Episcopal rift threatens unity
The issue of gay priests has some dioceses-- including Springfield's--in open revolt as the talk turns to a permanent separation
By Manya A. Brachear
Tribune staff reporter
Published November 14, 2006

Just weeks after leaders of the Episcopal Church urged its members to refrain from confirming any more openly homosexual candidates, the Newark diocese allowed a gay priest to stand for bishop.

At the same June meeting of the 75th Episcopal General Convention, leaders chose the progressive Katharine Jefferts Schori to lead the American church. Soon eight conservative dioceses--including Downstate Springfield--asked to report to a new boss, one whose theology does not support gay clergy.

How can such drastically different points of view coexist in the same church?

"They can't," said Springfield Bishop Peter Beckwith. "We are not in communion with Newark. It's two different faiths." the rest