I am on record as one who argues for a more Orthodox approach to Anglicanism – or for Anglicanism as Western Orthodoxy. That if Anglicanism borrows a page or two or several from the Orthodox playbook – that is (re?)envisions itself as Western Orthodoxy – that may represent a way through the current turmoil. Unity and order without such being imposed from above.
Christianity Today has an interview with recently not-really-deposed Bishop Duncan of Pittsburgh in which one encounters the following remarkable exchange:
(CT:) Is a new center emerging within Anglicanism?
(+Duncan:) A post-colonial Anglicanism with a conciliar structure will emerge. The notion that the Archbishop of Canterbury is first among equals is going to fade away. The 21st-century role of the Archbishop of Canterbury will go through the same metamorphosis that the role of the royal family went through in the 20th century. The British Empire is over, and sadly, so is a British-dominated communion. {emphasis mine}
Now one may legitimately argue that reducing the status of the Archbishop of Canterbury as “first among equals” represents a move away from how the Orthodox churches do things. Perhaps. Perhaps not! But do note the reference to a “conciliar structure”. Exactly!
And who would argue that Anglicanism as currently organized is profoundly colonial(ist)? Witness how liberal Episcopalians often speak of their African (and Asian) brothers and sisters. Talk about racist! Talk about colonialist attitudes!
“A post-colonial Anglicanism with a conciliar structure will emerge”. Yup. Another step toward Anglicanism as Western Orthodoxy.
