Jack Estes: Times Up. Point of Decision for the Episcopal Church USA

There are two visions competing for the heart and soul of the Episcopal Church. They are separate and distinct. They are irreconcilable. The two cannot be brought together in unity, because at the very heart of each reside fundamental assumptions and principles that are radically opposed to one another. In order to merge the Progressive vision with the Orthodox vision, a compromise would be required of such a serious nature that either vision would cease to exist. Since General Convention 2003, the proponents of each have played the waiting game, hoping to garner strength from within, from the ranks of the faithful, and acceptance from without, in the fellowship of the Anglican Communion. But now, time is up.

Time is up for the Progressives, who have managed to sustain their vision in the face of considerable outcry from the Anglican Communion abroad, and steadfast opposition from the Orthodox at home. They have done so by acknowledging regret and appealing for unity. Yet, those who believe in a progressive theology and practice for ECUSA remain as deeply committed to their agenda as ever. They desire to wait out the opposition, while using every persuasion possible to bring others around to their point of view, or at least to a place of tolerance and mutual acceptance. However, their ability to keep waiting is rapidly diminishing. The rest