By Heather Tomlinson2023-01-13T13:52:00
The appointment of Rt Rev Philip North as Bishop of Blackburn has reignited the debate within the CofE over views on female ordination – and may have implications for upcoming debates on same-sex marriage. North is widely admired for his strong track record on social justice, and many women support him. Can the Church find a way forward?
Can conservatives and liberals work together in the Church of England, or will they eventually need to split?
The forthcoming response to the appointment of the new Bishop of Blackburn may be a key indicator.
Women’s campaign groups within the Church of England have strongly opposed Rt Rev Philip North’s new role, despite his reputation as a voice for the poor and as an excellent pastor.
That’s because
2023-01-20T11:42:00Z By Martine Oborne
There are still many unanswered questions in the appointment of the CofE’s first diocesan bishop who does not ordain women, says Martine Oborne. What message does it send to female clergy? And how can they be expected to flourish in an environment where institutionalised discrimination still exists?
2023-01-19T17:43:00Z By George Pitcher
Taking sides without properly listening to the arguments that don’t match our own may be the undoing of us, says George Pitcher. Stop your ears at your peril
2023-01-17T12:55:00Z By Jill Duff
The appointment of Rt Rev Philip North as Bishop of Blackburn was not universally welcomed last week, with some expressing concern that Bishop North doesn’t ordain female priests. But Rt Rev Jill Duff, who oversaw the consultation on his appointment, explains why, as a woman, she’s excited to work with him
2025-03-18T10:28:00Z By Illia Djadi
Christians are being targeted by Islamic Extremists in the Democratic Republic of Congo. As the country descends further into war and chaos, Illia Djadi says that if the international community doesn’t intervene, this slaughter will be just one of many
2025-02-26T09:50:00Z By Stephanie Addenbrooke Bean
Controversial televangelist Paula White-Cain is a long-standing friend of Donald Trump. But her appointment to the White House Faith Office has garnered criticism from across the political and religious spectrum. Stephanie Addenbrooke Bean takes a closer look
2025-01-16T15:57:00Z By Gavin Drake
A ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel has been announced. Gavin Drake explores whether, after 15 long months of fighting, peace could restored to the Holy Land
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