Laity Want 35 Bishops Brought To Trial

IN THE LATEST ROUND from galvanized orthodox laity upset with the consecration of V. Gene Robinson have launched a national petition to bring to church trial 35 bishops involved in the installation of a practicing homosexual bishop in New Hampshire, including both Robinson and the Presiding Bishop Frank Griswold. Its purpose is to determine, in formal trials, the standing of church law, doctrine and practice, said Jim Ince, project coordinator.

"We believe it is long overdue that the traditional bishop of the church pull themselves together and take serious action against the errant ones who consecrated Robinson and Robinson himself. We believe they have violated their ordinations and consecration vows. We need to formalize the gravity of their actions and bring our church judicial system into line with the Anglican Communion."

The bishops were asked in a letter last week from Lay Episcopalians for the Anglican Communion (LEAC), petition sponsor, to announce by April 28 their response to the group's request that they recant, repent, resign or retire. Copies of the letter were subsequently mailed to 40 bishops who opposed Bishop V. Gene Robinson's approval. The petitions will be presented to the opposing bishops, encouraging a prompt start in the church's "presentment" (indictment) procedures. Some 58 bishops, representing 27 percent said they would reverse their vote to consecrate Robinson if a vote were being held now.

Bishop Robinson's has led to disarray among American Episcopalians and disrupted their affiliation with the worldwide Anglican Communion.

FULL STORY at http://www.virtueonline.org/portal/modules/news/article.php?storyid=3884

PRELATES WHO INSTALLED GAY BISHOP FACE PETITION TO INDICT UNDER CHURCH LAW
 
WASHINGTON, DC (04/12/06) - Episcopal laymen launched a national petition drive today to bring to church trial 35 bishops involved in the installation of a practicing homosexual bishop in New Hampshire, including the new bishop. Its purpose is to determine, in formal trials, the standing of church law, doctrine and practice, the sponsor said.

The bishops were asked in a letter last week from Lay Episcopalians for the Anglican Communion (LEAC), petition sponsor, to announce by April 28 their response to the group's request that they recant, repent, resign or retire. Copies of the letter were subsequently mailed to 40 bishops who opposed Bishop V. Gene Robinson's approval. The petitions will be presented to the opposing bishops, encouraging a prompt start in the church's "presentment" (indictment) procedures.
 
FULL STORY at
http://www.virtueonline.org/portal/modules/news/article.php?storyid=3883