking . . .
Warren, it is my contention that when a “shepherd” (priest or deacon) takes the pulpit He or She (currently) through the devine intervention of the Holy Spirit speaks the word of God. whether it be in conceptualization or interpretation these two factors are not teaching in my humble opinion. I have come to this conclusion on two fronts first “Jesus taught us all things necessary” and He said ”it is finished”. Secondly when a shepherd gives council they do so in an advisory capacity never assuming to present something other than what Jesus has already provided. We may be tripping over semantics but false teachers and shepherds can indeed be allowed by God as a matter of fact we seem to becoming a little over-run with them at the present time. When I said “our shepherds” I was referring to the orthodox, the pursuers of truth that fortunately we still have at all levels……Praise God
hey Gerry have fun with this one – if that road says “Dead End” how did you and I and others manage to get off it.
To John #24 could I trouble you to tell me who the “they” are in your first sentence. I tried to find it but couldn’t. Your experiences with the Late Primate and your Father were interesting. I spoke to this in an earlier blog and at this point I think it bears repeating.
It is quite difficult to identify any single action by the principalities and powers that are bent on devouring us. But if one were to connect the dots backwards, from a clearly defined departure from “the Way”, than one might be able to identify other subtleties that may indeed have appeared quite innocent. For instance moving along a reverse time-line one might discover that current difficulties (call that A) could not have happened without item B taking place. Which could not have happened without item C. and so on. But what could take place after identifying such a time line one may be able to look at current affairs and see slightly ahead to item A+. So you say to me once again, why so cryptic stuck? If I were to say Item B or C or D etc. was at the hands of satan I might cause further disention, confusion, and even anger. But I’m sure I can hint about A+. There are certain powers dedicated to the creation of a one world government. These powers know that before the masses will go along there must be religious control, hence a single world religion of inclusivity (B+). (sound familiar) Now what do you think is the single greatest threat to this might be? If you said anything but orthodoxy you would be wrong!
Stuck (#27), what do you do with Acts 5:2? What do you think Jesus meant when he told Peter to “feed my sheep” (John 21:15-18)? What about Ephesians 4:11? You seem to be contending that the gifts of preaching and teaching cannot coexist in the same person (or that there is no role for teaching), which I think is off the mark biblically.
Paul said, by the Spirit: Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons (1 Tim 4:1).
So here’s my two cents on Bird, and all of the North American Anglican’s departing from the apostolic teaching on this issue among others: demons are teaching in the Anglican Church of Canada, and TEC. Period.
Back to vacation.
I am shocked and frightened that the Church of my ancestors has come to this! Please read about the terrible and tragic killings in the Gay/Lesbian Youth Center in Tel Aviv. The news comments that are appearing point to incitement by the religious Right as a possible “inspiration” for this dreadful Hate Crime. We MUST avoid this type of poisonous conservatism here in Canada. Some of you talk about being labeled homophobic…Well, if the shoe fits…please examine your souls!
For Ellen #31:-
I do not believe anyone has or is making any suggestion that those involved in the homosexual lifestyle be murdered or suffer other atrocities. From your comment I would conclude that you have fallen into the trap set by both the media and the homosexual activists to believe that disagreeing with their lifestyle is discrimination along the same lines as racial discrimination. Nothing could be further from the truth.
The fact is that each and every one of us has that old nature within us and as a result is led into sin(s) of one type of another depending on several factors such as our personality, our upbringing, etc. We can have ultimate victory only through Jesus Christ. The church cannot claim to be a church of God if it claims to “bless” sin whatever that sin might be. Doing so is not only an affront to our Saviour but seriously deceives those seeking such “blessings”. The Word of God is very clear, you cannot bless ANY sin regardless of any pressure or political expediency society might want to push on us. The church is called to welcome ALL sinners – yes, that includes me – and the invitation to the Lord’s supper is a call to all, “Ye that do truly and earnestly repent you of your sins . . .” Claiming to “bless” any sin is nothing more than saying, “Ye that do truly and earnestly rejoice in your sins.” and I am confident you would not fall on that bandwagon. Sadly we have so-called bishops that loudly proclaim that message.
Warren you said “You seem to be contending that the gifts of preaching and teaching cannot coexist in the same person (or that there is no role for teaching), which I think is off the mark biblically.”
I am afraid that semantically I have not explained myself very clearly. A priest can be a shepherd, and a teacher however these “jobs” are distinctly different. When priests are “shepherding” they are caring for their “Flock”. When they are “Teaching” they are dealing with those they assume wish to learn.
As for there being no role for teaching I’m afraid to say that in my way of thinking (no doubt questionable) teachers instill knowledge, evangelists preach the gospel for the purpose of instilling understanding of Jesus and conversely the Holy Spirit. It is through these two sources we receive comprehension. Christian teachers such as our beloved Dr. Packer only teach what our gracious Lord has already provided. As can be gleaned from Ellen’s #32, teachers who move out of this realm are not only false but highly dangerous.
Warren I sincerely hope that this helps you to understand my way of seeing things. If not I accept full responsibility, in any event the title of a recent self-helper “Don’t sweat the small stuff” comes to mind and I will leave you with the last word.
God Bless you Brother.
Ellen you said “I am shocked and frightened that the Church of my ancestors has come to this! Please read about the terrible and tragic killings in the Gay/Lesbian Youth Center in Tel Aviv. The news comments that are appearing point to incitement by the religious Right as a possible “inspiration” for this dreadful Hate Crime. We MUST avoid this type of poisonous conservatism here in Canada. Some of you talk about being labeled homophobic…Well, if the shoe fits…please examine your souls!”
for you to believe that “news comments that are appearing point to incitement by the religious Right AS A POSSIBLE “INSPIRATION: for this dreadful Hate Crime.” is in itself criminal. To consider the Church of your ancestors – which is part of the body of Christ to be responsible for such non-christian behaviour is ludicrous. As an animal caught in a trap you wriggle and pull causing pain suffering and death never knowing the reason why.
Sister Ellen I speak harshly and without sympathy because if you are truly aware of the church of your ancestors you would know how wrong you are and how much I want you to “come to an understanding of the truth”.
You Brother in Love that is Christ Jesus
Stuck (#34), thank you for the clarification. You are correct in surmising that I did not properly understand your earlier comments. I agree that teachers should only illumine the Word of God and should not add to or subtract from it. I also agree that preaching – the proclaiming of God’s Word – is different than teaching and that the evangelist becomes the mouthpiece of God when he is in the pulpit.
Ellen (#32), I’m not really not sure what you are saying, but I have never read anything on this blog to suggest that those who are living a homosexual lifestyle should be treated which other than Christian charity. They are sinners in need of grace just like all the rest of us. Perhaps I misinterpreted your intent?
Ellen, I consider myself a conservative but not poisonous thank you very much!, don’t try to stifle debate by throwing down the homophobe slur, it won’t work here.
Stuck in Toronto:
I’m not one that intends to play with words and you know, I think, exactly what I was saying. It is a dead end if those who are in it stay in it and don’t get out. No more need be said. To much going on on this string for me to try to keep up with right now. Please pray for those who are still on that dead end train and that they won’t stay stuck.
My opinion: If Shepherds don’t teach then they are not shepherding their flocks. If they don’t preach the Word and with the gits of the Holy Spirit instruct correctly then they will likely be wolves in sheeps clothing.
Blessings in Christ’s Love,
Gerry
Hi Gerry #39 right as rain however how do you get out? this was said with humour in mind. Gordon Lightfoot Canada’s (and the world’s) balladeer sang- “turn around, go back down, back the way you came ……..Oh God the pride of man broken in the dust again” from memory forgive any incorrectness. Understand no malice or sarcasm intended just an incorrect attempt to lighten the load.
Sorry Bro!
Gerry, ask any shepherd how to teach a sheep and they will give you one answer only, You can’t teach them, you can only guide them. Of Course Jesus was correctly identified as a Shepherd, He was also Councillor, Judge, Mighty King and Perfect Ruler (the Rod of Iron) Author of Peace and Lover of Concord etc. But these truthful descriptions are not always compatable at the same time. For instance, when he sits in judgement he can hardly be expected to Guide.
Anyway Small stuff in the big city. be blessed -stuck
Stuck (#41),
I don’t know where you come up with this stuff, but it isn’t from the Bible. Unless, of course, you are talking about four-legged sheep that say baa – in which case I would agree with you. I know lots of shepherds (pastors and elders) who wouldn’t hesitate to say they teach.
Stuck – load lightened….
I do believe you are somewhat incorrect about shepherds though. If they try to guide someone through a sawmill full of whirring blades then they had better do some teaching first or they will be picking up somewhat displaced pieces.
I must agree with Warren in #42 when he says he doestn’t know where you come up with this stuff.
Did the Apostles and disciples not refer to Jesus as Rabbi or Teacher….. If He wasn’t a Teacher, then why the reference by those closest to Him at the time? Did Jesus not say to them, how many times must I say these things to you?
Blessings and continued humour?
Gerry
“The news comments that are appearing point to incitement by the religious Right as a possible “inspiration” for this dreadful Hate Crime. We MUST avoid this type of poisonous conservatism here in Canada. Some of you talk about being labeled homophobic…Well, if the shoe fits…please examine your souls!”
Ellen — no one condones what happened in Tel Aviv, but could you please wait for the facts before rushing to judgment? The culprit in that case could be mentally ill, a politically-motivated terrorist, or even gay himself (like the killers of Rev. Warren Eling and Gianni Versace).
Ellen #32
“I am shocked and frightened that the Church of my ancestors has come to this! Please read about the terrible and tragic killings in the Gay/Lesbian Youth Center in Tel Aviv. The news comments that are appearing point to incitement by the religious Right as a possible “inspiration” for this dreadful Hate Crime. We MUST avoid this type of poisonous conservatism here in Canada. Some of you talk about being labeled homophobic…Well, if the shoe fits…please examine your souls!”:
Ellen: It was the LACK of saying anything or doing anything within the ‘Church of our ancestors’ that has ultimately put us in the position us conservatives find ourselves presently immersed in. Ellen, there have always been hate crimes, yes even against the liberal left factions and unfortunately as long as mankind is in the flesh and unsaved, there always shall be. I have been falsely labeled as homophobic by an anglican priest in newfoundland who is considered the driving force for the gay/lesbian people in the ACC in newfoundland……He/she is wrong! I am not homophobic but am, quite outspoken, I do not hate, n’or do I attack them; however, just as they are entitled to speak out their opinions, so then am I.
Let’s get realistic Ellen…… fear is of loosafur NOT of God. Perhaps you should get past your fear and start wearing the full armor of God.
Ellen # 32
Commending those who have died into God’s mercy,
and praying that others living the lifestyle rejected by
His Word will consider life eternal, here is a verse ascribed to Christ himself and the second to St. Paul,
for thought.
“Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill you. They can only kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can both kill souls and body in hell.”
Matthew 10:28 NLT
I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice – the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask? Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Romans 12:1b-2 NLT
These are also words of wisdom, of the given Gospel, of the “Church of my ancestors”, now denied by some.
In our pre-occupation with fulfilling the desires of the
transient/mortal/fleshly, the welfare of the eternal soul
is minimised and disregarded. There are shepherds who do this flagrantly.
God have mercy.
Stuck/29 I believe that the legislature of Lithuania passed the legislation forbidding teaching of the homosexual lifestyle to children. Both Latvia and Lithuania have upheld marriage as being between a Man and a Women. This goes against the grain of the EU
John – thank you, “going against the grain” is what we are called to do.