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House of Bishops statement on Schofield, Cox
[Episcopal News Service] The House of Bishops, during its business session on Wednesday afternoon, March 12, issued a statement concerning the House's morning actions of consenting to the deposition of John-David Schofield and William Cox.The full statement follows.
The House of Bishops of the Episcopal Church
Meeting at Camp Allen Conference Center, Navasota, Texas
March 12, 2008
Calling on the reconciling love of our Lord Jesus Christ and mindful of our call to be servants of one another and of the mission and ministry of the whole church, we have taken the action of consenting to the deposition of our two brother bishops, John-David Schofield and William Cox. This outcome was is the painful culmination of a lengthy process of conciliation and review led by two Presiding Bishops. While earnest voices were raised asking if there were other alternatives at this time, the conclusion of the House of Bishops is that this action is based on the facts presented to us and is necessary for the ongoing integrity of The Episcopal Church. We seek also to respond to the needs of the people of the Diocese of San Joaquin. We are saddened by what we believe to be this necessary action and we have taken it only after deep prayer and serious conversation. We also wish to express our continuing commitment to work for reconciliation with our brothers and the People of God who have been the recipients of their pastoral leadership and care through the years.